Gear
GEAR: Running Tights and Gloves
October 7, 2009By Gus Alexandropolous
Runners can stay warm while training this winter with the newest running-specific clothing.
Built with thermally efficient moisture-wicking fabrics, this season’s tight s and gloves provide protection from plunging temperatures and frosty winds.
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BT Stretch Tight - $85
Mizuno
Technically not running tights, the BT Stretch Tights are designed to be worn under traditional tights. Built with Mizuno's unique Breath Thermo fabric, the BT Stretch Tights warm up when exposed to body moisture, further increasing warmth when training in cold temperatures. Smooth seams and a low-profile waistband assure friction-free comfort on long, chilly runs.
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ThermaPhase Tights - $85
Pearl Izumi
These slick, midweight tights provide plenty of breathable wind protection and just enough warmth for extended sub-zero running. A soft, brushed interior fabric feels great and does a good job of wicking moisture from the skin. Ankle zips reduce struggling when getting dressed and reflective trim at the ankles and thighs increase safety during evening runs.
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SuperNova Long Tight - $65
adidas
The lightweight SuperNova Long Tights are a good choice for crisp fall and winter running. Adidas uses strategically placed mesh fabric panels at the rear waistband and behind the knees, which minimizes overheating in warmer conditions. Covered ankle zips simplify dressing and undressing and a small zippered pocket holds ID and keys.
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Thermopolis XP Tight - $90
Asics
Using a sophisticated and lightweight two-layer fabric, the Thermopolis XP Tights provide a surprising level of protection from cold winds and dropping temperatures. This exceptional cold-weather performance comes from the combination of the tightly knit outer layer that easily resists cold winds and the soft low-nap inner layer that provides warmth while wicking moisture away from the skin. Functional additions include ankle zips, reflective trim and a small mesh pocket - everything necessary for serious running without unnecessary and cumbersome features.
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Wanganui Tight - $150
Brooks
The Wanganui delivers exceptional warmth and wind protection with its innovative two-layer fabric construction. Starting with a warm and stretchy interior fabric, Brooks adds floating wind-resistant panels on the front of the tights for a snug, heat-trapping fit with unrestrictive protection from the elements. Carefully positioned vents increase comfort, while reflective zippered ankles and trim improve safety in low-light conditions.
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Windstopper II Tights - $125
Salomon
For truly miserable conditions, check out the Windstopper II Tight. Built with a slightly stretchy Windstopper fabric in the front panels, they provide exceptional wind protection while remaining highly breathable. The back panels consist of a breathable stretch fabric for additional perspiration control, while ensuring a trim fit. Smart construction details include side leg zippers, grippy ankle trim, a small zippered pocket and reflective trim.
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NBx-Treme Tights - $85
New Balance
The NBx-Treme Tights combine stretchy, highly wind-resistant front fabric panels with a breathable fleece-lined rear fabric for weather protection and comfort in cold and windy conditions. The front panels include an antimicrobial X-Static silver lining, which effectively eliminates unwanted odours. The reflective ankle zippers improve safety in low-light conditions and simplify layering, while the grippy cuffs prevent drafts. New Balance includes a sewn-in In Case of Emergency (ICE) tab that allows runners to list important contact information for paramedics - very smart. This is an excellent cold-weather running tight.
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RUNfit Tight - $98
Zoot
The sleek RUNfit Tights are an ideal choice runners training in mild winter conditions. The lightly brushed interior provides excellent wicking and just enough warmth for cool days without impeding the breathability needed during interval and tempo runs. Zoot uses smooth ankle cuffs to seal out drafts and the two hip pockets are perfect for energy gels.
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Versatec Long Tight - $65
Reebok
These midweight tights offer plenty of weather protection for cool-weather running. Reflective trim increases safety during early-morning and late-evening runs, while a small zippered pocket easily holds a key, coffee money and an energy gel. Zippered ankles simplify dressing and the addition of textured ankle trim keeps the tights in place even during fast intervals. The reversed ankle zips create a sleek exterior look but require slightly higher-coverage socks to minimize the risk of chafing.
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Drylete XPT - $90
Saucony
Using a heavyweight insulating fabric, the Drylete XPT tights provide warmth and excellent breathability. Covered ankle zippers simplify layering and a single zippered stash pocket provides room for keys and ID. Perhaps lacking sufficient wind protection for truly gusty conditions, the Drylete XPT tights are ideal for cold, low-windchill running.
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ColdGear Action Legging - $60
Under Armour
These tripped-down minimalist tights will appeal to serious runners who want the benefits of a compression fit without the added weight and bulk of heavier tights. Even with their feathery weight, these tights are surprisingly warm thanks to Under Armour's two-layer fabric construction. Notable details include flat-lock stitching for extended comfort even during long runs.
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Wanganui Shelter Glove - $65
Brooks
Offering excellent cold-weather protection, the Wanganui Shelter Glove is packed with innovative details like magnetic key-pocket closures, grippy finger accents and peek-a-boo thumbs for controlling an iPod or iPhone.
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Run Clima Warm Gloves - $25
adidas
These sleek midweight gloves are ideal for less severe conditions. A smooth, low-profile cuff comfortably fits over or under other layers, while the strategically placed reflective trim increases safety. While ideal for running, their understated good looks also allow them to easily transition to casual use.
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Liner Glove - $30
Under Armour
At first glance, the Liner Gloves look like countless old poly-pro running gloves. Closer inspection reveals that these are made from Under Armour's lightweight, two-layer fabric, which offers excellent warmth and moisture management. The rubberized palm and finger treatment ensures a solid grasp on small items like keys or watch buttons, while a fleece-covered thumb and forefinger takes care of cold weather nose wipes. This is a great update to a classic running product.
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Vizi-Pro Ulti-Mitt - $55
Saucony
The Ulti Mitt's hybrid construction ensures warmth in a variety of weather conditions. Saucony starts with a lightweight liner glove, which is ideal for running in warmer temperatures. When the thermometer plunges, runners can deploy the highly wind-resistant mitt covering for extra weather protection. Peek-a-boo thumbs and forefingers allow for easy iPod and iPhone control, and the removable blinking LED increases safety during evening runs. This is an innovative and effective running glove and mitt.
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Shine Wind Mitt - $50
Pearl Izumi
This carefully constructed midweight glove is ideal for days when the temperature fluxuates. In mild weather, use the mitt in the exposed finger format. If the temperatures begin to plunge, simply deploy the tuck-away wind barrier cover and continue running. Thoughtfully positioned reflective highlights increase nighttime safety, while grippy finger accents minimize fumbling when using zippers or keys.
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BT DryScience Glove - $40
Mizuno
These lightweight gloves are an excellent choice in milder conditions or worn as a liner under a heavier glove. As in the Mizuno BT Stretch Tight, the glove's unique fabric warms up when exposed to moisture, for extra comfort in cold weather.
