Why Half Tights Are the Ultimate Performance Hack

[@MarcCardaronella]

I'm with you Fordy! Forget the shorts on top. They just get in the way, and I hate having two waistbands to deal with. Half tights are so insanely comfortable to run in...just them with nothing else on top or underneath. Complete freedom of movement. It's the best.

[@mikephillips5483]

52-year-old dad bid runner here. Half tights were a game changer for me too. The compression and tight fit prevents chafing in a way I could never achieve with any running shorts. My favorites are the BOA Constrictor Plus half tights and the Wolaco Distance half tights. Great fit and fabric on both. The Wolaco are pricey but very nice. The BOA are very affordable. Thanks for making this! Some new tights I need to try out.

[@msandiford93]

I love Decathlons Evadict trail tights, so much storage on them and nicely compressive. Definitely worth checking out

[@FordyRuns]

Bargain hunter

[@msandiford93]

@@FordyRuns The majority of my kit is Decathlon, can't beat it for value

[@brunofracalossi]

this one is really the best, just raced a half marathon with it yesterday...perfect

[@TolunayOrkun]

@@FordyRuns Besides being bargain, they offer a unique integrated belt perfect for marathon runners. There is really nothing that matches that value at the market. Maybe a little bit better quality fabric would be desirable, but I can disregard that. However, availability is spotty. Evadict tights and baggy shorts are not listed in the USA site anymore.

[@supernaturalcarlover]

Picked up the Nike Core Dri-Fit ADV Run Dvn Half Tight last weekend for $39. Stoked to try them out! Great content as always, Fordy!

[@markjudkins1792]

Hi Fordy, love this content, I too have a dad bod, but mine is 61 years old!!😂 I use half tights for all my runs. Please try the 2xu, they are brilliant and very confirtable. Keep up you great work buddy!!

[@FordyRuns]

thanks alot!

[@mmoesby]

@FordyRuns You should have a look at the Fusion C3 halftights as well. They have the two stretchy side pockets and a back pocket - even though there is no zipper in the back pocket, a sort of overlay in the material makes a good closure of the pocket. There is a nice feel of compression and are very comfortable to run in.

[@JoelLong]

I absolutely love my half-tights…I didn’t say the bystanders love them…but I do. I really enjoyed the Saucony half tights

[@RustyCar]

LOL!! I don’t care what other runners or bystanders like about what I wear. After I’m about 2 or 3 miles into a run, whether solo or in a organized race, that’s when I really don’t care. LOL!! As long as I’m comfortable and doing my thing, I’m good.

[@FenboyTim]

Agree, I have adidas and keep for races. The Nike lava loops look very good. I’m also an arm sleeve fan - fantastic for winter and early spring. 👌

[@pickelbarrelofficial1256]

Yep, after chafing my way through a few different styles, half tights were a game changer for me.

[@FordyRuns]

With you

[@Les.GoRunning]

Nike ADV Aeroswift is also really good. I can store 6 Maurten gels, GoPro camera and tissues at the back. If I had to change them I’d fit a phone side pocket

[@jezcbell]

I'm a fellow half-tight convert, so much more comfortable for long runs

[@FordyRuns]

100%

[@maxcasal]

2XU are the best

[@FordyRuns]

not tried but will thank you

[@ChristianPoultonRuns]

Yeah, they get my vote as well

[@vincewarne228]

I got some, put them on, put them in the draw and that’s where they’ve stayed! I’m not ready yet, happier in short shorts.

[@richardharvey4216]

Half tights for the win. But I wear mine underneath shorts to eliminate chafing and hold the boys on place, or as you say keep everything in order. I haven’t made the leap to wear them on their own though 😀

[@FordyRuns]

Do it

[@northerngamingygo4274]

If you are fast you have to remove the shorts

[@BillyBobJoeSnr]

I, like you, wear shorts over my compression gear as it more socially acceptable. You wouldn't go out running in a jock strap so make sure that base and under layer wear remains that, check the label.

[@jameskillilea1983]

Dee-caf-lon, you can get quality half tights with storage for days. We're talking soft flasks, gels, phone and salt tabs all in the one. Also don't be afraid to have a look at women's ones if your a man. The storage is even better and even more comfortable. I like to wear a sports boxer under the mens but can go without on the womens. Cheap as chips. No need to be dropping anything over £30 on a half tight. Keep those shillings for a post race bottle of 7up.

[@FordyRuns]

Simon has them and loves them

[@adrianbolton2391]

Love the SaySky - great quality & super practical

[@MarkSmith_Best-Athletics]

Saysky FLOW Shorts are also nice if they ever get any back in stock. It's almost a cross between a half-tight and shorts with pocket storage all around the waistband. I wish that I'd have sized up in my pair though.

[@jonheap7588]

Hey fordy big thanks to your comments you made a few weeks back as for me now I don’t care what I look like as I am who I am, loving my half tights and my vests I went for the Saysky as I love the quality

[@FordyRuns]

Hero!!!

[@crazedracer1867]

I bought some REI Swiftland short tights a month or so ago on sale and I LOVE them. Side pockets only, but they hold my iphone 12 plus in an otterbox case and I've had 4 gels in the other side. Bought them along with the Brooks source half tights and they are great, too. Very comparable. I think they were both about $45 a pair on sale. I just bought a pair of Bandit Superbeam 7 pocket half tights this week for my November marathon. They were $$$, but I hear they're worth it. We'll see.

[@timtrenholm3698]

I wear 5" shorts which have a built in half tight (7") under layer, which have the traditional 2 side pockets in the shorts material and a zipper pocket in the lower back which will hold a large phone. Have been considering a high end pair with a belt system built into them, but they sure don't give those away! LOL

[@FordyRuns]

Nice

[@TolunayOrkun]

If you find Decathlon Evadict Tight Shorts, they come with an integrated belt and 2 big zipped pockets at a price that does not break the bank. The problem is availability. Currently they are not available at the USA site. I bought one pair when they were available, and I would buy more.

[@dallob1]

Can always wear shorts (with or without a liner) over the tights if you need modesty or even more pockets. Janji for the win.

[@FordyRuns]

nah modesty out of the window its all about speed

[@kennyosborne5835]

Thanks Fordy. Skins compression series 5 for me. Very tight fit. Feel I can perform to my max and the reduce the impact on hamstrings and quads. Big negative is lack of pockets. There’s an inside mesh at the back and that’s all but skins is a great make which few people seem to look at. Only £29.99 a pair of you shop around.

[@TrailrunnerTroy]

Haven’t run in shorts since 1983. Half tights are better for many of us. Janji are my favorites. Saysky and Rabbit would be next. If you don’t need the pockets, Tracksmith.

[@FordyRuns]

nice collection

[@TrailrunnerTroy]

@@FordyRuns try Janji as they have the best pockets of all.

[@JoggerGraeme]

Quick question. Do you wear anything under them? I’m assuming not, but can’t see that this has been asked already. Great video as ever 👍

[@FordyRuns]

Yeah I do sometimes

[@alp4info]

FR- Since back on my feet over a decade ago tights of any length wort great for the leg muscles.... My bod is not 'dad' style @ 55+ but a triathlon suit for post 5km is unbeatable kit. More pockets via a vest or over-shorts!. Regards! ✌🏾

[@glennmander2062]

Half tight convert here too. Started with a decathlon pair. Then moved to Lucy Locket Loves mens half tights. Super comfy but only comes with a very small back pocket, so I wear a ronhill running belt for extra storage.

[@FordyRuns]

Hero

[@stevecolders]

Just treated myself to a pair of the Puma’s. At that price they’re well worth trying out.

[@bbjunkie]

I use Hoplynn compression shorts (Amazon special) have a phone pocket in the compression liner and a zip pocket for car key/gel in the waistband. I found them a good compromise and great price. Perfect for those not comfortable with just tights 😂 (had them since March and washing them 3 times a week with no problems so far) Cheap at £14 for those on a budget 👍

[@FordyRuns]

im gonna try these

[@bbjunkie]

@@FordyRuns the price fluctuates last week they were low £13 see they are £16 now

[@m3phist0]

As much as just own it is good advice, certain men may struggle to get away with half tights without shorts over the top. 😅

[@cuberstu]

Half tights gr8 fit and feel, its just the budgie smuggling aspect! 😳

[@robertsue7586]

Draw string. Definitely a must for me with half tights (and long tights)....

[@FordyRuns]

Good shout

[@NielsPilon]

I like my long tights during the winter but when it's a bit warmer I prefer to run in my 3 inch shorts. I barely notice wearing them and they give me a more 'free' feeling when running than (short) tights. Guess I'm just a minimalistic runner as the same applies to shirts / singlets.

[@FordyRuns]

fair enough

[@Powellcon_]

I'm the same way, I wear a split short as soon as the weather gets over 10 degrees. But half tights for races or spring/fall training.

[@jackw508]

Mate why when I wear these and brief lined running shorts does my little fella disappear 😂

[@richard_runs]

I use the Brooks ones bought 3 pairs now, sized down though. 4 gels in each pocket for marathon, or a soft flask in training. Saysky not bad but soft flask will bounce out, fit a bit odd and pricey.

[@Ben-yw8be]

Half tights are awesome for racing.

[@d4ve3]

I prefer shorts. The saysky flow shorts have all the pockets but shorts not tights. I love them.

[@MarkSmith_Best-Athletics]

Good shout and they are almost as tight as a pair of half-tights. I wish that I'd have sized up in the pair that I bought at Copenhagen Marathon Expo earlier this year.

[@northerngamingygo4274]

I race in them as well. But for the 800 and 1500

[@footballisunited9642]

I always wear them as undershorts to stop the legs chafing

[@brandonm4664]

Rabbit speedster briefs are great also.

[@Ben-yw8be]

I prefer to run in half tights for racing.

[@michaeldominic2070]

For racing, the Soar Marathon Speed Shorts are in a league of their own. They are very expensive but well worth it! Treat yourself and pick up a pair!

[@FordyRuns]

So expensive though

[@MarkSmith_Best-Athletics]

Just got the Soar Speed Shorts (non Marathon version) and tried out yesterday, so I will be wearing them with a Naked running belt at Amsterdam Marathon next weekend. Not really convinced about the pockets and gel loops on the Marathon Shorts for the extra cash. Interested in the Saysky ones or other cheaper alternatives with leg pockets although they are all probably a bit too warm for me to race in unless it's approx 10 degrees or under.

[@mattpeters6224]

Janji, Janji and Janji. The best hands down.

[@FordyRuns]

Good shout

[@mattpeters6224]

@@FordyRuns or good short. Lol

[@Stevenc1984]

Never tried half tights, not particularly tempted either. I use the Nike Aeroswift 2 inch shorts for races. The only downside is the very limited storage, one gel in each rear pocket and the front pockets maybe a £2 coin? 🤷🏻‍♂️. Helps I don't race anything longer than a half!

[@FordyRuns]

if it works for you then thats just fine

[@JK-tv1px]

I was very similar to you but once you start going beyond 13 miles I found issues with chafing. So keep it in mind if you ever train for a marathon

[@julianlambert8990]

Some nice looking Mizuno half tights at Start Fitness, currently less than a tenner. Have ordered and will see what they are like.

[@russpooley7281]

I've seen them too, how were they? They seem good for the price!

[@julianlambert8990]

@@russpooley7281 I've got 4 pairs now - very impressed. Quality is good, fit well. I'd recommend them.

[@andrewgill25]

Nike aeroswift are great but lack pockets my favorite have to be lululemon as they have pockets but also come in 8inch length as I find many half tights are too long at 10 inches

[@TolunayOrkun]

Try Janji 8" Trail Half Tights Deep 4 pockets on the sides and a pass-through pocket for towel/shirt in the back. They work for road running as well.

[@davidrogers5443]

Nike trail & Hoka are my choice 👍😎

[@alexdibenedetto9605]

Help me out here. No one seems to want to talk about their junk. Do you wear underwear under the tights? Do you lube everything? Is there any movement? The center seams always make me worried that it's going to saw on my junk.

[@randenlewis152]

If you have protruding junk l then they leave everything on display. If you are a grower they should be fine. They give compression so there is little movement. Bodyglide is a must for full marathon. Try them on your long runs to test them out. No need to wear underwear. Good quality will have taped seams

[@thomaswoolliscroft2528]

Saysky for me. Race day, car key in back pocket. Gels in the sides. Then just my garmin watch with Shokz tethered to music from the watch.

[@FordyRuns]

yep winning combo

[@andyrich2000]

Are half tights better than 2 in 1 shorts?

[@randenlewis152]

they are super hot. shorts better for summer, half tights for winter

[@TolunayOrkun]

2-in-1 shorts run warmer and heavier, but I am sure there are some exceptions. I personally like 2-in-1 shorts for gym workouts and for cooler weather training runs.

[@randenlewis152]

I like tights in the gym, i can see the ladies and a few blokes sneaking side glances always makes me chuckle, especially when i bench

[@Sc19869]

Do you wear underwear under compression shorts?

[@drbikeshorts]

Half tights for hot days and full tights for winter. A little pocket is definitely convenient, but I would never want my phone bouncing around my leg or butt; it always goes on an armband or in my camelbak. 2xu have great compression, but sometimes they don’t make room for a nice fit in the crotch. No two pairs of my 2xu pants have a consistent fit in the butt or crotch. Odd. Under Armour have a nice fit for me and can often be got for a decent price during their many sales.

[@tomrichardson5433]

For long runs in hot weather, shorts get soaked, stick to your skin, and are annoying. Doesn't happen with half tights.

[@FordyRuns]

Totally agree

[@tuyenk7048]

When I wear these pants, do I need to wear underwear?

[@danielmitchinson8503]

Nike dri-fit adv aeroswift give them a go perfect

[@FordyRuns]

nice

[@n2th2n]

Quality not great - seams rip easily!

[@NeilWant]

Hi Fordy, sorry to be a bit personal. What do you wear underneath half tights? Or are they shaped to keep everything comfortably in place?

[@FordyRuns]

For me they keep everything in order

[@thomaswoolliscroft2528]

I wear the Runderwear brief under mine. The boxer find a bit warm so prefer the brief

[@adambuckle4513]

2nd vote for runderwear... I have urm a larger thigh so get significant rubbing... always find the runderwear is just that little bit nicer to rub against than the tight material

[@laszlokovacs9596]

FORDY 15! 😉

[@FordyRuns]

Thanks

[@laszlokovacs9596]

@@FordyRuns as always

[@tonypotter9578]

Hi chris, I guess underpants aren’t required with half tights?

[@FordyRuns]

some yes some no... or cowboy up and always go without

[@jimmiestuart8904]

Do any or all have a brief liner ? Thanks

[@TolunayOrkun]

Generally, no! You don't need liners with half-tights, but some wear a brief underwear. It is still a good idea to treat sensitive parts with anti-chafe balm in any case. Alternatively, you might want to look at 2-piece combination from "Path Projects" they have liners and shorts separate.

[@randenlewis152]

My teen daughter took one look at me wearing half tights and she said eww gross, covered her eyes and forbid me to ever wear them again. She says they leave nothing to the imagination and was super mad

[@TolunayOrkun]

It is a mental adjustment for you and for people close to you. Also some are more "modest" then others. In any case, I went from basketball shorts to 5" and 3" shorts and half tights over time. But, if this is a concern you, might want to wear lightweight linerless shorts on top of them. ASICS has them. "Path Projects" has linerless shorts and separate liners so those may be of interest for you. The advantage is that in such a combination you might have more pockets.

[@canmanu.k.7354]

I have used half and three quarter tights for a long time now, feel great, always stay in place don’t ride up plus no chafing and give me somewhere to put my banana 😂

[@FordyRuns]

🤣🤣🤣

[@harryatkinson9757]

A courtesy short over the top of tights wouldn’t be a bad idea 😂

[@FordyRuns]

nah

[@ianpayton3639]

I’ve been using the Janji 8” trail half tight for races this year. Zipped rear pocket and x2 pockets on each leg with enough room to fit a gazillion gels in should you need them. A bit pricey, but thoroughly recommend them. Btw, is there still a Fordy discount on the Saysky’s

[@TolunayOrkun]

I also have Janji 8" trail half tights (2x black and 1x purple) and they don't have a zipped pocket at all. In the back they have a pass-through pocket for towels, shirts or collapsible trail sticks. Are you confusing with another Janji shorts or full-length tights?

[@RustyCar]

I love Janji running tights and the 8” trail half tights. I own quite a few Janji running apparel and I think the only running bottoms that have zippers are the loose shorts.

[@munja2111]

short shorts are best 😅

[@brokenfreddy7676]

The best part of tites is they don't look and feel like a toddler with a soaking wet diaper like running shorts do if you're running in rain or after a hot humid race..and that's nothing to say of the enjoyment of a pair of wet, chaffing shorts..the best I use are Nike but they are expensive so I use them just for racing..

[@FordyRuns]

love it

[@jimclawley9117]

Close up of your cobblers on the first slow mo

[@Wings_nut]

And if you shave your legs you would be that much faster. Over the course of a full marathon you would shave a whole half second off your time. 😊

[@FordyRuns]

on it

[@wordsovsean8905]

Terrible advise. Someone might see my doodle. I'll stick to my $10 K-Mart running shorts for now.

[@FordyRuns]

Brilliant