The Best Workout Leggings For Women
10 Leggings That Make Every Workout (and Errand) Better
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No matter how much we love the workout clothes we own, there's always room for one more pair of leggings. After all, they're the ultimate multitasker, just as perfect for workouts, indoors or out, as they are for lounging, running errands, or working from home. But we know you already know that, and chances are, you've got a lineup of favorites for every activity. Your supersoft pair is the one you live in, the sweat-wicking pair is for cycling class, the squat-proof pair is for strength training, and the compressive pair is for yoga. One pair can't do it all, but the 10 options ahead come close.
Whether you want the most comfortable, the best crossover, or the famous TikTok-approved pair that makes your butt look great, these are the best workout leggings to shop now.
Best High-Waisted Leggings
POPSUGAR Ultra High-Waisted Leggings ($12, originally $25)
It's true — POPSUGAR has an activewear line, and it's about time you put it to the test. Ours just so happen to be the most affordable pair on the list, with thoughtful details you'll actually appreciate: a back phone pocket, quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric, and a super high-rise waistband that stays put through every workout.
What reviewers say: "Great leggings!" wrote a reviewer who rated them five stars. "Love the design, and the back phone pocket is a game-changer! Amazing value for the quality. Perfect for taking a yoga class and comfy enough to wear all day. I loved it so much that I bought a set for a friend!"
Why we love them: These leggings are budget-friendly without cutting corners on quality, complete with thoughtful details like a back phone pocket.
What's worth noting: If you can't pick just one of the five colors, there's also a multipack ($90) that lets you grab them all.
The details: Sizes: XS–XL | Length: 28.5" | Colorways: 5
Best Amazon Leggings
Seasum High Waist Leggings ($19, originally $21) These are the viral TikTok leggings that sculpt your butt like no other. They'll 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. 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: 26
Best Crossover Leggings
Offline By Aerie Real Me Xtra Crossover High Waisted Pocket Legging ($33, 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
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 feeling supported and able to move whichever way you please. Explore all of the great Free People leggings in our shopping guide.
What reviewers say: "I LOVE these pants!" one enthusiastic reviewer wrote. "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: 13
Best Flared Leggings
Beyond Yoga Spacedye All Day Flare High Waisted Pant ($83, originally $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–XL | Length: 32" | Colorways: 2
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. They're available in a multitude of colors and perfect 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.
The details: Sizes: XXS–4X | Length: 25" | Colorways: 17
Best Leggings From Lululemon
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant ($98)
Lululemon's bestselling Align pants are worth it, with their 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. The workout pants offer 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: 14
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 or 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: 9
Best Yoga Pants
Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Leggings ($118)
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: 7
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 — and 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: 21
— Additional reporting by Marisa Petrarca, India Yaffe, and Anvita Reddy
Kyley Warren (she/her) is an award-winning writer and editor with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She previously worked as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. Before joining PS, Kyley worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.
Marisa Petrarca (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping and has over seven years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content. She was previously the senior beauty editor at Grazia USA and the style and beauty editor at Us Weekly. Now freelancing, her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Allure, Marie Claire, and more.
India Yaffe was an associate editor on the Shopping team at PS for five years. She focused on curating the best fitness, fashion, beauty, and home products on the market for the PS audience.
Anvita Reddy (she/her) is a former assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and reviews home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. At PS, she tested skin care, makeup, and hair care, plus countless other beauty products.
