Can Running Tights Be Worn For Other Sports?

Running tights are a staple for cold and wet days, as they can help protect the legs from muddy puddles, winds and road spray. But how versatile are running tights? If you partake in other endurance sports, can running tights be worn for these, too?

In our latest blog, we explore the best running tights that can be worn for a variety of workouts.

"The CONCURVE ¾ Tight is an essential part of my gear for every Spartan Race - it fits like a second skin, provides enough storage space for gels or flasks, and most importantly, no obstacle has been able to damage the tight so far." 

Stefanie Dressel - Spartan Race Ambassador and Customer Care at GOREWEAR

What Are Running Tights?

Running tights are close-fitting ¾ length or full-length sports bottoms. They offer more leg coverage than shorts while giving athletes complete freedom of movement when working out. Whether it’s hitting the trails, the track or the roads, running tights are worn to keep the legs warm and dry. Short tights are also available which have similar features but are above-the-knee length.

Quality running tights are made from fabrics with moisture-wicking properties. This means sweat is pulled away from the skin, keeping it dry and free from chafing or irritation. The best designs also have minimal, strategically placed seams and a soft waistband for maximum comfort when on the move. 

Are Running Tights Unisex?

Yes, there are unisex running tights, but we would recommend choosing a gender-specific pair to ensure maximum comfort and performance. 

However, leg length is a factor. So you will need to ensure the length and waist size are correct to prevent tights from bunching around the ankles or coming up too short.

Running tights will often have the waist, hip and leg length measurements on their size guides, so you can see which pair will be most suitable for you and your sport.

Features of Running Tights

The feeling of freedom running gives is a huge part of the appeal. Which is why a lot of running gear is designed to be lightweight, compact and flexible. But other features make running leggings the perfect choice for both indoor and outdoor sports.

Thoughtfully Placed Pockets

Whether you use your phone to track your performance or stay safe, pockets mean you can take it out without using a cumbersome backpack. Many running leggings have secure, zipper-free compartments that can fit your phone or other essentials. 

GOREWEAR’s CONCURVE running tights have stretchy folded leg and waistband pockets for close-to-body storage without uncomfortable zippers.

Seam Construction

As mentioned, the cut of your running leggings is crucial to your comfort. Look for a single-leg seam construction specially designed to prevent chafing and irritation. 

Second-Skin Feel

Regardless of what sport you’re undertaking, you don’t want to feel bulky or uncomfortable before you start your workout, as this will only worsen as you exercise. A second-skin feel that isn’t restrictive is essential for maximum comfort. 

Some designs, such as CONCURVE tights, are designed based on a body in motion. Known as Kinetic Garment Construction, this supports athlete comfort. GOREWEAR’s range of running tights are all designed to be tight but not restrictive for ultimate performance.

Drawcord Waistband

No one wants to fuss with their clothing during exercise, which is why running tights come with a drawcord waistband. This helps them stay in place on a run, in the court or studio, so you can stay focused on your sport and not what you’re wearing.

Sports You Can Wear Running Tights For

Can running tights be used for other sports? Absolutely! In fact, the right running tights are perfect for sports where breathability and flexibility are key.

Gym Workouts

If you mix up your training between the great outdoors and a gym, then there’s no need to buy separate clothing. Your running tights will be suitable for your daily workouts, whether out in the open air or undercover, and you can test out your running gear on different equipment such as treadmills, weights and boxing. 

Court Sports

Whether it’s pickleball, netball, basketball or tennis, outdoor court sports are often played in the colder seasons. Running tights will protect your legs from the weather conditions and the sting of a fast ball. With the pocket features and adjustable waistbands, you can carry small items with you on and off the court.

Yoga 

Freedom of movement is just as important for yoga as when pounding the sidewalks. Staying comfortable and flexible will help you feel completely zen. Running tights offer all the benefits of yoga pants, meaning you can save space in your activewear wardrobe. 

Spin Class 

Riders training on an indoor bike can benefit from wearing tights. Although cycling short tights are designed specifically for road bike riding and outdoor endurance cycling, running tights can be worn for the odd spin class. This saves you from buying multiple pairs for each sport. 

To make sure you’re comfortable for every mile, we  would always recommend investing in quality bib shorts or tights if you take the bike onto the open road.

Aerobics

High knees, box steps and lunges require exercise bottoms with flexible materials. This will allow you to keep up with the moves in an aerobics class without discomfort (from your clothes, at least). Although shorts may be your go-to choice, running leggings do come in shorter lengths for those who want a little more coverage without any movement restrictions.

Indoor Climbing

If you want a bit more coverage as you’re reaching for hand and foot holds or clambering over bouldering walls, then running tights are ideal. Flexible enough to let you stretch and move comfortably, they’ll keep you covered without bunching or straining. They’ll also wick away sweat to keep your skin dry as you focus on the next step. 

Sports Unsuitable for Running Tights

Cycling

Despite the need for freedom of movement, cycling requires a very different legwear to running, so these are not recommended for any bike activity. Bib shorts are designed for this sport and have features not found with running tights, such as over-the-shoulder straps, and seat pads for maximum comfort.

GOREWEAR’s Best-Selling Running Tights

Discover which of GOREWEAR’s running tights will best suit your favorite sports.