The Best Leggings to Conquer Your Workout

Fair warning: you're going to want to live in the lululemon Align Pant II ($98-$118). It is so buttery soft, you'll feel like you're not wearing anything — which, in fact, is the purpose of the fabric it's made of, Nulu. This is definitely a yoga legging as opposed to a running or HIIT legging, but it can also be an errands legging, a brunch legging, or really just an anytime legging. I have spent a good portion of the last year on the couch in these workout leggings, and I might just have to get another pair. Plus, there's even a pair with pockets! Explore all of the great lululemon leggings in our shopping guide.

What reviewers say: These pants have over 5,000 five-star reviews, with one user saying "I need 949575853 more. It feels like i'm wearing nothing! The quality is absolutely there. The comfort is there. I want to wear nothing else but these leggings."

Why we love it: The soft, comfortable lounge leggings of your dreams do exist, and you'll find yourself doing laundry just so that you can wear them again.

What's worth noting: They, like almost all Lululemon pants, are high rise; mine come up just past my belly button. I've had mine for years at this point, and they feel just as soft and comfortable as the day I bought them. There's no pilling or fraying at all.

The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25, 28, 31 in. inseam | Colorways: 20

If the Align Pant was intriguing, but you consider yourself more of a runner, lululemon has answered your prayers. The lululemon Fast and Free Tight II ($128) is made with Nulux, and gives the same second-skin sensation that you're used to from the Align legging with the added bonus of being sweat-wicking and quick-drying. They're a must-have workout legging for anyone who's obsessed with that buttery-soft feeling, but still wants a high performance legging. My best friend, a serious runner, counts these among her favorites, but they really are great for any activity because they're so versatile. They're high rise and body hugging without being too heavy. If you're concerned about chafing, these are a good choice because they feel so comfortable, and though they do have inner thigh seams, they're pretty minimal and unobtrusive. Check out all our favorite running leggings in our shopping guide.

What reviewers say: Plus, with over 2,000 five star reviews, there's a whole community of people who swear by these leggings. One person in particular notes, "my favorite workout pant ever. I can wear them all day without having to repeatedly pull them up or adjust." Another customer says, "These leggings are a runner's dream. The material doesn't pill, pockets can fit all the energy gels, keys, etc. that you could possibly need, even a waist belt pocket that fits a phone so your phone doesn't bounce around. I have to use the drawstring to adjust the waist for running, but otherwise I almost forget I'm wearing them."

Why we love it: If you like the look of a legging but want the feel and breathability of a short, or nothing at all, these are the running pants for you. They're the running leggings you'll want in your closet, and they'll make even the sweatiest workouts comfortable.

What's worth noting: It's good to know about the raw hem at the ankle before you wonder if you accidentally bought an unfinished pair. They purposefully do not have a band or seam, which many people find to be looser and less constricting at the ankle, but can take some getting used to.

The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25, 28 in. length | Colorways: 8

We all know that some of our workout leggings are thicker than others; they're the ones we love for winter, when it's a bit colder outside. The Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tights ($109) are 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 great Athleta leggings in our 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 inch length | Colorways: 7

The Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging ($78) 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 like colors.

The details: Sizes: XXS-6XL | Length: 19.5, 23.75, 28.5 inch length | Colorways: 7

If you want the ultimate comfortable, affordable workout leggings, you need these Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings ($40). They've got a side pocket that's so useful and Go-Dry moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable. Their high-rise waistband will make you feel comfortable and secure while their pocket is large enough to stash your phone in. Explore all of the great Old Navy leggings in our shopping guide, and you can also read our editor's review of the Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings.

What reviewers say: Customers love these pants, with one saying that these are the "I will never buy another brand after wearing these to the gym. They were the comfiest to workout in." Another person said, "These are my favorite leggings. They don't slide down, they don't ball up. These are the best ones I've worn."

Why we love them: Simply put: these leggings don't move. They stay on throughout your workout and are so comfortable that they feel a lot more expensive than they actually are. Plus, at just $40, they're affordable, and perform like they're double or triple the price.

What's worth noting: These leggings are made of Old Navy's Powersoft fabric, which is lightly compressive, and buttery soft. It also comes in tall and petite varieties. If you want a more compressive fit, maybe size down.

The details: Sizes: XS-4X| Length: 26, 28, 32 inch length | Colorways: 5

These Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi 7/8 Leggings ($97) 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 winter 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 leggings we've ever worn. They're buttery 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 inch length | Colorways: 13

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 FP Movement High-Rise 7/8 Length Good Karma Leggings ($78) 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/S-XL| Length: 23 inch length | Colorways: 22

Crossover leggings have been popping up everywhere recently, and they're a slightly more flattering take on the classic high-waisted legging. The Offline By Aerie Real Me Xtra Crossover High Waisted Pocket Legging ($55) 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 inch length | Colorways: 3

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 Beyond Yoga Spacedye All Day Flare High Waisted Pant ($110) 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 it: 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 in. length | Colorways: 1