What should you wear under leggings?

If you’re concerned about panty lines, opt for a seamless pair of underwear, or try going bare down there. The decision to go commando or not is up to personal preference. If you do decide to sport underwear, remember to change out of your undies after a workout, as bacteria and yeast thrive in dark, moist environments, like sweaty gym clothes.

How do you wash and care for leggings?

Follow each brand’s specific guidelines, but as a general rule, heat deteriorates the elasticity and stretch of spandex, so wash leggings in cold water, and hang them to dry whenever possible. It's advisable to wash your gear inside out to prolong the life of leggings and prevent pilling. Sweeney suggests folding or rolling leggings before putting them away. “I roll my leggings to avoid creases,” she says. “Also, for the same reason, make sure they dry fully before placing them in your drawer.”

How should leggings fit?

While fit is completely up to your comfort and style preferences, ideally, leggings will fit like a second skin—with no pressure points or bagginess to distract you from your workout. “Your lounging leggings and your workout leggings may be totally different,” Emerson says. “When you are running, lunging, planking, and jumping, you won't want a loose fitting material that causes you to pull your pants up constantly.” For compression leggings, Emerson advises against leggings fitting so tight that they cut off circulation or give you a stomachache. “You should easily be able to fit a finger inside the waist of the leggings,” she says. The fabric should hold and cover your body when you are both standing and bent over. Emerson suggests trying the downward dog test to make sure you can't see through the fabric from behind. Whether you do it in front of a mirror or with the help of a friend, the key is to make sure you can’t see through the leggings to your skin or underwear.

How long do leggings last?

“The longevity of leggings depends on how much you sweat, if the fabric is antimicrobial, how you launder it, and the roughness of activity you are engaging in,” Emerson says. Key indicators that your stretchy pants may be reaching their time include thinning or sheer spots, excess stretch, lack of support, fraying seams, pilling, or needing to hoist up the waistband more than usual.

The 12 Best Leggings on Amazon, Tested by an Expert

One great perk about shopping for leggings on Amazon is discovering competitively priced alternatives inspired by your favorite activewear brands. In fact, Amazon makes it a little too easy to try a rainbow of colors and new styles that are just a quick click away.

When shopping for leggings on Amazon, Alexis Sweeney, founder of the Silhouette by Alexis App and online fitness platform, says, “Amazon is great about often showing close-ups of fabric so you can get a feel for how thick leggings are.”

To find the best leggings on Amazon, we researched hundreds of top-ranked pairs and consulted with certified fitness professionals. This process involved extensive product research and breaking down the physical and functional properties of different fabrics, finishes, and construction methods. After narrowing down our top picks, we put each pair through comprehensive testing, both in motion and while lounging.

Based on our research and testing, here are the best leggings on Amazon to sport during your next workout or workday.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

ODODOS Yoga Leggings with Pockets at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best with Pockets:

FlipBelt Leggings with Pockets at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Cropped:

CRZ YOGA Naked Feeling Workout Leggings at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Colorfulkoala High Waisted Yoga Pants at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Size Range:

ZUTY Ankle High Waisted Leggings at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best High Waisted:

HeyNuts Hawthorn 7/8 Leggings at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Compression:

CW-X Stabilyx Joint Support Compression Leggings at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best with UV Protection:

Beyond Yoga High Waisted Midi Leggings at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Sweat-Wicking:

Under Armour HeatGear Pocketed Leggings at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.8

Amazon

Pros

Exceptional stretch and shape retention
Deep, secure side pockets
Budget-friendly

Cons

Excess friction may cause pilling
Fabric varies, depending on print and color

The stretchy performance fabric is soft to the touch—just like we like it—with a suede-like, slightly brushed finish. The ODODOS Women's High Waisted Yoga Leggings with Pockets also feature a cool, silky interior that lends itself to working out, unlike leggings that are brushed all the way through, which can feel hot.

ODODOS offers three different performance fabric variations, depending on the color or print. We tested the 76 percent polyester, 24 percent spandex fabric blend, which provides a healthy balance of stretch and shape retention, earning it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for material. We found that this fabric keeps the waistband securely in place during high-impact workouts, strength training, and lounging, which earned this pair a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for our hold attribute. This even trickles down to the details like the deep side pockets. Whether you’re stashing a phone or water bottle, the material keeps your goodies secure and snug against your body with bounce-free pockets.

The 4.5-inch tall waistband is double-lined and elastic-free, offering a comfortably compressed yet dig-free fit, which helped to earn the pair a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit.

Testing Notes: “For an affordable pair of leggings, these punch above their weight. The fabric has a super lightweight feel that almost disappears on the body, yet these provide more coverage than a ‘Naked Sensation’ legging. I was also pleasantly surprised that the White Camo print passed the squat test in broad daylight. For fans of lululemon, the most comparable material is Everlux.”

The high-rise waistband also features a hidden inner front pocket and a slight V-contoured back seam for visual interest.

Price at time of publication: $24

^{Key Specs:
Length: ⅞ length: 25-inch inseam; Full length: 28-inch inseam | Fabric: Pattern: 76% Polyester, 24% Spandex; Solid: 72% Polyamide, 28% Elastane or 76% Polyester, 24% Spandex | Sizes: XS-3X}

4.8

Amazon

Pros

Lots of storage options
Sturdy, secure waistband
Squat-proof

Cons

Material may be too thick for hot weather
Limited size range; XS-XL

These may truly be the best-kept secret when it comes to leggings on Amazon, and if you’re a runner, these are especially made for you! These FlipBelt leggings have all the pockets you need to head to the gym or go on a long run or on an afternoon full of errands, sans purse.

FlipBelt Women's Mid-Weight Leggings with Pockets feature the patented FlipBelt waistband equipped with two side pockets and one back zipper pocket. The real kicker is the waistband, which ultimately provides 360 degrees of storage. Whichever pocket you choose lets you disperse your belongings through the entire "belt," or waistband, and each pocket fits a large smartphone like the iPhone 12 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy. There's even an internal hook to safely hold a key.

Our tester found the FlipBelt waistband to be far more comfortable and less bulky than wearing a fanny pack while working out—you don't get that bounce, thanks to the snug fit. On top of that, these leggings also feature two outer side pockets that are the perfect size for a water bottle or phone.

FlipBelt Women's Mid-Weight Leggings are made of 75 percent polyester and 25 percent spandex and offer excellent sweat-wicking and quick-drying abilities, which earned them a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for material. No matter which workout underwear you choose, these will be comfortable.

Testing Notes: “These are a fanny pack and a legging in one. Unlike other leggings with multiple waistband pockets, these go completely around the waist for full storage capacity. What stood out to me the most was the sturdy, compressed fit, which was comfortable and bounce-free, even with a large smartphone in tow. These leggings fit like a glove and stay put without any pinching, digging, or slipping.”

Our tester gave these leggings a perfect score of 5 out of 5 across the board for opacity, fit, hold, and durability. The fabric is buttery soft to the touch with adequate compression and stretch. In fact, the mid-weight fabric reminded us of a lighter, super-stretchy version of scuba material.

Price at time of publication: $59

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: Full length | Fabric: 75% Polyester, 25% Spandex | Sizes: XS-XL}

4.7

Amazon

Pros

Waistband stays in place
Lightweight, “naked” feel
Pressure-free fit

Cons

Lacks compression
Possible visible panty line
May slightly fray over time

For fans of lululemon who are looking for an Align-inspired style at a competitive price, we recommend CRZ YOGA's Naked Feeling Workout Capri Leggings. The material—which is composed of 71 percent polyamide and 29 percent spandex—provides a smooth and sleek, weightless feel that moves with you like a second skin, which earned these a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for material.

These featherlight leggings deliver maximum stretch, making them extremely comfortable without any unwanted pressure from the waistband. That said, our tester found it beneficial to size down from her normal size for a more secure, compressive fit—especially when working out.

Thanks to the absence of outer seams, these leggings offer a clean and smooth fit, which helped them earn a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit. Like the Aligns, CRZ YOGA’s Naked Feeling Workout Capri Leggings have front and back rise flatlock seams that lay flat against the fabric so you don’t feel them. We were pleased that the stitching and seams also perfectly match the fabric color for a high-end look. These crops are also reinforced with a long U-shaped gusset, which extends from the crotch to the knees, prolonging the life of the leggings.

Testing Notes: “After wearing these CRZ YOGA leggings for the past month, I would definitely buy more colors. I’m a big fan of the ‘Naked Feeling’ fabric. It’s a great lightweight, comfortable choice at a reasonable price. I found these leggings ran one size large due to the lack of compression, so I sized down for a secure fit.”

The high-rise waistband is double-lined for support, with two well-placed horizontal seams at the bottom of the band for fashion and function. There’s no thick elastic at the top, delivering a smooth, dig-free fit. Our tester also scored these a 5 out of 5 for hold, noting how well they stayed put throughout the day and during workouts.

Price at time of publication: $24

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: Mid-calf capris: 19-inch inseam | Fabric: 71% polyamide, 29% spandex | Sizes: XXS-XL}

4.6

Amazon

Pros

Soft and lightweight, cotton-like fabric
Comfortable, secure waistband
Side pockets

Cons

Limited size range: XS-XL
Low compression in legs

Crafted from 75 percent polyester and 25 percent spandex, our tester found that the lightweight fabric features a cottony-soft feel that delivers the ideal balance of elasticity and hold for a secure, fuss-free fit. The seamless, double-lined waistband offers a secure fit, whether you’re working out or chilling out, and it features a slight V-seam in the back. During our test, we found that the high-rise waistband delivered moderate compression while the legs provided more of a comfort driven-fit, which earned the pair a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for both fit and hold.

These Colorfulkoala 25-inch leggings feature two side pockets along the upper thighs that fit most cellphones. The lightweight brushed matte fabric features flatlock seams for chafe-free wear on the front and back rise, along with contouring seams that run along both sides of the outer leg pockets. These leggings are also designed with a U-shaped gusset, which ends around mid- to upper-thigh for durability.

Testing Notes: “The Colorfulkoala Leggings with Pockets are a very comfortable pair of leggings for workouts and casual wear. Even though they’re made of polyester-spandex, they feel more like a soft and light cotton-spandex blend. These held up well during high-impact workouts, thanks to the moderately compressive waistband. I felt secure without any waistband rolling or slippage.”

These Colorfulkoala Leggings with Pockets come in sizes XS-XL, and we found they ran true to size. We love that they’re offered in a wide selection of versatile colors and a few prints.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: ⅞ length: 25-inch inseam | Fabric: 75% polyester, 25% spandex | Sizes: XS-XL}

4.5

Amazon

Pros

Inclusive size range
Thick, squat-proof fabric
Deep pockets

Cons

Waistband may be too high for some
Material may be too thick for hot weather

We think ZUTY deserves special recognition for being one of the few brands on Amazon to offer leggings in 10 sizes. Up until now, it’s been challenging to find brands with an inclusive, representative size range. But finally, there’s a comfy, stylish pair of leggings offered in an extensive size and color range.

ZUTY Women's 7/8 High Waisted Workout Yoga Leggings with Pockets feature a lightly brushed fabric that’s completely matte for a concealing finish, which earned them a score of 5 out of 5 for opacity.

ZUTY’s luxuriously soft and stretchy material is made of 80 percent polyester and 20 percent spandex. It’s on the thicker side for exceptional coverage and is well suited for cooler weather, but our tester found them a bit too toasty for working out in hot weather.

ZUTY leggings offer a very generous rise, along with a thick and durable ultra-high-rise waistband. The double-lined five-inch waistband is equipped with an inner drawstring cord, so it doesn’t slip or roll down, which earned it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for hold. It also provides moderate compression and has a hidden card or key pocket. It's a great choice whether you're using a balance board or a rowing machine.

Testing Notes: “Of all the Amazon leggings I tested, the ZUTY leggings offer the most inclusive size range, with a soft but durable fabric that provides impressive coverage. The brushed, matte fabric is fully squat-proof, concealing any color worn underneath, even in broad daylight.

These leggings have a super high-rise waistband—about five inches—and a very roomy rise. To compensate, I had to hike them up extra-high, but they did stay secure, thanks to the supportive waistband and inner drawstring cord.”

Our tester gave these a standing ovation for the spacious, secure side pockets, large enough to stash an oversized smartphone or even a water bottle. She did find that these leggings ran large and suggested sizing down.

Price at time of publication: $28

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: Cropped: 21-inch inseam; ⅞ length: 25-inch inseam | Fabric: 80% polyester, 20% spandex | Sizes: XS-5X}

4.5

Amazon

Pros

Seamless, high-rise waistband
Buttery soft fabric
Good value

Cons

Limited size range; up to XL
One inseam length

We love that the HeyNuts Essential 7/8 Leggings look and feel like a luxury pair of leggings at a fraction of the price. These leggings are buttery soft and surprisingly supportive, earning a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for hold. Seemingly a doppelganger of lululemon’s beloved Align Pant, this pair offers more compression with a different fabric feel. The material is lightly brushed on both sides, which adds thickness to the fabric for good coverage without adding weight. Our tester scored this pair a 5 out of 5 for fit, thanks to its sculpting design.

Overall, these leggings have the same general look as the Aligns, with seamless sides and a U-shaped gusset reinforced with flatlock seams from crotch to knee.

The high-rise waistband is double lined for support and features the slight V-seam in the back that we all love for some extra contouring. The smoothing waistband is elastic-free with an interior card or key pocket. Our tester was able to snugly fit an iPhone 12 Pro in the pocket.

Testing Notes: “These pants get a lot of hype for being an Align Pant dupe. In my opinion, the seams and overall design are a pretty close representation, with the material being the main difference. The HeyNuts leggings are brushed inside and out, resulting in a more supportive feel than a ‘Naked Sensation’ fabric. This fabric also provides more compression than the Align Pant, so if you like a touch more coverage and compression in your leggings than a ‘barely-there’ feel, these are a must!”

The soft matte fabric is crafted from 70 percent nylon and 30 percent spandex. The leggings come in an extensive collection of colors with a few prints. We found that they run true to size.

Price at time of publication: $28

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: ⅞ length: 25-inch inseam | Fabric: 70% Nylon, 30% Spandex | Sizes: XXS-XL}

4.8

Alo Yoga

Pros

Excellent stretch and shape retention
Thick and durable fabric
Comfortable cottony feel

Cons

May run long for some people
Expensive

From barre to brunch, we think these thick, sculpting leggings create the perfect canvas for a comfortable and confidence-boosting outfit. Alo’s signature Airbrush Leggings provide a cotton-like feel packed with stretch and shape retention. The thick, matte fabric offers outstanding smoothing coverage that our tester also found conceals panty lines, which earned the pair a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for squat-proof opacity

Alo Airbrush fabric is made of 87 percent nylon and 13 percent spandex, delivering excellent moisture-wicking technology and odor resistance.

We like that the full length, high-rise leggings have a simplistic design. They feature seamless outer legs for a sleek silhouette. The rest of the legging features minimal flatlock seams, including in the front and back rise for a comfortable fit, which earned them a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit.

The four-inch high-rise waistband is double-lined for security and compression. The leggings are designed with a double-lined triangular gusset for commando comfort and durability, earning them a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for this attribute.

Testing Notes: “Alo’s Airbrush Leggings are worth the price of admission! The minute you get your hands on these, you can feel the quality of the legging through the fabric’s weight, finish, stretch, and spring-loaded rebound. These leggings feel great and are extremely versatile. I love that Alo Airbrush fabric has the durability of synthetic material but feels more like natural fabric. They run pretty true to size, but if you prefer more compression, I recommend sizing down.”

We love the full length on these leggings, which have an inseam that ranges from 28 to 28.5 inches. They’re offered in sizes XXS-XL, which spans sizes 00 to 18.

Price at time of publication: $98

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: Full length: 28-28.5-inch inseam | Fabric: 87% nylon, 13% spandex | Sizes: XXS-XL}

4.6

Amazon

Pros

Graduated compression
Provides stability and support
UPF 50+

Cons

Runs small
No phone pocket

If you've ever worn kinesiology tape—a flexible athletic tape designed to stabilize and support muscles and joints without restricting range of motion—you know what a powerful tool that little roll can be.

For that same feeling of support without the temporary tape, we recommend snagging a pair of these CW-X leggings. They offer compression and patented technology that contours joints and mimics the benefits and feeling of kinesiology tape. These aren’t the type of leggings you’ll want to spend the whole day lounging around in, due to the ultra-compressive fit, but they do serve a specific purpose that our tester felt had a significantly positive impact on her day.

This innovative design not only provides stability and support, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for hold, but also happens to look super-cool and sporty. The CW-X Women's Mid Rise Full Length Stabilyx Compression Legging supports the pelvis, hips, lower back, and knees, while providing graduated compression for recovery and improved circulation.

These mid-rise compression leggings are also made from breathable, moisture-wicking material that's rated UPF 50+, blocking 98 percent of the sun's rays from UVA and UVB radiation. This material scored 5 out of 5 for its sculpted, secure feel and durability. The reinforced elastic waistband is about 1.4 inches high, complete with a flat drawstring and a tiny built-in pocket.

Testing Notes: “Prior to testing, I had high hopes for this pair, and they sure did deliver. In general, I find leggings marketed as compression pants to be hit or miss in terms of their actual support, but these are on a whole different level. The graduated compression and sewn-in kinesiology tape-inspired seams helped keep my hips and knees in line and tracking while providing a little extra guidance, support, and stability on days I’m on my feet a lot or do a lot of walking. I liked these so much, I ordered the Capri version.”

These leggings range in length from 24 to 26.5 inches, which we found to be close to a ⅞ length, height dependent. They’re offered in Black, Forest Night, Fig, and True Navy—with black offered in both matching and contrasting stitching options. We strongly suggest sizing up.

Price at time of publication: $120

^{Key Specs:
Rise: Mid rise | Length: 24-26.5-inch inseam | Fabric: CW-X EXO-WEB: 80% Nylon, 20% Lycra Spandex; Body Fabric: 80% Coolmax Polyester, 20% Lycra Spandex | Sizes: XS-XXL}

4.7

Amazon

Pros

UPF 50+
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Made from responsibly sourced materials

Cons

No side pockets
Some prefer seams down the legs for structure

These ultra-soft leggings are crafted from Beyond Yoga's signature Spacedye performance fabric, which packs all the non-negotiables for a top-notch pair of leggings.

We love that the material is exceptionally cozy and soft—earning it a perfect score of 5 out of 5—and requires low maintenance laundering. They’re washer- and dryer-safe, which is a huge plus, and our tester found that they maintained their rich color and quality after continued washing.

The lightweight, four-way stretch fabric possesses excellent shape retention and is moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and rated UPF 50+. Our tester found that these leggings really did dry efficiently and kept her comfortable during sweaty outdoor workouts. She especially appreciated the lightness of the fabric in hot weather.

Beyond Yoga’s responsibly-sourced Spacedye fabric is made from 87 percent polyester and 13 percent Lycra, and is Bluesign Certified.

These leggings provide a hugged, comfortable fit, with an extra high-rise, five-inch waistband, which conforms to your natural waist for a dig-free, secure hold—earning the pair a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for that attribute.

Testing Notes: “These leggings were among the softest leggings I tested without being too delicate. They almost have a brushed-out suede type of feel and are so cozy-soft, you want to sleep in them.

The rise was very generous, almost a bit too generous, but still a comfortable fit. I compensated by hoisting them up extra-high, which enabled them to stay put, thanks to the responsive waistband.”

The midi length leggings have a 25-inch inseam, hitting between the calf and ankle, depending on your height.

Price at time of publication: $95

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: 25-inch inseam | Fabric: 87% Polyester, 13% Lycra | Sizes: XXS-XXL}

4.5

Amazon

Pros

Durable, non-pilling
Super quick-drying
Three length options

Cons

More of a mid-rise waist
Limited size range; up to XXL
Only one side pocket

Celebrated for its elite sweat-wicking and quick-drying abilities, our tester found that Under Armour's fabric lives up to its claim to fame, keeping the body cool, dry, and comfortable during your toughest workouts. Made of 87 percent polyester and 13 percent elastane, these leggings deliver a comfortable four-way stretch, with a second-skin-like fit that prevents the fabric from weighing you down or chafing, which is why we gave these a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for material.

Our tester was amazed at how comfortable these leggings kept her during outdoor summer workouts. The fabric is also equipped with anti-odor technology, which means that there’s a finish applied that helps prevent bacteria from building up and causing odor.

The ultra-lightweight material is smooth yet durable, and we’re pleased to report that it doesn’t pill and passes the squat test with flying colors, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for opacity, and a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for hold. Best of all, these leggings have a phone pocket on the right outer leg.

While marketed as a high-waisted legging, we found them to be more of a mid-rise fit, sitting below the belly button. But they do provide a secure fit throughout your workout, thanks to Under Armour's No-Slip Waistband, which features a non-binding elastic with a hidden inner silicone webbing inside the back panel to prevent slipping or rolling. They also provide slight compression for an all-over supported feel.

Testing Notes: “There’s a reason Under Armour coins this material as HeatGear fabric. These leggings dried surprisingly fast and kept me focused on my workout—not my clothes—during intensive workouts in hot weather. The fabric was very squat-proof and durable. It washed well and felt as good as new each time, with no pilling or signs of wear.”

We suggest sizing down if you prefer a more compressive fit—especially if you plan to work out in them.

Price at time of publication: $50

^{Key Specs:
Rise: Mid rise | Length: Short: 27-inch inseam; Regular: 29-inch inseam; Tall: 31-inch inseam | Fabric: 87% polyester, 13% elastane | Sizes: XS-XXL}

4.7

Amazon

Pros

Inclusive size range
Silky performance fabric
Budget-friendly

Cons

Crossover waist isn’t for everyone
Fabrics can vary among prints and colors
Not as breathable as other options

For prints and patterns galore constructed from a comfortable performance fabric, we recommend these ODODOS leggings, featuring a crossover waistband and stylish twist. The Cross Waist Yoga Leggings with Inner Pocket is offered in three performance fabrics, depending on the print.

These high-rise leggings have a double-lined waistband with an overlapping design that offers four layers of coverage across the midsection. The back of the waistband runs a bit higher and offers a slight V-seam for visual interest. The waistband has a top elastic seam to keep it in place along with scrunched sides for both aesthetic and fit purposes, which earned these a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for both hold and fit. We love that these crossover leggings also have an inner waistband pocket for convenient storage.

Our tester found these were a similar style to Aerie’s popular crossover legging but are even more durable and have a more performance-fabric feel, earning them a nearly perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for durability.

The ODODOS fabric (depending on the print or color) also excels at repelling lint, thanks to its silky texture. The leggings have a reinforced U-shaped gusset with flatlock seams. They come in both a ⅞ and full-length option, both with and without side pockets that fit a phone. Non-pocket styles come without outer seams for a more streamlined look.

Testing Notes: “The overlapping V-front waistband is comfortable and lays in a way that doesn't add pressure or dig into my stomach. For a white-based print, the White Leopard leggings were surprisingly opaque, just like the other style of ODODOS leggings I tested. There seems to be some slight fabric variation between ODODOS colors and prints, even with the same fabric blend.”

The printed pairs we tested were made of 76 percent polyester and 24 percent spandex. Our tester found them to be very comfortable and lightweight for working out, thanks to their cool, silky inner lining and buttery soft exterior, so much so that we scored them a 5 out of 5 for material.

Price at time of publication: $46

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: 7/8 length: 25 inches; Full length: 28 inches | Fabric: Solid: 72% Polyamide, 28% Elastane or 76% Polyester, 24% Spandex; Pattern:76% Polyester, 24% Spandex | Sizes: XS-3X}

4.2

Amazon

Pros

Budget-friendly
Wide range of colors, prints, and sizes
Fits true to size

Cons

May not be comfortable for working out
Lighter colors may not be squat-proof
Style is not for everyone

Made famous on TikTok, SEASUM leggings are known for giving your backside an extra boost, thanks to the waffle-inspired fabric combined with a strategically placed booty scrunch elastic seam. This contouring design lends itself to casual wear and athleisure with a super-stretchy, lightweight fabric and very light compression. While lighter colors may require neutral or no underwear, our tester found that the textured fabric provided some degree of coverage.

These high-rise leggings feature a 2.5-inch waistband with a one-inch inner elastic band that combine to provide a secure fit, which earned the pair a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for hold. The back of the waistband creates a contoured V-seam for visual interest, which transitions seamlessly into its signature booty scrunch back.

The SEASUM Women's High Waist Yoga Pants are made of 88 percent polyester and 12 percent spandex. Our tester found these leggings to fit true to size. While the lightweight fabric was comfortable and even sweat-wicking, our tester found that the booty scrunch seam got a little too friendly during workouts, which may feel uncomfortable to some. We’d be inclined to reserve these for casual wear rather than for working out.

Testing Notes: “I found these ran true to size with a comfortable lightweight fabric that was surprisingly sweat-wicking. The waistband stayed in place, and the elastic was thick enough so it didn’t pinch or dig into the body. I don’t find these to be the most comfortable or conducive to working out, due to the booty scrunch detail, but they’re super fun and vibrant for casual wear.”

These textured leggings are offered in nearly 100 different style options, including full length—ranging from 26- to 29-inch inseam—capri, with pockets, solid colors, animal print, camo print, space dye, tye dye, stripes, and neon. They come in sizes S-4X.

Price at time of publication: $21

^{Key Specs:
Rise: High rise | Length: Full length and cropped | Fabric: 88% polyester, 12% spandex | Sizes: S-4X}

Final Verdict

Earning a perfect score for material, fit, and hold, the stretchy, sculpting ODODOS Women's High Waisted Yoga Leggings with Pockets conform to the shape of your body and stay comfortably put, whether you’re lounging around the house or working up a sweat. We chose these as our top pick because they’re affordable and equipped with generous side pockets that keep your phone tight to your body without bouncing around during a workout.

The FlipBelt Women's Mid-Weight Leggings with Pockets have forged prime shelf space in our testers’ leggings collection. We love that they have a 360-degree storage pouch equipped with two side pockets and one back zipper pocket. They also feature deep side pockets along the outer thighs that fit large phones or water bottles without bouncing around as you move. They’re super-stretchy and squat-proof.

How We Rated the Best Leggings on Amazon

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best leggings on Amazon we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These leggings on Amazon are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great leggings on Amazon, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These leggings on Amazon are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend leggings on Amazon with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

How We Selected and Tested the Best Leggings on Amazon

We researched dozens of leggings on Amazon and evaluated them for material, opacity, fit, hold, durability, and value. This process involved researching the physical and functional properties of various fabrics, finishes, sewing and construction techniques. We also consulted two certified fitness professionals regarding what features they valued most in a workout legging.

We then put 25 pair of leggings to the test for over a month of workouts, everyday wear, and washes to narrow down the top-performing leggings on Amazon. To ensure consistent and transparent results, our tester performed an extensive series of pre-selected workouts consisting of high-, medium-, and low-impact activities along with test walks and lounge days. Each pair of leggings was washed after each workout. To ensure that the quality and durability was accounted for throughout the testing period, the tester also regularly updated key quality metrics like opacity and durability.

Each pair of leggings was rated on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) according to six attributes: material, opacity, fit, hold, durability, and value. Each was also given an overall star rating, which reflects our overall impression of the garment and its performance, and whether or not we would recommend it to a friend. Of the 25 pairs tested, we chose 12 that we felt were the best-performing.

What to Look for in Leggings on Amazon

Fabric

Legging fabrics are typically made from a blend of multiple fibers to create a desired performance fabric.

Synthetic materials provide better sweat-wicking abilities and overall durability, while natural fibers provide superior breathability and absorb less odor While we may think of cotton as the most comfortable and breathable fiber, it may not be the best choice for workout gear as it’s highly absorbent and won’t wick away sweat. When shopping for leggings, first consider which activities you intend to wear them for, and choose accordingly.
Polyester and nylon are lightweight fibers that boast exceptional durability and sweat-wicking abilities. While both fibers are notably durable, polyester is more resistant to abrasion or pilling. Keep in mind that breathability is not its strong suit, so we recommend washing polyester leggings after each wear, as this fiber tends to harbor odor if left wet for long periods of time. “The longer leggings sit in the hamper, the worse they’ll smell,” Tara Lyn Emerson, a Fitness Expert and TRX Trainer based in Los Angeles, says. Nylon has similar qualities to polyester as a synthetic sweat-wicking powerhouse, but it takes the cake for its slightly softer, silky texture.
Both polyester and nylon are typically blended with spandex, or one of its counterparts, for the ultimate performance fabric. Spandex—also called Lycra or elastane—is the magic ingredient that makes leggings so addictively comfortable and body-hugging. A common proportion of spandex, Lycra, or elastane for workout leggings is 15 to 30 percent, which gives them the proper stretch and shape retention.

Finishes

Additional finishes can be applied by manufacturers to change the feel or performance of a legging fabric, including chemical, mechanical, and physical finishes. Brushing is a physical finish used to add softness and thickness to a fabric without changing its actual weight. During our test, we found that brushed fabrics were more concealing and squat-proof.

Synthetic fabrics sometimes feature a chemical finish like anti-odor or antimicrobial to help prevent bacteria from causing odor. This comes in handy when choosing a polyester-heavy blend, since it’s not the most breathable of fibers. For a sweat-wicking, anti-odor fabric, we suggest Under Armour Women's HeatGear High Waisted Pocketed Leggings.

Rise

Leggings come in low-, mid-, high-, and super-high-rise styles. Depending on your torso length, these rises will fit you differently. Just like legging lengths, rises will vary from brand to brand. A low-rise or low-waisted legging will sit far below the belly button, while mid-rise leggings sit just below the belly button. High-rise or high-waisted leggings sit at the natural waist, right at or above the belly button. Super-high-rise leggings sit slightly higher, coming closer to the bra line.

The key is to find a cut that fits your body and feels most comfortable. Waistband designs also come with different design features to enhance the overall appearance and fit, like crossover waistbands, seamless styles, and drawstring cords for a tighter, custom fit.

Length

The length of leggings is indicated by the inseam, which is a measurement taken from the inside of the leg at the crotch all the way down to the bottom of the ankle. You can either measure yourself or measure a pair of leggings you currently own and find the corresponding inseam.

Leggings generally come in three lengths—cropped, ⅞, and full length. Typical inseams for cropped leggings are 17- to 19-inches long, which tend to hit just below the knee, depending on one’s height, and 21 to 23 inches long, which are mid- to lower-calf length.

Seven-eighths length leggings sit above the ankle and are often 25 inches long. Full-length styles often start at 28 inches, sitting at the ankle, and continue into the mid-30s.

Seams

When shopping for leggings on Amazon, Sweeney recommends closely looking at the seams in the product and customer photos. “For me personally, I don’t prefer a seam going right down the middle of my tush, so that is always a red flag for me,” Sweeney says. Leggings with minimal seams can also deliver a more ‘naked’ or second-skin-like feel.

When it comes to leggings, consider opting for a seam that lays flat against the garment. Seams and stitching that stick out can rub uncomfortably against the body during workouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you wear under leggings?

If you’re concerned about panty lines, opt for a seamless pair of underwear, or try going bare down there. The decision to go commando or not is up to personal preference. If you do decide to sport underwear, remember to change out of your undies after a workout, as bacteria and yeast thrive in dark, moist environments, like sweaty gym clothes.
How do you wash and care for leggings?

Follow each brand’s specific guidelines, but as a general rule, heat deteriorates the elasticity and stretch of spandex, so wash leggings in cold water, and hang them to dry whenever possible.
It's advisable to wash your gear inside out to prolong the life of leggings and prevent pilling. Sweeney suggests folding or rolling leggings before putting them away. “I roll my leggings to avoid creases,” she says. “Also, for the same reason, make sure they dry fully before placing them in your drawer.”
How should leggings fit?

While fit is completely up to your comfort and style preferences, ideally, leggings will fit like a second skin—with no pressure points or bagginess to distract you from your workout. “Your lounging leggings and your workout leggings may be totally different,” Emerson says. “When you are running, lunging, planking, and jumping, you won't want a loose fitting material that causes you to pull your pants up constantly.”
For compression leggings, Emerson advises against leggings fitting so tight that they cut off circulation or give you a stomachache. “You should easily be able to fit a finger inside the waist of the leggings,” she says. The fabric should hold and cover your body when you are both standing and bent over. Emerson suggests trying the downward dog test to make sure you can't see through the fabric from behind. Whether you do it in front of a mirror or with the help of a friend, the key is to make sure you can’t see through the leggings to your skin or underwear.
How long do leggings last?

“The longevity of leggings depends on how much you sweat, if the fabric is antimicrobial, how you launder it, and the roughness of activity you are engaging in,” Emerson says. Key indicators that your stretchy pants may be reaching their time include thinning or sheer spots, excess stretch, lack of support, fraying seams, pilling, or needing to hoist up the waistband more than usual.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Emily Stone is a writer for Verywell Fit covering health, fitness, and apparel. Having worked for a women’s activewear company, she’s passionate about selecting quality fits and fabrics from inclusive, ethical brands.