The Best Nike Running Pants To Try

A well-rounded running wardrobe can empower you to get the run done, no matter the conditions. When it comes to bottoms, a pair of running leggings can be a great option to have on hand. However, if the tight feel isn’t for you, or if you want to mix up your running wardrobe, consider opting for a pair of breathable, lightweight running pants.

You’ll notice that pants designed for running come with a number of performance benefits and features, including:

1. Lightweight, Sweat-Wicking Materials
   High-quality performance fabrics, such as Nike Dri-FIT, help pull sweat away from the skin for quicker evaporation, helping you stay dry and comfortable on a sweaty run. They’re also lightweight and stretchy, enabling free movement and unencumbered strides.
2. Reflectivity
   If you’re planning to run at night or early in the morning, opt for reflective features on your running apparel to ensure you’re visible to cars and cyclists on the road. Check out Nike’s reflective running gear, including pants, to equip your wardrobe.
3. Water Resistance
   If you don’t want rain to be a deterrent to your training, you’ll want gear that prevents you from getting completely soaked during a rainy run. Nike’s water-resistant running pants are designed to keep you dry and block the wind at the same time. Pair them with the right weatherproof running shoes, and the weather won’t keep you down.
   
   RELATED: Waterproof Running Gear for Rainy Day Runs
4. Tailored Fit
   A well-fitting pair of running pants will have a sleek design and tailored fit so you don’t feel extra fabric weighing you down or chafing against your skin. Look for pants with a low-profile elastic waistband with a drawcord so you can personalize the fit for you.
5. Pockets
   If you don’t want to carry essentials in your hand or in a waistpack, find a pair of running pants with pockets to store your phone and other small items. Some styles have drop-in pockets, while others have zippered pockets to keep everything extra secure.

Tip: If the carbon footprint of your purchases is top of mind for you, consider a pair of running pants made with sustainable materials.

Running pants are designed to feel breezy and have more wiggle room than leggings. If your running pants rub against your skin or restrict movement in any way, they’re likely too small. On the other hand, make sure the running pants aren’t so baggy that they feel bulky or slip down as you move. Nike makes both slim-fit running pants and standard-fit running pants for men and women, so you can choose whatever feels most comfortable.

Unlike cotton or fleece joggers, Nike Dri-FIT running pants are designed to keep you dry during strenuous and sweaty runs. Constructed with an innovative polyester microfiber fabric, Dri-FIT pants wick moisture away from the skin and disperse it across the exterior of the fabric for fast evaporation.

When the temperature drops, reach for a pair of Nike Therma-FIT running pants. They’ll keep you warm without overheating or weighing you down. The double-brushed microfiber fleece traps your body’s natural heat, but it’s designed not to feel bulky or uncomfortable. If you expect rain or snow in the mix, opt for Nike Storm-FIT running pants, which are designed to repel water and wind. Many of Nike’s cold-weather running pants are designed to be layered, with zippers that make them easy to remove, so you can wear them for your warm-up and strip away once you get up to speed.

Words by: Lindsay Frankel