The Overview:
There’s a lot to consider when selecting active tights. Will these be warm enough on cold runs or bike rides? Will the seat slowly wear out to the point that my butt cheeks can be seen? Are these breathable enough that I can wear them on a warmer day without sweating my tata’s off? And most importantly will these give me the dreaded muffin top effect? But in all seriousness, these are true concerns.
The Test:
When I initially put the Oakley Speed Burst Tight on, I noted that they felt supportive. The Lycra material added structure to the tights, yet also allowed for a free range of movement thanks to the four-way stretch construction. I liked the feeling along my knees, it reminded me of an understated neoprene knee sleeve. They were however several inches too long. I’m 5’3″ and the average female height is around 5’4″.
I wore the Oakley Speed Burst Tight on a cold-weather run at my usual aerobic haunt: Smuggler Mountain. If it’s not snowing in Colorado it’s almost always warm since the sun is so intense. Shade is another story though. The Speed Burst Tight performed excellently in the breathable-to-warm department as I ran from beating sunlight to shade. I did sweat—quite a lot— but I never experienced doused, dripping sweat thanks to the Speed Burst’s wicking capabilities.
Other great features included the wide, comfortable waistband which snuggly hugged, but did not pinch-off the muffin top zone. Flatlock seams prevent chaffing. Plus, there’s a small hidden zip pocket in the back of the tights, which are perfect for keys and even credit cards or ID’s in case you ever require a post-bike/workout beer.
Rating
4.25 (out of 5)
Design: Although I really like the supportive, elastic feel of the Lycra. These pants were two to three inches too long for the average female height. -.75
Style: Tights, are tights and they may not look amazing on every body type, but the seam construction and supportive materials maintain the structure of the pants. +1
Durability: Lycra was made to stretch and retain structure, so these pants have a long, stretchy life ahead of them. Plus antibacterial action prevent odor buildup. +1
Performance: Wicking fabric combined with active stretch make these ideal cold-weather running/biking pants. +1
Comfort: Wide waistband combined with flatlock stitching earns these pants top points. +1
Buy Oakley Speed Burst Tight at $74.
