Finding a good-fitting pair of leggings can be a bigger challenge than you might expect. Some don't hug your waist the way you would like, others may be too tight on the thighs, or extra fabric bunches in ways that nobody wants. But nonetheless, leggings remain a reliable — and in terms of workouts and errand-running, necessary — closet staple, so owning at least one pair is a must. You can wear them during your morning exercises, while working from home, or on lazy, lounge-y days. And if you're not trying to drop mega cash on these off-duty pants, you can still find reasonably priced quality choices.
If you’re also trying to avoid in-store shopping when possible, there’s sure to be a great pair online that fits you nicely. I’ve done quite a bit of sleuthing through customer ratings and reviews to find some of the best leggings that the internet has to offer.
Shopping for the perfect pair of women's leggings can be a matter of trial and error (we've all been there!). It can get even trickier online, as sizes and fit can differ from brand to brand. Keep the below in mind and you'll be on the right track.
Waist
If you're planning on engaging in some type of physical activity, look for leggings that sit higher on your midsection. This will help ensure that they stay in place while you're moving around, but also keep you comfortable while doing so. You don’t want them slipping down right before you get those lunges in.
Material
Nylon tends to trap moisture and isn’t the most absorbent — leggings with this fabric might not be a good choice for physical activity, but can be a great option for leisurewear. Pro tip: Always check the fabric content of the product. Elastane and spandex provide a good amount of stretch, while cotton adds breathability. A combination of all might be a great pick depending on your needs.
Size
It's very possible that your size can range depending on the brand; you may be a medium in one, a large in the next, or even two sizes up or down in another. Luckily, most online retailers let you know if their product fits true to size or runs small (or the reviewers will, at least!). In addition, maybe you have longer or shorter legs, in which case, worry not: There are definitely options available that give you the opportunity to customize, too.
From cropped cuts to ruching details to deep pockets, here are some of our favorite finds that you can add to your rotation. One of the best things about leggings? You can't stop at just one pair!
How We Selected
We went on an Amazon deep dive to find leggings with a variety of material, size, and fit. We kept in mind different purposes, like leggings that are better for leisurewear and pairs that are designed for physical activity. We found options that have a range in price to fit every budget, and read several reviews to get a better grasp on durability and quality. We've settled on the list below of the best leggings you can buy on Amazon right now.
If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to the Lululemon Align leggings, several customers dubbed this option from Colorfulkoala a good dupe. They’re made from soft, buttery, four-way stretch fabric and have a seamless waistband so they won’t roll down. The V-contour seam will flatter your silhouette, and two side pockets will keep necessities within reach.
These leggings went viral all over TikTok, and for good reason. They’re only $40, and they’ll be a trusty companion for leg day at the gym due to the seamless, gusseted crotch that allows for more mobility.
They’re made with a blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex so they are breathable while still providing good compression. The dense fabric around the waist will help ensure they don’t roll down, either.
Mallory Creveling, deputy editor of health and fitness at our sister site Runner's World, loves these leggings because they're a great fit for a variety of uses.
"These leggings feel so silky soft, it's like you're not even wearing pants, except... better? There's a reason they're called "all day" leggings and that's because you can easily spend 24 hours or more in them and want to keep wearing them. Plus, they hold up for workouts, including runs, strength work, and yoga. The only thing I'd change: adding some pockets!"
While this pick resembles a pair of yoga pants, flare leggings can be a viable option for you if the normal structure of leggings is too compressing or tight around your calves. They're made with 22% spandex, so they have plenty amount of stretch for range of movement. The V-cross waist will flatter your figure, and the elasticized band will be a good tummy tamer.
Are you expecting? That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort, because these leggings are designed to fit over your growing bump. The nylon/spandex fabric content will be stretchy and breathable, and the U-shaped design will provide all-over abdomen protection.
The two-packs are super affordable, too, so you can keep multiple pairs on hand throughout your entire pregnancy.
Sometimes leggings with side pockets can be a little too bulky, but a simple pair without can be a good base layer. This design from Fullsoft comes in under $11, so you can be sure to stock up. They have a high polyester content for ultra comfort, and the high waist with compression will provide tummy control. These leggings are also offered in two packs for extra savings.
If you usually run cold, a trusty pair of fleece-lined leggings can keep you warm and well-insulated. This design is made with polyester and spandex to give you ultimate stretch and comfort. There are also side pockets with an over-3-inch depth to keep essentials like your phone and keys readily accessible and secure.
Classic, no-frills leggings are a nice closet staple because you can dress them up or down, depending on the occasion. The Satina leggings from Amazon are a great option for this — you can layer underneath dresses and oversized tees, and the capri style will keep you from overheating during the spring and summer months.
If you’re on the search for workout leggings but don’t want to splurge, The Gym People has a great option for you. These are made with polyamide for resiliency and tenacity, and spandex to give a good amount of stretch while still retaining shape. They’re also moisture-wicking to keep sweat at bay, making them perfect for your morning run or afternoon yoga session.
Having a pair of basic leggings on hand is always a good idea, since you can pair with virtually any athleisure outfit. These Baleaf leggings are made with a blend of polyester and nylon, so they’ll be soft, stretchy and comfortable. They’re also moisture-wicking in case you want to hit up the gym or hot yoga.
Lots of stretch is a necessity when shopping for a good pair of leggings (insert embarrassing experience with a ripped seam here).
These pants from 90 Degree By Reflex are made with 13% spandex to endure wear, as well as give you the ability to move around as freely as you please. They sit high on the midsection to accent your silhouette and have a hidden pocket in the waistband, too.
A two-pack of leggings for $30? No need to twist my arm. Many customers felt these pants fit a nice range of body types and heights. They're made with a more compressing material but don’t make you feel like you’re vacuum-sealed.
There are two-pack, three-pack, and capri options available, so you can find multiple pairs that complement your figure, style, and budget.
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13
Best for Long Legs
Yogipace 34-Inch Inseam High-Rise Extra Long Leggings
13
Best for Long Legs
Yogipace 34-Inch Inseam High-Rise Extra Long Leggings
Being tall can be a blessing and a curse, because finding pants that actually fit may be more difficult than anticipated. But these leggings from Yogiplace have a longer inseam and extra fabric around the ankles to accommodate people 5-foot-5 and above. They only come in three colors, but are a good option for a more neutral, essential style.
Amber is the Digital Content Producer for Popular Mechanics, Runner's World and Bicycling, where she covers a range of tasks for the commerce team. She also writes fashion and beauty content for Best Products. Her work has been featured across all of the Enthusiast Group sites. In her free time you can likely find her watching horror movies, reading a good thriller book, or listening to a comedy podcast.