Which women’s leggings are best?
Once reserved for sporty activities, the gym, and yoga, leggings are now one of the most popular fashion items for women. Wear them to work out, go grocery shopping, or to board your next flight. Pair them with a dress or a tunic for a holiday party or dinner event.
Whether you’re looking for a pair to dress up or dress down, our buying guide will help you narrow down your choices. A pair of comfortable opaque leggings, like our top pick, No Nonsense’s Denim-Look Leggings, is a necessary and versatile staple of the modern woman’s closet.
What to know before you buy women’s leggings?
Types
Legging varieties run the gamut from performance athleticwear tights made of sturdy, flexible fabric to fashion leggings made for everyday wear.
Sizing
Sizing for leggings isn’t the same as that for pants and jeans. Always check the size chart before purchasing. Sizing varies widely across brands. Leggings are typically available in a range of sizes from XS to XL. Certain companies also manufacture plus-size leggings. Some brands also sell leggings in one-size-fits-most versions.
Length
Typically, leggings cover the legs down to the ankle, but cropped, midcalf, and capri versions also exist. Leggings that cover the feet are also an option, but they’re usually called tights — the terms are often used interchangeably, however.
Waistband
Choose from high, low, and medium-rise waistbands. Many women find a high waistband more comfortable, especially for athletic endeavors. A higher cut provides full coverage even when bent over. For tummy control, select a pair of leggings with a wide waistband. For athletic pursuits, opt for an adjustable waistband to avoid tugging and pulling up your bottoms while you work out.
What to look for in quality women’s leggings
Fabric
Leggings are available in a variety of materials. Usually, the fabric is a blend of materials that may include cotton, polyester, and/or spandex. Synthetic fabrics are ideal for athletic purposes because they dry quickly and allow for plenty of movement without wearing down. Cotton leggings are best for casual wear; the material is comfortable but doesn’t dry rapidly when wet. Cotton leggings are easier to care for than those made of synthetic materials.
Colors and patterns
Black is the most common color of leggings because it’s easy to mix and match with other wardrobe items, but leggings are available in a slew of patterns, colors, and designs. Some leggings also feature mesh or sheer panels. Leggings that look like jeans — sometimes called jeggings — are another popular fashion option.
Winter-ready
Legging thickness varies depending on the brand. If you’re searching for a pair of warm leggings for cold weather, buy fleece-lined ones. For outdoor sports, it may be worth wearing a pair of thermal underwear beneath your leggings for an added layer of warmth.
Opacity
If you don’t want to show off your patterned underwear to the world, opt for opaque leggings. At first glance, leggings may seem thick enough, but a squat test could reveal that they’re of questionable quality. A good quality pair of leggings shouldn’t become sheer as you perform movements such as bending over. Check to see whether reviewers have had issues with the opacity of a product before making your purchase.
How much you can expect to spend on women’s leggings
You’ll pay between $10 and $70 for a pair of women’s leggings. Cost increases with quality. Higher-priced leggings tend to be designed for physical activity.
Women’s leggings FAQ
Can I throw my leggings into the washing machine?
A. It depends on what they’re made of. A pair of athletic leggings probably requires added care when washing or drying. If they’re made of cotton, feel free to toss the leggings in with your regular load of laundry. Athletic leggings should never go in the dryer. Hang dry to avoid damaging performance fabrics.
I want leggings for lounging around the house. Which type should I choose?
A. A budget pair of cotton or cotton blend leggings is the perfect choice for lounging around your home. Don’t spend extra money on a pair of high-tech running or yoga tights if you don’t plan to sweat in them.
What are the best women’s leggings to buy?
Top women’s leggings
No Nonsense’s Denim-Look Leggings
What you need to know: These comfortable, stylish leggings give you the look of jeans with the comfort of leggings.
What you’ll love: They have an attractive, denim look. They’re lightweight, ultra-stretchy, comfortable and durable.
What you should consider: Some people have reported sizing inconsistencies.
Top women’s leggings for the money
Dimore’s Fleece-Lined Leggings
What you need to know: A budget legging option (six pairs in a pack) with a comfortable fit.
What you’ll love: This value pack is inexpensive and includes a variety of colors. They have a wide waistband and are of good quality, despite the price.
What you should consider: There were some complaints that certain pairs in the pack were too sheer.
Worth checking out
Leggings Depot’s High-Waisted Solid Leggings
What you need to know: These classic leggings are made for everyday wear.
What you’ll love: They’re lightweight yet opaque. The fabric is soft with a lot of give, and it holds up to extensive wear and tear.
What you should consider: They weren’t as opaque as some people would have liked.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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