The 20 Best Leggings for 2024


Leggings are perhaps one of the most important building blocks in our wardrobes. Typically worn for workouts, lounging, and weekend errands, you can dress up some styles—making them incredibly versatile. Crucially, a piece of clothing you’ll want to wear constantly should be super comfortable and stretchy. If you like to exercise in yours, properties such as sweat-wicking, odor control, and squat-proof opacity are also desirable.

Although leggings have been around for ages, the past decade has seen an influx of absolutely incredible activewear brands arrive on the scene, making everything from seamless to cotton leggings. That means we’re all spoiled for choice, making legging-shopping a tricky business. To help you out, we conducted hours of research on the best leggings, evaluating them on style, design features, comfort, and size range. After consulting with two expert stylists and considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated choices.

Girlfriend Collective


Size Range: XXS-6XL | Materials: RPET, spandex | Inseam: 28.5, 23.75, 19.5 inches

What we love most about Girlfriend Collective is the brand’s inclusive size range, the eco credentials, and the basics we come back to time and time again. The Compressive High-Rise Legging, recommended by Erin Eagle, a stylist and founder of A Style Set, is a best-seller delivering comfy support for tough workouts thanks to the four-way stretch technology and sweat-wicking fabric. Made in part from recycled plastic bottles, this pair is available in a selection of neutral colors and limited edition brighter hues.

Halara SoCinched High Waisted Tummy Control Side Pocket Shaping Training Leggings

Halara


Size Range: XS-4X | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: ⅞, full length

Halara leggings give luxe alternatives a run for their money. This particular pair features cool touch, four-way stretch fabric and compression in the high waistband. Bonus points for no front seam and a heart-shaped back seam that enhances your glutes. With all the different color options and two inseam lengths, you might as well stock up. 

Wolford Scuba Leggings

Wolford


Size Range: XS-L | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: Not specified

Personal stylist and fashion writer Louise Pennington is a huge fan of these leggings for those with long legs. “They look just as good with heels as they do worn with sneakers or a knee-high boot,” says Pennington. Consider this option if you want to take the leggings-as-pants vibe one step further, elevating the look beyond athleisure.

Athleta Interval Stash High Rise 7/8 Tight

Athleta


Size Range: XXS-3X | Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane | Inseam: Regular 25, petite 23, tall 28 inches

We love that Athleta creates leggings up to a size 3X, plus in both petite and tall lengths, so that a greater range of people can enjoy the brand’s quality activewear. Speaking of which, these leggings are a fan favorite thanks to their 7/8 length and thick waistband, plus their compressive, no-slip fabric that will take you through your toughest workouts with ease. These are also made from recycled polyester, and did we mention they have pockets?!

Tala DayFlex Wrap High Waisted Flared Yoga Pant

Tala


Size Range: 2XS-4XL | Materials: Recycled nylon, Lycra sport | Inseam: 30, 33, 35 inches

Tala is a relatively new brand hailing from the UK. The label focuses on sustainable production methods wherever possible, including using recycled materials to create products like these beautiful yoga pants. These feel butter-soft on your legs, with a high waistband that doesn’t budge as you run errands or perfect your tree pose. We love the flared silhouette, which looks just as good with a matching sports bra as it does with a long-sleeve top.

lululemon Align™ High-Rise Pant 25"

lululemon


Size Range: 0-18 | Materials: Nylon, lycra elastane | Inseam: 23, 25, 28, 31 inches

Lululemon’s Align leggings are often positioned as the very best for everyday wear and low-impact workouts such as yoga and pilates, and we’re inclined to agree. We’re especially fond of these beauties in the 7/8 length. They come in many new and highly curated colorways every season and feature a beloved thick waistband that hugs your tummy and doesn’t roll down.

SKIMS Foldover Bootcut Legging

SKIMS


Size Range: XXS-4X | Materials: Cotton, polyester, spandex | Inseam: Not specified

These bootcut leggings from Skims come highly recommended by Eagle. Our millennial hearts are especially taken by the foldover waistband style, which is reminiscent of *those* Victoria’s Secret yoga pants we were obsessed with in the early 2010s. You can also forgo the foldover if that’s more your speed, though. They come in three solid color options and up to a size 4X.

Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging

Alo


Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Inseam: 24-25 inches

Over the space of just a few years, Alo’s 7/8 Airlift Legging has become a best-seller for its comfort and snug compression fabric that makes you feel supported as you move. As with most of the brand’s products, they come in a select few core colorways, plus a bunch of limited edition hues.

Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings

Gymshark


Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Inseam: 24-25 inches

If these leggings are giving you déjà vu, it’s because they’re most likely all over your favorite gym right now. Another British brand that’s made its way to this side of the pond, Gymshark truly knows how to make a solid pair of seamless leggings. These feature a supportive waistband, sweat-wicking technology, and a breathable design that highlights your shape with strategically placed dots throughout. They come in both neutrals and cute colors.

Superfit Hero Pocket Ankle Leggings

Superfit Hero


Size Range: L-7X | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 29 inches

Superfit Hero makes every item in up to a size 7X, so they already score highly on inclusivity. Beyond that, these ankle leggings are just a fantastic product. Available in five colorways, they feature a wide waistband and supportive, thick fabric that doesn’t become see-through when you squat, and just the right amount of compression. Best of all, they don’t slip or roll as you move. Bliss!

Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8 Leggings

Old Navy


Size Range: XS-4X | Materials: Polyester, nylon, spandex | Inseam: 23 petite, 25 regular, 28 tall inches

You can always count on Old Navy to have a great selection of petite clothing. These leggings feature the coveted wide waistband and 7/8 length, and add a little intrigue to the look with mesh panel detailing. The fabric feels soft on your body, offers light compression for added support, and helps wick sweat to keep you dry.

Commando Control Top Faux Leather Leggings

Nordstrom


Size Range: XS-3X | Materials: Viscose, elastane | Inseam: 28 inches

Faux leather leggings make a great addition to your wardrobe, for a fun-yet-casual piece to slip on for lunch with friends or a shopping day. These from Commando come in a few cool color options (hello, porcelain!), and pair beautifully with ankle boots or sneakers. They also offer shaping technology and a supportive high-rise fit.

Spanx Booty Boost® Active 7/8 Leggings

Spanx


Size Range: XS-3X | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Inseam: 25 inches

Leggings can do some magical things these days—like give your butt an instant lift. These from shapewear giant Spanx are engineered with targeted shaping technology and a contoured waistband which, together, give you the perfect peach. Meanwhile, the fabric is sweat-wicking, breathable, and quick-drying, so you’ll feel extra comfy during your run or barre class. We’re particularly obsessed with the dark cayenne colorway, but these also come in a few other lovely shades.

Bo&Tee Soft Active High Waist Leggings

Bo&Tee


Size Range: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 27 inches

Bo&Tee is a Gen Z favorite, but we think every age group needs to get in on the hype. Made from the brand’s signature Soft Active fabric, these leggings are stretchy and feel incredibly soft and comfortable, which Eagle loves. The high waistband is also really supportive and stays put as you move. These are full-length for the girlies who like to style their socks over their leggings when they go on their hot girl walks.

Splits59 Ella High Waist Airweight 7/8

Splits59


Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Inseam: 26 inches

Splits59 is a Los Angeles-based brand that takes inspiration from the ‘90s in its designs. These high-waisted, 7/8 leggings come in various bright colors we think you’ll love, with two contrasting lines on the side. We’re into the fire/white colorway, but we’re also partial to indigo/fire. Pair these with the matching bra for the full effect.

Pangaia Women's Plant-Stretch Compressive Leggings

Pangaia


Size Range: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyamide biobased EVO®, part biobased Creora® elastane | Inseam: Not specified

Never mind the best sustainable leggings, these are Pennington’s favorite leggings, period. She loves that these are made from a majority of plant-based materials, with details such as trims and labels also sustainably produced. Currently available in four colorways, these are treated with peppermint oil to help fight odors and are super smooth and stretchy. “Their seamless construction is designed for everyday use and ensures no unsightly camel toe,” says Pennington.

Adanola Ultimate Leggings

Adanola


Size Range: XXS-XXXL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: 25 regular, 29 tall inches

Adanola is another British athleisure brand that has popped up over the last few years to uplevel our workout wardrobes. Eagle recommends these, and thousands of people are already obsessed with them, and we think you will be too. Available in regular and tall sizes, these are available in a vast range of core neutrals, plus a handful of brighter, seasonal colors, too, so you’ll find a pair you love. These are stretchy, sculpting, squat-proof, and guarantee no camel toe.

OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging

Aerie


Size Range: XXS-XXL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: 23 short, 25 regular, 27 long inches

With a cute crossover waistband, lightweight fabric, and just a touch of support, it’s no wonder these leggings are a viral hit. They feel so soft against your skin and are fast-drying so you don’t have to worry about awkward sweat patches killing your vibe (or any discomfort, obviously). They’re perfect for yoga and for those who have yet to find a pair of leggings that doesn’t make them feel uncomfortably constrained.

Amazon 90 Degree By Reflex High Waist Squat Proof Ankle Length Interlink Leggings

Amazon


Size Range: XS-3X | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 28 inches

Amazon is an absolute treasure trove when it comes to activewear, and these are one of the best leggings on Amazon. These leggings from 90 Degree by Reflex boast thousands of five-star ratings, and make a fantastic lululemon Align dupe for a fraction of the price. They are full-length pants with a comfy wide waistband, and are totally squat-proof—which isn’t a given with more affordable leggings. And best of all, if you love them dearly, you can collect them in all your favorite colors: After all, there are a whopping 22 available.

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Love the Bump Midi Maternity Legging

Beyond Yoga


Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Inseam: 25 inches

Comfort is key during pregnancy, and whether you’re planning to wear leggings to get some well-deserved lounging time or to your favorite pilates class, you need a pair that’s designed to accommodate your bump. These pants feature an over-the-belly waistband that you can fold however works best, and are bound to be your go-to through every stage of your pregnancy—and beyond, too.

What to Look for in Leggings

  • Materials: A majority of leggings are made from either polyester or nylon blended with elastane or spandex for stretch. However, you can also find some made out of cotton or viscose, for example. “Your leggings of choice will depend on the occasion, whether it’s a workout, daily errands, or lounging at home,” says Eagle. “[Nylon or polyester blend] leggings made with supportive fabric are ideal for workouts or strenuous activity, while cotton leggings are perfect for a laidback day.”
  • Seams: There are two reasons you may want to opt for a seamless legging construction: The first is if you prefer how they look, and the second is to avoid any opportunities for scratchy seams to disturb your workout (always check the reviews to find out if this might be an issue on your chosen pair). “You don’t need to avoid seams altogether, but definitely look out for front seams that may cause a camel toe,” says Eagle. “Back seams, however, are ideal for a butt-lifting look.”
  • Waistband: “A high-rise legging is always the way to go in my opinion,” says Pennington. “You want to be free to move and scrunch into as many workout positions as possible without worrying.” Eagle also recommends opting for a little compression in your workout leggings, “so that they stay put and provide support.”
  • Pockets: Pockets can make a great addition to a pair of leggings, but they’re not strictly necessary, and whether or not you look for them in your leggings is down to personal preference and your intended uses. “If you’re a runner, you may want to look out for hidden pockets in your leggings to store your keys or small belongings,” says Eagle. Meanwhile, Pennington is Team No Pockets. “I personally don’t see the need for pockets on a legging,” she says. “Great if there is one of those tiny concealed pockets to house your locker key, but other than that, pockets just detract from the simple, sleek, silhouette.”

FAQ

  • Washing leggings isn’t difficult per se, but done wrong, it can lead to unfortunate pilling or shrinking. “Typically, leggings need to be washed inside out on a low setting, so be sure to check the label for specific directions before throwing them into your laundry,” says Eagle. Pennington advises washing them with similar colors and air-drying them flat.

Why Trust Byrdie

Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle for the likes of Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. Iris has been a contributing commerce writer for Byrdie since 2024, writing fashion shopping stories.

For this story, Iris interviewed two experts to gather more insights about what to keep in mind when buying leggings. Those experts include:

  • Erin Eagle, a stylist and founder of A Style Set
  • Louise Pennington, a personal stylist and fashion writer

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough leggings from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.





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