The bond between you and your favorite pair of leggings could rival that of any lifelong friendship or romantic partner. We know because we relate. The best workout leggings are comfortable and stylish but also need to serve you in ways that your “normal leggings” don’t. For a pair of workout leggings to join the ranks of our most trusted workout clothes, they have to meet a few standards. We judged these for their opacity (because squats), their ability to wick moisture (because sweat), and whether they actually stay in place (because pulling up your waistband only slows down your pace).
Whether you’re a yogi or a hiker, below, you’ll find all of the leggings we love most for fitness and exercise. We pretty much live in our athleisure, so you can trust these are the real deal. Below, find the perfect fit for you.
Look great, feel cozy, and help save the environment. You literally can’t go wrong with these leggings made from recycled materials.
Customer review:“These fit perfectly. They don’t fall down during intense Pilates classes, or while chasing after my small child. I’ve already purchased another pair!”
We want you to always splurge on your comfort, and leggings are no exclusion to that rule. Your legs will thank you for the luxurious fit.
Customer review:“Highly recommend can be dressed up or down. Wolford perfect fit legging excellent quality. Bought 2 pairs so far & going to buy more, a wardrobe must have.”
Your favorite leggings meets your favorite tennis skirt. These capris are essential to help you stay active on and off the court.
Customer review:“Great fabric—substantial for the leggings, yet super comfortable. Skirt is light and fun with perfect coverage. Love the outskirt capri.”
Flare leggings or yoga pants? Call them whatever you like as long as you get a pair. These will hug every part of you in all the right ways.
Customer review:“These fit me better than I ever could have expected, and I loved that there was a “long” option, as leggings usually aren’t long enough for my legs. I was also a huge fan of the crossover waist and the overall material. Would definitely recommend!!!”
Growing life requires leggings that grow with you in every trimester. Feel no restrictions as you bump around in Lamaze classes or on your daily walks.
Customer review:“I lived in these leggings while I was pregnant!!! Super comfortable for running errands & weight training.”
Worry no more about where you’re going to put your keys, a little cash, or that cool rock you found while hiking. These leggings have got you covered...in pockets.
Customer review:“I absolutely love these. They are definitely thicker than your regular leggings. The pockets add just some extra flair, and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on them.”
Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different. Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country. Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.