The North Face guide to men’s tights

Men's tights are an essential part of a cold-weather wardrobe. Lightweight and easy to pack, tights are effective as a thermal layer underneath other clothing. A versatile item of clothing, the use of men’s leggings and tights extends beyond insulation. They are also effective as flexible, comfortable legwear for activities such as running or climbing.

Our guide will explore the benefits of men’s tights and leggings, including how to wear them for different activities and in different conditions. We’ll also cover the differences between tights and leggings, the key features to consider when buying a pair, along with answers to frequently asked questions about men’s tights.

What are men's tights for?

Men’s tights can be used for insulation, comfort, or to reduce muscle soreness. In cold temperatures, tights can be worn as a thermal layer under other clothing. For high output activities, tights are flexible and non-chafing. Compression leggings can reduce stiffness after exercise.

Men’s tights and leggings are versatile pieces of clothing that can aid comfort and performance in a variety of contexts. In low temperatures, layering clothing is an effective method of trapping body heat close to the skin in order to stay warm. Tights fit close to the skin and can be worn under other trousers as a thermal layer.

Air trapped between the layers will slow down the rate of heat loss from the body to the surrounding air. This not only helps you maintain a comfortable body temperature but also reduces the chance of injury, which is more likely with cold muscles.

The North Face Men’s Easy Tights are an ideal base layer for skiing, snowboarding or other cold-weather activities. Lightweight and durable, they will keep your legs warm and comfortable under your trousers.

Related: How to choose a base layer

Leggings are also useful as performance legwear for high-output activities such as running, climbing, or cycling. In these situations, leggings would be worn as an alternative to trousers. The tight fit allows you to move freely without loose fabric causing uncomfortable chafing on the skin.

Tights or leggings conform to the shape of your legs, resulting in smoother contours than trousers or bulky shorts. This reduces drag from air resistance, enhancing speed and performance.

Compression leggings are designed to be tight-fitting, with varying degrees of compression in different parts of the leg. This reduces the vibration of the muscles as you move, which is a major cause of fatigue in high-impact activities. The compression stimulates blood flow through the muscles, removing lactic acid that can build up in your muscles as you exercise.

Lactic acid is the main cause of muscle soreness after physical activity. The use of compression leggings can enhance your recovery when you’ve been working hard.

The North Face Men’s Movmynt Running Tights are engineered using FlashDry XD™ fabric to wick moisture away from the skin quickly when you start to sweat. With ripstop technology, these tights are durable and resistant to abrasion. They also include a secure zipped back pocket for your phone or other essentials.

FlashDry XD™ technology is designed to act as a second skin on the body, effectively moving perspiration and drying quickly. This moisture management system will keep you dry, cool, and comfortable during high-output activities.

What is the difference between men’s tights and leggings?

Men’s tights and leggings are similar types of legwear designed to fit close to the skin. Men’s tights are more likely to be used as a layer underneath other trousers for insulation. Men’s leggings can be worn as a flexible alternative to trousers for intense activities.

Women’s tights and leggings tend to refer to clothing with distinct differences. Tights are usually made from thinner material and cover the legs and feet. Leggings tend to be thicker, sit above the waist, and stop at or above the ankles.

For men, the distinction is less clear-cut. A pair of men’s running tights may be very similar to a pair of running leggings from another manufacturer. Men’s tights and leggings both tend to cover the legs down to the ankles but not the feet.

Rather than focus on the name, make your choice based on the features of the legwear and the needs of your activity.

Men's Summit Ripido Run Tight Shorts

£ 70.00

Men's Summit Pro 120 Leggings

Is it OK for guys to wear leggings?

It is increasingly common for guys to wear leggings to the gym or tights when running. In cold weather, tights can keep you warm without compromising performance. The benefits of leggings include reduced chaffing during active wear, less muscle fatigue, and soreness after high output activities.

What should men wear under tights?

The choice of what to wear under men’s tights depends on the type of tights, your other clothing, and the activity you have planned. Avoid loose-fitting underwear or boxer shorts that will bunch up under the tights. Choose close-fitting briefs or nothing at all for ease of motion.

Men’s tights and leggings are designed to be close-fitting, so your choice of what to wear underneath will affect your comfort. If you are wearing tights as a layer underneath other trousers or leggings of a thicker fabric, consider wearing nothing underneath. If you are only wearing leggings, you may prefer to add a pair of shorts over the leggings than something underneath.

If you do decide to wear something underneath, look for a close-fitting pair of briefs that will not limit your range of motion or become uncomfortable under the tights.

What are the best men's tights?

The best men’s tights will depend on your planned activities. Balance the insulating properties for warmth against breathability when you start to sweat. Compression tights are used to reduce muscle soreness after high-impact activities. Seamless designs enhance comfort during exercise. Fabrics with elasticity will allow you to move freely.

To choose the best pair of men’s tights or leggings for your needs, consider the following factors:

Fit - Leggings should be close-fitting and made from stretchable materials that do not inhibit movement.
Warmth - Think about the temperatures you are likely to encounter to decide on the level of insulation you need.
Breathable - When you start to move, you will begin to perspire. Look for leggings that are made from breathable fabrics that will wick sweat away from the body.
Seamless - Seams are the main cause of chafing.
Combinations - Think about your other clothing to choose effective layer combinations.

The North Face Men’s Sports Tights use a synthetic fabric blend and seamless construction for a comfortable, stretchy fit. With mild compression to reduce fatigue and body-mapped ventilation, they are an ideal addition to your outdoor kit.

The right pair of men’s tights or performance leggings can improve your comfort and performance on your next outdoor adventure. Whether running on the trail, mountain biking or bouldering, The North Face has a long history of providing effective clothing that allows you to perform at your best.