I'm Prepping for a Half-Marathon Again, and These Are the Only Leggings I Trust for Race Day

As a shopping editor with two half-marathons under my belt and another on the horizon, I've tested just about every kind of running gear imaginable. So when I gravitate toward the same item over and over again during training, that's saying something. For over two years, that please-don't-be-in-the-hamper pair of leggings has been the Core 7/8 Legging from Outdoor Voices (Buy It, $88, outdoorvoices.com and nordstrom.com).

The celebrity-approved brand sent me a pair of its popular leggings to take for a test drive back in 2019 (yes, the pre-pandemic glory days!). Since then, I've consistently worn them for runs, hikes, yoga classes, and Pilates sessions. Let's say I've worn and washed them about once a week for two and a half years — you do the math — and they still look good as new. (

They're my tried-and-true leggings for good reason. First of all, they're made of Outdoor Voices' signature TechSweat fabric consisting of nylon, Lycra, and polyester. The leggings feel lightweight and fit almost like a second skin, yet they're totally squat-proof. They offer compression but don't feel constricting. The high waistband sits snug and stays put no matter what activity I'm doing. It's even outfitted with a sleek back pocket just big enough to hold a few cards, keys, and maybe a spare hair tie. Best of all, I find the fit to be exactly true to size.

That's why I trusted this pair of leggings for running a half marathon in 2020, and it's why I'll be slipping into them again for my next long-distance run this spring. They're comfortable, supportive, and durable; I know I won't be fussing with the waistband or pulling up the fabric throughout the race. All of the cute colors and patterns they come in are just a bonus.

I'm not the only fan of the Outdoor Voices leggings. Hundreds of shoppers have left them positive reviews, and many call out their ideal fit and versatility.

"These are the BEST leggings I've ever had. They are SO comfy and fit perfect," wrote one person, who noted that the pair is equally suitable to wear for outdoor activities in the summer and winter. "Never sweaty, never loose," they added.

Whether you're training for a long-distance race, practicing yoga, or taking a walk around the block, these leggings won't disappoint. Pick up a pair from Outdoor Voices or Nordstrom to see for yourself.

Buy It: Outdoor Voices Core 7/8 Legging, $88, outdoorvoices.com and nordstrom.com