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We Found the Best Workout Leggings Money Can Buy, After Testing 98 Pairs
We interviewed experts, did hours of research, and put 98 pairs of leggings to the test
Great workout leggings are a must-have for anyone who likes to exercise. And they’re not quite the same as lounge leggings. While lounge leggings can be soft and cozy, workout leggings should be stretchy, breathable, and quick-drying, says fitness instructor Jess Paris, NASM, CPT. They should also be supportive and comfortable and stay in place during workouts.
To find the best workout leggings, we conducted six separate tests in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home, evaluating 98 pairs of workout leggings. We wore, worked out in, and washed the leggings, assessing them for quality, fit, feel, opacity, durability, and overall value. And we gave them a score between 1 (would not recommend) and 5 (highly recommend) in those key categories.
We also tapped textile expert Nichelle Mesa for tips on constructing our tests. And we turned to two fitness instructors for advice on finding great leggings. Finally, we had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy, shopping tips, and more.
Armed with these scores, insights, and test results, we found the best workout leggings for every style, budget, and exercise.
Best Overall
Lululemon Align High Rise Pant with Pockets
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Value5/5
- Durability5/5
Supportive, lightly compressive fit
Stay in place during workouts
Many size, length, and color options
Some visible underwear lines
Pricier than other options
lululemon’s Align High-Rise Pant With Pockets earned a perfect score (5 out of 5) in every key category we tested for—and they’re Paris’s all-time favorite leggings. Soft, stretchy, and breathable, the leggings are great for various workouts and are our favorite lululemon leggings out of the 23 we tested from the brand. They’re also opaque, durable, and packed with pockets.
Made of soft Nulu fabric (a nylon-lycra blend), the leggings are cozy enough to lounge around in. And they stayed secure during every workout. The lightly compressive fabric didn’t sheer during squats and kept us supported during cardio. And we loved that the leggings were lightweight and breathable, even if that made them a little thin. (While the leggings proved opaque, they didn’t obscure underwear outlines.)
The cherry on top? The leggings have three built-in pockets. And they come in a range of sizes, lengths, and colors. They might seem pricey at a higher price than many on our list. But we think they’re worth the investment: They feel amazing right out of the box. And after several wears and washes, they still look as good as new.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 23–31 inches | Fabric: Nylon (81%), lycra elastane (19%) | Sizes: 0–20 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
VeryWell Fit / Christina Oehler
VeryWell Fit / Christina Oehler
Verywell Fit / Christina Oehler
Best Budget
ODODOS Cross-Waist Leggings
- Quality5/5
- Opacity4.5/5
- Fit4.5/5
- Durability4.5/5
- Hold4.5/5
Stretchy performance fit
On-trend cut
Many size, length, and color options
Waistband feels too thick
Feel varies by colorway
ODODOS’s Cross-Waist Yoga Leggings were the budget-friendliest leggings that impressed us the most during testing. Made of a sturdy performance fabric, the leggings are stretchy, smooth, and comfortable to work out in. And their on-trend crossover waistband makes them great for everyday wear.
Though the leggings cost considerably less than our overall favorite, they don’t skimp on quality. They’re moisture-wicking and machine-washable. And they’re fully opaque, even in the lightest colorways we tested. Though the crossover waistband is comfortable—never bunching up or digging in—it feels thick compared to the other leggings we tested. And we noticed that the feel of the leggings changes from colorway to colorway.
Given the budget-friendly price point, these felt like minor issues. (For the price of our overall favorite, you could buy five pairs of these.) And since the leggings come in various sizes, lengths, colors, and prints, they’re the perfect thing to stock up on.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 21–28 inches | Fabric: Polyamide (72%), elastane (28%) | Sizes: 0-26 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
Best for Running
lululemon Original Fast and Free High-Rise Crop
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Value5/5
- Durability5/5
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Stretchy but supportive
Seven pockets
Pricier than other options
Deep pockets may be uncomfortable to use during workouts
lululemon’s Fast and Free High-Rise Tights are a favorite among running coaches and some of our favorite running leggings. And the leggings also wowed us during our tests. Made of lightweight Nulux fabric (a nylon-lycra blend), the leggings wick sweat, dry quickly, and provide plenty of airflow. They also offer the perfect blend of stretch and compression.
Since they’re stretchy and squat-proof, we’d happily wear them during any workout. But we think they’re especially great for runners. Thanks to their cool-to-the-touch feel and adjustable drawcord waistband, they keep us comfortable on hot days and never slip out of place. We love that they have seven pockets, though we find the side pockets too deep to comfortably use when working out.
The leggings are also machine-washable, making them convenient to clean between runs. And since they’re available in a range of sizes, lengths, and colors, it’s easy to find a pair worth investing in.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 23–28 inches | Fabric: Nylon (84%), lycra elastane (16%) | Sizes: 0–20 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Verywell Fit / Eliza Savage
Verywell Fit / Eliza Savage
VeryWell Fit / Eliza Savage
VeryWell Fit/Eliza Savage Verywell Fit / Eliza Savage
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Performance5/5
- Value5/5
Supportive, lightly compressive fit
Stay in place during workouts
Versatile
Only one inseam option
Pricier than other options
When we tested 13 pairs of flare leggings, lululemon’s Groove High-Rise Split-Hem Flared Pants quickly became a team favorite. The leggings earned a perfect score (5 out of 5) in every key category, thanks to their stretchy-soft fabric, comfortable high-rise waistband, and just-compressive-enough fit.
The moment we slipped on the leggings, they felt supportive and comfortable. And we never wanted to take them off. They’re cozy enough for lounging, opaque enough for squats, and sleek enough to wear while grabbing drinks and running errands. They never dig in or slip out of place. And they didn’t pill, thin, or stretch out, even after a month of wear.
These are easily the best flare pants we’ve ever worn. And though they’re pricey, we think they’re worth every penny. We just wish they came in several lengths: The 32.5-inch inseam is a little long, though our tall testers loved it.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 32.5 inches | Fabric: Nylon (81%), lycra elastane (19%) | Sizes: 0–20 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
- Durability4.8/5
- Comfort5/5
- Fit4.5/5
- Hold5/5
- Opaqueness4.5/5
Adjustable waistband
Breathable and moisture-wicking
Versatile
Some visible underwear lines
Pricier than other options
Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Love the Bump Maternity Midi Leggings fit like a dream. Made of a stretchy polyester-elastane blend, the leggings feel soft and comfortable. And they seamlessly transition from activity to activity, so you don’t have to change between errands and exercising.
This pair is designed with an over-the-belly waistband that you can fold up or roll down during different trimesters. And they feel tight and supportive without being constricting. The leggings never sagged, dug in, or needed readjustment during our tests. And they always stay in place, whether we’re lounging on the couch or tackling a 45-minute yoga class.
They’re breathable, moisture-wicking, and machine-washable. And they’re designed with two spacious pockets. The only place the leggings lose points is opacity: While they aren’t sheer or see-through, we occasionally spot some panty lines. But we still feel comfortable wearing them everywhere, and we’d happily spend more money on another pair.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 25 inches | Fabric: Polyester (87%), elastane (13%) | Sizes: 2–16 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Stretchy performance fit
Thick and squat-proof
Many size, color, and print options
Run one size too big
Only one inseam option
ZUTY’s Ankle High-Waisted Leggings With Pockets come in a wider size range (XS-5X) than any leggings we tested. And they’re genuinely great. While other size-inclusive leggings have fit, feel, and opacity issues, these are comfortable, stretchy, and totally squat-proof.
Made of polyester and spandex, the leggings are thick and moisture-wicking. And they passed our squat test, concealing any underwear we paired them with. The leggings also boast a supportive high-rise waistband, deep side pockets, and a U-shaped gusset that cuts down on cameltoe. But they run one size too big. And their rise (the distance from waistband to crotch seam) is a bit too long, so we often have to wear them extra-high.
For the price, we’re happy to deal with these tradeoffs. And we’re excited to find great leggings in many sizes. We also love that the leggings come in 18 shades and prints—though we’d like to see more inseam options too.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 25 inches | Fabric: Polyester (80%), spandex (20%) | Sizes: XS–5XL | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
Best for Yoga
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Make The Cut Split Ankle Pant
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit4.5/5
- Performance5/5
- Value5/5
Stay in place during workouts
Thick, sturdy, and squat-proof
Versatile
Only one inseam option
Beyond Yoga’s Make the Cut Pants are some of the best yoga pants we’ve ever tested. Like our other favorite flare leggings, these are stretchy, comfortable, and supportive. And while their thick fabric is perfect for yoga, it’s also great for gym sessions, running errands, and lounging around the house.
Made of Spacedye fabric (a polyester-elastane blend), the leggings are delightfully soft and stretchy. And we happily wear them everywhere. Their supportive high-rise waistband never pinches, bunches, or needs adjustment. And their thick fabric is completely opaque. The leggings also held up to wear and tear: They never pilled, thinned, or lost shape, even after being tossed in the washer and dryer.
We wish they came in different inseam lengths. (The flare cut isn’t forgiving when it’s too short or long.) But that’s our only complaint. They’re comfortable, durable, versatile—and worth their price point.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 31 inches | Fabric: Polyester (87%), elastane (13%) | Sizes: 2–16 | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best for Spin
Gymshark Legacy Leggings
- Quality4.7/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Performance4.7/5
- Value5/5
Flexible fit
Lightweight and breathable
Squat-proof, even in light colors
Thighs thin with wear
No pockets
The brand's Legacy Leggings stood out when we tested 12 pairs of Gymshark leggings. And we especially love them for spin class. Though the leggings are sturdy and squat-proof, they’re also lightweight and breathable. So they’re perfect for cycling and other fast-paced activities.
While some workout leggings are supportive and compressive, these feel more flexible. And they give you the range of motion to tackle a spin class. They’re also lightweight, breathable, and great at wicking sweat. And even in their lightest colorways, the leggings proved opaque—never sheering during squats or plyo box exercises.
When we washed the leggings, they thinned a little in the thighs. But even then, they didn’t lose their opacity. And for the sake of versatility, we wish they had pockets. Still, these leggings offer some of the best value on our list. They feel like an absolute steal at their current price—and they’re perfect for high-intensity exercise.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 30.5 inches | Fabric: Nylon (78%), elastane (22%) | Sizes: XS–XXL | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Intense graduated compression
Mimic the feel of kinesiology tape
Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
Run 1–2 sizes small
Pricier than other options
CW-X’s Stabilyx Compression Leggings aren’t just great compression leggings. While the leggings are some of the tightest and most intense we’ve tested, they’re also designed to support and stabilize your joints. And we found they delivered on that promise.
Made of an ultra-tight performance fabric, the leggings feel intensely compressive. And they’re lined with seams and panels that mimic the feel of kinesiology tape. We feel that support when we wear them during workouts: The leggings gently align our hips and stabilize our knees. They’re also moisture-wicking, fast-drying, and machine-washable.
Like other compression leggings, these run really small. And depending on the fit you’re looking for, you might want to size up. But once you score the right fit, they’re a standout find—well worth their premium price point. We’ve never experienced anything like them. And the moment our initial testing period ended, we immediately ordered a second pair.
Key Specs:
Rise: Medium | Inseam Length: 24–26.5 inches | Fabric: Polyester (80%), lycra elastane (20%) | Sizes: XS–XXL | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Best With Pockets
FlipBelt Leggings with Pockets
- Quality4.5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Durability5/5
- Hold5/5
Integrated storage belt
Pockets lie flat (no bulk or bouncing)
Sweat-wicking
Too thick for warm weather
Limited size and inseam options
FlipBelt’s Mid-Weight Leggings aren’t just packed with pockets. They’re also designed with an integrated storage belt that comfortably holds as much as a fanny pack.
Made of polyester and spandex, the leggings fit like a glove. And they’re stretchy, sweat-wicking, and squat-proof during every workout. But their real selling point is their storage capacity: They have two side pockets, a front pocket, and an around-the-waist storage belt. That storage belt holds as much as a fanny pack but lies flat. And even when we put large items in it, it doesn’t stick out or bounce around.
Since the leggings are so thick, they’re not very breathable. And we’d love more inseam and size options to choose from. But we like that these allow you to go on jogs, run errands, and head to the gym bag-free.
Key Specs:
Rise: Medium | Inseam Length: 26 inches | Fabric: Polyester (75%), spandex (25%) | Sizes: XS–XL | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Opaque
Under Armour ColdGear Authentics Leggings
- Quality4.5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Performance5/5
- Value4.8/5
Squat-proof and sweat-proof
Breathable, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying
Many size, length, and color options
No pockets
If you’re looking for opacity, fleece-lined leggings are always a great bet. And Under Armour’s ColdGear Authentics Leggings deliver. The leggings proved completely squat-proof, staying opaque in every situation. And they showed no signs of moisture, even when sweat pooled behind our legs.
This pair is made of a dual-layer fabric that’s smooth on the outside and cozy on the inside. And they were some of the most breathable fleece-lined leggings we’d ever worn. The leggings kept us warm on cold days but didn’t overheat us during workouts. And we love that they’re sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and easy to move around in.
They come in a range of sizes, colors, and lengths—which is good because we found their inseam too long. And naturally, we wish they were designed with pockets. But we’re happy with their quality and their price. Given the quality, we’d expect them to be much more expensive.
Key Specs:
Rise: Medium | Inseam Length: 26–31 inches | Fabric: Polyester (87%), elastane (13%) | Sizes: 0–18 | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Best Fleece-Lined
RBX Fleece-lined Leggings
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Performance5/5
- Value5/5
Cozy but breathable
Two zip-up pockets
Many size and color options
Only one inseam option
Great fleece-lined leggings keep you warm without overheating you, and RBX’s Active Fleece-Lined Leggings do just that. During our tests, they proved incredibly versatile. They were warm enough for cold-weather workouts but breathable enough for indoor sweat sessions. And we felt comfortable wearing them during everyday activities, like shopping and lounging.
The leggings are made of stretchy performance fabric and lined with cozy fleece. And despite their thick feel, they fit like a glove. They also pass our squat test, stay in place during workouts, and look as good as new after seven machine washes.
To top things off, they’re lined with pockets. And they come in several sizes and colors, though we’d love more inseam options. At a budget-friendly price, this is one of our favorite buys on our list. We’ve already ordered a second pair—and we’ve wholeheartedly recommended the leggings to several of our friends.
Key Specs:
Rise: Medium | Inseam Length: 27 inches | Fabric: Polyester (88%), spandex (12%) | Sizes: XS–XXL | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Best on Amazon
ODODOS Yoga Leggings with Pockets
- Quality5/5
- Opacity4.5/5
- Fit5/5
- Durability4.5/5
- Hold5/5
Stretchy performance fit
Lightweight, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying
Many size, length, and color options
Too thick for warm weather
When we tested 25 pairs of Amazon leggings, ODODOS’s High-Waist Yoga Leggings With Pockets won out. The leggings are on offer for a budget-friendly price. And given their quality, stretch, and opacity, we think they punch above their weight.
They’re made of performance fabric, so they wick sweat and dry quickly. And they offer the perfect balance of stretch and rebound. They’re also soft, lightweight, and comfortable to work out in. And despite their second-skin feel, they provide plenty of coverage: They passed our squat test in broad daylight, even when we wore them in a light colorway.
At times, the leggings felt a little heavy. But there’s nothing else we’d change about them— they feel like a steal. And since they come in two lengths, 38 colors, and an inclusive range of sizes, they’re dangerously easy to stock up on.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 25–28 inches | Fabric: Polyester (72%), elastane (28%) | Sizes: 0–26 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best lululemon, Runner-Up
lululemon Wunder Train Hi-Rise Tight 25"
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Performance5/5
- Value5/5
Supportive, compressive fit
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Many size, length, and color options
Too thick for warm weather
When we tested lululemon leggings, the brand’s Wunder Train Leggings earned a perfect score (5 out of 5) in every key category. They’re comfortable, supportive, and easy to clean—and they’re some of the best workout leggings that lululemon sells.
The leggings are made of Everlux fabric, a nylon-lycra blend that wicks sweat and dries quickly. And they feel ultra-supportive, thanks to their compressive fit. They held up during every workout: They didn’t sheer during squats or deadlifts and stayed in place during high-impact exercise. But since they’re so thick, they might be too heavy for hot-weather workouts.
The leggings come in a range of sizes, lengths, and colors. And we love that you can toss them in the washer and dryer. Compared to our Best Overall pick (another pair of our favorite lululemon leggings), these aren’t quite as versatile. But they’re cheaper—and truly perfect for high-impact workouts.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 23–31 inches | Fabric: Nylon (77%), lycra elastane (23%) | Sizes: 0–20 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Best Splurge
lululemon SenseKnit High-Rise Running Crop
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit5/5
- Value4.5/5
- Durability5/5
Stretchy performance fit
Stay in place during workouts
Squat-proof, even in light colors
Back pocket doesn’t zip shut
Drawcord is hard to untie
lululemon’s SenseKnit High-Rise Running Crops are the most expensive leggings we tested. But they really impressed us. They fit like a second skin while still offering plenty of coverage. And though they’re designed for running, we found them great for various workouts.
Made of nylon, elastane, and polyamide, they feel buttery-soft. And they’re supportive and stretchy in all the right places. The leggings always stay in place, whether we run, weightlifting, or tackle a HIIT session. They’re also completely opaque: We bought them in light blue and paired them with dark underwear, and you couldn’t see a thing.
They have a back pocket that’s great for stashing valuables, but we wish it zipped shut. And we also wish their adjustable drawcord was easier to untie. These tweaks are tiny—a testament to how great these leggings are. And given their quality and versatility, we think they’re worth the splurge.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 23 inches | Fabric: Nylon (76%), elastane (24%), polyamide (in knee panels) | Sizes: 0–14 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
Verywell Fit / Isabella Broggini
- Quality4.1/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit4.3/5
- Performance4.4/5
- Value4.6/5
Stretchy performance fit
Stay in place during workouts
Five inseam options
Fabric bunches in the crotch
Limited pocket space
When shopping for leggings, long inseams are hard to find. A few of our favorites have 35-inch-long inseams, and most are much shorter. But Bubblelime’s High-Waist Bootcut Yoga Pants come in five lengths, including an extra-long option with a 37-inch inseam.
This length sets the leggings apart, but it’s not the only reason we love them. Made of a nylon-spandex blend, they’re thick, stretchy, and great for any situation. They stay in place during workouts and emerge from the wash looking as good as new. They’re thick and opaque, so we can comfortably wear them while running errands.
The leggings never pinched, rolled, or dug in during our tests, but they did bunch in the crotch. And while they have one small pocket, we wish they offered more storage space. For their reasonable price, we’re happy to tolerate these tradeoffs. And we appreciate that they come in several sizes, colors, and prints.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 29–37 inches | Fabric: Nylon (75%), spandex (25%) | Sizes: XS–XXL | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Petite
Yogipace Bootcut Yoga Pants
- Quality4.4/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit3.5/5
- Performance3.6/5
- Value3.8/5
Thick and sturdy
Sweat-wicking
10 inseam options
Not stretchy
Tight, uncomfortable gusset
It’s tough to find flare leggings in petite sizes. But Yogipace’s Bootcut Yoga pants come in 10 inseam lengths, including short inseams that range from 25 to 28 inches and petite inseams that range from 29 to 30 inches.
Made of nylon and spandex, the leggings are thick and sturdy. And they proved opaque in every situation. They also wick sweat, hold their shape, and show no signs of wear after several workouts and washes. But they’re not quite as stretchy as other leggings we’ve tested. So we think they’re best for low-impact workouts and lounging.
Though the leggings showed no signs of thinning, stretching, or pilling, they didn’t feel very high-quality. And we found their double-layer gusset tight and uncomfortable. Still, for their budget-friendly price, we think they’re a worthwhile buy for petite exercisers. And since they come in several sizes and colors, you can find them in a style you love.
Key Specs:
Rise: Medium | Inseam Length: 25–37 inches | Fabric: Nylon (87%), spandex (13%) | Sizes: XS–XXL | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Sustainable
GapFit Sky High Rise Recycled Power Flare Leggings
- Quality5/5
- Opacity4.6/5
- Fit4.2/5
- Performance4.7/5
- Value4/5
Snug, supportive fit
High-quality feel
Stay in place during workouts
Waistband feels mid-rise (not high-rise)
Fabric bunches in the thighs
There’s a lot to love about Gap’s GapFit Sky Power Flare Leggings. They’re comfortable, flexible, and supportive. And since they’re made of spandex and recycled polyester, they’re a great option if you want to shop sustainably.
Though mostly made of recycled fabric, they’re as sturdy and supportive as our other favorites. And the moment we slipped them on, they felt high-quality. The leggings feel soft to the touch and have a snug, supportive fit that’s ideal for exercise. They’re also thick and durable, so they passed our squat test and held up in the wash.
We had some trouble with the cut of the leggings: Their high-rise waistband didn’t sit very high, and their legs were so long that fabric bunched around our thighs. But they never dug in or slipped out of place—and we’d happily buy a second pair.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 29–35.5 inches | Fabric: Polyester (79%), spandex (21%) | Sizes: XXS–XXL | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash, air dry
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit4/5
- Durability4/5
- Hold5/5
Stay in place during workouts
Maintain stretch in the washer and dryer
Breathable, sweat-wicking, and UV-protective
Extreme high-rise waistband
Only one inseam option
Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye High-Waisted Midi Leggings aren’t just stretchy, snug, and supportive. They’re also washer- and dryer-safe. After weeks of wear and washes, they still feel as tight as they did the first time we wore them. And since lots of stretchy materials lose shape in the washer and dryer, that’s remarkable.
The leggings are made of Beyond Yoga’s signature Spacedye fabric, a polyester-elastane blend that feels buttery-soft. And since they’re stretchy, sweat-wicking, and breathable, they’re a joy to work out in. The leggings are also UV-protective, and they stay in place during workouts. But since their high-rise waistband is a whopping 11 inches long, we have to pull them up really high.
They come in a range of colors and sizes. And while they’re pricier, we think their quality and longevity make them a perfect investment piece.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 25 inches | Fabric: Polyester (87%), elastane (13%) | Sizes: 0–32 | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
Best Cropped
CRZ YOGA Capri Leggings
- Quality4.5/5
- Opacity4/5
- Fit5/5
- Durability4.5/5
- Hold5/5
Stretchy performance fit
Lightweight second-skin feel
Many size and color options
Some visible underwear lines
Seams fray when washed
If you want a pair of cropped leggings you can wear during any workout, CRZ YOGA’s Naked Feeling Workout Capri Leggings get the job done.
Made of polyamide and spandex, the leggings are incredibly stretchy. And they feel like a second skin. They never pinch, bunch, or dig in; their high-rise waistband always stays in place. Despite their lightweight feel, the leggings also pass our squat test—though we noticed that you could see panty lines through them.
Unfortunately, this pair is hand-wash-only. And when we gently machine-washed them, they started to fray at the seams. They also run large, so we had to size down to find our perfect fit. To us, these issues felt minor. And at a budget-friendly price, these still offer some of the best value on our list. We’d happily buy them in several more colors. And since they come in 33 shades, that’s easy to do.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 19 inches | Fabric: Polyamide (71%), spandex (29%) | Sizes: 0–14 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Hand wash cold, air dry
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Sweat-Wicking
Under Armour HeatGear Leggings
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit3.5/5
- Durability5/5
- Hold4.5/5
Supportive, compressive fit
Lightweight, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying
Many size, length, and color options
Run one size too big
Under Armour’s HeatGear High-Waisted Pocketed Leggings are designed to keep you comfortable on hot days. And they really do. During our tests, the leggings proved incredibly sweat-wicking and fast-drying. And their lightweight fabric didn’t weigh us down in the heat.
Made of a performance blend of polyester and elastane, the leggings wick sweat, dry quickly, and offer just enough compression. They also pass our squat test and hold up in the wash. As fans of high-rise leggings, this mid-rise pair sits lower than we’re used to. But their waistband stays in place during every workout. And though the leggings have an ultra-tight fit, we still needed to size down.
We love the side pockets that hold small valuables and that this pair is available in several sizes, lengths, and colors. Given their quality, we’d happily wear them on any hot day.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 27–31 inches | Fabric: Polyester (87%), elastane (13%) | Sizes: 0–18 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
- Quality5/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit4.8/5
- Performance5/5
- Value4.8/5
Cozy but not bulky
Moisture-wicking and sun-protective
Many size, length, and color options
Run big
Eddie Bauer’s Crossover Winter Trail Adventure High-Rise Leggings are some of our favorite fleece-lined leggings. And they’re especially great for hiking. This pair is made of a performance fabric that wicks moisture, offers sun protection, and reduces odor. And they’re lined with brushed fleece for added warmth.
Though the leggings feel thick and cozy, they’re not bulky. And they proved opaque in every situation. Throughout our tests, this pair never showed signs of wear. And though they run a little big, we don’t mind: They still feel comfortable and stay in place during workouts.
They’re also lined with pockets, including a zip-up pocket perfect for small valuables. And they come in several sizes, lengths, and colors. This pair is pricier compared to other options on our list. But we think they’re worth the price. They’re comfortable and sturdy—the kind of thing you can buy now and wear for years.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 25–31 inches | Fabric: Polyester (88%), spandex (12%) | Sizes: 0–26 | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Best for Strength Training
Gymshark Seamless Leggings
- Quality4.9/5
- Opacity5/5
- Fit4.6/5
- Performance4.7/5
- Value5/5
Supportive, compressive fit
Breathable and sweat-wicking
Versatile
Hard to put on
No pockets
When we tested 12 pairs of Gymshark leggings, these Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings impressed us—and ultimately earned our top spot. The leggings are stretchy, sweat-wicking, and durable. And while we comfortably wore them during a range of workouts, their snug, supportive fit makes them especially great for strength training.
Made of polyester and elastane, the leggings feel tight and compressive. And while they’re breathable enough for a sweat session, they’re also squat-proof enough for a strength-training workout. They’re versatile, seamlessly taking us from studio classes to cross-training exercises. And they held up in the wash, never sheering, thinning, or losing their shape.
Since the leggings are so form-fitting, we found them hard to slip into. And naturally, we wish they had pockets. But this pair is sturdy, comfortable, and versatile and offers incredible value.
Key Specs:
Rise: High | Inseam Length: 30.5 inches | Fabric: Nylon (93%), elastane (7%) | Sizes: XS–XXL | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
Verywell Fit/Tamara Staples Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Verywell Fit/Jhett Thompson
How We Rated the Workout Leggings
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best workout leggings we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These workout leggings are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great workout leggings, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These workout leggings are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend workout leggings with this rating; you won't find any on our list.
We Also Tested
After testing 98 pairs of workout leggings, we found a bunch worth recommending. And there were some leggings we really loved that didn’t make our final list. Those leggings lost points in one or more key categories—or they didn’t fit a superlative as perfectly as another pair. But we’d be remiss not to mention some of our runner-ups:
- 90 Degree by Reflex’s Fleece-Lined Leggings were our favorite budget-friendly fleece-lined leggings. They earned a perfect score in every key category, proving comfortable, durable, and squat-proof. But we found them a little too tight in the waist.
- Stretchy, supportive, and squat-proof, Gymshark’s Adapt Camo Seamless Leggings proved great for a range of workouts. But they bunched in the knees, and their crotch area thinned in the wash.
- If you want to wear flare leggings in cold weather, Outdoor Voices’s FrostKnit Flare Pants are a perfect pick. The leggings kept us cozy and held up in the wash, but they’re a little pricey and don’t come in different lengths.
- Copyleaf’s Flare Yogo Pants molded to our body the more we wore them, becoming more comfortable with every wear. Unfortunately, they bunched in the crotch and pilled in the wash. But since they’re so budget-friendly, we didn’t really mind.
- If there were more room for maternity leggings on our list, STORQ’s Signature Maternity Leggings would’ve made the cut. The leggings felt incredibly soft, stretchy, and supportive. But the belly area became slightly less opaque when stretched.
How We Tested the Workout Leggings
To help you find great workout leggings, we tested 98 pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home. We assessed a range of flare, fleece-lined, maternity, Amazon, Gymshark, and lululemon leggings. And we conducted a separate test for each category.
When we first put on the leggings, we checked them for fit and feel. And we tested how they held up to different exercises and activities. Did the leggings stay in place during stretches, walks, and HIIT sessions? Did they look opaque during squats? Did they still feel comfortable after hours of wear? We then wore them for weeks, noting whether they pilled, thinned, or stretched after several workouts and washes. And we considered price, style, features, and variety (color, size, and inseam options) when assessing overall value.
In the end, we scored the leggings between 1 (would not recommend) and 5 (highly recommend) in a range of key categories, like quality, fit, feel, opacity, durability, and overall value. Then, we compared them based on score, style, and use case. We also turned to Jess Paris, NASM, CPT, and Equinox trainer Erika Hammond for general advice and recommendations on what to look for in workout leggings.
What to Look for in Workout Leggings
Fabric
Many workout leggings are made of performance fabric blends. These blends often contain nylon (also called polyamide), polyester, or elastane (also called lycra or spandex). And the specific fabric blend determines how the leggings feel: Nylon is smooth and strong, polyester is lightweight and sturdy, and elastane is stretchy and flexible. Ultimately, feel is a matter of personal preference. While Paris likes her leggings to be stretchy, breathable, and long-lasting, you may want yours to feel thick, cozy, or sturdy.
Some polyester-spandex leggings may also contain high Bisphenol A (BPA) levels. BPA is a chemical found in some plastics. And exposure to high levels of it has been linked to health complications like obesity, hormonal imbalance, and uterine cancer. Scientists are still studying whether transdermal exposure to BPA has the same effects. So, for now, the jury’s still out. And since those leggings haven’t been recalled, we may recommend them or products like them.
Function
Before buying workout leggings, consider how you like to exercise. While some leggings are versatile enough for lounging and hitting the gym, others are designed for specific activities, like running, cycling, or weightlifting. For running, Paris recommends breathable, pocket-lined leggings with waistbands that stay in place. For cycling, she likes lightweight leggings that are easy to move around in. For strength training, she wears leggings with more compression. And for yoga, Pilates, and other low-impact workouts, she likes leggings with a soft feel and cozy fit.
Fit
Exercise leggings should fit comfortably, so you can focus on your workout. When leggings are too loose, they bunch up, roll down, or slip out of place. And when they’re too tight, they pinch, dig in, or leave you feeling constricted. To check the fit of your leggings, Paris and Hammond recommend a squat test: When you squat in the leggings, they shouldn’t pinch, shift, or sheer.
Length
Great leggings don’t just fit right in the waist, hips, and thighs. They’re also the right length. So before buying leggings, check their inseam length (the distance from gusset to ankle), and compare it to your own. Because inseam lengths vary from legging brand to brand, you can’t always rely on terminology (like petite, standard, and tall). Instead, focus on numbers—you’ll find your perfect fit much faster.
Rise
Just like leggings come in different lengths, they also come in different rises. Rise is the distance from waistband to gusset: High-rise leggings start above your belly button, mid-rise leggings start just below it, and low-rise leggings sit lower on your hips. Hammond likes high-rise leggings because they’re flattering and supportive. And we do too. Most of our top picks have comfortable high-rise waistbands, though we also fell in love with a few mid-rise pairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many workout leggings are versatile: You can wear them while running or hitting the gym. But if you want activity-specific leggings, you can find them. Paris says that running leggings tend to be lightweight, stretchy, and sweat-wicking. And they’re often lined with pockets that store small items. Gym leggings, on the other hand, may feel tighter and more compressive, giving you the support you need to lift weights or tackle HIIT workouts.
Your workout leggings should be tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that they feel uncomfortable. If your leggings are too tight, they may pinch, shift, or sheer during squats and other exercises, Paris and Hammond say. And if they’re too loose, they may bunch up or fall down. If your leggings fit right, they should feel comfortable and supportive—and you shouldn’t have to readjust them every time you move.
For the most part, your leggings size will be the same as your pants size. But since size can vary by brand, it’s worth checking the size chart before ordering. And if you’re buying compression leggings, you may want to size up. Compression leggings tend to run small and tight. And if you don't want intense compression, your normal size may feel too small.
After testing 98 pairs of leggings, we can confidently say: There are great workout leggings at every price point. Many of our favorites cost between $100 and $130. And they feel genuinely high-quality, proving comfortable, squat-proof, and long-lasting. But we also found great leggings that cost $20 to $60. Some had problems (inconsistent textures, itchy details, or easily worn fabrics). But they still offer incredible value.
In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that it found high levels of BPA in some polyester-spandex leggings. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical found in certain plastics. And research has found that high exposure to it can cause health complications like obesity, hormonal imbalance, and uterine cancer. We would never knowingly recommend products that cause harm. But right now, scientists are still studying the transdermal effects of BPA, and none of the leggings the CEH cited have been recalled. Ultimately, none of those leggings made our final list. But we may recommend products like them.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Lindsey Lanquist is an experienced health and fitness writer with a background in fashion, and she cares about connecting people with products they’ll love. Since Lindsey works from home, she wears leggings every day. And she swears by Beyond Yoga’s High-Waisted Midi Leggings (our Best Hold pick). The leggings are stretchy, comfortable, and versatile. And they really hold up: She’s worn and washed the same pair for years, and they still look as good as new.
Additional reporting by Megan Foster
Megan Foster is a seasoned commerce writer and former college athlete. She prioritizes health and fitness daily, and she’s always looking for new, reliable, and expert-backed fitness products to share with her readers. She practically lives in leggings most days, and she particularly likes ones that are supportive enough to wear for a workout but also cute enough to wear on a quick grocery run.
Kavilanz P. A growing number of sports bras, shirts and leggings brands found with high levels of toxic chemical, watchdog warns. CNN Business.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Questions & answers on bisphenol a (BPA) use in food contact applications.
Ohore O., Zhang S. Endocrine disrupting effects of bisphenol A exposure and recent advances on its removal by water treatment systems. A review. Scientific African. 2019;5:e00135.