The Best Running Clothes 2024

Buyer's Guide | Fleet Feet

Updated on

Shopping for the best running clothes can take you all over town and to every corner of the internet. It’s hard to find the clothes that meet all your needs—the right fit, the right materials and the right number of pockets.

But once you find the best running shorts or the best running jacket, it’s hard to go back to what you were wearing before. Top brands engineer the best running clothes to work better when you’re on the move. Technical fabrics wick sweat and dry quickly, while an athletic fit keeps excess fabric at bay.

We collected the best running apparel, so every runner can find what works for them. Make sure to pair your running clothes with some of the best running shoes and best running gear, so you have everything you need to have your best run yet.

Here’s a snapshot of our favorite clothes of 2024 (so far) that we run, train and play in:

Looking for something specific? Check out more of our guides on the best clothes to run in that dive deeper into the best running clothes for every type of season, weather and occasion.

Best Running Clothes
Women's rabbit EZ Tee Short Sleeve Thumbnail

rabbit EZ-Tee Short Sleeve

$48

Every runner needs a classic short sleeve shirt for their daily runs and workouts.

The rabbit EZ-Tee Short Sleeve is buttery-soft and comes with all the performance features you want from your go-to running top—it’s lightweight, moisture-wicking and quick-drying, so you’ll stay comfortable during your workout and look good for a post-run hangout with friends.

Best Running Clothes
Men's On Performance Long-T Thumbnail

On Performance Long T

$80
When you need a little more coverage on those cooler days, the On Performance Long T is the perfect choice. We love how lightweight it feels during runs, and the Japanese knit fabric is amazing at wicking moisture away from skin, so it will keep you warm when it’s cold and cool once you’ve warmed up mid-run. Designers also integrated an antibacterial treatment into the yarn to keep the shirt smelling fresh after an intense workout.
Best Running Clothes
Women's Brooks Drive 3 Pocket Sports Bra Thumbnail

Women's Brooks Drive 3 Pocket Run Bra

$37.5 - $55
A comfortable sports bra can make or break your run. The Brooks Drive 3 Pocket Run Bra focuses on support through compression that’s specifically designed to handle high-impact activities like running. In our review of the Drive 3 Pocket Run Bra, we loved the smooth, seamless cut that prevents those annoying itches mid-workout and the performance polyester blend fabric that wicks away sweat and dries fast. To top it off, two mesh side pockets and a phone-sized pocket at the back keep your hands free for your dog’s leash or a water bottle.
Best Running Clothes
Men's Brooks Sherpa 5" Short Thumbnail

Men’s Brooks Sherpa 5” Short

$64
The Brooks Sherpa Shorts are as functional in the gym as they are on the trail thanks to their internal mesh liner and smooth fabric that wicks sweat away from your skin. Plus, an envelope-style pocket lines each hip for things like car keys or energy gels, and a zippered rear waistband pocket holds your ID and credit card. If you're looking for a little more coverage than the 5” length, check out the men’s Sherpa 7” 2-in-1 Short.
Best Running Clothes
Women's Brooks Chaser 7" Running Shorts Thumbnail

Women’s Brooks Chaser Short

$66
Don’t let its timeless style fool you, the women’s Brooks Chaser Shorts are built for performance. They’re lightweight, breathable and have the perfect amount of stretch for any type of movement. We loved the extra details on these shorts like the sweat-wicking mesh brief liner, two side pockets and the waistband pockets for smaller items. Plus, there are a variety of lengths available, so whether you’re logging a long run or doing squats during your strength session, these shorts have you covered.
Best Running Clothes
Men's ChicknLegs 2" Split Shorts Thumbnail

ChicknLegs Split Shorts

$35
You’ll never feel more free than when you’re running fast in a pair of split shorts. ChicknLegs Split Shorts are lightweight, moisture-wicking and come in wild patterns that can turn a serious race into a fun run. Plus, they come with a perforated and supportive mesh liner, and there is an inside pocket to stash an energy gel for your long runs.
Best Running Clothes
Women's rabbit EZ Tank Thumbnail

rabbit EZ Tank

$48 - $50
The rabbit EZ Tank is as good for summer running as it is for kicking back at the beach. A magical polyester-spandex blend fabric feels super-soft and cool against your skin. Plus, it has a lightweight fit and stretchy performance that wicks away sweat and dries in a flash. Pair this tank with the ChicknLegs Split Shorts we mentioned above and you’ve got yourself one heck of a race-day outfit.
Best Running Clothes
Men's Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger Thumbnail

Vuori Performance Jogger

$98
If we had to wear one pair of pants for the rest of our life, it would be the Vuori Performance Jogger. Their breathable and buttery-soft fabric makes you never want to take them off—and their versatile style means you’ll never have to. From chilly morning runs and relaxed gym sessions to movie days and coffee dates, these joggers look and feel as good as they perform.
Best Running Clothes
Women's Brooks 8" Method Short Tight Thumbnail

Women’s Brooks Method Short Tight

$64
The Brooks Method Short Tight is an easy choice when it’s hot out or speed is your priority. These tights are smooth against your skin to prevent itching or chafing and have a compression-like fit. Perforations let heat escape so you’ll stay cool, and moisture-wicking fabric keeps you from leaving sweat stains on the park bench after your run. These short tights are also a great way to carry your phone on the run thanks to their two drop-in pockets and a back pocket that keeps bouncing to a minimum.
Best Running Clothes
Women's New Balance Impact Run Crop Tight Thumbnail

Women’s New Balance Impact Run Crop Tight

$65
We know tights are an essential piece of any running (or lounging) kit. The women’s New Balance Impact Run Crop Tight is comfortable and durable enough to be your go-to pair for years to come. The stretchy fabric moves with you without losing its shape, and it feels soft and smooth against your skin to keep your workout distraction-free. They also have a drop-in pocket on each hip and a zippered pocket on the waistband to stash your nutrition, keys and other essentials.
Best Running Clothes
Women's Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ 1/2 Zip Thumbnail

Mizuno Breath Thermo ½ Zip

$95
A reliable half zip belongs in every runner’s wardrobe. From warming up to layering up, the versatility of the Mizuno Breath Thermo ½ Zip makes it perfect for cooler days. Mizuno’s signature Breath Thermo fabric gets warmer as your body starts to generate body vapor and sweat, so you can wear this ½ zip for running, snowshoeing, hiking, après skiing and so much more. Plus, it has the one thing every runner loves during cold-weather adventures: thumbholes.
Best Running Clothes
Men's Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ Tights Thumbnail

Mizuno Breath Thermo Tights

$90
The Mizuno Breath Thermo Tights are perfect for your winter runs and outdoor adventures. When the temperature drops, these cold-weather tights keep you warm thanks to the Breath Thermo technology that helps trap the heat and water vapor you generate when you get going. We loved the form-fitting stretch of these tights that keep your range of movement open and make them comfortable to layer underneath pants when it’s really cold out.
Best Running Clothes
Women's On Weather Jacket 2023 Thumbnail

On Weather Jacket

$240
When the skies are unpredictable, the On Weather Jacket has you covered. This running jacket is high-tech and ultralight to keep you running strong in any condition. The fabric is stretchy for a full range of motion and breathable to keep you from feeling clammy during a late spring shower. It has a DWR (durable water repellent) finish for light rain and snow protection and the adjustable hood strap with an angled bill keeps the elements off your face. Like most On running gear, we love the Weather Jacket’s combination of elite performance and modern style.
Best Running Clothes
Women's Craft ADV Essence Warm Vest Thumbnail

Craft ADV Essence Warm Vest

$110
A running vest might be the ultimate piece of cold-weather apparel. The Craft ADV Essence Warm Vest has pockets for your gear, is amazing for layering and can round out the style of any outfit. Quilted padding at the front and back give you an extra layer of cozy warmth, while jersey material at the sides stretches for easy movement. We take this vest along any time there’s a chill in the air and use it for everything from cross-country skiing and winter running to brewery trips and fall hiking.
Best Running Clothes
Men's Saucony Rested Sherpa Quarter-Zip Thumbnail

Saucony Rested Sherpa Quarter Zip

$95
Sometimes you just want something cozy to throw on when the weather is cold and motivation is low. The Saucony Rested Sherpa Quarter Zip is perfect whether you’re grabbing a pre-run coffee or going to a bonfire with friends. We love the retro vibe and the fact that it’s made from recycled polyester.
Best Running Clothes
Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab Thumbnail

Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab

$18
Something about slipping into these socks makes you excited about going for a run. Is it the anatomical design where each sock perfectly hugs your arches? The deeper heel and heel tab that keeps them from sliding down the back of your shoe? Or the extra cushioning that feels good to walk in even when you’re not wearing running shoes? Who’s to say? All we know is that these socks make our runs better.

More of The Best Running Clothes By Category

[This is our Best Running Clothes Guide 2024. For more expert advice on the best gear for runners, check out our top lists of the best running shoes, best running gear and best massage tools.]

Best Running Tops

A lady in a pink New Balance top drinking out of a water bottle.

Whether it’s hot or cold, running shirts have an important job: keeping you comfortable and dry.

A high-quality running shirt can make all the difference.

The best running shirts use soft, technical fabrics that wick sweat away from your skin and dry in a snap. Short-sleeve versions keep you cooler in warm weather, and long-sleeve models are great for layering when it gets cold.

We picked out the best men’s and women’s running shirts for every run:

Best Running Bottoms

Two runners in black tights standing

The perfect pair of running shorts, pants and tights can ensure comfort mile after mile.

Whether you are looking for speedy shorts or durable pants and tights, you'll find a wide range of technology and styles to choose from.

From breezy two-inch split shorts meant for the lightest feel to full-coverage options with plenty of pockets, theres something for every runner.

Gear up for cold-weather runs with the best running pants and tights, designed to help you warm up and wind down.

Plus, pants and tights with soft fabrics can pull double duty as your favorite lounging threads, too.

Here are our picks for the best running bottoms for men and women:

Best Running Outerwear

A lady wearing on On jacket adjusting her headlamp

Rain or shine, the best running jackets and vests are essential to your running kit.

The best running jackets are designed with lightweight, breathable technology that lets you shrug off wind and rain while keeping you warm and dry. Layer your jacket with a base shirt or even a vest for some extra warmth on those cold winter runs.

A vest alone can be a great addition to your running outfit. The best running vests keep your core warm as you run and feature weather-resistant fabrics, full-length zippers and pockets for you to carry all your stuff.

Here are our picks of the best running jackets and vests for men and women:

Best Cold Weather Gear

Reflective Masthead

As the days get shorts and the nights get longer, add some warm and reflective gear to your running outfit.

Our selection of winter tights, jackets, and equipment will keep you warm and make you visible to passing cars and cyclists on the roads, or to light your own path as you tackle the trails. Weather-proof technology and super-comfortable fabric lets you stay warm and dry in all conditions.

Check out our lightest and brightest reflective picks and best winter running clothes:

Best Hot Weather Gear

A woman laces up her trail running shoes

Keep your cool when the mercury rises with the best hot weather running gear.

We chose tops and bottoms with performance moisture control and lightning-fast dry times that will help you cool off on even the hottest days. Complete your look with accessories that will protect you from the sun and stay hydrated during long days out on the road or trail.

Find everything you need to run in style this summer:

Best Sports Bras for Running

Two women in On sports bras

Proper support is essential to having a comfortable, injury free run. Thats why finding the right sports bra for your body and activity level is so important.

Find a variety of sports bras with adjustable support, moisture-wicking material and flattering shapes so you can express your unique style. Whether you prefer something that pulls over or closes at the front or back, you're sure to find the perfect sports bra for you in our wide selection.

Best Running Socks

A woman puts on socks before running.

The best running socks can make your run all the more comfortable by providing the just-right support to prevent chafing or uncomfortable rubbing.

Whether you like a traditional crew sock or something less visible, our selection of best running socks includes a wide range of materials, cushioning and cuts.

How We Picked the Best Running Clothes

There are some easy things to look for when choosing the best running clothes: technical fabrics are better at wicking sweat and keeping you dry than cotton, and athletic cuts keep the clothes streamlined for easier movement.

Finding the best running clothes for you, though, comes down to personal preferences and styles. Like the best running shoes, there are lots of different things to think about.

Are you most comfortable in 2” split shorts or do you want more coverage from the 7” pair? How many pockets do you need? We got you covered.

We picked the best running clothes to span a wide range of fits and styles while maintaining premium materials and excellent quality. Check out our running accessory guide to have everything you'll need on your next run.

Standing Behind Our Choices

Shopping for running clothes online is hard. You don’t know for sure how a shirt or a pair of pants will fit until you try it on.

We want you to get the right clothes and gear. That’s why we offer our Happy Fit Guarantee return policy.

Buy new running clothes from Fleet Feet and give them a try—log some miles, get in a few workouts, lounge around. If you don’t love the way the clothes look, fit or perform, send them back within 60 days and we’ll give you a full refund.

Plus, get free shipping on any fleetfeet.com order over $99, and return shipping is always on us.

Want to try something on in person first? Find a Fleet Feet location near you.