The 12 Best Leggings to Conquer Your Workout

Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga
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No matter how impressive our workout wardrobe may be, we always have room for more leggings. Quite a few pairs have made it into our hall of fame through the years, but there's no time like the present to treat yourself to another pair. We love leggings because they're so versatile. An athleisure staple, leggings are perfect for workouts of course — but they're also ideal for lounging, running errands, and working from home. What's not to love?

We truly believe you can never have too many leggings. It stands to reason that your supersoft pair is the one you love to spend the day in, the sweat-wicking pair is what you always reach for before heading to indoor cycling classes, the squat-proof pair is what you rely for strength workouts, and the compressive pair is what you lean on to keep you supported through even the trickiest yoga inversions.

So while one pair can't necessarily do everything, there are standout pairs in each style — namely, the 12 options we've named here as the best workout leggings on the market.

Whether you're looking for the most comfortable leggings, the best crossover leggings, the best leggings for hiking, or the best yoga leggings, our shopping experts found the pairs you won't want to take off. Of course, we also included the famous TikTok-approved leggings that'll make your butt look great, which is always a winning feature. Now all you have to do is get moving and shop our picks for the absolute best workout leggings for women.

Additional reporting by India Yaffe and Anvita Reddy

Best Amazon Leggings
amazon.com

Best Amazon Leggings

Seasum High Waist Leggings ($19, originally $21)

These are the viral TikTok leggings you no doubt remember from the past year. They sculpt your butt like no other and will have everyone turning their heads, thanks to both the textured fabric and the ruching at the bum. You can find them on Amazon, and given their super-affordable price tag, they belong in your cart ASAP. Our editor wrote a full review of the Seasum High Waist Leggings if you're curious to learn even more about these scrunch-butt leggings.

What reviewers say: One purchaser notes, "I bought these because one reason: enhance the booty. Disclaimer: I already have a nice butt. However, these greatly accentuated it." Another customer noted, "Just buy them. You won't be disappointed! I bought them in white, and they do pass the squat test. They also make your butt look huge."

Why we love them: These leggings are super flattering and affordable — what's not to love? The textured fabric helps accentuate the booty and will make you want to stare into your gym's mirror all-day long.

What's worth noting: While these leggings are the ultimate booty enhancer, some reviewers note that they don't have the greatest tummy control despite the style's high-waisted design.

The details: Sizes: XS–4XL | Length: 26" | Colorways: 10+

Most Comfortable Leggings
shareasale.com

Most Comfortable Leggings

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi 7/8 Leggings ($97)

These Beyond Yoga leggings are made of the softest material that you'll never want to take off. You've never worn workout leggings that feel like this, we promise. We have them in two colors, they're that comfortable. Plus, we'll find excuses to wash them and wear them again. Pick these for outdoor workouts or lower impact activities.

What reviewers say: One person loves the durability of these leggings, saying: "Two of these bought years ago have lasted VERY well: worn and washed hundreds of times. Newest version is even softer and a better fit." Another person said, "I finally tried Beyond Yoga and am genuinely really impressed (and obsessed). No cameltoe or any semblance of getting one easily whatsoever, and extremely comfortable for all day wear. You don't feel like you're being hugged in too tightly and all that."

Why we love them: These are possibly the most comfortable workout leggings we've ever worn. They're ultra-soft, and thick enough to be great for chillier days. When you want to feel swathed in comfort, go with these leggings.

What's worth noting: These leggings are on the thicker side, so they're not our top choice for sweating it out in 100 degree heat. These also don't have pockets, but there is a pair that does!

The details: Sizes: XXS–4X | Length: 25" | Colorways: 21

Best Leggings From Lululemon
shop.lululemon.com

Best Leggings From Lululemon

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant ($98-$118)

Lululemon's bestselling Align pants are worth it, with its buttery soft Nulu fabric and flattering fit. These leggings will be one of the most comfortable items in your closet with a barely-there feel and breathable cooling fabric. It offers light support as well for a subtle lift that will make you feel confident. Available in a ton of colors and inseam lengths, you'll be able to find your perfect fit in these leggings. Read more in our editor's review of the Lululemon Align Pants

What reviewers say: Our editors and shoppers alike adore Lululemon's Align pants. "I have a lot of leggings, but I don't have anything that feels like this," one of our editors says. "They're soft and cozy but not overly warm, and they feel like butter." Another reviewer wrote on the brand's site that it has a second skin-like feel.

Why we love them: Our editors love the versatility of these leggings, with one noting, "I wear my Align Pants for basically everything — from Pilates to daily walks and even when I'm just lounging around the house." It delivers four-way stretch with a sweat-wicking fabric, so you'll always be ready and comfortable for whatever the day brings you.

What's worth noting:These leggings have more of a lightweight feel, and although supportive, they are not as compressive. These leggings are best for lower intensity activities, and built for full body movement and flexibility.

The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 23", 25", 28", 31" inseam| Colorways: 12

Sponsored by Athleta
Best Thick Leggings
athleta.gap.com

Best Thick Leggings

Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tights ($109)

We all know that some workout leggings are thicker than others; particularly these legging tights from Athleta. They're the ones we love when it's a bit colder outside. They're the go-to leggings when you want to feel comfy but still held in. These are great for low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates where you aren't getting drenched in sweat. Explore all of the brand's best leggings in our Athleta shopping guide.

What reviewers say: One person said, "I love that they stay in place, unlike other brands that I am pulling up as I walk. Very soft and comfortable!" Another one raved, "This legging is very soft and doesn't cut off my circulation . . . yet it still holds everything in. I can wear these all day with no problem. It's also flattering. I definitely recommend."

Why we love them: These leggings make your butt look amazing. They're perfectly compressive and thick enough to be warm and comfortable, plus we can't stop staring at ourselves in the mirror when we wear them.

What's worth noting: These leggings are, as we've said, thicker than most. They're not too heavy, and are fine if you're planning on working out hard, but if you're doing hot yoga, you might want something a little more breathable.

The details: Sizes: XXS–3X | Length: 25", 27", 30" | Colorways: 10

Best Flared Leggings
beyondyoga.com

Best Flared Leggings

Beyond Yoga Spacedye All Day Flare High Waisted Pant ($110)

When winter comes, we don't want to be in something flimsy, we want to be held in by a thicker fabric more suitable for things like yoga or pilates. These flare leggings are made of the brand's cult-favorite Spacedye fabric, and they're practically perfect. Fun fact: this editor's first ever pair of workout leggings were a pair of flared Beyond Yoga pants, so this feels very full-circle. Trust us when we say, they make your butt look excellent, and once you try them, there's no going back. Plus, they have pockets! Explore more flared leggings in our curated guide.

What reviewers say: One customer said, "I am in love!! These are high waisted, squat proof, and buttery soft! Love the pockets and the flare leg. Really cute to wear for athleisure." Another person said, "Love, love these pants! They fit like a glove and have such a comfortable feel. My favorite part . . . pockets!!! My next favorite part . . . the flared legs!! You cannot go wrong with these pants!"

Why we love them: These are what you think of when you think of a great flared legging; flattering, comfortable, on-trend, and made to move with you.

What's worth noting: The pockets in these pants have an opening at the side versus the top, so it might be a bit easier for something to fall out.

The details: Sizes: XS–4X | Length: 32" | Colorways: 4

Best Athletic Leggings
taviactive.com

Best Athletic Leggings

Tavi Space Dye High Waisted Leggings ($45, originally $90)

Hailey Bieber has been spotted in these high-waisted leggings on a handful of occasions, so naturally we need a pair of our own, too. The athletic pants were designed with performance in mind, and are so lightweight, they almost feel like a second skin on the body that's made to move with you. Read our review of the Tavi Spacedye Leggings to learn more.

What reviewers say: One reviewer said: "The Spacedye leggings have an even softer feel than my Tavi black leggings, if you can even believe that. I cant wait to keep adding more Tavi [styles] to my activewear collection. High quality, super soft, and comfy. Obsessed!"

Why we love them: While the leggings are flexible, they're also meant to stay up on the body, so ensuring they won't fall down or slip off even while you're doing the most high-intensity activities.

What's worth noting: Unlike other workout leggings on this list, these pants have a much more limited selection, and are only available to shop in a misty gray coloring.

The details: Sizes: XS–XL | Length: 27.5" | Colorways: 1

Best Everyday Leggings
carbon38.com

Best Everyday Leggings

Carbon38 High Rise Full-Length Legging in Melt ($108)

Not all leggings are made the same, and this cult-favorite style from Carbon38 is an especially great pair for everyday wear. The stretchy pant is made of a body-hugging material that hugs the leg without constricting it. The pant is a POPSUGAR editor favorite, with one writer detailing that they're her favorite leggings to wear to yoga, brunch, and beyond. Read more in her Carbon38 High Rise Leggings review.

What reviewers say: Reviewers agree that this is a great everyday legging, with one shopper saying the pant is made from a "buttery soft fabric" and is "good for walking, yoga & errands."

Why we love them: These leggings might not be ideal for a high-intensity workout, but they are the style you'll want to slip into and lounge around in all day at home.

What's worth noting: Some reviewers have claimed that these Carbon38 leggings are too sheer and fit more like tights rather than leggings.

The details: Sizes: XS–XL | Length: 26" | Colorways: 7

Best Gym Leggings
aloyoga.com

Best Gym Leggings

Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings ($128)

These Alo leggings are so easy to move in, and they're also breathable. Plus, like much of Alo's clothes, they look so good on. There's really nothing better than that. Wear these workout leggings for your sweatiest, highest impact activities. Explore all of the great Alo leggings in our shopping guide, and read our editor's review of the Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings.

What reviewers say: One person said that these leggings are "extremely comfortable. Material feels great. Really like the single seam, full length and high waist. True to size and fits wonderfully," while another person said, "absolutely love them, they hug and smooth you perfectly. Just get them!"

Why we love them: These are the leggings you're going to want to be seen in. The shiny fabric is so flattering, and feels like a second skin. When you wear them, you feel like you can take on the world.

What's worth noting: These leggings do run slightly small, so if you're in between sizes, we'd recommend sizing up. They also don't have pockets.

The details: Sizes: XXS–XL | Length: 28" | Colorways: 12

Best Seamless Leggings
freepeople.com

Best Seamless Leggings

FP Movement High-Rise 7/8 Length Good Karma Leggings ($78)

If you're someone who likes to move freely, you'll be into a seamless workout legging. They're tight on the body and generally made of a thicker fabric, but don't confuse thick for stiff. Whether you're doing yoga or strength training, these leggings from Free People will keep you supportive and able to move whichever way you please. Explore all of the great Free People leggings in our shopping guide.

What reviewers say: Customers love these pants, with one saying, "I LOVE these pants! They're breathable, comfortable, and offer great coverage. The washed out black is a great color (but I also own them in black and pink). I'm constantly saying, "thanks, they're Free People," in real life. Treat yo' self! I know it inspires me to stay motivated when I feel good about what I'm putting on for the gym, or climbing, or yoga!"

Why we love them: If you want comfortable, flexible leggings, these are the ones to get. They're high waisted, won't budge or roll down, and have little laser cutouts that are imperceptible to the naked eye, but are game changers for breathability.

What's worth noting: These leggings only come in three sizes, XS/S, M/L, and L/XL. With that being said, they're very forgiving, and run kind of large. We would recommend sizing down.

The details: Sizes: XS–XL | Length: 23" | Colorways: 16

Best Yoga Pants
aloyoga.com

Best Yoga Pants

Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Leggings ($98)

You can't go wrong with these bestselling airbrush leggings. These are some of our favorite yoga leggings, and they're super thick, so your butt looks like it's been airbrushed. Even though the material is thick, it's also soft and comfortable, but still holds you in. If you're doing something that won't leave you drenched in sweat, these are a great workout legging. Explore all of the best yoga leggings in our shopping guide.

What reviewers say: One person said, "This was my first pair of Alo leggings and I am in love! They have the right amount of compression, and best of all, the waist band doesn't slide down or roll. I will be purchasing more." Another one noted, "I bought these leggings after doing tons of research before dropping more than $50 on a pair of workout leggings. These were worth the price! I love the compression and support without being tight."

Why we love them: They're called Airbrush leggings for a reason. You'll do a double take in the mirror, that's how good they make your butt look. Plus, they don't move in downward dog, and are thick and soft, so they're perfect for lower impact activity.

What's worth noting: We've found the sizing on these pants to be, honestly, inconsistent. Some people need to size down, some people wear their true size, and others need to size up. This editor wears her true size, so be sure to check the size guide before purchasing.

The details: Sizes: XXS–XL | Length: 24" | Colorways: 8

Best Compressive Workout Leggings
girlfriend.com

Best Compressive Workout Leggings

Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging ($78)

Girlfriend Collective's high-rise legging is designed for high-impact workouts with an extra-high-rise waistband and four-way stretch for optimal coverage and flexibility. The fabric is both thick and sweat wicking, making them squat-proof and breathable. However, that doesn't mean you can't wear these workout leggings to relax at home or run errands. Explore all of the great Girlfriend Collective leggings in our shopping guide.

What reviewers say: Customers not only adore this comfortable pair but also can't get enough of the brown color pictured. One reviewer notes, "Girlfriend Collective leggings are built to last and the fact they are sustainable makes it 100x more awesome! Also, I am a pretty active runner and finding pants that I don't have to constantly pull up is HARD. But, for me personally, once these babies make it over my hips, they aren't budging. I love running in them because they are truly comfortable. I have also gone on hikes, done yoga, gardened and biked. They are perfect for all of those activities."

Why we love them: Not only are we in love with these stylish leggings, but they also have a hidden back pocket. They feel so buttery soft on the skin as well, making them great for everyday wear. Plus, they support you in all the right places for a lifted, flattering look.

What's worth noting: The leggings are made from 79 percent recycled plastic bottles and spandex. It's best to machine-wash cold with similar colors.

The details: Sizes: XXS–6XL | Length: 19.5", 23.75", 28.5" | Colorways: 10

Best Crossover Leggings
ae.com

Best Crossover Leggings

Offline By Aerie Real Me Xtra Crossover High Waisted Pocket Legging ($38, originally $55)

Crossover leggings have been popping up everywhere recently, and they're a slightly more flattering take on the classic high-waisted legging. This Aerie style is the one that started the trend, and it's still one of our favorites. Plus, this version now has side pockets, which is essential. Explore more Aerie leggings in our curated guide.

What reviewers say: These leggings have plenty of positive reviews, with one person noting that these are "actually the best leggings I have owned in my existence. Super comfy and form fitting. They aren't super tight but they also stay up. I've owned plenty of leggings in my lifetime and these are the ones I want to marry. 11/10"

Why we love them: These leggings are impossibly flattering. They're one of our favorite pairs to wear with a crop top or sports bra because they help define the waist. They're also lightweight and a great option for hot, sweaty workouts.

What's worth noting: These pants are more lightweight, so if you're looking for something more compressive, they might not be the best choice. They also come in both petite and tall varieties.

The details: Sizes: XXS–XXL | Length: 23", 25", 27" | Colorways: 1


Kyley Warrenis an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on POPSUGAR Shopping, where she reviews trending products, monitors commerce trends, develops thoughtful affiliate strategies, and relies on her unique expertise to compile helpful shopping guides for consumers that span a number of verticals — including fashion, home, beauty, and wellness. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.