🧘‍♀️ The 11 Best Workout Leggings of 2025 — Tested and Reviewed

Finding the perfect pair of workout leggings can make or break your fitness experience. Whether you're stretching into downward dog or powering through a HIIT session, the right leggings offer comfort, support, and style. After testing dozens of options across various workouts, Everyday Health narrowed it down to the top 11 picks — each tailored to a specific need.

Let’s dive into the best leggings for every type of workout, plus expert tips to help you choose the right pair.

🏋️‍♀️ Best for Everyday Workouts: Vuori Daily Leggings

Price: $89 Compression: Moderate Sizes: XS–XXL Lengths: 23", 24.5", 27"

Vuori’s Daily Leggings offer a jogger-inspired fit with a soft, stretchy fabric and a drawstring waist for added support. They’re ideal for everything from Pilates to grocery runs.

Why we love them:

• Soft-touch fabric with slight compression

• Wide waistband with drawstring

• Machine washable and dryer-friendly

• Available in six colors and plus sizes

Extra tip: These leggings run small, so consider sizing up if you're between sizes.

💰 Best Budget Pick: The Gym People High-Waist Leggings

Price: $24.99 Compression: Moderate Sizes: XS–4XL Lengths: 26"–26.8"

Affordable without sacrificing quality, these leggings feature deep side pockets and a high-rise waistband that stays put.

Highlights:

• 32 color options

• Soft polyamide-spandex blend

• Easy returns via Amazon

Watch out: Compression and sizing may vary slightly between colors.

🧘 Best for Yoga: Lululemon Align Leggings

Price: $98 Compression: Low Sizes: 0–20 Lengths: 21"–31"

These ultra-soft leggings are designed for flexibility and breathability, making them perfect for yoga and lounging.

Standout features:

• Four-way stretch

• Flare fit available

• Moisture-wicking and breathable

Bonus insight: They’re so comfy, one tester even slept in them!

🏃‍♀️ Best for Running: Under Armour HeatGear Leggings

Price: $35.57 Compression: High Sizes: XS–XXL Lengths: 19.5"–29"

Built for performance, these leggings wick sweat, dry fast, and resist odor — ideal for long runs.

Pros:

• Drop-in pocket for essentials

• Snug fit prevents chafing

• Available in tall lengths

Note: Taller runners may find the inseam a bit short.

🔄 Best for Pilates: ODODOS Cross-Waist Leggings

Price: $23.98 Compression: Low Sizes: XS–XXL Lengths: 25", 28"

With a flattering criss-cross waistband and four-way stretch, these leggings stay in place during dynamic movements.

Why they shine:

• Budget-friendly

• Nine color options

• Large side pockets

Expert tip: Light, stretchy fabrics often stay in place better than thick ones.

🥾 Best for Hiking: Carhartt Force Utility Leggings

Price: $35.99 Compression: Moderate Sizes: XS–3XL Lengths: 29", 33"

Durable and breathable, these leggings are built for the outdoors with reinforced knees and sweat-wicking tech.

Features:

• Full coverage against ticks and brush

• Deep pockets

• Snug mid-rise waist

Extra insight: Great for all-season hikes and rugged terrain.

🧵 Best With Resistance Bands: Skinnify Resistance Band Leggings

Price: $49.99 Compression: High Sizes: XS–4XL Lengths: 26.5"–29"

These leggings come with built-in resistance bands to intensify your workouts.

Pros:

• Moisture-wicking fabric

• Tummy control waistband

• Choose from 4, 6, or 8 resistance bands

Heads-up: Compression may feel uneven depending on band placement.

➕ Best Plus Size: Girlfriend Collective Compression Leggings

Price: $78.40 Compression: High Sizes: XXS–6XL Lengths: 18", 28"

Made from recycled water bottles, these leggings offer high compression and long-lasting durability.

Why we love them:

• Eco-friendly materials

• Contouring seams

• Wide waistband that stays put

Fun fact: One tester still wears her pair from 2016!

🏋️ Best for Weight Lifting: Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Leggings

Price: $98 Compression: High Sizes: 0–20 Lengths: 15"–31"

These squat-proof leggings offer shaping, sweat-wicking, and a hidden drawstring for a secure fit.

Highlights:

• Waistband pocket

• Everlux fabric

• Available in 11 colors

Tip: Size up for a more comfortable fit.

❄️ Best Thermal: Baleaf Fleece-Lined Leggings

Price: $37.99 Compression: Moderate Sizes: XS–3XL Length: 27.6"

Perfect for cold weather, these fleece-lined leggings are water-resistant and cozy.

Features:

• Adjustable drawstring waist

• Three pockets

• Soft fleece interior

Extra tip: Hang dry to extend their lifespan.

🩺 Best for Circulation: Elastique Lisse Leggings

Price: $205 Compression: Moderate (8–13 mmHg) Sizes: XS–XL Lengths: 25", 27"

Designed with gradient compression, these leggings support blood flow and reduce fatigue during long workouts or travel.

Why they stand out:

• OEKO-TEX certified fabric

• UPF 50+ sun protection

• Great for flights and endurance sports

Pro tip: Compression helps reduce injury risk and muscle soreness.

🧪 How We Tested

The Everyday Health team researched over 20 pairs of leggings, narrowing it down to 11 top picks. Each pair was tested across various workouts — from yoga to running — and evaluated for fit, comfort, breathability, and durability. Expert input from Jill Brown, a certified health coach and trainer, helped refine the selection.

🧵 Fabric & Fit Tips

• Breathability: Look for polyester or polypropylene blends with moisture-wicking properties.

• Sizing: Most leggings run small — sizing up is often the safer bet.

• Compression: Choose based on your workout. High compression is great for running and lifting; low compression suits yoga and lounging.

🧠 Final Thoughts

The best workout leggings combine function, comfort, and style. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for high-performance gear, there’s a perfect pair for every body and every workout. Investing in the right leggings can elevate your fitness routine and keep you motivated to move.