The Garneau Oslo tights pants are most commonly marketed to cyclists, but are a great option for cold weather runners. The Garneaus combine several things that we like to see in high quality running pants: Wind protection, warmth, the ability to hold their shape, all in a lightweight package. They are very versatile – you will find yourself wearing them for running, cycling, skiing, and any other colder activity. They are not technically a compression tight, but have some light compression qualities that are a nice added feature for athletes. Overall, these tights rise to the top class of all-weather tights for those who find themselves in cold or windy weather at times.
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Functionality: The Garneau Oslos compete very well with our functional criteria. One of our favorite features is a very light coating of wind protection that adds little weight but tends to be very effective on both a bike or on foot. The pants keep legs warm down to temps around 25-30 degrees, and with a light tight and provide adequate warmth below those temps. The fit of the pant is very comfortable – generally tight while providing for plenty range of motion. The whole package is lightweight enough to rank near the top of our running pant recommendations. The pants don’t have pockets.
Ease of Ownership: After several months of use and washings, the Garneau tight has held up very well. The fit is still tight, and the elastic on the ankles grips as it did when new. The washings have caused the wind protecting “sheen” to dull a bit, but it only affects the appearance, not the effectiveness of the coating. All seams have held up very well to repeated washings. The wind barrier functionality of the tights appears to be as good now as when new. One thing that has occured over the course of many uses is that the tights are not quite as snug as they used to be. Considering these are not your classic compression tights, though, and more of a thermal tight, it doesn’t significantly detract from the performance of the garment.
Design: The Garneau tights are aesthetically attractive. They fit tight to form, and don’t have any pockets or other add-ons to break the lines. The only color we’ve used is black, which suits or taste, but perhaps not those who look for flashier gear.
Value: For a price of $70 – $90, a Garneau tight is not cheap, but it is a good value. Because their shape holds up so well over time, and they maintain their warming capabilities over many repeated washings, the cost-per-use of Garneaus is excellent. It probably is better than the cost-per-use of lesser garments when you factor in that they won’t last as long.
Overall: The Garneau Oslo tight is an excellent piece of gear that will quickly become a go-to item for you when you are running or cycling in the winter. Great construction and comfort, and highly versatile for multiple outdoor activities including running and cycling. We highly recommen them.
