Best Running Pants by Nike

If you’re looking for running pants that can withstand harsh weather conditions, look for running pants with Nike Storm-FIT technology, a breathable, waterproof fabric designed to withstand wind and water.

For men, the Nike Phenom Men's Storm-FIT Running Pants feature stretchy cuffs at the bottom to keep legs warm and zipper pockets on the sides and back to keep a phone and other essentials safe and dry. Or, if you prefer a tighter fit, the Nike Running Division Men's Dri-FIT ADV Running Tights, which wick away sweat and rain, might be the choice for you.

For women, the Nike Storm-FIT Women's Running Pants have zippered vents at the hem and a soft adjustable waistband to customize your fit. They can be worn on their own or layered with leggings underneath for cold, wet winter runs, while reflective details help with visibility.

Some runners prefer to go beyond running leggings or tights and opt for compression tights to support the leg muscles and glutes. (While studies are mixed, some runners believe this can improve their performance by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue.)

For a versatile option that you can also wear for tough lifting sessions, try the Nike Pro Dri-FIT Men's 3/4 Tights. Or, for compression running pants fit for your next race, the Nike AeroSwift Men's Dri-FIT ADV Running Tights will give you a snug fit, high performance, and pockets to hold race-day essentials.

Many people also find that compression tights are the best running pants for cold weather as they’re often made from thicker materials that insulate you from the cold and help retain body heat.

Nike Trail Dawn Range Men's Dri-FIT Running Pants are the best option for trail runners, Richie says. (Croze suggests this extended sizing style for women, too.) Nike created these stretchy, lightweight pants based on insight from trail runners to include everything they need, including extra storage for long runs in the backcountry. They have a tapered, relaxed fit and are adjustable at the hem for the ever-changing conditions and terrain of the trail, Richie says.

For a more compressive and supportive legging for trail running, the Nike Trail Go Women's Firm-Support High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings with Pockets offers trail-ready features—including a whopping six pockets, a carabiner, mesh pocket to hold your top if you get hot, and detachable pack to fit the essentials.

Track athletes can opt for the Nike Challenger Track Club Men's Dri-FIT Running Pants, which include zipper-secured pockets, and elastic bungees at the ankle so runners can get the pants on and off over their competition shoes, Richie says. For track athletes looking for speed and high performance, he suggests Nike AeroSwift Men's Dri-FIT ADV Running Pants and tights, made from ultra-lightweight materials. The extended size run of these pants means they’re a great option for women, too, Croze adds.

If you’re looking for running pants that can go beyond the track, Croze suggests the lightweight tapered Women’s Swift Mid-Rise Pants. They’re sweat-wicking and have a secure, legging-style waistband and hidden drawcord so they won’t fall down when you’re running (or running around town).

If you prefer a compressive fit, try the Nike Go Women's Firm-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings with Pockets, Croze says. Wear them for treadmill workouts, trail runs, strength workouts, or active recovery days. They’re sweat-wicking and supportive and feature an impressive six pockets.

Richie suggests the versatile Nike Phenom Men's Dri-FIT Woven Running Trousers for men. A few stand-out features include the stretchy, sweat-wicking woven fabric, a sweat-proof pocket for your phone, plus reflective elements to increase visibility.