Okay – so I’m in desperate need of running tights. Today, I worked out that my absolute favourite pair of running tights (Puma) are ten freaking years old! TEN!!!! They still have a few more runs left in them (I think) but I have concerns that they’re slowly becoming transparent! As many of you know, it’s really hard to find comfy clothes to run in; ones that are both practical and look great. I’ve spent my fair share of hard-earned dollars on crappy running gear that falls apart after a few runs, so I’m okay to spend a little extra but don’t want to break the bank. I’ve looked at Lululemon, Winners and Sportchek – but haven’t seen anything that compels me to purchase. Also, I recently learned that the coveted Lulu pants aren’t that fantastic as they pill – does anyone have any suggestions? I literally googled “best running tights” and it came back with a list from Amazon; of the top ten, nine were CW-X. I’ve never heard of this company before? Mind you, I never really looked that hard for tights either.
I absolutely DREAD trying clothes on, so you can imagine how I feel about trying tights on. For anyone who knows me, they’re aware of the fact that I generally buy clothes, try them on at home and return if they don’t fit. I HATE trying anything on at the store – I find it really awkward. So my hope is to get some feedback, buzz into a store, pick up what I need and leave or just order online.
Here is my tall order of must haves for running tights:
- Comfortable (obviously)
- Economical (less than $100)
- Stylish
- Flattering
- Durable
- NO special washing instructions. Cripes- the last thing I want to do after a run is hand-wash my clothes!
So if anyone out there has some recommendations on their fave tights, I’d REALLY appreciate the feedback!
runliftmom.com 
Your training looks like it is going great! I purchased CWX thermal tights for winter running a couple years ago, and absolutely LOVE them. Still on my list is to pick up a pair of 3/4 tights from them for warmer weather. The extra support they give is great. However, I do think you’ll need to hang them to dry — I put them in the gentle cycle with the Tide Sport detergent I use for all sports clothing and they are doing well.
Ahh! SO glad to hear your feedback. The colder weather is slowly creeping in so I’ll have to get new tights soon. Any suggestions for long-sleeves? I currently use my long-sleeve race t-shirts from years past but they’re on the verge of expiration 🙂 Training is going so far… not into the heavy stuff yet, but the most important thing is to be positive, right?! Thanks for your comments, always love to hear from fellow runners!
No particular affinity for any particular long-sleeve shirt — I actually like a couple of my 3/4 sleeve tech tees for transitional weather like fall but one of my favorite long-sleeve tech tees is a race shirt from a fall half-marathon, with the little side zipper pocket built in to carry a key! Happy running!
Thank you!!
I love adidas running shorts/tights. They have room for my thighs, wear very well (generally get 3+ years out of a pair with 2 pair in rotation per season) and are usually very cheap ($20-$50 each) for last years style at Winners. And the “capris” make perfect length pants for me!
I also wash them in my washer on cold cycle and dry in the dryer on low or medium. I hate special washing instructions.
Thanks for the feedback. I don’t think I’ve ever had Adidas pants before..just shorts. I also really don’t like special washing nor do I have the time (I’m sure you’re the same!)