The Best Women’s Leggings of 2023

How We Compared Leggings

There are dozens of factors to take into consideration when picking a pair of leggings for your specific purposes, but we ultimately narrowed it down to the most important ones — the feel, comfort and fit, opacity, and performance. Here’s what we looked for when reviewing the best women's leggings of 2023.

Quality and Feel of the Fabric

In this category, we considered the quality and feel of the fabric used for each pair of leggings. We looked at factors such as softness, stretchiness, durability, and breathability, considering whether or not the material was easy to wash and care for and was cozy enough for daily wear and lounging.

Opacity

Nobody wants to experience a wardrobe malfunction in public. That's why many women are in pursuit of the best leggings that aren't see-through. We reviewed brands that claimed they weren't see-through to put them to the test.

General Fit and Comfort

Each of our picks above was noted in hundreds of customer reviews to provide exceptional softness and to fit all body types in equally flattering ways.

Performance While in Motion

The way leggings perform during physical activity was among our top considerations. We looked at factors such as compression, support, breathability, and mobility, as well as whether the leggings held up during high-impact activities and intense workouts. We also considered how well the leggings handled sweat and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Women’s Leggings

How Do I Buy Fabletics?

Fabletics is an online fitness clothing store that offers discounted pricing for those with a membership. While it's not necessary to have a membership to buy clothing from their website, you'll be subject to higher prices if you don't have one. Upon becoming a member, you'll pay $59.95 on the 6th of each month and start receiving access to special savings, benefits, exclusive products, and member credits that can roll over for up to a year. You'll have the option to skip a month free of charge or receive new leggings, and you can cancel for free online at any time. To sign up for a subscription to Fabletics, visit their website.

Why Is Athleta So Popular?

Over the years, Athleta has earned brand recognition and customer loyalty for demonstrating the quality of its clothing. Their high-performance designs have proven to be buttery soft, hug the body in all the right ways, and last significantly longer than competing brands. So, although you'll pay more, you won't have to replace your leggings as often as you would with alternative brands. The brand has listened to customers' desires and truly honed its craft.

Why Is Fabric So Important for Leggings?

If you're after the best leggings that aren't see-through, material matters. The material your leggings are made of also directly impacts their fit, comfort, breathability, and performance. Most people want flattering, stretchy, comfortable leggings that provide flexibility and support for light daily activities and intense workouts, and the fabric determines whether or not the leggings deliver. The most common materials used for leggings include spandex and elastane, which are highly elastic and can stretch up to 500% of their original size.

How To Pick a Pair of Leggings

Here are a few considerations to ensure you get the best fit, comfort, and performance:

Purpose: Consider if you will use your leggings for a specific activity, such as running or yoga, or for casual wear and lounging. Specific activities like these might require features like moisture-wicking or compression, so choose leggings that are designed for your intended use.

Fabric: Fabric can determine the comfort, durability, and stretch of leggings. Look for fabrics like spandex, elastane, or Lycra, which are stretchy and have good recovery. Other materials like nylon, polyester, and cotton are durable and breathable.

Fit: Leggings should fit snugly, but they shouldn't constrict movement or fit too tightly. Look for leggings with a high waistband that provides support and keeps your pants up. Make sure to check the sizing chart and measure yourself to find the best fit.

Length: Leggings come in different lengths, including full-length, capri, and shorts. Consider the length that's most suitable for your activity and style preferences.

Brand: Look into reputable brands with a good reputation for producing quality leggings. We've provided some excellent starting points above. If you're still struggling to choose a brand, read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends, influencers, or fitness professionals.

Style: Leggings come in various styles and designs, including solid colors, prints, and textures, making them a great way to express yourself. Choose something that complements your personal style and matches your other workout gear or outfits, whether that be loud animal prints, soft neutral solids, basic black, or fun geometric shapes.

Features: Some leggings have added features that make them more functional and convenient. If you need something to hold your credit card while at the gym, for example, look for the best leggings with pockets. Or, if you run a lot and need your leggings to stay in place, opt for a pair with a no-slip waistband.