From hikes and yoga to jet-setting and workouts, leggings are a comfortable and functional choice. Despite their apparent simplicity, they’re not all alike, and there’s nothing worse than a pair of ill-fitting leggings. The ones that ride up, squeeze tight, slide down, and need constant adjustment. It’s not only annoying, but it also gets in the way of being active.
That’s why we took due diligence to test as many activewear leggings — for the outdoors, workouts, and travel — as possible. After traveling, surfing, running, trekking, yoga bending, CrossFit sweating, and generally living in leggings, we narrowed down the best women’s leggings for a variety of action-packed and outdoor pursuits.
We’ve divided the best women’s leggings list into four categories: workout, everyday wear, yoga, and winter. Of course, some leggings intersect multiple categories, and this list doesn’t include every legging on the planet. But it’s extensive, and we created it after thorough research and first-hand experience.
At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide, FAQ, and comparison chart. Otherwise, hop into scanning our top picks among women’s workout and travel leggings in the table of contents:
The Best Women’s Workout and Travel Leggings in 2023
- Best Overall Women’s Legging: Vuori Clean Elevation Legging
- Best Budget Legging: CompressionZ High Waisted Leggings
- Best Runner-Up: Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights Pro
- Best Cropped Legging: Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri
- Best Legging for Running: Janji ⅞ Groundwork Tights 2.0
- Best Legging for Yoga: prAna Kimble Printed ⅞ Leggings
Vuori Clean Elevation Legging
Specs
- Size range XXS-XXL; short, regular, and long
- Fabric 87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane
- Inseam 25″
Specs
- Size range XXS-XXL; short, regular, and long
- Fabric 87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane
- Inseam 25″
Pros
- Lightweight and moisture-wicking
- Extremely soft
- Ultra high-rise
Cons
- No side pockets
They are a go-to for higher-impact exercises as well as lounging and wearing out. With an ultra high-rise, thick waistband, and moisture-wicking abilities, they’re great for extra-sweaty action. They also have a hidden zipper pocket in the back big enough to hold a phone. Despite the attention to detail, the price lands at under $100.
Vuori’s Clean Elevation is a true innovation, combining unmatched comfort with high-level performance capabilities.
CompressionZ High Waisted Leggings
Specs
- Size range XS-6XL
- Fabric 73% polyester, 23% spandex
- Inseam 24.4-27.2″
Specs
- Size range XS-6XL
- Fabric 73% polyester, 23% spandex
- Inseam 24.4-27.2″
Pros
- Lots of stretch
- Inclusive sizing
- Not too expensive
Cons
- Not super durable
These are a solid, low-cost option for working out, running errands, or going out in town. We experienced a bit of pilling on the inner legs after many uses, but otherwise, they’ve held up surprisingly well.
Ideal for a wide variety of uses, CompressionZ has created one of the best-designed women’s leggings available today.
Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights Pro
Specs
- Size range XXS-XXL
- Fabric 71% polyester, 29% elastane; 90% polyamide, 10% elastane
- Inseam 25″
Specs
- Size range XXS-XXL
- Fabric 71% polyester, 29% elastane; 90% polyamide, 10% elastane
- Inseam 25″
Pros
- Matte, opaque finish
- Secure, deep pockets
- Reinforced knees and seat
Cons
- Pricey
They’re constructed with abrasion-resistant CORDURA on the seat and knees, which held up to scooting down rocks and crawling around after dropped snacks. The best part? The pockets. There are big ones on each side of the legs — one that is fully open and one that has an overlapping top so nothing should fall out.
The Abisko come in a ⅞-cut (resting just above the ankles so they won’t rub with hiking boots) with a 25-inch inseam. And if you didn’t know, Fjallraven stores offer free, in-store repair services and other customizations for a low cost.
Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri
Specs
- Size range XXS-3XL; regular, tall, petite
- Fabric Nylon/Lycra blend
- Inseam 21″
Specs
- Size range XXS-3XL; regular, tall, petite
- Fabric Nylon/Lycra blend
- Inseam 21″
Pros
- Compression
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Ultra high-rise
Cons
- Less durable than others
They’re made with an extremely lightweight and stretchy fabric — perfect for yoga — that doesn’t stretch out, sag, or restrict movement. It’s the perfect mix of compression and flexibility, though it might not be the most durable if you’re using them for outside hikes or high-impact exercises.
The high-rise, three-layer, unpinchable waistband is thick and compressive but not restrictive, and it doesn’t have side seams. There’s one hidden drop-in pocket large enough to hold a medium-size phone. Overall, the Ultra High Rise Elation Capri is among our favorite activewear leggings for women.
Janji ⅞ Groundwork Tights 2.0
Specs
- Size range XS-XL
- Fabric 68% nylon, 32% spandex
- Inseam 24″
Specs
- Size range XS-XL
- Fabric 68% nylon, 32% spandex
- Inseam 24″
Pros
- Breathable and quick-drying
- Great pockets
Cons
- Fit around the waist wasn’t ideal for some body types
At first glance, the stitching looks like it’s going to be bothersome on the skin, but we never even noticed it. In fact, the seams actually add a fun, edgy, and textured look to the leggings that we haven’t seen elsewhere.
Consider the Groundwork 2.0 if you’re highly active in a range of conditions, but don’t want to sacrifice comfort.
prAna Kimble Printed ⅞ Leggings
Specs
- Size range XS-XL
- Fabric 81% recycled polyester, 19% elastane
- Inseam 25″
Specs
- Size range XS-XL
- Fabric 81% recycled polyester, 19% elastane
- Inseam 25″
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Wide waistband
- Longer inseam for taller women
Cons
- Runs small
Additionally, the wide waistband has a tiny bit of compression, preventing sagging during all sorts of activities and movements. And the Coolmax gusset adds reinforcement and comfort in an important area of the body. Wear the Kimble leggings for working out or dress them up and show off the fun patterns.
Carhartt Force Fitted Lightweight Utility Leggings
Specs
- Size range XS-3XL; regular and tall sizing (XS-2XL)
- Fabric 8.5-oz. fabric: 95% nylon, 5% spandex
- Inseam 29-31″
Specs
- Size range XS-3XL; regular and tall sizing (XS-2XL)
- Fabric 8.5-oz. fabric: 95% nylon, 5% spandex
- Inseam 29-31″
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable
- Multiuse performance
Cons
- Not ideal for hot weather
These leggings are comfortable and they fit like a glove. Sizing is spot on, with pockets to spare and a moisture-wicking technology that really works on hot days in the field. Extra flex is added to the gusset, and Carhartt’s Rugged Flex technology is built into the legging as well.
Additionally, the thickness of the Utility Legging adds enough warmth on cooler days without being overwhelming. Overall, this is a fabulous legging and you needn’t worry about destroying them in the field.
Patagonia Maipo ⅞ Tights
Specs
- Size range XXS-XXL
- Fabric 81% post-consumer recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets, 19% spandex knit
- Inseam 25″
Specs
- Size range XXS-XXL
- Fabric 81% post-consumer recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets, 19% spandex knit
- Inseam 25″
Pros
- Flatlock seam construction
- Odor control from HeiQ Pure
- Fair Trade Certified sewn
Cons
- Material felt thin; won’t withstand abrasions
While thin, they still felt supportive for a low-impact workout and had little sag or stretch. But we really chose this pair because of how they’re made — the fabric is made from NetPlus 81% post-consumer recycled nylon from fishing nets.
If you want to look good while feeling great about where your threads came from, you won’t be disappointed with the Maipo Tights.
Lululemon InStill High Rise Tight 25″
Specs
- Size range 0-20
- Fabric 74% nylon, 26% Lycra elastane
- Inseam 25″
Specs
- Size range 0-20
- Fabric 74% nylon, 26% Lycra elastane
- Inseam 25″
Pros
- Extra high-rise waistband in the back
- Wicks moisture and dries fast
- Supportive and smooth
- Repellent finish to fend off light rain
Cons
- Unflattering seams near waist
- Expensive
These tights worked great for a yoga class — they have four-way stretch and are quick-drying — but honestly were also ideal to just lounge in or pair with a tunic. The fabric is buttery soft with a matte look — not too gym-wear shiny — and offers up a tight, hugged feel for support and comfort.
Lululemon is known for well-crafted clothing that’s ideal for fitness and can last a lifetime. If you can stomach the price, these Lululemon tights have long-term viability.
Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights
Specs
- Size range 2-16 (XS-XL); comes in regular and cropped length (18″ inseam)
- Fabric Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex)
- Inseam 27″
Specs
- Size range 2-16 (XS-XL); comes in regular and cropped length (18″ inseam)
- Fabric Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex)
- Inseam 27″
Pros
- Perfect for cold weather
- Insulating, thick material still offers stretch
Cons
- Can bunch up depending on your hips/waist shape
The Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights are thick but don’t bunch up, are insulated but still offer a little breathability, and are as stretchy as you could need for winter activities like skiing or running. Really, these tights are some of the best we’ve tested all winter long.
Our only con? The fit around the thighs can bunch up for some (depending on your figure and size). But for a heavy fleece layer, these tights look and feel great.
Velocio LUXE Leggings
Specs
- Size range 2-16 (XS-XL); comes in regular and cropped length (18″ inseam)
- Fabric Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex)
- Inseam 27″
Specs
- Size range 2-16 (XS-XL); comes in regular and cropped length (18″ inseam)
- Fabric Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex)
- Inseam 27″
Pros
- Perfect for cold weather
- Insulating, thick material still offers stretch
Cons
- Can bunch up depending on your hips/waist shape
Velocio’s proprietary LUXE fabric, a blend of polyamide and elastane, maintains its shape and offers a silky-soft feel for all-day comfort. We sent these through the wash more than three dozen times without any signs of wear and tear. They’re a true wardrobe workhorse that’s worth the investment.
If you’re looking for something a bit heavier and better suited to cool days, check out the new Velocio RECON Leggings ($119). They’re made with an Italian dual-milled material and have a great next-to-skin feel. Complete with a high waist and sleek side zipper pocket, these have quickly become one of our favorite leggings. Otherwise, the LUXE is a great grab.
Toad&Co Timehop Light Tight
Specs
- Size range XS-XL
- Fabric 88-92% recycled polyester, 8-12% elastane (varies by color)
- Inseam 27″
Specs
- Size range XS-XL
- Fabric 88-92% recycled polyester, 8-12% elastane (varies by color)
- Inseam 27″
Pros
- Sustainable design
- Drop-in pockets in the front
Cons
- A thicker legging might be preferred for cooler weather
They keep their shape, even after consecutive days of wear without washing. Best of all, they’re incredibly soft and comfortable.
We wore these while walking the dog, running errands around town, and generally lounging around the house. The wide waistband remained comfortable throughout. And we found them surprisingly breathable. The drop-in pockets keep essentials at hand without adding bulk.
Anyone looking for a pair of comfortable, do-it-all everyday leggings will appreciate the Timehop Light Tight.
Women’s Leggings Comparison Chart
| Leggings | Price | Fabric | Inseam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vuori Clean Elevation Legging | $98 | 87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane | 25″ |
| CompressionZ High Waisted Leggings | $50 | 73% polyester, 23% spandex | 24.4-27.2″ |
| Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights Pro | $150 | 71% polyester, 29% elastane; 90% polyamide, 10% elastane | 25″ |
| Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Capri | $79 | Nylon/Lycra blend | 21″ |
| Janji ⅞ Groundwork Tights 2.0 | $94 | 68% nylon, 32% spandex | 24″ |
| prAna Kimble Printed ⅞ Leggings | $89 | 81% recycled polyester, 19% elastane | 25″ |
|
Carhartt Force Fitted Lightweight Utility Leggings |
$60 | 8.5-oz. fabric: 95% nylon, 5% spandex | 29-31″ |
| Patagonia Maipo ⅞ Tights | $99 | 81% post-consumer recycled nylon made from recycled fishing nets, 19% spandex knit |
25″ |
| Lululemon InStill High Rise Tight 25″ | $128 | 74% nylon, 26% Lycra elastane | 25″ |
| Title Nine Crash 2.0 Polartec Tights | $99 | Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex) |
27″ |
| Velocio LUXE Leggings | $109 | Polartec Power Stretch (90% recycled poly, 10% spandex) |
27″ |
| Toad&Co Timehop Light Tight | $85 | 88-92% recycled polyester, 8-12% elastane (varies by color) |
27″ |
Why You Should Trust Us
From backpacking to jogs and indoor weight training, women’s workout and travel leggings are a protective, comfortable, attractive, and functional choice — which is confidence inspiring. We don’t want to need to think about whether or not our pants are sagging, see-through, or about to rip open. That’s why we spent hundreds of hours testing countless activewear leggings both outside and indoors.
After traveling, running, hiking, yoga bending, HIIT-ing, and generally living in leggings, our GearJunkie testers across various sizes found the standouts that stay put and secure on-the-go.
Throughout our testing, we examined the quality, fit, value, and function of each pair of leggings. Taking a close look at aspects of the design, we considered the elasticity, stretch, durability, thickness, features (such as pockets), breathability and wicking power of the textile, odor resistance, seams, gusset, and size range as well as how quick drying the fabric is.
In addition to our personal experience, we also dive into researching and interviewing experts on the most novel, style-specific, popular, highly rated, and legacy products across a range of price points.
These women’s workout and travel leggings serve a range of athletes, applications, and budgets.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Women’s Workout and Travel Leggings
Stretch and Compression
The absolute worst thing about women’s workout and travel leggings is when they sag or stretch out after a wash or a few days of accumulative wear. High-quality leggings should do neither, but that isn’t always the case. Ideally, a good pair of leggings will be made from both stretchy material and material that has a little bit of compression to give that nice, tight fit.
When trying on a pair of leggings, you should have to put them on like tights; if you’re sliding them up on easily, they’re probably too big.
Rise and Length
Leggings vary so much now, both at the bottom and the top. Think about how much rise you want near your waist. High-rise leggings are great to keep your stomach covered if you’re moving from pose to pose in yoga, but low-rise might be more comfortable on a run.
Similarly, think about the length of the legs, which is a personal style preference. Leggings now come in a cropped/capri length, a ⅞ length that falls above your ankles, and a full length that covers your ankles.
Durability
If you’re using leggings to hike or backpack, you’ll want a fabric that is thicker to the touch and has added reinforcement on the knees and backside. For lower-impact activities like yoga or lounging, you’ll need to worry less about the fabric wearing out or tearing and focus more on the fit, feel, and comfort.
Pockets and Extras
We love large side pockets, but not all activities need pockets. For daily use and running, pockets are ideal. But for a yoga class, our phones and keys are in a locker room.
Other extras to look for include waist drawstrings, small pockets on the waistband for keys and cards, reinforced knees and bottoms for hiking and durability, and any special cutouts or details.
Make It Last: 3 Leggings Care Tips
Now that you’ve found the best women’s leggings for you, you’ll want to make them last as long as possible.
- Hang up or rinse immediately after working out. It’s tempting to wad up your sweaty leggings and toss them in the bottom of your bag, but take a few extra seconds to treat them with care. At the very least, hang them out to dry while you get changed, and then lay them flat in your bag. Even better, give them a rinse to remove sweat and bacteria that can break down the materials.
- Wash in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as these speed up the fabric breakdown and can inhibit the wicking properties. Consider using a specialty soap like our favorite Granger’s Active Wash ($10).
- Skip the dryer whenever possible to avoid overheating, stretching, and misshaping your favorite leggings. They’re made of quick-drying materials, so simply hang up or lay flat to dry.
FAQ
Anytime! Just kidding — leggings are not exactly appropriate for every situation, though that does seem to be changing as loungewear is getting fancier and slacks are getting more comfortable.
Leggings are a perfect option for most activities where you’d normally wear shorts or hiking pants — think cycling, yoga, running, and backpacking. The specific legging might vary for each activity (see below for needs like durability and pockets), but overall, leggings are a comfortable option for most active and non-active outings.
Fitting true to size, prAna is always a consistent go-to for leggings. The brand’s leggings are available in a variety of styles and patterns, and they work for all activities. Lululemon is also well-known for its leggings, which are extremely comfortable and come in a lot of variety, though they sometimes run small.
Both Athleta and Vuori are also top contenders, with Vuori really making a name for itself lately with high-quality loungewear and activewear. Though any of the options in our guide and top contenders among the dozens of existing options.
Before buying, first think about what activities you’ll be using them for. If you’re hiking, look for reinforced knees and rear and deep pockets. For yoga, you’ll want a supportive pair with four-way stretch so you won’t be restricted in your movements. No matter what you’re using them for, the leggings should be tight and comfy, like a second skin.
Next, think about what size and how many pockets you want and other details like an ultra-high-rise waist, a drawstring waist, and the length (capri, ⅞, or full).
Also, consider the conditions you’ll be using the leggings in. If you’ll be outside in cold weather, consider getting a thicker or insulated pair. If you’ll only be using your leggings indoors for hot yoga and on trips, a thinner pair would work just fine.
That’s mostly a personal preference. Active tights should be made from moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric, so you should stay dry during a sweaty workout.
Some also have a crotch gusset — a triangle of fabric sewn in where all the seams meet together. This can help eliminate any unflattering tight seams and make going commando more comfortable.
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