Ibex Energy Tights - Women's

I admit it. I'm a merino wool addict. And these tights are a great high. They breathe, but they keep me warm when running in cold temps. I'm 5'9" and they are long enough both in the rise, and the leg length. They are super-soft inside, no itch whatsoever. If I could change anything about them, it would be to have a slightly larger hidden pocket with a zipper on the back. Otherwise, perfect.

I had wanted some great winter running pants or tights for a LONG time that wouldn't ride up or work their way down as I ran (putting the crotch between my thighs, that is!), and would not flop around my ankles. I also wanted some leg-wear that would be warm and comfy. These tights work great and meet my criteria! I was concerned that the wool fabric would be scratchy or tight, especially in dry Colorado winter air, but after a few outdoor runs in these tights, I haven't had any problems with skin irritation (and I've got sensitive skin.) I was also concerned that the fabric might be too sheer, but the only modesty issue is that these tights are quite form-fitting. The wide elastic waistband is comfortable, but the ankle elastic bands were too tight for me so I stretched them manually a bit and unzipped the ankle zippers slightly and that did the trick.
There's a small interior pocket (not zippered) to hold things, like some cash or an ID. It would have been nice if these tights had another, sturdier and/or more capacious pocket.

Finally, as a petite woman (I'm 5' 3") these tights are just a little tiny bit long on me, but not enough that I wanted to send them back. I've shrunk other Ibex items in the wash before to get them to fit me better (warm wash, warm dry, or drip dry, depending on how much shrinkage I was aiming for) and I'll probably do the same with these tights.

I bought these in the bittersweet color and it's a dark, subtle brown. I find it a pretty pleasant color and it's close to the color swatch online at Ibex's website.
Overall, I'd recommend these tights for those who wish to exercise outdoors in the winter on cold days--the first time I wore these, the temperature was in the 40s and with the Colorado sunshine, I actually felt TOO warm! The next time, the temperature was probably 29 or 30 F. and these tights were perfect. I'm not giving these tights a perfect score because of the fit for petites like myself (hint, hint Ibex, make a short length!) and because of the really tight ankle elastic bands and the single pocket. Also more colors would be nice!!

I love these tights, but they are itchy. I almost sent them back, but finally decided to wear them with silk long johns inside and that took care of the problem in terms of wearing them around when I'm not actively exercising. I have worn them just by themselves for winter train runs, under a pair of soft shell pants, and as long as I don't think too much about them, I'm fine, but as soon as I sit down and start relaxing, I start scratching. I wanted thick black winter leggings that I could wear around town all winter, stay warm, be comfortable, but not look totally sloppy, and these are that. They look great, I get lots of compliments on them, and I stay warm. They are very well made, but in general, I think I'm going to use other base layers against my skin (fleece or smartwool, which I also have, and are less warm, but not itchy).

While running I managed to fall and get a hole in the knee of the tight. Quickly I went on line and ordered another pair. Love these tights. Warm, great for exercise and wearing out to dinner. Wide waist bad perfect and comfortable.