The Best Workout Leggings For Every Type Of Sweat Sesh

Allie Holloway

It’s undeniable that the right tool makes every job easier. That fact isn’t limited to pressure cookers (Instant Pot anyone?), jumper cables, and flat irons, but also workout clothes. Slip on the wrong leggings for yoga and your half moon can become a super moon by the time you hit downward dog. Wearing running tights to do kickboxing can squelch a full sweep. You get the idea. Conversely, the right leggings for a given activity give you all the freedom you need with the support you want to jump, lunge, kick, and spin your heart out without worrying about missing a step.

A proper pair of leggings hug your body with appropriate snugness where you want them to stay put and allow ease of movement and full range of motion where you need them to allow a little give. They shouldn’t bunch up, ride down, rub, chafe, or give you even a hint of camel toe (which is more than unsightly—it’s uncomfortable!). If your sport requires that you carry stuff, they should have the appropriate number of pockets in easy to access places. If you need extra protection—think sitting on a bike seat—they should provide that, too. They should also look as good as they feel, so you feel comfortable and confident rocking them out in public.

To help you find the right leggings for every activity, we built the ultimate list of leggings for every exercise. Our picks are a result of intel from Women’s Health editors who personally tested their favorite pairs, and reviews from real women of various shapes and sizes. If you’re looking for your next go-to tights, capris, or pants for basically every activity you do, here are the pairs that have a leg up (ha!) on the competition—so you will too.

4 Steps For Finding The Best Workout Leggings

Consider fabric. You’ll want to opt for fabric that meets your preferences. Ask yourself are you looking for a barely-there feel, or something that’ll keep you warm when it’s a little chillier outside. Are the seams flat and is the material anti-chafing? Think about what bothers you about the leggings you already have and seek an upgrade.
Make sure they’re squat-proof. If you’re shopping online, check out the reviews to see what other people who have already purchased the leggings you’re considering have to say. For at-home try ons: To test their opacity, find a mirror squat, and look to see if your skin peeks through.
Test their moisture-wicking ability. If you’re prone to working up a sweat, then you’re going to want leggings made with quick-dry tech. Looking for a way to test them without actually buying them: throw a drop of water into their inside layer and observe what happens.
Consider style. Determine whether you’re more comfortable with capris, or long tights, leggings with side pockets or ones who boast a pocket in their waistband. Style can quite literally mean how they’re structured, but you also want to make sure you’re also spending your money on leggings you actually think are cute.

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Best Value Workout Leggings

High Waisted Buttery Soft Leggings

Adding to your workout wardrobe doesn’t mean breaking the bank and these leggings are evidence. Made with some of the same features at the more expensive brands–a secure fit, breathable fabric, and squat-proof opacity–you can grab a pair of these leggings for under $20. Plus, you don’t have to get them in a basic black. These leggings are available in 25 colors.