Falke Impulse Running Tights review: The upgrade your activewear wardrobe needs

Looking to invest in the very best leggings (opens in new tab)for running? Falke has combined fashion and functionality in one sleek package with their Falke Impulse Running Tights. We’ve put them through their paces with real-life testing to give you all the information you need to buy with confidence. 

I have tested a wide range of leggings, from stretchy sports styles through to on-trend faux leather, to find the very best leggings on the market. In each review, I’ll be filling you in on how easy they are to slip into, how they look and, most importantly, whether they’re worth spending your money on.

Keep scrolling to find out if the Falke Impulse Running Tights are for you…

SHOP NOW: (opens in new tab) Falke Impulse Running Tights , £130

First Impressions

At first glance, it’s clear the Falke Impulse Running Tights are designed for serious runners. Fuelled by a wealth of technology and innovation, they’re not smooth like your average pair of workout leggings (opens in new tab), rather they’re covered in knitted panelling.

If that wasn’t enough, a quick feel of the fabric reveals a peppering of tiny rubber spikes positioned at targeted points across the legs – a surprising touch that I certainly wasn’t expecting to find.

As a fairweather runner, it was fair to say I was starting to feel a little intimidated, but I wiggled them on nonetheless.

Thankfully, any fears I had of the rubber nodules digging in were completely alleviated and, instead of feeling restricted or uncomfortable as a result of the compression fit, my legs simply felt well supported.

Fabric

Helping you return from your run fresh and dry, no matter how many miles you’ve clocked up, these leggings are crafted from moisture-wicking fabric. This means they draw sweat away from the body, ready to disperse on the outer layers of the fabric. Not only does this make for a more pleasant running experience, you’re likely to be faster, too, without heavy, sweat-laden leggings weighing you down. 

Moisture-wicking garments also dry quicker after a wash – a godsend if you’re short on time.

I found the fabric of the Falke Impulse Running Tights to be slightly more sheer as I would have liked, with a noticeable VPL that was amplified as I bent down. But, as they’re tailored specifically for running, as opposed to any exercises that might involve squats, it’s not a deal-breaker for me. 

Design

Now, for the science part. 

The aforementioned rubber nodules are actually silicone structures designed to ‘stimulate the sensors in the fascias and optimise leg movement’, according to Falke. 

In layman's terms, they work to support the connective tissues that hold your muscles together in order to help you run better. Combined with the patented knitted paneling, these leggings work to gently massage both your muscles and tissues for a speedier, less achy recovery.

The bulk of the silicone structures and panelling are centred around the hip and knee, helping to give these important joints extra support as you pound the pavements. 

Wearability

While these leggings have been designed for wearing when running, there’s no reason why you couldn’t pop them on for your next gym class, too.

The classic black colour and ¾ length means they’ll slot seamlessly into your activewear wardrobe. Keep it simple and team with a coordinating black top and trainers, or mix and match with more colourful activewear pieces.

Are the Falke Impulse Running Tights true to size?

I found that the Falke Impulse Running Tights did come up true to size, but having said that, working out which size you need can be a bit of a minefield. 

Instead of using standard sizing, they come in sizes 1-4, based on your hip measurements. Take the time to measure yours to ensure you’re getting a snug but comfortable fit. 

The fabric is super stretchy, so don’t be put off by how miniscule they look when they arrive.