When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more. Everlane A quality pair of leggings should be comfortable, fit well, and last a while.
Some of our favorites include ADAY, Beyond Yoga, and Everlane. We spoke with a stylist about care, pricing, and sizing to supplement our picks, too. From neon pairs in the ’80s to faux leather makes, leggings have certainly left their mark on the fashion world.
Recently, though, leggings have crossed over into everyday outfits, loungewear, and even office looks. And, as we continue to slowly transition back into the office, leggings have been the comfy essential when working from home. For comfort, it’s important to pick a fabric that fits your specific needs and feels good on your body.
If you’re working out, you might want spandex or nylon for its lightness and effectiveness in resisting sweat. For more on fit and sizing, check out our FAQ, where we spoke with stylist Molly Cohen. EverlaneEverlaneLightweight and colorful, the Everlane Perform Leggings are perfect for warmer weather workouts.
Pros: Lightweight, super comfortable, come in two lengthsCons: Not thick enough for high-intensity workouts, can be a little see-through if you size downSizing options: XXS-XXXLWhether you’re exercising outside or are sweating it out in a hot yoga class, there’s nothing worse than donning a pair of leggings that are too heavy and warm. That’s what makes the Everlane Perform Leggings so fantastic. These lightweight, lightly-compressed leggings feel like a second skin, making them ideal for low-impact workouts where you’re going to be sweating.
The Perform leggings are made of 58% recycled nylon, which is ultra-lightweight and sweat-wicking. I wore them during my at-home pilates classes and was surprised by how comfortable they were. There’s a small interior pocket that’s big enough for a phone, a credit card, and a set of keys, too.
The slick material allowed for easy slip, which meant no chaffing or bunching. Since these leggings are made from lightly compressed fabric, they aren’t ideal for high-intensity activities, like running or weight-lifting. They come in two lengths — angle-length and regular.
And multiple members of the Insider Reviews team love these leggings for their comfort and lightweight material. And if you’re between sizes, you might want to size up — opacity can be an issue if you go a little too small, especially in the lighter shades. Girlfriend CollectiveGirlfriend CollectiveWith their eco-friendly design and radically inclusive sizing, Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High-Rise Leggings are an internet favorite for a reason.
Pros: Ethically and sustainably made, affordable, long-lasting, versatileCons: Because of the relatively thick material, some may find them a bit too warmSizing options: XXS-6XLThese Girlfriend Collective leggings win top marks for how thoughtful their design is. The company manufactures each pair of leggings from exactly 25 recycled plastic bottles, making them one of the more eco-conscious brands out there. Girlfriend Collective’s leggings are also one of the most size-inclusive styles on the market, with three different inseam lengths and sizes that range from XXS (000) to 6XL (36).
That’s not even mentioning how comfortable these leggings are. The brand uses a compression-like fabric, which makes them great for high- and low-impact activities alike. They’re super comfortable for everyday wear, too, especially when paired with Girlfriend Collective’s sports bras.
I can’t tell you how many times my Girlfriend Collective leggings have taken me from Pilates class to brunch to errands. They are incredibly soft, making them a fantastic option for lounging, too. They’re a little heavier than most knock-around leggings, so they might be a little too warm for the summer months or an intense hot yoga session.
And while I love the higher-waisted silhouette, especially since it’s incredibly flexible and doesn’t bunch, some may prefer something that sits on the hip. In case you were still on the fence about $80 leggings, you can’t go wrong with Girlfriend Collective’s with a design this supportive and sizes this inclusive. ADAYADAYADAY’s Throw It Higher Leggings are stylish, incredibly comfortable, and have zip pockets to stash all of your small belongings.
Pros: Durable, incredibly comfortable, made with zip pockets for storageCons: On the thicker side, so they may be too warm for the spring and summer; limited sizing optionsSizing options: XS-XLADAY is all about simplicity and seeks to create fabrics and clothing that are multipurpose, long-lasting, and sustainable. And that’s incredibly evident in the brand’s leggings, especially its Throw It Higher style. Most pairs are made of a material that is quick-drying, sweating-wicking, and sunscreen- and oil-resistant.
Plus, they have an elastic waistband that’s comfortable yet snug, so they always stay in place. The Throw It Higher leggings are high-waisted, yet comfortable. They also have pockets so you can store your phone, cards, and other small necessities.
Beyond YogaBeyond YogaThe Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure Leggings are supportive in all the right places while also being soft and flexible — making them perfect for downward-facing dog. Pros: Flexible, machine washable, the V-shaped waist offers support without rolling downCons: They’re on the thicker side, so they may not be great for hot yogaSizing options: XXS-4XThe Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure Leggings fit the bill of being supportive, flexible, and high-performing for exercise. I wore these leggings during a few at-home yoga classes and loved how they moved with my body.
The four-way stretch meant that they hugged my legs in all the right places without being constricting, and the moisture-wicking fabric kept me dry when I started to sweat in crow pose. The only drawback is that they’re made from a blend of polyester and Lycra, so they’re on the heavier side. If you’re a fan of hot yoga, these may be a little too thick.
For more, check out our guide to the best yoga pants. 66°North66°NorthMade of cozy Merino wool, the 66°North Basar leggings will keep you warm both on their own and as a layer under your pants during the chillier months. Pros: Incredibly cozy, super warm, sweat-wicking, carbon-neutralCons: There’s no elastic in the fabric, so they get a little stretched out after a full day of wearSizing options: XS-2XLMade from 100% Merino wool, the 66°North Basar leggings are super soft and also amazing at keeping you toasty warm.
66°North is an Icelandic company that has been around for almost 100 years. It was founded to create functional outerwear for fishermen and search and rescue crews working in the harsh conditions of the North Atlantic, so they know a thing or two about protecting folks from the cold. They’re totally carbon-neutral and sustainable, too, making them great for shoppers who are a bit more eco-minded about their clothing choices.
Unlike other wool leggings or long underwear, these aren’t super thick, so they can slip seamlessly under pants — although they might bunch a bit under super skinny jeans. That said, there isn’t much stretch to them, so they do tend to sag around the knees a bit after a full day of wear. But, to me, that just makes them cozier.
They’re so comfortable, in fact, that they’ve become my go-to lounge leggings, too. Tommy JohnTommy JohnTommy John makes the best loungewear available online, and their Go Anywhere leggings are soft, versatile, flattering, and extremely comfortable. Pros: Comfortable, versatile, stretchy, no side seams, double layer waistband, mild compressionCons: The material will likely be too thick for cardio exerciseSizing options: XS-XXLTommy John, the startup that makes the best loungewear overall on the internet, unsurprisingly makes its most comfortable lounge leggings as well.
Its Go Anywhere leggings are extremely comfortable, flattering, and versatile. They don’t have side seams, so there’s minimal opportunity for chafing. And the mid-rise waistband is double layered for extra support, while still being super comfortable.
The four-way stretch material bends with you, and the dark black has outlasted quite a few washes for me thus far. You can pick them up in black and in sizes 0-18. Despite being cozy, the Go Anywhere leggings are luxe-looking enough to be a good choice for activities outside the house.
So, if you’re planning on wearing leggings for travel, these should be your go-to. AloAloNo matter your activity or intensity level, Alo Yoga’s ⅞ High Waist Airlift Leggings are the supportive yet flexible pair you need to get through any circuit. Pros: Available in over 16 colors, contour effect that holds every curve in place, true to sizeCons: Sizing could be more inclusive, material is a bit thickSizing options: XXS-XLAt Alo, customers can shop by item type or by activity.
To save you some time searching between each tab, there’s one pair of leggings you’ll find in every category: the Alo Yoga ⅞ High-Waist Airlift Legging. From Yoga and Pilates to Run and Explore, the Airlift Legging is an all-purpose legging designed for any kind of occasion. Its high waist is on-trend and one of the many features that functions to help keep everything in place.
When running long distances or stretching far and wide, the thick band also prevents the constant urge to adjust and tug on the tops of your pants. This way, you can focus solely on your workout and trust the leggings to lift and support as promised. The sculpting effect comes from the micro-performance double-knit Airlift fabric.
Not only does this signature material form to the natural contours of any body type, but it also moves in sync, allowing the body to take the lead. Several customers admit to going back to pick up the pair in another color or two after the first workout in the leggings. – Kayla BickhamSKIMSSKIMSWhen it comes to loungewear that prioritizes support and comfort, the SKIMS Cotton Rib Leggings make you feel put together even on the laziest of days.
Pros: Fits well on several body types, breathable material, elevated loungewearCons: Strictly for lounging, sells out quickly, some shades can be a bit sheerSizing options: XXS-4XI initially tested the SKIMS Cotton Plunge Bralette for a review, but after religiously reaching for the bra every week, I went back for the Cotton Rib Leggings in the same color. I was hoping the leggings would replace my usual house robe on days I wanted to mix it up. Just as I expected, the cotton’s relaxed feel and ribbed fabric that accentuates the body had me hooked.
The pelvic panel and banded hems create a classic design more commonly seen with boxer briefs, while the overall fit is an elevated take on everyday leggings. Although my frame is more petite, the leggings are designed to sculpt and contour any shape. Curvier body types feel supported and cinched, while silhouettes similar to mine get a little extra help to appear more shapely.
Even with nowhere to go, you’ll find yourself looking forward to getting dressed in these leggings each day. I have worn these more times than I can count and the leggings have done a great job of holding their initial shape. While I haven’t experienced much fading, the lighter shades, specifically Bone, have been said to be sheer.
While this is a common struggle with leggings made with non-performance fabric, it’s still something to keep in mind before heading to checkout. –Kayla BickhamWhat to look for in a pair of leggingsPhilippa Langley/Getty ImagesWhether you’re buying leggings for lounging, working out, or everyday wear, you should always check first for durability. A good pair of leggings will be worn several times a month (if not within a week), and as such, will need to be able to stand up to both daily wear and tear.
“Cotton and jersey leggings tend to stretch out, fade, and pill over time,” said Molly Cohen, a stylist and creative consultant who has worked with brands such as Helmut Lang, The RealReal, Morgan Lane, and more. “Performance and water-resistant fabrics, like spandex or nylon, hold their shape, and will last for years. ” Caring for your leggingsNext, ensure that the leggings are easy to care for and their color won’t fade.
Most leggings are made out of some type of synthetic stretch material that can be super delicate. To help them last, wash your leggings by hand or in cold water with similar fabrics in your washing machine. (Cohen suggests turning them inside-out for extra protection.
) Stretch material can break down in the heat, so it’s important to skip the dryer. Instead, hang-dry your leggings to help them maintain their shape. SizingSizing is where you can run into some issues with leggings since almost every company runs a little differently.
“Make sure you’re reading the copy if you’re ordering online,” Cohen said. “I always check to see if the size on the model is listed, and use the photos for a reference. ” Most of the time, the copy will also point to whether or not the leggings run small, large, or true to size.
But when in doubt, Cohen suggests sizing up rather than sizing down. “That’ll ensure you have room to breathe,” she said. PricingWhen it comes to price, leggings can really run the gamut.
Performance leggings that are made for working out are usually made of high-tech, sturdy, sweat-wicking material. So you can expect to pay more for your typical lounge-around-the-house pair. But if you’re hoping to stock up on a budget, there are plenty of affordable, yet durable, styles to choose from.
Check out our other clothing guides and roundupsGirlfriend CollectiveThe best leggings you can wear to work51 rompers and jumpsuits that will keep you breezy and cool all summer longRead the original article on Insider.
From: insider
URL: https://www.insider.com/guides/style/best-leggings
