Searching For The Best Legging Brands
The athletic wear industry has seen a resurgence in popularity as comfort and functionality has become as important as style and fashion itself. A collection of activewear is important in your closet, not only for the practical reason of working out or participating in sports, but also for daily lounging.
The rise of athleisure in the 21st century has flooded the market with options, and this review is here to guide you to the best legging brands. Born from the practice of yoga, leggings have become a popular style that can be worn by anyone, anytime and anywhere. They offer comfort, flexibility, and a sleek, simple look that can’t be matched.
Worn with your favorite cozy sweater or a cute crop top, the best leggings are a versatile staple in any wardrobe. If you have been on the hunt for the perfect pair of leggings, whether they are for getting in some cardio or adding a little comfort to your WFH attire, one of these brands could be the right fit for you.
15 Best Legging Brands
#1: Zella
Zella is sold exclusively at Nordstrom Rack and is a Nordstrom Made brand, which came to fruition in 2007. Comfort, style, and ethical practices are all priorities of this company, making it an appealing choice for anyone looking to improve themselves and protect the world.
The brand sells athletic apparel for men, women, and children, as well as accessories and a lingerie collection, making them the one-stop shop for all your athleisure needs. Zella promises an inexpensive pair of leggings with a waistband that stays in place and a material that is breathable and moves with you.
Great prices, an abundance of options, and plenty of great reviews all highlight the quality and performance of the leggings, putting them high on the recommendation scale.
You’ll find Zella leggings ranging in price from $49 to $100.
#2: Wolven Threads
Wolven Threads was founded in 2014 by Kiran Jade. Jade was searching for a brand that valued the protection of the environment but also created an inclusive space.
With a mission statement to “Make Sustainability Sexy”, Wolven Threads is a sustainable activewear company that maintains a focus on reducing its carbon footprint as well as producing quality products.
Their legging selection consists of fun colors and patterns, making them the best leggings for spicing up your closet’s selection of activewear and elevating what could otherwise be simple outfits.
Reviews commend the brand’s leggings for their comfortability and fit as they are both flattering and snug, and also for having quality materials that are silky smooth, cooling you down when you are warm and vice versa!
Wolven Threads prices are pretty good too, ranging from $106 to $134.
Related: View our full Wolven Review
#3: Girlfriend Collective
Founded by partners Quang and Ellie Dinh, Girlfriend Collective has been a popular option since its appearance in 2017. Similarly to Zella, the brand has a primary focus on body positivity and sustainability.
It is committed to making “sustainable activewear for people who care.” Girlfriend Collective recycles overused and wasted plastics, ethically manufacturing a large selection of buttery soft and inclusive activewear.
While the brand does sell classic black and white designs, it also drops unique hand-dyed color options that are quick to sell out. Girlfriend Collective also represents different body types on the website, meaning buyers can see how the leggings would fit and look on bodies like their own.
The brand sells the best leggings for any minimal look that lacks a pop of colour, as well as some super cute matching sets – if you can get your hands on both pieces!
Girlfriend leggings range in price between $78 to $92.
Related: View our full Girlfriend Collective Review
#4: Pact
Founded by Jason Kibbey and Jeff Denby in 2009 with a mission to become “Earth’s Favourite Clothing Company”, pact focuses on caring for both the world and the people who work for the brand.
pact sells a wide range of products, including apparel for men, women, babies, and children, as well as linens for both the bed and bath—all of which are made from organic cotton.
Since pact focuses on making organic products affordable, it is the best legging option for anyone who likes to stress the importance of knowing where your clothing comes from. It sells several different legging styles with neutral and brightly colored options, making them a great addition to any casual or sporty outfit.
At pact, prices range from $44 to $75.
Related: View our full Pact Clothing Review
#5: Athleta
Founded in 1998 by Scott Kerslake and purchased by Gap Inc. in 2008, Athleta has always maintained a focus on producing quality sportswear for athletic women, seeking to “empower women and girls.”
The brand sells a wide range of women’s activewear and accessories, catering to all your sportswear needs. Since Athleta places a heavy emphasis on the importance of movement to both physical and mental health, it has the best leggings for getting your groove on.
Reviews gush over the pops of colour Athleta leggings added to their workout uniforms, as well as a fit that holds its shape and moisture-wicking material that promises to be the athletic woman’s dream.
You’ll find a pair of Athleta leggings for $49 to $139.
#6: Commando
Commando was founded by Kerry O’Brien in 2005. O’Brien sought to develop comfortable women’s clothing that looked good and fit well, with a mission to “make your favorite everything.”
The company now sells a wide range of athleisure geared towards both men and women. It also focuses on producing ethical and sustainable products and is transparent about its treatment of workers and mindful of where it sources materials.
Commando promises that all styles are fitted on ‘real’ bodies, meaning products are created with different shapes and sizes in mind, with a focus on how the products make wearers feel. As the name suggests, plenty of reviewers describe a second-skin-like feel.
Commando has the best leggings that easily transition from lounging on the couch to going for a night out as the leggings are fashion-forward and have that “I put on real pants today” feel!
Add a pair of Commando leggings to your cart for $114 to $255.
Related: View our full Commando Leggings Review
#7: Adidas
Adidas is a well known athletic apparel brand, founded in 1949 by Adolf Dassler, with the intention to “Change lives through the power of sport.” The brand sells a large selection of sportswear for men, women, and children, making it a great place to shop for all of your family’s athletic wear needs.
Adidas sells plenty of options, whether you are looking for something breathable for everyday wear or compression tights for a heavy workout, making them the best legging brand if you need to keep your options open.
Reviews of Adidas leggings highlight the material above all else, as they offer a great fit and comfortability, whether you are doing something physically demanding or going for an afternoon stroll.
Adidas carries plenty of options with prices ranging from $25-$160.
#8: Alo Yoga
Alo Yoga, founded in 2007 by Danny Harris and Marco DeGeorge, is committed to “spreading mindful movement and inspiring wellness and creating community” through clothes that look good and perform well.
The brand sells sportswear for men and women, as well as yoga gear, and even a small selection of skincare. Reviewers find solace in Alo leggings, as they have a flattering and fashionable fit and an extra soft material.
Alo Yoga manufactures the best leggings for any sort of low profile movement, whether that’s your morning meditation, a quick yoga session, or a trip to the grocery store, making them the perfect go-to for daily wear.
When you shop at Alo Yoga, you’ll find prices ranging from $105 to $210.
#9: Core 10
Core 10, exclusive to Amazon Prime members, was created in 2021 when Amazon and Reebok paired up to develop an inclusive and colorful women’s activewear line. With the mission to hustle, chill, and repeat, the brand suggests that its products are multifunctional and can fill whatever gap exists within your wardrobe.
The versatility, inclusivity, and affordability all make the new brand stand out amongst its older competitors. What’s more is that they also sell a customizable option that allows buyers to curate their own pair, choosing the waistbands, lengths, styles and colors.
At Core 10, prices range from $13 to $70, while the “build your own” options go for $25 to $45.
#10: Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices, founded by Tyler Haney in 2012, is an athletic wear brand with a mission to Get the World Moving, focusing on the importance of finding joy in exercise. The brand converges fitness and fun, suggesting that it’s less about competition and more about freeing yourself.
This is evident through his company’s collection of uniquely color-blocked leggings. The exciting number of options and sustainable message behind the brand make their leggings an ideal choice for anyone who simply wants to have fun and look great while moving their bodies.
Better yet, Outdoor Voices focuses on three things: “People, the planet, and the product,” meaning that they are committed to producing ethical and high-quality items.
Outdoor Voices offers leggings ranging from $78 to $118.
Related: View our full Outdoor Voices Clothing Review
#11: Nike
Founded by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman in 1964, Nike is a classic when it comes to all things athletic, with the mission to bring “inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world”, and also claiming that anyone can be an athlete.
The brand sells clothing, shoes, and equipment for everyone with the intention of enabling anyone to do anything. Nike has left a mark in history with its iconic swoosh and it has always been a favorite for many people who love activewear.
When it comes to leggings, it offers plenty of options for color, style, and fabric, meaning there is something for everyone. As sustainability has become a focus for many, the brand has implemented a plan for zero waste, showing that as times change, they will as well.
At Nike, you’ll find leggings from $40 to $150.
#12: Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga was founded by Jodi Guber Brufsky and Michelle Wahler in 2006, both of whom felt there was a gap for a body positive athleisure brand. So, they made it their mission to “give every body—of every size & shape—the luxury-level comfort they deserve from activewear.”
With a focus on loving yourself first, the brand sells athletic wear for women with a broad range of sizes and a maternity section. As the name suggests, these leggings are meant for more than just yoga or working out: they belong to the category of comfort first as the brand focuses on confidence and body positivity.
Beyond Yoga has the best leggings if you are looking for something that feels like a second skin and is easy to pair with anything that is already in your closet, as customers praise the high quality fabrics and styles that fit and support the body.
A pair of Beyond Yoga leggings runs for $100 to $141.
Related: View our full Beyond Yoga Clothing Review
#13: P.E Nation
Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning conceptualized P.E Nation in 2016, with the mission to create clothing “for ALL Day, EVERY day, for EVERY body.” The brand merges 90s streetwear with modern athletic wear to develop a unique athleisure look. They also have a collection of outerwear, accessories, and menswear and seek to expand from there.
P.E Nation transparently lists the materials it uses and where they are sourced from. The brand even markets its products as both recycled and compostable, reflecting ethical and sustainable practice.
Alongside this, reviewers value the versatile options in their legging selection, making the bottoms great staples or pieces that pack a punch, depending on the pair you purchase.
At P.E Nation, leggings cost between $115 and $166.
Related: View our full PE Nation Review
#14: Lululemon
Lululemon has been a cult favorite since it was launched by Chip Wilson in 1998, being amongst the first to sell not only leggings, but an entire lifestyle. Their mission to elevate humanity “from mediocrity to greatness” suggests the need to be bold and brave in everything we do in order to be the best.
The product range consists of men and women’s activewear, yoga gear, and accessories. With leggings at the top of the list for the women’s clothing category, it is clear that many buyers flock to the website on the hunt for a classic pair of yoga pants.
The brand sells a plethora of styles, patterns, and colors that appeal to all different needs, and reviewers are enchanted by the fit and quality. With 103 different style options, Lululemon is a great choice for anyone searching for that perfect fit.
At Lululemon, leggings range in price from $88 to $148.
#15: Spiritual Gangster
Spiritual Gangster, founded in 2011 by husband-wife duo Ian Lopatin and Vanessa Lee, is on a mission to inspire positivity, generosity, kindness, and connectedness. The brand has plenty of options for men and women when it comes to basics, athletic wear, outerwear, and accessories.
As the name suggests, the company seeks to converge the wisdom of the past with modernity, which is evident through their promise to donate proceeds from every item sold to charity. The clothing it sells is primarily trend-based as colors and patterns conform to popular styles, such as tie-dye and muted warm tones.
Despite the price tag, customers appreciate the brand’s mission and the products they offer. The leggings are great for either working out or hanging out, and even if you’re a hot mess after the gym, they’re still cute enough to run errands in.
Speaking of prices, Spiritual Gangster leggings range from $98 to $118.
Related: View our full Spiritual Gangster Review
What Are The Different Types Of Leggings?
There are plenty of different options when it comes to leggings, and the best leggings are the ones you will get the most wear out of. Let’s consider the different options so you can figure out what types are calling out to you, and then go from there!
Full-length leggings are the top best leggings for any wardrobe. There are usually a lot of options in color, style, material, and even some add-ons like pockets when it comes to a full-length pair. They are a great option for daily wear since they offer flexibility and movement for anyone on the go, but are also perfect for relaxing in.
Knee-length leggings could be classified almost as a pair of shorts, great for biking or running, as they provide your upper half with the comfort and stretch you need while your calves are free to the breeze.
A little longer than the knee-length leggings, mid-calf leggings are more like capris. Both types are perfect for wearing under midi or longer dresses so you don’t have to worry about anything flying out of control.
If you hate when your leggings untucked from your boots in the colder months of winter, or if your feet are cold more often than not, footed leggings might be the solution for you. Another great option is stirrup leggings!
With a band that extends from the ankle of the leggings and wraps around your foot, these leggings function similarly to footed leggings but won’t make your feet feel uncomfortably warm.
Most brands sell mainly high waisted legging options since they are definitely a fan favorite. Since high waisted pants made a comeback in the 2010s alongside the emergence of athleisure, it only made sense for high waisted leggings to become popular.
They are perfect for pairing with your favourite cropped sweater or top while elongating your legs, giving you that effortlessly chic look.
Shaper or compression leggings are a great option if you are looking for something that smooths all the right places. Since these leggings are usually made from thicker fabrics, they are warmer and compressive.
This increases perspiration and blood flow, with the intention of enhancing performance during a workout. Some shaper leggings even provide the appearance of a butt lift with strategically placed cutouts.
Whether you are looking for something that is versatile and can function however you need it to or something that would be great for high-impact sports, there are lots of different options when it comes to types of leggings to choose from!
What Are The Best Materials For Leggings?
There is a large variety of materials used for leggings, all with different looks, feels, and values. Whether you work out often, or need cozy pants that you can take naps in but can also wear to the club later that night, there are plenty of material options.
The best materials for leggings are:
- Nylon or polyester for moisture-wicking
- Spandex for flexibility
- Leather or smooth and shiny fabrics
- Cotton for leggings that last
- Wool jersey or rib knits
The best leggings for any exercise are constructed from moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon or polyester. This is especially important for not only keeping you dry when you sweat but keeping you cool for every workout. Spandex is a must for flexibility, whether that is putting your legs up on the coffee table or practicing any form of yoga.
Leather is a great option if you are looking for something that can pass as a real pair of pants. So if you love how leggings feel, but want something to go out on a Friday night, leather leggings are your friend.
Since leather is thicker, it tends to be warmer and more compressive, making it a great flattering pair of pants for colder evenings. Smoother, shiny fabrics are also ideal for sports like running as they prevent chafing.
Cotton stays strong even when it is wet, which means it will last through plenty of workouts and washes. It is also very breathable, which is great if you are working out and don’t want to get too hot.
Cotton is the type of material that only gets softer with every wash, which is definitely important when looking for that perfect buttery soft and second-skin-like pair of leggings.
Wool jersey or rib knit leggings are a great option if you are on the hunt for a pair of leggings that will keep you cozy. Remember, wool has a knack for sealing in the warm air. These leggings are definitely a winter favorite as they pair perfectly with oversized sweaters and jackets.
Usually, the best option for a versatile pair of leggings is a blend of multiple fabrics. For example, cotton combined with spandex and moisture-wicking fabric creates a breathable, stretchy pair of leggings.
They won’t make you feel like you’re suffocating, and can easily adapt to any changes in your body over time. So, whatever you are looking for when it comes to leggings is in the breakdown of the materials!
Things To Consider When Buying Leggings
There’s a lot to consider when purchasing a pair of leggings since they usually don’t run cheap which means you want to be sure that you are investing your money in the perfect pair for you.
Let’s take a look at the top things to consider to ensure that you have all the information you need before choosing the right pair for you! Here are some important things to consider:
- Brand and reviews
- Material and fit
- Type of legging
- Warranty and price
Reviews from buyers always play an important role in deciding where we choose to shop. A brand that demonstrates its commitment to not only the customers but the planet and the people who work for the company, and is also transparent about all of its practices, definitely names itself a great place to shop.
Testimonials are invaluable when it comes to deciding if the product is worth your money, as they come from real people just like you.
The material and fit is something that is a specific preference for everyone since it depends on what you are looking for.
Key things to consider are if the leggings have a non-slip waistband, which reveals the quality of the materials, a figure-sculpting fit that feels snug and almost like a second skin, and above all, a comfort that you cannot find anywhere else.
The best type of legging is the one that would best suit your lifestyle and be useful in your everyday life. If you’re on the hunt for something to slip on and go, a classic full-length or high waisted legging is the way to go. For those who need something a little more heavy-duty and warm, your best bet might be footed or stirrup leggings.
Whether or not the leggings have a warranty speaks to the brand’s trust in their product, as they would promise some sort of refund or replacement if the leggings didn’t work out as you had been led to believe.
A good warranty usually means the product is worth the purchase. Another thing to consider is if the price is right: there are plenty of legging options for different budgets that are all great quality and come from sustainable brands.
Overall, the top best leggings are the ones that tick all of your boxes, whether you are looking for something versatile, sustainable, inexpensive, or simply perfect for your workouts.
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