High Rise 3 X 4 X 6 Review

The research

• Why y'all should trust the states
• Ultra-versatile, cut to flatter: Girlfriend Commonage Compressive High-Ascent Legging
• Comfortable and chic, with a splurgeworthy, soft experience: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In the Midi High Waisted Legging
• Cheap and surprisingly soft (plus pockets): IUGA High-Waist Yoga Pants
• Best leggings to replace your pants: Universal Standard Core Legging
• Utilitarian-yet-luxe cult favorite: Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight Full-On Luon
• Made to move (plus and extended sizes only): Superfit Hero Superhold Pocket Leggings
• How we picked and tested
• Why is fabric then important?
• What nearly Fabletics?
• Other good leggings
• The competition
• Sources

Why you should trust u.s.a.

I embrace fitness at Wirecutter and wear workout leggings nearly every day in anticipation of testing items like treadmills, indoor-cycling bikes, yoga mats, and GPS running watches. For nigh two years equally a full-time personal trainer, my daily uniform centered on conditioning gear. I currently own more 20 pairs of leggings.

To understand more near the textile side of workout leggings, I spoke (and emailed) with several textile and operation-habiliment experts, including Andre W, managing director of the Zeis Textiles Extension for Economic Development at NC State University; Preeti Arya, assistant professor of textile development and marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology; and Susan Sokolowski, PhD, an associate professor and director of the sports product design MS program at the University of Oregon, who also worked at Nike for xx years.

Ultra-versatile, cut to flatter: Girlfriend Commonage Compressive High-Rise Legging

Photograph: Girlfriend Collective

Our option

How they fit: The flattering lines and structured fit of the Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise pleased nearly all of our testers. Our panel consisted of iv testers: a 5-foot-2-inch petite tester who typically wears a size 4; a 5-human foot-2-inch plus-size tester who typically wears a size 16–18; a v-foot-9-inch tester who wears a size 2; and a 5-pes-10-inch tester who wears a size 6–8. These leggings take more seaming than other, simpler pairs we tried, simply that contributed to their prissy shape. Their fabric feels thick, smooth, and "absurd" to the impact, and they are pleasantly compressive.

Why they're great: If you want to purchase one pair that does it all, these leggings were among the most versatile nosotros found. They're perfect for all sorts of sporty (or non-sporty) activities and available in a broad range of sizes and several colors. These leggings are fabricated of a smooth, medium-weight fabric that's stretchy and comfortable yet compressive enough that you feel secure and held in. We found them to be true to size and just snug plenty—they finish short of resembling a superhero uniform. The Girlfriend Commonage leggings besides have a nicely structured fit. The seams wrap around the body, and so this pair provides a more flattering silhouette than many competing pairs that rely solely on stretch. We especially liked the V-shaped panel across the lower back because it made the bum look perkier than in other leggings. The Girlfriend Collective leggings come in more sizes (XXS to 6XL) than nearly every other pair we found, and they're available in three lengths.

The wrap-around seaming and V-shaped rear are flattering on all sizes. Photo: Girlfriend Collective

Our testers loved these leggings. One petite woman, who wears a size XS and tried a 23¾-inch inseam, considered them to be "spot-on" for her size. Another tester, who wears an XXL, observed that although these leggings fit her well in the waist, the crotch and thigh areas required some tugging and adjustments. I wore a size M, with a 28½-inch inseam, and they felt great during a 30-minute indoor-cycling class (afterward, they dried in roughly thirty minutes). The xi-inch rise stayed put throughout. I would confidently pop them on for running, strength training, and other workouts, as well as for less-rigorous pursuits like yoga and lounging. They have one modest internal pocket, which fits a key or a credit card.

Flaws but non dealbreakers: Though these leggings breathe well, they may feel warm in some scenarios due to the substantial cloth. 1 tester noted that the waistband itself had less requite than waistbands on other pairs, so pulling this pair on was a bit more difficult. These leggings don't take pockets big enough to fit a phone, but Girlfriend Collective also makes a High-Rise Pocket Legging. I Wirecutter staffer has tried them, and reports that when she jogs, her telephone tends to slide upwardly and down in the pocket which drives her crazy.

Sizes: XXS to 6XL (sizing nautical chart on the brand'due south website has waist and hip measurements to determine size)

Inseam: 19½ inches, 23¾ inches, or 28½ inches

Materials: 79% recycled polyester, 21% spandex

Colors: Black, Earth (dark-brown), Moon (gray), Midnight (blue), Plum, and Moss, plus five limited-edition colors

Comfortable and chic, with a splurgeworthy, soft feel: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In the Midi High Waisted Legging

Photo: Beyond Yoga

Our pick

How they fit: These leggings are stretchy instead of structured, with light compression. They were so comfortable that almost of our testers forgot they were wearing them. Our panel consisted of four testers: a v-human foot-ii-inch petite tester who typically wears a size iv; a 5-foot-2-inch plus-size tester who typically wears a size 16–18; a 5-foot-9-inch tester who wears a size 2; and a 5-foot-10-inch tester who wears a size 6–8. The Across Yoga Spacedye Caught In the Midi High Waisted Legging is available in XXS (0–2) to 4X (26–28) and in one length, Midi (25½ inches for a size M). And the super-soft material has a luxurious, almost sueded texture.

Why they're great: These leggings are the adjacent best affair to being naked. Our testers unanimously agreed that they were the softest, most comfy, super-luxe leggings they tried. Put them on in the morning, and you likely won't remember virtually them once more all day. The fabric is softer than that of any other pair we tried—it feels nearly like suede. They're thin and stretchy versus structured, and they provide light compression. This pair has a simple, body-conscious silhouette that'south seamless downwards the outside of the legs (with no pockets) and a subtler aesthetic that lends itself to daily article of clothing.

I stretched and put these leggings through a xxx-infinitesimal high-intensity kettlebell workout, and they felt cool, comfortable, and not wholly unsupportive. In fact, I didn't think about them at all—a good sign. Some other tester wore them for a full 24-hour interval of running errands and forgot about them.

The Across Yoga leggings accept a subtle heathered await, thanks to space dying (a technique that provides a blurred or textured appearance); i tester said they appreciated this look in a body of water of inky blacks. These leggings come in a wide variety of colors (some are seasonal hues that tin can vary) and in sizes up to a 3XL, only only a Midi length. (Beyond Yoga does offer Long and Capri lengths in other styles, but nosotros didn't try them.) At $97, these leggings are 1 of the pricier pairs we tried, only they were likewise one of the few about-$100 pairs that nosotros thought justified the price.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: These take a very torso-conscious fit, even for leggings. With less seaming and structure than others nosotros tried, they testify every curve (lighter colors in detail might spotlight lumps and bumps). One tester, who wore a size XS, thought these were too tight, likening them to a "sausage casing" and "feeling overly compressed in all the incorrect places." Just ii other testers (one a size XXL and ane a size S) said these leggings fit "perfectly."

Size range: XXS (0–2) to XXL (18–20), 1X (18–20) to 3X (26–28). Co-ordinate to Beyond Yoga's size chart, there is some overlap if y'all wear a size 18–20, simply be aware that the XXL has a longer inseam than the 1X.

Inseam: Midi length (between capri and total length) varies past size (25½ inches for a size M)

Materials: 87% polyester, 13% spandex

Colors: six core colors for XXS to XXL and four core colors for 1X to 4X (including black, black/charcoal, and navy). Plus 10 seasonal colors for XXS to XXL and three seasonal colors for 1X to 4X

Cheap and surprisingly soft (plus pockets): IUGA Loftier-Waist Yoga Pants

Photo: Iuga

Our pick

How they fit: With gentle just supportive pinch and a flattering (though not quite perfect) cut, the IUGA High-Waist Yoga Pants are soft to the impact and medium-thick, with a comfortable vibe. Bachelor in sizes XS to 3X and in one length (near 26½ inches), they fit our console fine, though some found that the ane-inch elastic band dug in at the waist. Our panel consisted of four testers: a v-foot-2-inch petite tester who typically wears a size four; a 5-foot-2-inch plus-size tester who typically wears a size 16–18; a 5-foot-ix-inch tester who wears a size ii; and a 5-pes-10-inch tester who wears a size half-dozen–viii.

Why they're neat: These leggings are reasonably priced, so we tin can sympathise why they are a number-one best-seller on Amazon (more than fifty,000 reviews requite them a 4.7 rating out of 5). They're made with a soft withal substantial cloth, and they offer gentle but supportive pinch and a flattering—albeit not perfect—cut. They also have user-friendly side-drib pockets, which feel proportionally (and comfortably) placed and can fit an iPhone. I XS tester raved about the fit, noting the IUGAs didn't sag or bunch. And she found the fabric to exist equally soft and comfortable as that of more expensive pairs. Seams down the sides and beyond the rear give them a gently sporty wait and a dainty shape. In fact, we thought they were surprisingly flattering for such an inexpensive legging. They are a little loose at the ankle, which isn't an enormous deal, merely information technology's noticeable compared with other pairs we wore. The seams are nice and apartment, and this pair is comfortable to wearable all day.

Dubbed "yoga pants," they performed well during a variety of yoga poses and stretching, and they did fine during high-intensity efforts, too. The waistband didn't slip much during jumping jacks with a phone in one of the pockets. They as well dried chop-chop afterwards unexpected rain interrupted a long walk. The inseam is a relatively short 26½ inches, though fifty-fifty alpine testers didn't feel shortchanged. (IUGA makes this legging in an fifty-fifty shorter, capri version, but we didn't try it.)

Ane of our staffers who wears these leggings for weightlifting, reports that even after several sessions in which she repeatedly scraped the bar up her legs, they oasis't pilled or ripped.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: One XXL tester constitute the fit to exist choosy; the size was right, and the leggings didn't require much tugging, but the i-inch elastic strip at the waistband dug in and made the tester feel "claustrophobic." Another tester, who wore a size XS, noted that the sizing chart was confusing, with the hip measurement in particular feeling off (too small) by a few inches. Some testers also noticed that the fabric lost its shape a bit; later on nigh six washings, though, these leggings accept retained their elasticity, and we've seen no pilling.

Materials: 77% polyester, 23% spandex

Best leggings to supplant your pants: Universal Standard Cadre Legging

Photo: Universal Standard

Our pick

How they fit: Smooth, stretchy, and thinner than most pairs we tried, the Universal Standard Core Legging offers low-cal back up and a soft, fluid feel that'southward perfect for lounging or casual outings. The waistband didn't pinch, and information technology stayed put for all of our testers. Our console consisted of 4 testers: a 5-foot-2-inch petite tester who typically wears a size four; a 5-pes-two-inch plus-size tester who typically wears a size 16–18; a v-foot-9-inch tester who wears a size 2; and a five-foot-10-inch tester who wears a size 6–8. Be aware that Universal Standard'due south sizing conversions don't follow standard conventions: The leggings come in sizes 4XS (00–0) to 4XL (38–40) and in ane length (27½ inches).

Why they're great: We found these leggings to be fine for workouts, and they actually became our go-to for casual everyday habiliment. With a thinner textile even so nevertheless a quality feel, these leggings won over wearers with their unrestrictive stretch and wearability. (The phrase "super-comfortable" popped up more than once.) They performed well during indoor-cycling classes, and they also planked and lunged their way through other workouts with ease. These leggings did testify a few sweat streaks postal service-cycling, but they dried rapidly. Yet I found myself wearing them mostly on days that held lighter activeness or longer spells of sitting (thank you, no-pinch waistband!). The fabric feels cool and smooth, and information technology'south more matte than shiny, and then this pair doesn't appear specifically geared toward workouts. These leggings are also somewhat less supportive than some other pairs nosotros recommend, and they feel refined enough to wear with not-sport wear. Lounging in them just felt right. The company describes the Cadre Legging as having "soft back up," and that's accurate: These are thinner and stretchier than many pairs nosotros tried. We didn't notice whatever issues with coverage (though thinner, the textile wasn't see-through). But if y'all adopt a college level of compression or a fabric with a more substantial weight, these leggings may not provide acceptable back up. Nosotros remember they work well paired with a favorite T-shirt or a cozy cardigan for everyday wear or layered nether shorts (for workouts) or skirts.

I expected the waistband, which is bolstered by an inch-wide band, to roll or flip downward, simply it stayed put. "This is the but pair I've tested with a band of elastic reinforcing the waistband that didn't make me experience similar a sausage," said i tester, who wore a size Yard. She went on to note that these leggings didn't "bunch, tug, or sag" (which are observations on fit that nigh of our testers shared). Ane 5-foot-ii-inch petite tester, who wore a size 3XS, liked that they weren't too tight; they were, all the same, a bit besides long for her frame, bunching at her ankles.

These leggings come in a wide range of sizes (4XS to 4XL) and one inseam length (27 inches). Keep in mind that Universal Standard'south sizing conversions don't follow standard conventions: XS is equivalent to a size ten–12; M is akin to a size 18–twenty; Fifty is equivalent to a size 22–24; and 4XL is akin to a size 38–xl. The high waist varies in rise according to size; for instance, size 2XS (6–eight) has an 8-inch rise, while size M (18–xx) has an xi½-inch rise. These leggings come in just i color: black.

After ix months of wearing this pair on lower-key recovery days, I however really like them. I don't wear leggings much during the summer (too hot), just I've thrown these on a couple of times for errands, walks and they haven't felt hot, scratchy, or given me that hermetically sealed feeling that I can't handle on a warm day. The polish fabric is almost cooling. I accept noticed a chip of piling in the inner-thigh expanse, though. Otherwise they're in smashing shape.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Core Leggings are stretchier and less compressive than near of our other picks. Considering they are lighter and less constructed than other pairs we tried, these leggings are bang-up to slip on for lounging post-workout or when errands (instead of intervals) are on the docket. Also, they don't have a pocket (not fifty-fifty a small i for a credit card or keys), which gives them a less-workout-forward feel. Be prepared to stash your sundries elsewhere.

Size range: 4XS (00–0) to 4XL (38–twoscore)

Materials: 81% nylon, 19% elastane

Colors: Black, Black Sand (gray), and Forest Green

Utilitarian-yet-luxe cult favorite: Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight Full-On Luon

Photo: Lululemon

Our pick

How they fit: Simple and flattering, the Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rise Tight Full-On Luon leggings accept a wide, flat, smooth waistband that didn't constrict our testers's waists. Our panel consisted of four testers: a v-human foot-2-inch petite tester who typically wears a size iv; a 5-foot-2-inch plus-size tester who typically wears a size 16–xviii; a 5-foot-9-inch tester who wears a size 2; and a 5-human foot-10-inch tester who wears a size vi–8. These leggings come in sizes 0 to xx (with a 25-inch inseam), but they are prone to selling out in some colors. The fabric feels crisp and dense, with a matte cease. Most of our testers felt comfy and confident in these, though our v-foot-ten-inch, size-8 tester thought the waistband slipped a lilliputian also easily.

Why they're great: Lululemon is often credited with spearheading the fervor over pricey, lesser-boosting workout leggings, and our testers idea these leggings were worth the hype. (During our research, we oft establish them at the elevation of lists, including pro recommendations from The Strategist and Skillful Housekeeping.) Although we recommend other luxe-feeling leggings—and plenty of pairs that'll give you a flattering shape—the Wunder Unders stood out for their perfect simplicity and exceptional quality. The blueprint is spare, with no extraneous seams and i small internal slot pocket in the waistband. The leggings are fabricated from a fabric the company calls Luon, which is meant to have a soft, cotton-y feel. And it does, though the fabric is more crisp than cuddly-soft, yet it'southward definitely not slick or shiny. (We did notice some customer reviews questioning whether the textile had inverse over the years.) Though substantial, the cloth still manages to be stretchy, and it wore well during a variety of activities. These leggings are a bit heftier than, say, the super-luxe, extra-soft Across Yoga Spacedye Caught In the Midi Loftier Waisted Legging, so we call up the Wunder Unders could stand up upwards to (and support) activities of many kinds. (This manner besides comes in a lighter material called Luxtreme, which we haven't tried yet.)

Whether I was playing with my kids, taking long walks, or doing yoga, these leggings moved with me and were versatile enough to transition into sweaty endeavors like force preparation and indoor cycling. They feel similar a versatile classic we'd turn to repeatedly. The internal waistband pocket is big enough for keys and a credit bill of fare. The 4-inch waistband is flat and smooth and didn't pinch or tuck our testers, though a few of them reported that it slipped downwardly a bit throughout the solar day. Minimal seams lend a streamlined wait. Lululemon is famous (or infamous, depending on how you look at it) for shaping rear ends, and these leggings delivered in a depression-key way—not transformative, but certainly flattering. Though nosotros also considered Lululemon's popular Align Pant, which is made of a lighter ("weightless") fabric and designed for yoga, we ultimately chose to try the Wunder Unders first because they're built for yoga and besides general training. (Nosotros plan to test the Align before long.)

The Wunder Unders are available in sizes 0 to 20 (nosotros've noticed that lengths, sizes, and colors sell out fast). These leggings provide a gentle hold and fit true to size (though if your measurements put y'all in two unlike size camps, you lot may want to size upwardly). According to my measurements, I was a size 8 waist and size 6 hips; a size 8 fit just correct. One tester who wore a size xviii (and typically wears a 16–xviii) was sold: "These are gorgeous," she said. "The fit on these leggings is perfect." She admitted to existence surprised; she had never considered the make. (After facing criticism in the past for its lack of size diversity, the company took a pace toward broader sizing, announcing in 2020 that information technology is increasing its size range up to a size xx.)

Flaws but non dealbreakers: Although these leggings felt neat and were quite flattering, the waist tended to slip downwards gradually during the day (I wore a size 8). We noticed customer reviews that said the same. We've also noticed that colors and lengths tend to come up in and out of stock, and we'll keep an center on that.

Size range: 0 to 20 (25-inch inseam)

Materials: 82% nylon, xviii% Lycra

Made to move (plus and extended sizes only): Superfit Hero Superhold Pocket Leggings

Photo: Superfit Hero

Our option

How they fit: Smooth and dense with a supportive hold, the Superfit Hero Superhold Pocket Leggings have conveniently placed pockets. They felt practiced during sweaty workouts and less-intense sessions. Bachelor in sizes L (12–14) to 7XL (40–42) and in one length (29 inches), they fit our 5-human foot-two-inch plus-size tester (who wore a size 2XL) a chip snugly in the waist, but were otherwise comfortable.

Why they're great: Superfit Hero transitioned to all plus and extended sizes in tardily 2020, allowing the company to cater fully to an often underrepresented population of athletic-wear aficionados. All of our picks offer sizing up to at to the lowest degree a xx (and several of our favorites also come in extended sizes, including Girlfriend Collective and Universal Standard). But Superfit Hero goes the highest (40–42). Dense and soft with a skilful corporeality of stretch, these leggings are pleasantly compressive and felt great on—a nice dose of support versus a too-tight clasp. Our plus-size tester, who wore a size 2XL and typically wears a size 16–xviii, liked the quality feel of the thick fabric. Though they fit her a bit snugly in the waist, they worked "more often than not fine"; she noted that she too liked the capri version, which has a xx-inch inseam (she is 5 feet ii inches tall). The inseam of the standard Superhold is 29 inches. She likewise peculiarly liked the fit of the Across Yoga Spacedye Caught In the Midi High Waisted Legging and the Lululemon Wunder Nether Loftier-Rise Tight Full-On Luon.

Of roughly 200 reviews for the Superhold leggings on the brand's website, the bulk gives them v stars. I wore a size One thousand, which is, full disclosure, no longer represented in the lineup (Superfit Hero moved to exclusively plus and extended sizes right around the fourth dimension we were testing). They take a held-in feel and big, well-placed side-drop pockets. For what information technology's worth, they performed well during a 45-minute indoor cycling grade and a three-mile run with my phone in one of the pockets. Made for all types of practice, these leggings experience less slick than some of the other high-activity pairs in our pool. Yet they strike a nice balance between ready to sweat and ready to recover.

Flaws only not dealbreakers: At $95, these are an investment. Given their quality feel and construction, we'd expect them to concord up over time, and we'll continue to long-term test them. (Though nosotros did discover that the printed logo, located on the left-side pocket, began to crack slightly later on a few washes.)

Size range: L (EarthFit) to 7XL (InfiniFit) (equivalent to 12–14 to 40–42)

Materials: 88% polyester, 12% spandex

Colors: Blackness, Cobalt, Metallic, Evergreen, Burgundy/Chroma

How we picked and tested

The rise of athleisure—loftier-performance, sports-oriented clothing worn, well, merely virtually everywhere—has arguably changed the mode many people dress. Workout leggings in particular occupy an outsize space in the athleisure-verse. Vice President Kamala Harris famously wore them on Ballot Day 2020; many of us donned them daily for the amend part of that year, thanks to the pandemic.

When we Googled the term "conditioning leggings," we got about 160 million results. To narrow the enormous field, I surveyed my ain wardrobe of leggings, noting the brands I wore the about. I read numerous best-of lists from the likes of The Strategist, Who What Habiliment, Proficient Housekeeping, Runner's Earth, and Yoga Periodical. I focused on versatile, quality pieces that could carry you lot through a sweaty conditioning, a low-fundamental yoga session, an afternoon of errands, or a day spent working at your dining room tabular array. I did not consider high-performance pinch leggings meant for recovery.

A quick note on vocabulary: We refer to these garments as leggings throughout this slice. Others, even so, including Susan Sokolowski, PhD, an acquaintance professor and director of the sports product design MS programme at University of Oregon (who besides worked at Nike for 20 years), told us that those in the sports-dress industry call them "tights."

I narrowed downward the field to 42 pairs and tried on each one, noting the quality, feel, and opacity of the fabric; general fit and comfort; operation while in motility; and overall showtime impressions. I squatted and stretched, hauled around my two½-year-old, and did chores around my flat.

From in that location, 19 pairs rose to the top. I completed at least i conditioning in each pair, along with i to two days of general wear, looking out for both winning characteristics and missteps. Did the waistband dig in or slip down? Were they "squat-proof" or see-through? Was the fabric scratchy, hot, or ho-hum to dry? Did wayward seams irritate? Did I await forward to wearing them? I washed and stale each pair according to the instructions (thoughtful laundering of workout habiliment like leggings can help increment longevity), and I considered the range of sizes a make offered. Then I called on a console of three testers—one petite (5 feet 2 inches tall and typically a size 4); one plus-size (v feet ii inches tall and typically a size 16–18); and one a 5-foot-ix-inch size 2—who wore each pair and also assessed cloth, fit, functioning, and style. (I'm 5 feet 10 inches tall and typically vesture a size G or half-dozen–8).

For a better understanding of what goes into a pair of workout leggings, I took a closer look at some of their key elements:

Fabric

We paid close attention to how a legging'due south textile felt—both to the affect and while being worn. Leggings won points if they stale chop-chop after sweaty workouts and moved with (not against) us. Nosotros wanted material—whether compressive or stretchy—that would retain its shape and texture through lots of wears and washes. We looked for opacity issues. Leggings that felt scratchy, hot, or as well slack to be supportive didn't brand the cut.

Fit

A pair of leggings tin feel wonderful to the touch, merely that doesn't mean much if they don't fit well. Some of the pairs nosotros tried were more structured, details like well-placed seams lending themselves to a flattering fit. Others leaned on lots of stretch. If a pair advertised a high waist, we expected it to fit at the umbilicus or higher. Was the length comfortable and appropriate? Were they just too tight in general, even if the size was right? Were there uncomfortable (and unflattering) fit flaws, like sagging in the crotch or bagging at the knees? Did they stay put through all types of workouts and activities?

For some perspective on sizing, we spoke with Marcy Cruz, a fit model and board member of the National Association to Accelerate Fat Credence, who told us that "plus size" is generally categorized to exist sizes 12 to 24, and "extended" sizes are considered anything above a size 24 (though there is debate that plus-size begins at size 14). Girlfriend Collective, one of our picks, offers upward to a size 6XL; Superfit Hero carries exclusively plus and extended sizes, upwards to a size 7XL (equivalent to size forty–42); and Athleta recently expanded its fleet to a size 3X (equivalent to size 24–26). But it takes work to get it correct (including the time information technology takes to survey a broad range of bodies and measurements when designing plus-size garments), and there's withal a long mode to become.

"I feel like information technology's not bad that a lot of these designers and straight size brands want to expand into plus sizes," said Cruz, "only I feel similar you have to actually look at what'southward inclusive and really brainwash yourself on what is truly the size range." (According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average waist circumference for women in the US is 38.7 inches.)

Functioning

We wanted pairs that felt as expert during workouts and activity as they did at remainder. If we put them through a sweaty workout, did they dry quickly? Did they feel supportive and energizing or soft and relaxing? Did they keep their shape during movements?

Versatility

We wore these for nearly equal amounts of do and errands, taking note of how well they transitioned from activity to downward time and how they looked while doing information technology. Did they work also with a running shoe as they did with a sneaker? Were they comfortable enough to habiliment for a full workday and and then a yoga grade? Did they look conspicuously sporty, or did they have a lower-key vibe?

Why is cloth so important?

The basis of a pair of leggings is core-spun yarn, which Preeti Arya, assistant professor of textile development and marketing at the Fashion Institute of Engineering science, describes every bit a fine filament of elastane yarn with fiber (nylon, polyester, cotton fiber) surrounding it. (Elastane is a general term for synthetic fibers similar spandex and Lycra.)

No thing the brand, the bones yarn type is frequently roughly the same, as nosotros plant out from reading the tags of our contenders. Whether a pair feels thick and provides acceptable coverage comes down to the density of the material's knit. Two pairs tin can accept nearly identical fiber content, only if the knit on one is less dense, its opacity will be altered.

Fabrics that wick are meant to go along you dry during a workout. Unlike natural fibers such equally cotton or linen, which are known to get waterlogged, synthetic fibers operate similarly to capillary action, with the space betwixt the fibers acting like a capillary tube. "And so the infinitesimal ... perspiration touches it, information technology gets sucked upwardly," explained Arya. From there, it evaporates. Antimicrobial finishes, meant to sidestep stink, can be applied directly to a fabric by (for instance) dipping it into a chemical bathroom containing an antimicrobial formulation.

Once a legging is produced, brands usually put it through standardized tests to evaluate how well it holds upwardly to, say, the equivalent of 20 washes, the steadfastness of a dye (a process called crocking), and its ability to withstand abrasion, pilling, tensile strength, and stretchability. (At that place are no rules that specify what a company should put its garments through. Andre West, director of the Zeis Textiles Extension for Economic Development, told the states that more-reputable brands will typically do more testing.)

Most leggings are made with a combination of traditional cutting and sewing and machines that knit in a circumvolve and are "very sophisticated," said West. "You're actually creating the fabric as you make the garment. Normally, in the fabric industry or the fashion manufacture, yous're cutting fabric and and then sewing it up. In this industry, you're knitting the fabric to fit the person."

Some of the leggings we tested were made of fabrics proprietary to their corresponding brand. (Lululemon's Wunder Under High-Rise tights are made with i of the visitor'southward own fabrics, called Luon. Athleta's Ultra High-Rise Elation Tights are made with a fabric information technology calls Powervita. And Superfit Hero'south Superhold material is behind its Superhold Pocket Leggings.) This might seem like marketing, merely information technology'south not a quick procedure. "It's not easy to do what they practice," said Arya. "That's what makes them special." (Jana Henning, main production officeholder at Athleta, told us that Athleta tin can take up to ii years to produce a fabric all its ain.)

What virtually Fabletics?

Fabletics is a subscription-based company that allows members to buy an array of leggings (as well as sports bras and other activewear) on a monthly basis. Information technology debuted in 2013, with Kate Hudson as the face of the brand. On the sixth of each calendar month, members are charged $49.95, which translates into a member credit redeemable for an detail (or a two-piece outfit) up to $80. We chose not to test the subscription this fourth dimension, but we might endeavor it out during our next round of testing. Fabletics does offering more leggings. But nosotros tend to fall on the side of quality versus quantity and don't necessarily recall a new pair of leggings monthly is necessary.

Other adept leggings

The very soft and comfy Athleta Ultra Loftier-Rise Bliss Tight is a nice staple. This pair nearly nudged the Lululemon Wunder Under High-Rising out of our lineup of top picks (the Athletas are besides about 10 bucks cheaper). Ultimately, though, our testers preferred the more luxe, crisper cloth of the Wunder Unders, thinking these would work for a wider diversity of activities. The Athletas hit all of our testers—from our petite five-pes-2-inch tester to our 5-foot-ten-inch one—at a flattering spot on the ankle. They felt cool and gently supportive during activities (they're geared for yoga, but were pretty versatile), equally well every bit when testers were relaxing. A little softer and more fluid than the Wunder Unders, the Athletas felt right at home during yoga classes and other loftier-movement, lower-impact practice. 1 tester, who wore a 1X, reported that they gave her a muffin top and felt constricting through her heart, though she liked the stretchy, thick fabric. (In January 2021, Athleta appear that more than 350 of its styles will now come in sizes 1X to 3X.)

About the aforementioned price every bit our IUGA Yoga Pants from Amazon, the budget-priced Old Navy High-Waisted Elevate Compression Legging felt scratchier than other pairs our testers tried (not as shine, soft, or cosseting). But they were largely comfortable to wear, and nosotros appreciated that they are easy to find and endeavour on in Old Navy stores. "Once the leggings are on, they're non scratchy," said one tester, who wore an XL. "They only don't experience special." Another tester, who wore an XS petite, plant them to be too warm and shiny for her sense of taste. I wore them for a 30-minute indoor-cycling class, around the house, and on long walks, and I had no glaring complaints; they just didn't knock my socks off. But for the price, they're fine.

The Lululemon Invigorate Loftier-Ascension Tight is a loftier-performance, high-tech option made for high-energy workouts. At $128, they are the near expensive pair we tested. Simply they felt great on runs and dried speedily. Their two drop-in pockets proved to be user-friendly and sturdy, though our petite tester wished they were a bit bigger and placed slightly differently (she said they felt a little like saddle bags). The cloth felt luxe and dense, and this pair's sporty vibe motivated us to motion. One tester, who wore an eighteen, noted, "These make me desire to throw on sneakers and go get some fresh air." Again, they are an investment. But if well-constructed leggings built for sweaty, intense workouts are on your list, they could be worth information technology.

The competition

Fifty-fifty though the cloth of the Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Leggings felt corking to the touch (soft and thick), this pair tended to feel scratchy when testers wore them. I person (a size S) thought they were a fleck too tight in the thigh, and another (who wore an XS) felt hot in them even when sitting effectually. But another tester, who wore an Xl, loved the fit and idea they were flattering, smoothing, and "beautiful."

Our petite tester, who wore an XS petite, liked the fit and the length of the Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tight (petite sizes accept a 25-inch inseam), though they wished the drop-in pockets were a tad larger. Another tester, who tried a 1X, wasn't able to get them on. All in all these were by and large fine in form and part, merely they didn't wow.

The DayWon The One Full-Length Legging has a smooth, cool, nearly crisp feel and a slight sheen. This pair is made for sweaty workouts, and they dried relatively quickly after an intense spin course. Likewise, I found the compression buoying. (The sizing is besides available up to a 5X, equivalent to a 30–32). Just one tester, who wore a size 18W–20W, found the seams at the thighs distractingly scratchy, and she didn't recall they smoothed her shape. Virtually of our testers weren't particularly bothered by these leggings, but they weren't wowed, either. "Not remarkable, but not terrible," said our five-foot-2-inch petite tester, who did appreciate the stay-put waistband. Because of the high compression of these leggings, the visitor suggests sizing up if you adopt a more than relaxed fit.

An unmistakable workout pair, the Nike Pro Tights feature a wrap-around seam on the thighs, mesh vents at the calves (lending them some edge), and a techy, slick fabric with a squeamish weight and shape. These take a mid-rise waist (without the divers shape of some higher-rising styles we tried), which a few of our testers didn't love. They practise come in plus sizes, up to a 3X (size 24–26).

The Outdoor Voices TechSweat vii/8 Flex Leggings have a thinner, smooth textile with a flake of texture, and they fit well. There is a small front end pocket for a credit card or keys, and these leggings fit just beneath the navel. Their TechSweat material is made for sweat-heavy activities, and it held up fine, merely this pair felt a piffling flimsy.

The RBX Active Prime Ultimate Camo vii/8 Legging was a promising pair, with two side-drop pockets and a weighty, cool fabric with enough of coverage. But I struggled with them sagging in the crotch, and the pockets didn't lie apartment when non in use. Our petite tester idea the high waist felt corset-like.

The SweatyBetty Power 7/8 Workout Leggings did great on a 5½-mile run, and we liked the techy fabric, flattering seams, and smooth experience. They have a zippered back pocket for keys or a credit card but just 1 drop-in pocket on the left side (which felt a hair unbalanced). One tester thought they had a "absurd, energizing feel" during a longer vesture. But another tester, who tried an XXL, couldn't pull them all the manner on. And a strip of elastic at the top of the waistband dug into the pare of one of our testers.

Uniqlo Airism Soft Leggings are reasonably priced, just our testers constitute them underwhelming. Designed in more than of a leisure-wear style, they have a stiffer banded waistband that nipped in and felt a chip tight. Testers said they felt inexpensive and weren't particularly flattering.

Zella Live-In High-Waist Leggings fabricated it through a lot of activities (indoor cycling, stretching, running errands), and they besides take a warm, loungy experience. Merely our petite tester (who wore an XS) institute them to be much too tight, and another (who wore an Forty) thought they felt cheap and not stretchy plenty.

This article was edited by Jennifer Hunter and Jason Chen.

Sources

1. Andre Due west, manager of the Zeis Textiles Extension for Economic Evolution at NC State University, phone interview, Baronial 24, 2020

2. Marcy Cruz, National Association to Accelerate Fatty Acceptance, board member, author, educator, and fit model, telephone interview, Baronial 31, 2020

3. Preeti Arya, assistant professor of textile development and marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology , phone interview , Baronial 24, 2020

4. Susan Sokolowski, associate professor and director of the Sports Production Blueprint Programme at the University of Oregon, email interview , August 29, 2020

5. Jana Henning, principal product officer at Athleta , Zoom interview , August 28, 2020

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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-leggings/

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