Zella Leggings Are Great — Here's How to Know Which Ones You Should Buy

Nordstrom
Nordstrom
Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

We consider ourselves experts when it comes to great workout leggings, and Zella is undoubtedly one of our favorite brands. We, and clearly many Nordstrom shoppers, are partial to the Live In High-Waisted Leggings, but there are plenty of other styles that are equally awesome. If you're in the market for a new pair of leggings, we've broken down the differences between seven pairs of Zella leggings so you know what you're buying. For the sake of this experiment, we've compared black leggings, also known as the foundation of our workout wardrobe.

Let's face it: we could always use another pair (or seven) of leggings in our closet. Whether you're a serious yogi, an indoor cycling champion, or are just getting started on your fitness journey, we can't recommend Zella's pants enough. There's also a style if your favorite athletic activity is moving from the couch to the kitchen, or if you're expecting a baby and need to dress your growing belly. In fact, these styles are some of the top-selling and most beloved products in all of Nordstrom, which means you've got to hurry and snap up a pair before they're gone.

The Classic Leggings: Zella Live In High-Waisted Leggings
nordstrom.com

The Classic Leggings: Zella Live In High-Waisted Leggings

These are the classics. The Zella Live In High-Waisted Leggings ($59) are the brand's most popular pair, with over 7,000 positive reviews. They're soft, comfortable, and work for pretty much any activity. We like them for activities like yoga or pilates where you may have to lay down because there's no back zipper or anything to obstruct you.

What customers say: With over 7,000 great star reviews, one customer says, "I've had these for almost a year now and I cannot say enough good things! I live in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, and I mostly do outdoor activities in these. I rock climb, hike 14'ers, scramble over ridges, run trails, and more in these and they never fail. They're never too hot, they truly do swick sweat away. And NEVER ride down, 12 mile hikes and I don't have to pull them up once."

Why we love it: If you want a legging that won't budge, these are the pants worth getting. They've earned the name "Live In Leggings," because you really will live in them.

What's worth noting: Customers have noted that Zella recently changed its fabrication. These are now a bit shinier than older iterations, but still don't roll down.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 28.5 in. length | Colorways: 2

Leggings With Pockets: Zella Live In High-Waisted Pocket 7/8 Leggings
nordstrom.com

Leggings With Pockets: Zella Live In High-Waisted Pocket 7/8 Leggings

The one problem with the classic Live In leggings? No pockets. These Zella Live In High-Waisted Pocket 7/8 Leggings ($59) are here to change that, with side pockets for you to store your keys, phone, or credit cards. As people who are always on the go, having leggings with pockets is a game changer, and you can read our complete guide to leggings with pockets.

What customers say: One customer says, "These leggings are perfect! I've always loved the live-in ones and these are no exception. Soft but still have plenty of stretch and hold. Pockets are the best!"

Why we love it: These useful leggings are made so much better with the addition of pockets, and they also have flatlock seaming to help prevent chafing.

What's worth noting: The leggings have both side pockets and an interior waist pocket, so you've got a place for all your essentials. It's worth noting that the fabric has changed on these pants, and they're a bit thinner than previous iterations, but still pass the squat test for most customers.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XL | Length: 25 in. length | Colorways: 1

Cozy, Soft Leggings: Zella Restore Soft Pocket Leggings
nordstrom.com

Cozy, Soft Leggings: Zella Restore Soft Pocket Leggings

If you want the ultimate lounge legging, these are the pair for you. The Zella Restore Soft Pocket Leggings ($65) are perfect for low impact activities like walking and pilates, as well as hanging around the house and running errands. They're soft, cozy, and have big pockets. We're sold!

What customers say: One person raves, "It truly is so soft and comfortable to wear! It also hugs all the curves very well and flatters them very well. I can lounge in this and workout too," while another person says, "These are the perfect leggings for everyday. So soft and comfortable, not to tight or thick, can wear them long or pull them up to ankle length. POCKETS you can actually put your whole hand in. I love Zella and this is another great item from them."

Why we love it: These are the leggings that are so soft and comfortable, you'll never want to take them off. The thick waistband ensures they'll stay put, the large pockets are perfect for storage, and the cozy material feels like butter.

What's worth noting: These are not the most compressive leggings of the bunch, so if that's what you're looking for, these may not be the best fit.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 27 in. length | Colorways: 1

Flared Leggings: Zella Live In High Waist Pocket Flare Pants
nordstrom.com

Flared Leggings: Zella Live In High Waist Pocket Flare Pants

Interested in the flared leggings trend? These Zella Live In High Waist Pocket Flare Pants ($69) will be the best new addition to your workout wardrobe. They're made of the same fabric as the classic live in leggings, and are great for hot yoga or just running to the market.

What customers say: One customer noted that they, "love the higher waist and side pockets and a nice amount of flair without being too wide. Fabric is a little thicker so it will be good for the cooler months."

Why we love it: Sometimes, you want a legging that's a little more on trend, and when you do, these are the leggings we'd reach for. They're comfortable, not too flared, and have side pockets!

What's worth noting: These pants have a longer inseam, so they're a great option if you're tall.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 32 in. length | Colorways: 2

Lightweight Leggings: Zella High Waist Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 Leggings
nordstrom.com

Lightweight Leggings: Zella High Waist Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 Leggings

If you like a lightweight, more breathable legging, you need these Zella High Waist Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 Leggings ($39, originally $55). Not only are they great for higher impact, sweaty activities like running and boxing, they've also got pockets, so you could totally run errands in these. Plus, they're on sale, and it doesn't get much better than that.

What customers say: Customers love these leggings, with one person saying, "I stocked up on these and won't wear another pair. They also dry very quickly. If you air dry them they will keep their shape forever." Another buyer noted, "I'm somewhat shocked at how flattering they are. They're leggings so I don't really expect them to make me look Beyonce, but they somehow did just that." Sign us up.

Why we love it: These leggings have the same shaping properties of the Live In collection, but they're lighter and more sweat-wicking, which is essential for people who perspire a lot while working out. The pockets are useful, and they don't ride down.

What's worth noting: Customers have noted that these run true to size, but if you're in between sizes, consider going down.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 24 in. length | Colorways: 1

Top Rated Leggings: Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket Leggings
nordstrom.com

Top Rated Leggings: Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket Leggings

These Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket Leggings ($79) are the newest Zella leggings, but they're the pair we're most excited about right now. The seaming on these is super flattering at the butt, and they're made of a lightweight, quick-drying nylon material. These are the sleek, supportive leggings that will make you look, and feel your best in and out of the gym.

What customers say: One customer raved, "These leggings are truly amazing and here's why — First, I'm blown away by the luxurious material. They feel so airy, light, and comfortable, yet somehow there's no skin show through. Second, there are pockets that are perfectly sized for my phone! Third, I love the shape of the waistband — it's curved in the front and back and very flattering. Lastly, the sizing is right on point."

Why we love it: These leggings are flattering, sweat-wicking, and comfortable. They're everything we could want in an everyday legging, and they're versatile enough to be worn for all kinds of activities.

What's worth noting: These are the most expensive of all the Zella leggings, but they're, unsurprisingly, also regarded as the highest quality.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 26.5 in. length | Colorways: 4

Maternity Leggings: Zella Mamasana Live In Maternity Ankle Leggings
nordstrom.com

Maternity Leggings: Zella Mamasana Live In Maternity Ankle Leggings

If you're pregnant, having great leggings is essential. You want to be comfortable, with a little support at your belly, and these Zella Mamasana Live In Maternity Ankle Leggings ($69) will do just that. They're made of Zeltek, a proprietary moisture-wicking fabric that will keep you cool and ready to move through the day. Whether you're taking a prenatal workout class or just running around, you're going to want to have these leggings on hand.

What customers say: One customer noted, "I've been shopping all over town and on the internet to find cute, comfy, quality maternity basics within the price point I'm used to shopping for quality non maternity clothing and so far my experience hasn't been pleasant... Until now. These leggings... Gosh, finally a piece of maternity clothing that matches its price in quality! These babies glide right on while still providing enough compression in the legs to feel good against my water retaining calves and ankles. The belly band is perfect; covering the whole bump, staying up. Nice smooth fabric, super flattering and yes, squat proof (all signs of great leggings). They're like butter on my legs honestly. They look and feel amazing on, I really can't say enough good things about them!"

Why we love it: It can be hard to find great maternity leggings, and they're such staples in a pregnancy wardrobe. We like these because you can actually sweat in them, but they're comfortable for all day wear too.

What's worth noting: Some customers have noted that these run a little big, so if you're between sizes, consider sizing down.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 27 in. length | Colorways: 1