Confession: I’m writing this while wearing leggings. You might even be reading this while wearing leggings. It’s unsurprising how seamlessly these stretchy, skin-tight pants have boomed in our daily lives. Try thinking of another garment that feels as natural on your couch as it does at a heated workout class or restaurant (albeit with a blazer and a great boot).
Like with any well-fitting, well-made piece of clothing, finding the right pair takes a bit of trial and error. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of brands producing quality leggings. Understanding the types of fabrics and silhouettes that work for you and your lifestyle requires some work — but not everyone has the time and resources for guesswork.
The NBC Select editorial team set out to find the absolute best leggings on the market. We focused our search on options designed explicitly with fitness in mind but heavily considered how they performed in other settings (read: whether they were comfortable enough to lounge in). Below’s our official ranking of the 50 best leggings of 2025.
SKIP AHEAD How we chose our contenders | What we considered | Methodology | Our ranking | Top 10 | Why trust NBC Select?
How we chose our contenders
Executing any reliable test starts with having a wide-ranging list of potential subjects — in this case, leggings. To do so, we compiled three lists, which we wove together to develop our final testing list of more than 50 pairs of leggings. We first assembled the brands our editors already wear in their everyday lives (like Alo and Nike), then established a list of brands we’ve covered before (including expert-recommended options and Wellness Award winners) and finally, researched highly rated options that we thought we were worth considering.
We excluded bike shorts and unitards and instead focused our search on full-length or 7/8th leggings. We included compressive options as well as pairs designed for low-impact workouts. We set out to test options from large retailers like Target, Victoria’s Secret and Amazon and leggings from more niche fitness-specific brands like GymShark and Halfdays. We didn’t set guidelines around price except to say that we didn’t test designer or fashion-forward options you may find at a luxury department store.
What we considered
Every team member has different likes and dislikes when it comes to shape, fit and material — some prefer structured options, while others seek out lightweight, moisture-wicking options for hot yoga classes or outdoor runs. Given our reporters’ different tastes, we asked them to consider the same criteria when evaluating every pair to be as objective and fair as possible. Each entry could earn a maximum of three points per category, as noted below:
- Wear over time: Did the leggings hold up during the testing period? Did they shrink or pill after washing? Did the color change or run? Did logos fade?
- Fabric quality: Are the leggings see-through and squat-proof? Do they change color when wet from sweat? Are they too thick or too thin?
- Performance: Did these perform as described? For example, if a brand designed its leggings to be compressive, insulated, sweat-proof or quick-drying…was it?
- Sizing: Did the leggings run true to size? Did they move around or stay in place while exercising?
We also awarded two extra points per benefit if a pair had:
- Pockets
- Waist ties
- Special sizing available, like petite, tall or 7/8th lengths
We also asked every team member to assign each pair two additional scores based on how they viewed it as a workout option and as a loungewear option. They could rank each pair on a scale of 1-10 (1 being the worst, 10 being the best).
Every team member also provided qualitative feedback for each pair of leggings.
Methodology
Our team tested over 50 pairs of leggings over eight weeks, many of which were sent to us as brand samples. At least two editors tried every pair, though there were typically three or more for each pair. When calling in samples to test, when possible, we made sure to call in a dark-colored option and a lighter color to assess whether they were see-through and squat-proof. (Darker colors often hide some of these features.)
During testing, we asked every editor to exercise, lounge and clean their leggings at least three times. Each tester then provided feedback by assigning points based on the above criteria and providing commentary and key takeaways about their experience.
The higher the score, the better the product performed in our ranking. After adding the data to get an initial rank based on average scores, we adjusted the placement of certain leggings on the list after considering our team’s qualitative feedback, product availability and price point. We tried to include as many brands as possible, with some earning multiple spots on the list.
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Our ranking
50: Smartwool Women’s Active Legging
49: Target All In Motion Women’s Everyday Soft Ultra High-Rise Leggings
48: Victoria’s Secret VSX Essential High-Rise Pocket Legging
47: Reebok Lux High-Rise Leggings
46: FP Movement Never Better 7/8 Length Leggings
45: Aritzia Butter New Cheeky Hi-Rise Legging
44: Halfdays Sophia Leggings
43: Lands’ End Women’s Active High Impact Pocket Leggings
42: Forme Sculpt+ Legging
40: Terez TLC Side Stripe Colorblock Legging in Blues
39: Zella Live In High Waist Leggings
37: Aerie Offline Real Me High Waisted Legging
36: Splits 59 Airweight High Waist Legging
34: DSG Women’s Momentum Seamless 7/8 Legging
33: Quince Ultra-Form High-Rise Pocket Legging
32: Vitality Cloud II Trouser Leggings
31: FP Movement Go To Leggings
30: Omorpho G-Tight
29: Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted Legging
28: Brooks Running Spark Tight
27: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8 Leggings
26: Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging
25: Leonisa Super-Soft Dual Compression Legging
23: Calia Women’s Inspire High Rise 7/8 Legging
22: Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings
21: GymShark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings
20: Spanx Soft and Smooth Active 7/8 Leggings
18: Knix LeakStrong Leakproof Legging
17: Baleaf Yoga Leggings with Pockets
16: Athleta Elation Ultra High Rise Legging
15: Fanka Body Sculpt Side Pocket Leggings
14: Elastique L’Original 27” Leggings
13: Forme Sculpt+ Legging
12: Fabletics Define PowerHold High-Waisted Legging
11: Wunder Train High-Rise Ribbed Tight 25”
Top 10
10: Aerie Offline Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging
The very first thing I noticed about these Aerie leggings was the soft, lightweight texture of the fabric. Once I put them on, they comfortably hugged my lower body without over-compressing or feeling too tight. The crossover waistband also gives them a very flattering, high-waisted fit while keeping them from slipping down (which we all know is one of the worst issues you can have with leggings).
My favorite thing about this pair is the fabric’s breathability. I’ve worn them in the gym and on errands for hours at a time, and haven’t felt overheated or sweat-drenched even once — the fabric wicks moisture almost as soon as it appears, which means that I can skip dealing with the sweat-induced chafing or itchiness that I’ve experienced from other pairs. Although I like the 7/8th length, I wish these came in other length options, or had a pocket for my phone during workouts, which is why they didn’t rank higher on our list. – Ashley Morris, associate SEO reporter
Fabric: 88% nylon, 12% elastane | Compression: no | Special features: 7/8 length
9: Vuori AllTheFeels Leggings
My favorite thing about these leggings is that I never have to struggle or uncomfortably shimmy around when putting these on. While they’re not compressive, they suck everything in and look flattering on my body. They are full-length leggings (which I’m not usually a fan of), but these never bunch up at my ankles or look awkward with sneakers.
I wouldn’t necessarily reach for these for high-intensity workouts since they do lack that compression feature (so they’re not quite as supportive), but I do like them for workouts that require a bit more flexibility, like yoga, Pilates and barre, because they don’t constrict any movement. I can squat, stretch and lift my legs without any strain or squeeze. It’s also missing pockets so there’s nowhere to store my phone, AirPods or keys when I’m working out with these leggings, which is why they aren’t higher on this list. – Mili Godio, updates editor
Fabric: 75% recycled polyamide, 25% elastane | Compression: no | Special features: n/a
8: Abercrombie YPB sculptLUX Curve Love 7/8-Length Pocket Legging
I’m very picky about my leggings. I like to work out, but I also love to lounge, so I’m always looking for leggings that are perfect for both occasions and tese have quickly become one of my most reached-for pairs.
The first thing I noticed was how well they fit. The material is stretchy while still being supportive in the hip/thigh area, and there are no gaps in the waistband. I mainly wore these to mat Pilates and spin classes, and they’re stretchy and lightweight enough to move through a class without feeling any pinching or restriction. They also absorb sweat well.
Pockets are a must for me when it comes to leggings, and these have deep side pockets that can fit my phone, Airpods, keys, lip balm and other small items. The only downside is that they might be long if you’re on the shorter side. I’m 5 feet 6.5 inches and they fit well, but anyone shorter than me might have an issue with the length. I also wish there were more color options, since they only come in Black right now. – Caitlin Cusack, social media assistant
Fabric: 78% polyester, 22% elastane | Compression: no | Special features: 7/8 length, side pockets
7: Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging
Let’s get the obvious out of the way — these are expensive, but the benefits make up for the price tag. The compressive fabric doesn’t feel suffocating and the pockets are deep — I can fit my phone, cash and other small random things in just one. (I always forget there’s a back pocket but I love that it’s there.) I’m only 5 feet tall so finding leggings that aren’t crazy long is a never-ending challenge. These aren’t perfect but the shorter seam option is flattering enough, though there are other options on this list that I would recommend more for shorties like me, which is why this didn’t make the top five.
I like that these are made sustainably because I’m always looking for ways to reduce waste in my day to day life. The fabric thickness might be my favorite feature, it’s not too thin or thick, I feel well supported and the leggings don’t shift too much when I’m walking or working out. – Nikki Brown, SEO editor
Fabric: 79% recycled water bottles, 21% spandex | Compression: yes | Special features: 2 side pockets, hidden back pocket, 2 inseam options: 23 ¾ in., 28.5 in.; sizing runs up to 6XL
6: Neiwai Ballet Drawstring Leggings
These are one of my most used pairs of leggings for yoga or barre class or even when I’m lounging around at home. They’re so stretchy and I never feel restricted regardless of how many poses, stretches and sweat I produce in an hour long class. The drawstring cord’s a nice feature, so I can easily tailor the waistband’s fit to give me the most flattering look without compromising its support.
The biggest downside is that they’re not the most versatile. They don’t have compression and are quite thin — they’re designed for low-impact activities and weren’t our favorite for high-impact workouts since they lack that needed structure to hold you in or keep them in place. But if you’re exclusively going to yoga and barre classes (or just want a pair to lay on your couch in), these are a great choice. They’re moisture wicking, easy to move in and incredibly soft and luxurious feeling. I never want to take them off, in fact — seriously, I could sleep in these. – Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Fabric: 69% nylon, 31% spandex | Compression: no | Special features: 7/8 length available, drawstring waistband
5: On Performance Tights
I’ve never been more thankful for On’s Performance Tights than I was while wearing them to run a 5K on a 19 degree winter day. Their thick fabric keeps my legs warm and protected from wind gusts, and their pockets hold all my essentials so I could easily access them. The waistband, which I tighten using the internal drawstring, also stays up without me having to adjust it much, letting me focus on my pace instead of what I was wearing.
Beyond the 5K, I’ve frequently worn these leggings, which have a mild amount of compression, during long distance runs through Central Park. They don’t hold onto moisture, so I’m always as comfortable at the end of my run as I am at the beginning. They’re a fine choice for indoor runs on the treadmill, but they really shine during outdoor jogs in the colder weather.
If you’re not a runner, these leggings might not be the best option for you, which is why they’re not closer to number one on our list. They aren’t super stretchy, so I don’t recommend wearing them for workouts like barre, yoga and Pilates when you need flexibility. However, I’ve lifted weights in them after a jog and felt supported. So if you’re a runner who likes to mix in strength training before or after you get a few miles in, or you hit the pavement despite near freezing temperatures, On’s Performance Tights should be a staple in your closet. – Zoe Malin, reporter
Fabric: 75% recycled polyester, 25% elastane | Compression: some | Special features: zippered back pocket, internal drawstring
4: Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise 7/8 Legging
These are almost perfect: they’re supportive but not restrictive, have well-made seams that don’t feel as if they could split apart with any wash and come with a thick waistband that keeps them in place. I rarely have to tug on these to keep them from falling down, plus the two side pockets are both deep and wide enough to easily hold a phone or Airpods case. The only reason they’re not higher on the list is because they’re on the thicker side. If you overheat or tend to run hot, these might not be ideal for you during a steamy yoga session in the summer — otherwise you really can’t go wrong. – Lindsay Schneider, editor
Fabric: 75% nylon, 25% lycra elastane | Compression: some | Special features: UPF 40+, side pockets, petite & tall sizing available
3: Spanx Booty Boost Side Pocket Leggings
As someone who goes to multiple workout classes a week, I have very specific requirements when it comes to a good pair of leggings: they need to be supportive, compressive (especially around the stomach), sag-free and quick-drying. These fit the bill.
The fabric is thick, stretchy and flattering in all the right places. My stomach, hips and legs look perfectly toned when I’m wearing these, and I feel comfortable pairing them with a sports bra or tight workout shirt without feeling self conscious. The waistband has a unique sloping shape that’s slimming, too. Plus, the thicker fabric isn’t see-through and doesn’t sag.
Since they have a tighter fit, I don’t typically wear these to lounge around my house or when I want to feel cozy running errands. I also find them to be a bit harder to put on since they run quite tight, which is what held these back from ranking in our top two.
At 5 feet 3 inches, I like the 7/8 length because it sits just above my ankle. Most full-length leggings tend to feel uncomfortably long and bunch up at my ankles, making me feel shorter than I already am. (If you’re shorter than me, these leggings will likely feel more full length than 7/8 length.) The deep side pocket is another huge bonus since I walk to the gym — I can store my phone, keys and lip balm without needing to carry a large gym bag.
I’ll admit the price tag is a little jarring. They’re over $100, which is much more than I would typically spend on a pair of black leggings. However, the durability and comfort make it well worth it, in my opinion. – Mili Godio, updates editor
Fabric: 64% nylon, 36% elastane | Compression: yes | Special features: side pockets
2: Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight with Pockets 25”
These leggings are always close to the top of my drawer because they truly have it all: a drawstring, a breathable, sweat-wicking fabric, two side pockets and an additional hidden pocket in the waistband. They’re equally perfect for reformer Pilates sessions and strength training in the gym.
The number one issue I tend to have with leggings is that they slide down, but the waistband drawstring lets me secure these in place with no issues. The inner pocket is also great for when I want to travel light and not bring a gym bag with me.
My favorite thing about these leggings is the fabric. I hate being hot and these don’t trap heat and instead, feel incredibly breathable, giving my legs that cool breeze sensation. The four way stretch fabric is also flattering, making me feel more confident when I’m wearing them.
I was lucky enough to test these and our number one choice pair, which are a bit more supportive and have slightly better moisture wicking capabilities, though these are definitely a close second. These aren’t cheap, but I’ve had these for over a year and they’re still as great as when I first got them. – Rebecca Rodriguez, editorial projects manager
Fabric: 77% nylon, 23% lycra elastane | Compression: no | Special features: side pockets, hidden waistband pocket, waistband drawstring, 3 inseam options: 23 in., 25 in., 28 in.
1: Nike Go Firm Support High Rise Leggings
As someone who’s been a runner for a decade, I’m very aware of my legging pet peeves: waistbands that constantly slip down, no moisture-wicking abilities and thin, unsupportive material. These Nike leggings don’t have any of those issues, which is why they’re our number one pick.
I rely on them whether I’m running four or 10 miles, and throw them on for HIIT workouts, including hot yoga. The wide, smooth waistband lays flat against my body and doesn’t move around much so I don’t have to constantly readjust it. It also has a drawstring and a little clasp that locks the fit in place. Plus, the leggings have six pockets, including some with zipper closures forkeys, cash, extra hair ties and phone, plus a couple hand warmers during the winter.
My favorite thing about these leggings is their compressive material, which feels neoprene-like and similar to the fabric a wetsuit is made from. It’s supportive while still being flexible, so it doesn’t restrict my movement at all. The material also dries incredibly quickly — these are one of the most moisture-wicking leggings I’ve ever worn, making them better than all the other options on our list for sweaty, high intensity workouts. And despite the material being a bit thicker, it never makes me hot.
These come in mid-rise and high-waisted fits, as well as three different lengths, including tall options so there’s a legging for body types of all shapes and sizes. — Zoe Malin, reporter
Fabric: 68% nylon, 32% spandex | Compression: yes | Special features: side pockets, waistband drawstring, 3 inseam options: cropped, 7/8 and full-length, two waistbands available: (mid-rise, high-waisted
Why trust NBC Select?
Lindsay Schneider is an editor for NBC Select with more than 8 years of experience in the lifestyle journalism space. For this package, our staff tested more than 50 pairs of leggings over eight weeks to find our favorites. We considered various options from popular workout brands and well-known retailers and ranked our top contenders based on a series of qualitative feedback and quantitative data.
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