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What To Look For
Running shorts are considered the norm for running most of the year, but for runners who engage in winter outings, running tights are the best way to stay warm without restricting your movements. In shopping for men's running tights, there are four considerations to keep in mind:
Length: Men's running tights come in full length and half tights, which extend just past the knee. For cold weather, full-length tights are preferable. Runners wishing to capitalize on the leg support running tights offer may opt for half length during the warmer months.
Fit: You have the option of tight-fitting men's running tights or a loose-fitting version. A tight fit offers a second skin type feel, which some distance runners find makes them virtually unaware of wearing the running rights at all. A looser fitting version with heavier fabric can be warmer, especially in extremely cold weather.
Fabrics: Nylon and spandex are materials most common to men's running tights. Sometimes they also are combined with a synthetic wicking fabric, which transfers moisture away from your skin. Spandex and nylon provide the stretch needed for a skin-tight fit. Running tights for colder weather also incorporate stretchable fleece for added warmth.
Additional features: Different manufacturers of men's running tights emphasize a variety of features. Some offer flat-lock seams, which provide additional comfort to the wearer because the seams are flatly sewn and will not cause any chafing while you are running. Others tout back pockets or reflectors or adjustable cuffs. Some men's running tights include stirrups that slip under your foot to hold the tights in place as you run.
Common Pitfalls
Men's tights are made not only for sprinting and distance running but to appeal to athletes of other sports as well. Multipurpose tights usually offer too many cumbersome features that make them impractical for dedicated runners. For example, men's tights that also double as bottom layers for snowboarding or snowshoeing leg wear usually feature a gusseted crotch area that makes them uncomfortable for long distance runs. Some manufacturers of men's running tights emphasize a minimalist approach, emphasizing price over features. Don't ignore the importance of reflectors or other safety features. Remember, there is much less daylight during the winter running season.
Where To Buy
Shop for your men's running tights at a specialty store or an outfitter that offers a large selection of goods and services for runners. Even if you believe you can get a better price on your tights over the Internet, you should first get a feel for the different fits--tight vs. loose--that are available, the sizing various manufacturers offer, the fabrics in which you feel most comfortable and the features you want.
Cost
Pricing for men's running tights varies greatly, depending on the material used and the additional features, the length and the fit you choose. Be prepared to spend around $50 for a quality pair of tight-fit men's running tights, and as much as $100 for a looser fitting pair that offers a number of optional features.
Insider Tips
Men's running tights, which have a second-skin fit, offer the added benefit of curtailing the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles. This is true not only during the exercise, but during the cool down. For this reason, seasoned distance runners will wear their running tights for at least an hour after finishing their runs, giving their muscles a chance to process the chemicals generated during the exercise.
