From hikes and yoga to jet-setting and gym sessions, womens workout and travel leggings are a comfortable and functional choice. Despite their apparent simplicity, theyre not all alike, and theres nothing worse than a pair of ill-fitting leggings. They ride up, squeeze tight, slide down, and need constant adjustment. Its not only annoying, but it also gets in the way of being active.

　　Thats why we took due diligence to test as many activewear leggings — for the outdoors, workouts, and travel — as possible. After traveling, surfing, running, trekking, yoga bending, CrossFit sweating, and generally living in leggings, we narrowed down the best womens leggings for a variety of action-packed and outdoor pursuits.

　　Weve divided the best womens leggings list into four categories: workout, everyday wear, yoga, and winter. Of course, some leggings intersect multiple categories, and this list doesnt include every legging on the planet. But its extensive, and we created it after thorough research and first-hand experience. At the end of the list, read theBuyer’s Guideor jump to thePrice Valuesummary. Still weighing your options? Consult ourComparison Chart. Otherwise, take a look at our awarded goods for the season.

　　Editor’s Note: We updated our Best Womens Workout and Travel Leggings guide on November 13, 2024, to include the Alo Yoga High-Waist Airlift Legging and Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure High Waisted Midi Legging.

　　The Best Womens Workout and Travel Leggings of 2024 Best Overall Womens Legging: Vuori Clean Elevation Legging Best Budget Legging: Kari Traa Nora 2.0 Tights Best Gym Legging: Nobull Women’s High-Rise Sleek Tight 25” Best Cropped Legging: Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri Best Legging for Running: Janji ⅞ Pace Tight Best Legging for Yoga: prAna Chakara 7/8 Legging Best Womens Cold-Weather Adventure Legging: Arc’teryx Essent Warm High-Rise Legging Vuori Clean Elevation Legging $98 at REICheck Price at vuori

　　Specs Size range: XXS-XXL; short, regular, and long Fabric: 87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane Inseam: 23, 25″, 28 Pockets: 1 small zippered pocket in the waistband Pros Lightweight and moisture-wicking Extremely soft Ultra high-rise Cons No side pockets Constance Mahoney The main reason the Vuori Clean Elevation Leggings ($98) are claiming the number one spot is that they’re just so incredibly soft, in addition to their durability and excellent overall fit. They’re some of the most buttery leggings tested, which verifies Vuoris claims of a soft suede feel (spot-on) made from recycled polyester and elastane.

　　They are a go-to for higher-impact exercises as well as lounging and wearing out. With an ultra high-rise, thick waistband, and moisture-wicking abilities, they’re great for extra-sweaty action. They also have a hidden zipper pocket in the back big enough to hold a phone. Despite the attention to detail, the price lands at under $100.

　　Truly innovative, the Clean Elevation Leggings combine unmatched comfort with high-level performance capabilities.

　　Read More Best Budget Legging Kari Traa Nora 2.0 Tights Check Price at kari Traa

　　Specs Size: XS-XL Fabric: 89% Polyester, 11% Elastane, Contrast fabric: 92% Polyester 8% Elastane Inseam: 28” Pockets: 1 small waistband drop-in pocket Pros Lightweight Cons Loose fitting around the waist Constance Mahoney The Kari Traa Nora 2.0 Tights ($60) are great summer tights. They are lightweight with little compression, leaving your legs feeling free to move without getting clammy. In addition, these tights are 40+ UPF. Essentially, they feel like a sun shirt for your legs!

　　We used them for added sun protection on long SUP cruises and walk-wade fly-fishing when waders felt too hot. They dried quickly, and the flatlock seams never chaffed, even when wet. 

　　Through testing, the only downside was the waist was a little loose. They have a drawstring that you can cinch, but the fabric still felt loose. If you want a tighter fit, you may consider sizing down, but make sure you check the sizing chart first. That said, these are made with light impact activities in mind, so they are not designed to be compression tights.  

　　These Nora 2.0 Tights are a great addition to a summer line-up of tights. With sun protection and 4-way stretch, these are versatile and can be worn across a multitude of activities.

　　Read More Best Gym Legging Nobull Womens High-Rise Sleek Tight 25 Check Price at Nobull

　　Specs Size range: XS-L Fabric: 82% nylon, 18% spandex Inseam: 25 Pockets: None Pros Super dense material hides sweat well Buttery soft Not too thin a pair we reach for every day, all year Cons No pockets Doesnt cover ankles if thats your jam Constance Mahoney Without hesitation, its easy to feel that the Nobull Womens High-Rise Sleek Tight 25 ($78) has one of the highest-quality fabrics out there. This fabric is dense and buttery all over. The legs are smooth to pull on, and the seams feel bulletproof. Theres no max rep or squat rack that will make em burst and we wouldnt expect any less from an iconic gym brand like Nobull.

　　Frankly, this tight looks good. The seams are attractively placed and dont rub any which way chafing isnt a worry. In step with the times, the waist band is wide and reaches high for plenty of backside coverage even for glute masters. All of the tights on this list serve a level of moisture-wicking ability but these take the lead. Even for our sweatiest athletes and workouts, we didnt feel drenched (damp is a given) and the gusset is lined for extra protection.

　　Wed happily wear these premium tights every day. The details that make this option ideal for indoor versus outdoor use: The length ends just above the ankle, so if its cold out, pull on longer socks. A knock of functionality from an all-around perspective? No pockets. But honestly, we dont need pockets in our tights most of the time, including at the gym.

　　Circling back to the fabric, were hard-pressed to find a thick, soft fabric we like more than the one used for the Womens High-Rise Sleek Tight 25 for lifting at the gym, yoga class, everyday errands, or hopping on a cruiser bike.

　　Read More Best Cropped Legging Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri Check price at athleta

　　Specs Size range: XXS-3XL; regular, tall, petite Fabric: Nylon/Lycra blend Inseam: 18.5”, 21″, 23” Pockets: 1 back drop-in pocket Pros Compression UPF 50+ sun protection Ultra high-rise Cons Less durable than others Constance Mahoney Cropped or capri leggings can lead to dreaded sagging, but the Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri ($79) by Athleta didn’t sag once, even after hours of wearing them while moving outside.

　　They’re made with an extremely lightweight and stretchy fabric — perfect for yoga — that doesn’t stretch out, sag, or restrict movement. It’s the perfect mix of compression and flexibility, though it might not be the most durable if you’re using them for outside hikes or high-impact exercises.

　　The high-rise, three-layer, unpinchable waistband is thick and compressive but not restrictive, and it doesn’t have side seams. There’s one hidden drop-in pocket large enough to hold a medium-sized phone. Overall, the Ultra High Rise Elation Capri is among our favorite activewear leggings for women.

　　Read More Best Legging for Running Janji ⅞ Pace Tight $94 at REI

　　Specs Size range: XS-XL Fabric: 68% nylon, 32% spandex Inseam: 24″ Pockets: 2 large side pockets, pass-through pocket on back waistband, internal front pocket on waistband Pros Breathable and quick-drying Great pockets Cons Fit around the waist wasn’t ideal for some body types Constance Mahoney Welcome to the Janji ⅞ Pace Tight ($94): They have a sleek look and undercover pockets in all the right places. The nylon and spandex-blend material is silky smooth on the skin while remaining both breathable and durable. Through hailstorms and heat waves, these have proven to hold up against the elements to maximize comfort and performance.

　　At first glance, the stitching looks like it’s going to be bothersome on the skin, but we never even noticed it. In fact, the seams actually add a fun, edgy, and textured look to the leggings that we haven’t seen elsewhere.

　　Consider the Janji Pace if you’re highly active in a range of conditions but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.

　　Read More Best Legging for Yoga prAna Chakara ⅞ Legging Check Price at PrAna

　　Specs Size range: XS-XL Fabric: 88% recycled nylon, 12% lycra elastane Inseam: 25″ Pockets: 1 large pocket on back waistband Pros Wide waistband UPF 50+ Cons Not super soft Constance Mahoney The prAna Chakra 7/8 Legging ($99) may look like your standard black yoga pant, but theres more there than meets the eye. These leggings offer light compression while offering stretch and moisture-wicking power. The waist panels have a single layer of Power Mesh, which provides elasticity and support, preventing sagging during activity and movements.

　　We noticed that the Coolmax gusset adds reinforcement and comfort in an important area of the body. PrAna focused on the details, removed the outside seam, and added a large pocket to the back waistband. In 2023, the fabric was updated to rock recycled nylon in a majority of the material. One of the other best parts is that these are sustainably made in a Fair Trade Certified factory and include bluesign material, too. 

　　While not buttery or silky, the Chakra 7/8 Legging is still extremely comfortable and capable of bending in all a high-level yoga class.

　　Read Review: From Yoga to Town and Trails: prAna Chakara 7/8 Legging Review

　　Read More Best Womens Cold-Weather Adventure Legging Arc’teryx Essent Warm High-Rise Legging 26 $140 at REICheck Price at Arcteryx

　　Specs Size Range: 00-14 Fabric: Chira brushed fleece, 81% nylon, 19% elastane 6.5oz Inseam: 26” Pockets: 2 thigh pockets sit below climbing harness leg loops Pros Durable Soft Wide size range Cons Tight to put on Constance Mahoney Technical and cozy, the Arc’teryx Essent Warm High-Rise Legging ($140) was made for chilly mountain adventures. Made from tight-knit fleece with flatlock seams and a brushed backing, this tight feels soft to the touch yet super tough.

　　The fabric is highly abrasion-resistant: Testers crawled on rocks during hikes and brushed wild thorny rose bushes on trail runs and the fabric didnt catch or snag. That doesn’t mean you won’t feel pokes from the bushes, but the fabric wont be damaged. 

　　While the tights are a little thicker than our other top choices (which is perfect for colder temps), the textile still breathes well during high-output efforts. They are a bit of a struggle to put on, but once they are, they don’t budge. Wed like to see a drawstring added, which would elevate the leggings to help make a more custom fit for different body shapes, but the wide waistband is super comfortable. 

　　Topping off the details, the fabric is treated with DWR to repel moisture. There are two thigh pockets to help free up your hands while scrambling, too. Overall, the Essent Warm High-Rise Legging is tough enough for traversing to the tops of peaks and flexible enough for a stretch sesh.

　　Read More Best of the Rest Alo Yoga High-Waist Airlift Legging Check Price At Alo

　　Specs Size Range: XXS-L Fabric: 82% Polyester, 18% Elastane Inseam: 28 (XXS-S), 28.5 (M-XL) Pockets: Pros Flattering design Smooth feeling High compression Cons Runs small Constance Mahoney The Alo Yoga High-Waist Airlift Legging ($128) is sleek, svelte, and flattering. They are a higher compression tight that offers support where needed. They are slick to the touch and comfortable to wear. 

　　One of the standout features of the High-Waist Airlift Legging is its Airlift technology, which gives the fabric a lightweight feel while providing a sculpting effect. This innovative technology helps to lift and contour your body, enhancing your natural curves and giving you a sleek silhouette. Additionally, the leggings are moisture-wicking, ensuring that you stay dry and comfortable even during intense sweat sessions. However, the fabric is a little thicker, so we’d recommend not using these for your hot yoga classes, as you may overheat. 

　　These leggings feature flatlock seams that minimize chafing and irritation. They also don’t have pockets, helping you focus fully on your workout without distractions. The sizing can be tricky, as they range from XXS to L, but because of their high compression, they may feel a little small. Be sure to check the size guide to see what will work best for you.  

　　Overall, the High-Waist Airlift Leggings are high-waisted, high-compression tights that feel good, look good, and are technical enough to keep up with your studio and outdoor adventures. 

　　Read More Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure High Waisted Midi Legging Check Price AT Beoyond Yoga

　　Specs Size Range: XS-L Fabric: 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane Inseam: 24” Pockets: Pros Flattering design Soft Comfortable waistband Cons Lighter colors may be see through Constance Mahoney Crafted from the brands signature Spacedye fabric, the Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure High Waisted Midi Legging ($99) offers a luxurious feel with a novel, space-dyed pattern that adds a touch of uniqueness to your activewear collection.

　　The overlap high-waisted design provides coverage and support and is one of the most comfortable waistbands we tested. 

　　One of the most notable features of these leggings is their buttery-soft texture, which feels incredibly comfortable against the skin. The Spacedye fabric is not only plush and cozy but also moisture-wicking and quick-drying. Additionally, the four-way stretch allows unrestricted movement, so you can easily bend, stretch, and twist. 

　　Whether hitting the yoga studio, jogging, or hanging out at home, the Spacedye Legging offers both style and performance in one chic package.

　　Read More Kari Traa Ane Hiking Tights Check Price at kari Traa

　　Specs Size: XS-XL Fabric: Main Material: 71% polyamide, 29% elastane Contrast Fabric: 95% polyamide, 5% elastane Inseam: 28” Pockets: 2 large zippered thigh pockets Pros Durable Light compression Cons Tight waistband Constance Mahoney The Kari Traa Ane Hiking Tights ($120) are among our favorite technical hiking tights. The back calf panel and the upper thigh pocket panels are made with a higher percentage of polyamide, making those zones less stretchy than many tights but more resilient to weather and rough interceptions.

　　With a full-length inseam, high waist, and 40+ UPF, youre protected from the sun and ever-changing elements from the mountains to the desert. As a bonus, these outdoor tights have zippered ankles with silicone grips on the interior hems to ensure they stay put when pulled down. 

　　This Ane Hikings textile is thick enough for cooler days, dries quickly, and has a crotch gusset for ease of movement. The tights provide a 4-way stretch, so we felt plenty of freedom of movement. We also enjoyed the density across multiple seasons.

　　However, the slim fit with the tight drawstring in the waistband can feel a little snug after hours of use. Try them on first to make sure you like the feel and fit because the fabric doesnt loosen over time — which is also a good thing. While the Ane Hiking Tights offer enough stretch for yoga poses, they are best suited for outdoor and trail stints.

　　Read Review: Benchmark for Backcountry Performance: Kari Traa Ane Hiking Tights Review

　　Read More Stio Womens Glide Tech Legging Check price at Stio

　　Specs Size: XS-XL Fabric: 69% nylon, 31% spandex blend with 200g/m2 density, antimicrobial treatment Inseam: 26″ Pockets: 1 zippered thigh pocket, 1 envelope closure thigh pocket, 1 back waistband pocket Pros Velvety Wicks sweat fast and well Cons Back waistband pocket is not secured Constance Mahoney If you want a tight that feels amazing next to your skin, grab the Stio Womens Glide Tech Legging ($119). With a suede finish, the Fortis nylon-spandex fabric provides enough stretch and does not feel restricted, but its technical enough for multi-hour runs.

　　While gutting out hard sprints, we found the textile provides moisture management. We also appreciated the antimicrobial treatment for odor control.

　　The zippered thigh pocket is big enough for a phone or other valuables. Unfortunately, the back waistband envelope closure seems flimsy and loose compared to the other larger envelope pocket on the thigh. We suggest sticking the thigh pockets to store items.

　　Ultimately, the Womens Glide is super soft and an excellent option for aerobic pursuits indoors or outdoors.

　　Read Review: A Tight That Does It All: Stio Women’s Glide High Rise Tech Tight Review

　　Read More Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights check price at title nine

　　Specs Size range: 2-16 (XS-XL); comes in regular and cropped length (18″ inseam) Fabric: Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex) Inseam: 27″ Pockets: 1 zippered side phone pocket Pros Perfect for cold weather Insulating, thick material still offers stretch Cons Can bunch up depending on your hips/waist shape Constance Mahoney If you’re looking for warm, thick, and insulated leggings, look no further than the Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights ($99), made with Polartec PowerStretch fleece. These tights are, as the brand wrote, the “cold butt cure.” And yes, we’ve weathered the coldest of cold days we could find while walking, hiking, and cross-country skiing — and these insulated tights did the job.

　　The Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights are thick but don’t bunch up, are insulated but still offer a little breathability, and are as stretchy as you could need for winter activities like skiing or running. Really, these tights are some of the best we’ve tested all winter long.

　　Our only con? The fit around the thighs can bunch up for some (depending on your figure and size). But for a heavy fleece layer, the Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights look and feel great.

　　Read More prAna Luxara Pocket Legging $69 at REICheck price at PrAna

　　Specs Size: XS-XL Fabric: 76% recycled nylon, 24% lycra-elastane or elastane Inseam: 27 Pockets: Two stretchy side pockets big enough for a phone Pros Side pockets are nicely positioned Good midweight density Solid rebound and elasticity Cons Though not super noticeable, some of the seams are bulkier than other leggings Constance Mahoney For a solid all-around legging that you can take to a hot yoga class, on a hike, or comfortably work at your desk, snag a pair of the prAna Luxara Pocket Legging ($99). While the brand labels this legging as lightweight, we found the overall density leans into a midweight zone (240 gsm), which is ideal for diverse use.

　　Launched in fall 2023, this design has several unique traits. With sustainability as a crown, the majority of the fibers are recycled, Bluesign certified, and Fair Trade stamped. Thats a win-win-win. The fabric also offers UPF 50+ protection from the sun. In the groin area, the gusset is made from Coolmax fabric, a super breathable, moisture-wicking textile.

　　When were running around the house cleaning, we love being able to slide our phone into either side pocket on the outside of each quad. The positioning is just right so that we dont notice the phone while climbing stairs it doesnt hit our hips.

　　Dont be confused by the brands website: The Impresa Pocket Legging is the same exact product except the fabric is printed versus solid, and the recycled nylon sits at 85%. If youre on the hunt for a full-length tight with a wide waistband, we highly recommend the Luxara Pocket Legging.

　　Read More Free Fly Apparel Women’s All Day Legging Check price at Free Fly Apparel

　　Specs Size: XS-XL Fabric: 80% nylon, 20% spandex (215 gsm) Inseam: 26 Pockets: Envelope pocket in back waistband Pros Super lightweight Very soft Cons Not an abrasion-resistant tight for HIIT training or other high-octane action Thin means theres not much insulation for chilly conditions Constance Mahoney When we first pulled on the Free Fly Apparel Womens All Day Legging ($88), we werent sure if we were actually wearing tights. Theyre that light, soft, and the closest to a second skin as it gets.

　　The All Day Legging is super smooth with a high waist that nicely hugs without a roll-down. The backside of the waist has an internal stash pocket where you can slide an ID or key fob. The inseam goes all the way past the ankles.

　　At only 215 gsm, this is certainly a lightweight fabric. For warmer days, traveling, or layering beneath other pants in the winter, thats perfect. If its breezy or cold out, you might prefer a thicker garment.

　　The material offers UPF 50+ protection beneath solar rays, which is a nice bonus. As for pulling sweat, yes, the fabric does, but its also thin, so we find if you plan to do super sweaty activities, you might want a different tight for those, too.

　　If you want a buttery, super lightweight yet not see through, and comfortable everyday tight, look no further than the Womens All Day Legging.

　　Read More Womens Workout and Travel Leggings Comparison Chart Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Size, Fabric, Inseam, Pockets.

　　Testing the Athleta High Rise Tights; (photo/Mattie Schuler) How We Tested Womens Workout and Travel Leggings Our Expert Testers Living in the heart of the Rockies in Colorado, GearJunkie tester Constance Mahoney is an avid outdoorswoman. Shes spent countless hours running, hiking, and putting in work on the mat so her body can keep up with whatever adventure comes. Leggings are part of her year-round uniform.Our other lead testers for this guide are likewise all-around outdoorswomen and educators: GearJunkie Senior Editor Morgan Tilton and contributor Mattie Schuler.

　　Our Testing Grounds We tested these leggings hiking through trails in the Gunnison Valley, bagging peaks above Crested Butte, working out at our local movement centers, and road-tripping across state lines.

　　We dont want to think about whether or not our pants are sagging, see-through, or about to rip open.That’s why we spent hundreds of hours testing these activewear leggings both outside and indoors.

　　Our Testing Process Throughout our testing, we examined the quality, fit, value, and function of each pair of leggings. Taking a close look at aspects of the design, we considered the elasticity, stretch, durability, thickness, features (such as pockets), breathability and wicking power of the textile, odor resistance, seams, gusset, and size range, as well as how quick drying the fabric is.

　　In addition to our personal experience, we start by diving into the research and interview experts on the most novel, style-specific, popular, highly rated, and legacy products across a range of price points.

　　These womens workout and travel leggings serve a range of athletes, applications, and budgets.

　　One of our favorite travel and everyday leggings is the Womens All Day Legging, here; (photo/Free Fly Apparel) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Womens Workout and Travel Leggings Leggings and tights have come a long way in the last decade. The industry has exploded, and you can find the perfect pair for whatever adventure you pick surfing included. There is a legging durable enough for scrambling ridgelines that will protect your legs where the trail ends. Compression tights to help with recovery. And technical yoga pants that barely feel there. If a design can handle all those tasks, theyre likely suitable for sprinting through an airport or off-road jeep tour.

　　Read more below to learn what specifics to look for when looking for your next best pair of leggings for workouts and travel.

　　Fabric There are many different fabrics and blends used to make the best women’s workout and travel leggings. The most popular blends are polyester or nylon mixed with elastane (spandex). One of the main things to consider when looking at fabric is what activity you will be doing.One of our favorite and most comfortable leggings we tested is the Nobull Women’s High-Rise Sleek Tight 25″. It nailed the blend of nylon and elastane creating a tight that can be used in a wide array of activities.

　　Polyester and Nylon (a type of polyamide) are popular synthetic fabrics for activewear but do shed microfibers. Both materials feel silky, almost slippery. They are very elastic, strong enough to retain their shape after multiple uses, wrinkle resistant, and dry quickly.

　　Polyester and polyamide now come in a recycled form, and some brands are shifting to that route to lessen their carbon footprint.

　　These products use recycled polyester:

　　Vuori Clean Elevation Legging Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights These products use recycled nylon:

　　prAna Chakara 7/8 Legging prAna Luxara Pocket Legging Most leggings have a blend like the Arc’teryx Essent Warm High-Rise Legging, which uses a fabric called Chira, a nylon and elastane blend thats interlocked, which makes the textile abrasion-resistant yet it still breathes and stretches. The Janji ⅞ Pace Tight uses a tightly-woven knit nylon fabric to reduce micro-shedding, which can help with long-term durability.

　　Certain designs of womens tights are more durable for outdoor activities like boating or hiking; (photo/Free Fly Apparel) Hems Seams Hems and seams are crucial for the best athletic leggings for women. Seams are on the interior and exterior of the legs, groin, and around the waist. Hems are around the ankles. They both hold the tight together but are also what can cause the most discomfort if not done well.

　　Chafing is the main concern when it comes to seams. When you try on a tight, move in various positions, noting how the seams and hems feel. If you notice an area rubbing the wrong away instantly, double-check and make sure nothing is twisted and the seam and that the hem is lying flat.If it is still uncomfortable, it will only worsen, so find another tight.

　　Most leggings are created by the standard cut-and-sew method, meaning pieces of woven fabric are sewn together. Many brands use a flatlock seam, which keeps the raw edges of the fabric enveloped in the stitching, subsequently reducing bulk and flattening the seams to help eliminate chafing.The prAna Chakra 7/8 Legging uses a flatlock seam but has designed its pattern without the need for an exterior seam.

　　Seamless tights are made with a knit fabric and are created totally differently than woven leggings with seams. Knit tights tend to be more lightweight and have more stretch and shape retention than leggings with regular seams. Because of the lack of stitches, seamless leggings offer maximum freedom of movement.

　　Additionally, some tights like the Janji 7/8 Pace Tight offer laser-cut hems. Laser-cut hems eliminate fraying, prevent chaffing, and allows for a more expandable hem for ease of putting on and taking off.

　　Some workout leggings show sweat while others hide perspiration well; (photo/Mattie Schuler) Gusset A gusset is a triangle or diamond-shaped piece of fabric sewn into the groin of the tight to redistribute the stress thats placed on the seams. A gusset strengthens the zone that would otherwise be a meeting point for all 4 seams, creating a potential weak spot and potentially a non-smooth surface. So, a gusset helps eliminate chafing in a highly sensitive area. For instance, the Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure High Waisted Midi Legging has a gusseted crotch, allowing for more stretch between the legs, which is nice when climbing ladders, doing steep hikes, or going on runs.

　　Whether you are team undies or not in tights, a gusset is usually more comfortable for those going sans underwear and helps eliminate a tight silhouette.

　　To test the gusset (or non-gusset), do some high knees, leg swings, and squats to see if you feel restricted in any of those motions. Also, look in the mirror to make sure you are happy with how the seam placement looks.

　　Friendly reminder: always use proper testing etiquette by wearing undergarments when trying on clothing until they are yours to keep.

　　Waistband Waistband designs are based on individual preferences, and those can depend quite a bit on torso length. High-waisted, mid-rise, and low-cut are the standard rises of leggings. When testing out the rise of the leggings, think about what you will be using them for and make sure they are comfortable for that activity, including travel, gym workouts, or yoga.

　　Many tights now incorporate wide waistbands. A wider waistband allows for a more custom fit across a variety of body shapes. The Beyond Yoga Spacedye At Your Leisure High Waisted Midi Legging incorporates a wide and overlapped waistband that is comfortable and flattering for a wide variety of body shapes.

　　Narrow waistbands can dig and pinch if the design does not fit a person correctly, while a wider waistband can be more forgiving. But, a wider waistband may be too wide for some waists, leaving gaps.

　　In our experience, some of the best athletic leggings for women include an internal drawstring for a more customized fit. Some designs with drawstrings are permanently looped together so you’ll never lose one side of the string to the abyss of the waistband. Others require you to internally tie off the two ends inside the pants but offer enough string so they won’t slink and get lost. Make sure the drawstring will tighten the waistband enough for what you need.

　　When trying tights on, be sure to add different motions to check the waistbands feel and fit. You may find that you prefer a more narrow fit. Sit down and see how the waist feels: Does it tighten, roll down, or is there a gap in the back? Everyone has a different body shape, and each brand has unique designs. Lastly, check each company’s return policy as you look for the right fit for your body.

　　Really built-out leggings have fabric reinforcement on high-abrasion areas like the knees; (photo/Free Fly Apparel) Stretch Compression One of our biggest annoyances is when a pair of leggings sags or stretches out after a wash or a few days of back-to-back wear. High-quality leggings should do neither, but that isn’t always the case. Ideally, a good pair of leggings will be made from both stretchy material and a material that has a little bit of compression to give that nice, tight fit.

　　Keep in mind the activity that you will be doing. Are you looking for the best travel leggings for women? Youll probably enjoy some compression, so check out the Alo Yoga High-Waist Airlift Legging. Or do you want that barely-there feeling? Look into the Free Fly Apparel Womens All Day Legging.

　　When trying on a pair of leggings, pull them on like tights. If they slide up too quickly, they might be too big. If you have to squeeze yourself into them and really tug, they are likely too tight, so size up.

　　Thickness Density Along with stretch and compression, the thickness and density of the fabric used in a tight will influence which activewear tight is ideal for your application. Activities have different output levels like yoga versus trail running. Also, the thicker and more dense a fabric is, the warmer and less breathable it will be.

　　Thicker fabric can also be more stalwart against wear and tear. Textiles with a denser construction can also be less susceptible to holes compared to thinner layers but theyre typically less breathable, too.

　　To point, the Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights utilizes Polartec fleece that keeps you warm even on the coldest of days. That tight is a great choice for winter activities but obviously not perfect for hot yoga. For warmer days when you don’t need extra insulation, look for thinner women’s tights, such as the Kari Traa Nora 2.0 Tights.

　　We wore tights from airplane rides to paddle days, yoga, and hikes; (photo/Mattie Schuler) Rise Length Leggings vary so much now, both at the bottom and the top. Think about how much rise you want near your waist. High-rise leggings are great to keep your stomach covered if youre moving from pose to pose in yoga, but low-rise might be more comfortable on a run.

　　Similarly, think about the length of the legs. Do you need to protect your ankles with coverage, or do you need the shorter length to help keep you cool? Check out the Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri that will fall below your knees or tights with a ⅞-length that ends above your ankles. If you need a full-length tight that covers your ankles, look at the Arc’teryx Essent Warm High-Rise Legging. Another option is the Kari Traa Ane Hiking Tights, which have ankle zippers for additional protection and ease when youre putting the tights on and off.

　　Size Each brand has its own sizing chart that usually consists of the measurements for the waist, hip, and inseam length. It’s important to check each legging’s size chart, which vary not only across brands but sometimes from product to product.

　　Velocio LUXE Leggings has a really unique and helpful sizing chart to help you get the best fit. First, you find your weight at the top of the table, then follow it down to your size. Then, each size has a height range based on weight. Find the range that you fit into and select the one that works best, depending on the level of compression youd like. They also have a dimensions chart to help you dial in your size. The dimension chart includes chest, waist, and hip sizes.

　　If you are unable to try on leggings in a store, remember to check the return policy when purchasing leggings online.

　　We really appreciate flat seams and well-made gussets to avoid any chafe zones; (photo/Free Fly Apparel) Durability The best outdoor leggings for women are made to move with you in any condition. If you’re using leggings to hike or backpack, you’ll want a fabric that is thicker and has reinforcement on the knees and backside, like Cordura or a similar material.

　　For lower-impact activities like yoga or road-tripping, you’ll need to worry less about the fabric wearing out or tearing and focus more on the fit, feel, and comfort. The Vuori Clean Elevation Leggings are a good option. Not every tight is made for moving through rugged terrain, but you should be able to expect some level of durability from the best womens activewear leggings.

　　To help preserve the durability of your leggings, wash them according to the recommendations on the tag.

　　Pockets We love large side pockets on the thighs of leggings, but not all activities need pockets. For daily use and running, pockets can be pretty useful. For a yoga class, our phones and keys are in the locker room.

　　Many waistband designs have small slide-in, non-enclosed, stretchy pockets (also called an envelope pocket), which compress and flatten when not being used. These envelope pockets are great for fitting a gel or snack bar or glove liners. Often tights have an internal stretch pocket, which is typically small and placed near the front of the hips.

　　Other pocket designs have zippers: If you have a super critical item youd like to carry and youll be jumping around or jogging, we suggest opting for a zippered pocket.

　　Many tights have pockets, and some designs are large enough for sliding in a large phone; (photo/Mattie Schuler) Odor Resistance With intense workouts, cookouts, campfires, a stressful day, or back-to-back use, stinky tights are bound to happen even to the best travel and workout leggings.

　　Leggings can also latch onto smells because they are made of polyester. Polyester is what makes your tights stretchy, but it also absorbs your sweat. The real kicker is that polyester is also known for being water-repellant, so cleaning them can be tricky. Washing after use will help keep up with diminishing odors. To help find the best laundry detergent for your activewear, check out this article by GearJunkie, which explains what detergent works best and how to wash your apparel and gear.

　　However, not all leggings retain odor to the same degree. Wool leggings are naturally odor-resistant. Also, some fabrics are treated to combat smells. The Stio Womens Glide High Rise Tech Tight uses an antimicrobial treatment, and other tights use Polygiene formula to combat odors. Polygiene prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria at the source. It uses a low concentration of silver salt (silver chloride), which has antimicrobial properties. Because it prevents bacterial growth, often the recommendation is to wash the product less. That said, still wash your apparel as needed!

　　Other tights use silver salt for odor control: HeiQ Pure is a silver-salt-based odor-control additive that absorbs the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) also known as smelly molecules. The bonus? Odor treatments like these can help extend a products life and cut back environmental impacts of manufacturing.

　　Sustainability One of the main things to consider when looking at leggings is the footprint of the fabric. Look for recycled or renewable materials.

　　Many brands are starting to utilize safer, healthier technologies to create durable water repellents (DWR) that make products repellent to water and oil. Traditional PFCs or Perfluorocarbons are not environmentally friendly. They do not readily break down, meaning they can be stored and spread in their environment, including on the person wearing them, which is why theyre illegal in certain U.S. states and countries.

　　Sustainable DWR can be silicone-based, wax-based, or plant-based. Fjallraven’s parent company, Fenix Outdoor International AG, created a Chemical Guideline for all their brands. ​​The restrictions they list in the guideline go beyond legal compliance and include self-imposed limits, as they proactively research new, less harmful chemical alternatives for their products.

　　Many brands have been approved by or use Bluesign materials in their products. The third party certification makes sure those materials have been manufactured to strict safety and environmental requirements. These brands are Bluesign-approved:

　　Janji ⅞ Pace Tight prAna Chakara 7/8 Legging Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Legging Another independent party helping with sustainability is Climate Neutral. The nonprofit organization works to eliminate carbon emissions. Vuori Clean Elevation Leggings uses recycled polyester from a Climate Neutral certified brand.

　　Other leggings are Fair Trade Certified sewn, meaning that the people who worked on the product are paid fairly and working in an environment with established healthy standards.

　　Most of our favorite workout and travel tights function across a range of activities, while some are more specialized; (photo/Free Fly Apparel) Make It Last: 3 Leggings Care Tips Now that youve found the best womens leggings for you, youll want to make them last as long as possible.

　　Hang up or rinse immediately after working out. Its tempting to wad up your sweaty leggings and toss them in the bottom of your bag, but take a few extra seconds to treat them with care. At the very least, hang them out to dry while you get changed, and then lay them flat in your bag. Even better, give them a rinse to remove sweat and bacteria that can break down the materials. Wash in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as these speed up the fabric breakdown and can inhibit the wicking properties. Consider using a specialty soap like our favorite, Grangers Active Wash ($10). Skip the dryer whenever possible to avoid overheating, stretching, and misshaping your favorite leggings. Theyre made of quick-drying materials, so simply hang up or lay flat to dry. Price Value We found the best women’s workout and travel leggings that fall across a wide range of price tags. Some are considered an investment, while others are more budget-friendly.

　　Often, the materials and manufacturing practices drive the price. Producing high-quality and sustainable products is more labor-intensive, and youll see the price hike.

　　Budget Less technical tights will be more affordable but may not be as durable in the long term. While the fabric blends may not be as complex, they still should hold up for everyday use.Economic pairs typically range $50 to $75 including the Kari Traa Nora 2.0 Tights ($60), which are for lower impact activity and less elastic and durable than other more high-end pairs made for backpacking, weight training, or rock climbing.

　　Mid-Tier Mid-priced tights do not mean you are losing out on quality. These pairs usually range from $75 to $100. They should also be durable enough to hold their shape, not sag, and perform well in a variety of uses. For instance, the Janji ⅞ Pace Tights ($94) is a sustainably made tight that can be worn for a run but also works for yoga.Other options include the Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri ($79) or Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights ($99).

　　Premium Higher-end leggings coming in at more than $100 dont sag, lose shape after multiple wears, and are not see-through. Some higher-end designs are built for specific sports or outdoor adventure, like the Arc’teryx Essent Warm High-Rise Legging ($140), which has a more complex fabric blend, putting them at a higher price point. Other leggings can have added value, like an extra surface finish for softness, as we see in the Stio Womens Glide High Rise Tech Tight ($119).

　　(Photo/Athleta) Frequently Asked Questions When should I wear leggings? Anytime! Just kidding — leggings are not preferred or appropriate for every situation, though that does seem to be changing as loungewear is getting fancier and slacks are getting more comfortable.

　　Leggings are a perfect option for most activities where you’d normally wear shorts or hiking pants — think cycling, yoga, running, and backpacking. The specific legging might vary for each activity (see below for needs like durability and pockets), but overall, leggings are a comfortable option for most active and non-active outings.

　　What is the best brand of workout leggings? Fitting true to size, prAna is always a consistent go-to for leggings. The brand’s leggings are available in a variety of styles and patterns, and they work for all activities.

　　Both Athleta and Vuori are also top contenders, with Vuori really making a name for itself lately with high-quality loungewear and activewear. Though any of the options in our guide and top contenders among the dozens of existing options.

　　What do you look for in leggings? Before buying, first think about what activities you’ll be using them for. If you’re hiking, look for reinforced knees and rear and deep pockets. For yoga, you’ll want a supportive pair with four-way stretch so you won’t be restricted in your movements. The best travel leggings for women feel comfortable while being worn for many hours and have pockets to hold random items. No matter what you’re using them for, the leggings should be tight and comfy, like a second skin.

　　Next, think about what size and how many pockets you want and other details like an ultra-high-rise waist, a drawstring waist, and the length (capri, ⅞, or full).

　　Also, consider the conditions you’ll be using the leggings in. If you’ll be outside in cold weather, consider getting a thicker or insulated pair. If you’ll only be using your leggings indoors for hot yoga and on trips, a thinner pair would work just fine.

　　Do I need to wear underwear with leggings? That’s mostly a personal preference. Active tights should be made from moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric, so you should stay dry during a sweaty workout.

　　Some also have a crotch gusset — a triangle of fabric sewn in where all the seams meet together. This can help eliminate any unflattering tight seams and make going commando more comfortable.

　　Are tights see-through? Quality tights, including our top picks here, are not see through. But tights on the market that are not made with thick enough or high-quality material can be transparent.

　　You can check to see if a tight is see-through by doing a squat test. Try the tights on in front of a mirror and squat down or touch your toes. Look back in the mirror and see if you can see any skin or underwear. If you don’t see anything, you are good to go!

　　Should I wear pants or leggings for hiking? Activewear leggings are a comfortable option for day hikes. They are comfortable, quick-wicking, and offer sun protection. Pants have what hiking leggings offer but are burlier. They are more durable, provide extra weatherproof protection, and have additional pockets. Which one you decide to wear depends on the climate, the length of the adventure, and how technical the route is. If you are looking to see what we would recommend for a hiking pant, check out our Best Womens Hiking Pants guide.

　　If you decide to wear womens leggings for hiking, make sure you wear ones that are made for hiking! If you wear traditional leggings, they might not be protective or durable enough against the elements like dew, rain, wind, or even sweat while your body works. Our top picks are: Arc’teryx Essent High-Rise Legging for cold conditions or the Kari Traa Ane Hiking Tights for warmer seasons.

　　What color leggings should I buy? Leggings come in a multitude of colors and patterns, so the options are nearly endless. Janji has fun colors and designs as does Stio. You should be able to find whatever suits your personality. Sometimes a new color or fun pattern is just the right pick-me-up we need for some extra inspiration.

　　Some folks are concerned about how their leggings will show sweat when they work out. Light colors reveal more sweat, while black or other dark colors can hide sweat marks. Honestly, everyone sweats, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about! We encourage you to buy the leggings in the color you want.

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