The Best Leggings for Working Out & Laying Around

Though we’ve long settled the “are leggings pants?” debate (yes, shut up, of course they are), the quest for finding the perfect pair of leggings to make it through the gym, an afternoon running errands or some time cuddling up on the couch is still an eternal one. After all, how can you really be sure they can withstand your sweatiest and most intense spin class and your most low-key binge-watching days?

When hunting for your new favorite pair of leggings, there’s plenty to consider: Is the fabric breathable? How does it handle sweat and all the smells that come with it? Is the waist comfortable? Does it have pockets? You want something that will work with the rest of your wardrobe but also probably don’t want to look in your drawers and see different versions of the same pair lookin back at you. There’s plenty of prints, designs and styles that can keep your leggings, sweatshirt, sports bra combos looking fresh and cute.

Here’s a few of our favorite versatile leggings to keep you comfy no matter what your day has in store. Once you find the right fit and vibe for you, you’ll never want to let them go — and, okay, you probably will want to buy three more identical pairs, let’s be real.

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Amazon Core 10 Women’s ‘Build Your Own’ Yoga Pant

With different waist and height options, these leggings are designed for you to find the custom fit for your own body. Amazon also lets you try on before you buy for select styles and covers, which never hurts. 

 

Salutation Stash Pocket II Twist 7/8 Tight

Break up your plain black leggings uniform with this pair from Athleta. The design along the legs adds a cool dimension — even if the bright Russet Brown isn’t your style. 

Old Navy High-Waisted Elevate Compression Leggings

Whenever I travel I almost always throw an extra pair of Old Navy leggings in my bag. They’re simple (but thick and not a see-through risk), super comfortable and go with everything — but also aren’t going to break the bank.

Mila High-Waisted Pocket Short

Are shorts leggings? Yeah, in this case they are. Even if the VSCO girl look is a bit young for you, a bike short-style is a cute, less sweaty approach to a daily pair of leggings. They’re great for tossing in your gym bag or throwing on to do a load of laundry when you’re down to your last few pairs of pants (a mood). Plus, pockets that are functional enough to hold your phone without looking weird. 

90 Degree By Reflex Ankle Length High Waist Power Flex Leggings

With a number of cool colors to choose from (that can still stray from the basic black) and a high-wasted nylon and spandex design, these are a great pair to pick up. They’re also washing machine safe, because who has time for anything but that? 

Cashel Foldover PureLuxe Legging

The design of this pair from fabletics is cute and color-blocked, which we love for when you want to have a slightly more elevated workout look. Plus, they’re chafe resistant (hell yeah), breathable and offer UPF protection. 

Athleta Elation 2 in 1 7/8 Tight

A big deal in the “leggings aren’t pants” debate is about hiding any potential camel toe (which is why conventional wisdom would have you wear a longer top to cover your butt and front). But if you’re still nervous about showing a bit too much, a pair with the added skirt can make you feel just a bit more comfortable. 

Elation Ice Dye 7/8 Tight

Tie-dye, but make it fashion. You don’t need to go full summer camp, but you can have an understated (but still fun) play on the look. Plus the fabric is soft and makes you feel supported the whole time.

Lululemon Break New Ground Tight

Designed for running, this pair is breathable, sweat wicking and also has reflective dots (in case you’re out after dark). 

Athleta Exhale Stash Pocket Heel Tight in SoftLuxe

If you believe “the higher the waist, the closer to heaven,” you’ll love this cozy pair from Athleta. They’ll stay in place and keep you feeling supported — but also let you breathe. 

High-Waisted PureLuxe Maternity Legging

When hunting for a pair of maternity leggings, you’ll want something that feels secure and stretchy without squeezing you too tight. 

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