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Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. Girlfriend Collective high-rise compression leggings made from recycled water bottles, so you can look good *and* feel great about the activewear you put on your body.
Girlfriend Collective is a favorite on our team — I actually have three pairs of these leggings and love them so much. They are compressive without making my legs feel like sausages and stay in place during my most intense workouts. I've been recommending them to all my friends because the leggings (and the company behind them) are great.
Promising review: "These leggings are in constant use. So comfortable I wear them everywhere!" —Elena H.
"I love these so much I want to wear them all the time. V good level of compression and stretch for my bar workouts." —Ruth L.
Get them from Girlfriend Collective for $108 (available in sizes XXS–6XL, three lengths, and eight colors).
And read one BuzzFeeder's full review of Girlfriend Collective's leggings here.
2. Seamless leggings to help ensure you have a ~seamless~ workout and don't have to stop mid-set to adjust the waistband that's been distracting you (or double check in the mirror that nothing's showing when you bend over).
Promising review: "These are great for the gym! They do not pill, they provide very comfy stomach compression, and are squat-proof. They are also very comfy to wear just to relax." —Kylie Schmitz
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 11 colors, patterns, and styles).
3. A Beyond Yoga spacedye pair made with the dreamiest fabric, so you'll be able to do countless downward dogs in yoga class without fear that the person behind you will get a little show of their own.
Promising review: "The leggings are so soft, and I love the space color too. Also, the leggings do stay on my tail when doing squats. I would definitely recommend them, and I’m going to buy another pair." —Leah Y.
Get them from Beyond Yoga for $73.99+ (originally $98; available in sizes XXS–XXL and 26 colors).
4. Solid leggings that will always be a ~solid~ choice (just ask the more than 18,000 people who left 5-star ratings). You can wear these for everything from taking a cute gym selfie to an epic hike on vacation.
Promising review: "I work out several times a week and work from home, so yoga pants are a staple! I am cheap, so I struggle to dish out too much for anything. I saw these on a listicle and thought I would give them a shot. I wore them for three days. LOL! I am 5' 5", very muscular with pretty short legs and a long torso, my only thoughts are these are a little high and a little long, but not enough to discourage me from buying another pair, which I just did! I ordered black the first time, and they completely pass the squat test. Big fan, would recommend!" —Santa
Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL, 22 colors and styles, and packs of two).
5. Pocket leggings with a secure, no-slip fit so you won't have to worry about stopping every five minutes to adjust your pants and can focus on more important things.
Superfit Hero is a female-founded small business focusing on creating activewear in inclusive sizing that fits well. All of their clothing is offered in sizes L–7XL. Everything is ethically made in Los Angeles, California.
Promising review: "I love these leggings! Comfortable, wash well, and have the perfect amount of compression." —Jennifer W.
Get them from SuperFit Hero for $98 (available in sizes L–7X and in three colors).
6. High-waist leggings so versatile, you can wear them for lounging around, working out, or even out of the house, no matter the occasion.
Promising review: "Wow! I was extremely skeptical of these leggings considering they’re a 'one size fits all' type of deal. I am 5-foot-5 and curvier. I was worried they were going to be too tight or see-through. However, that’s not the case! They are not see-through even after three washes so far. They are extremely soft and comfortable. The only thing I noticed is they are more of a muted black compared to some of my other leggings, but it’s barely noticeable. I liked them so much I ordered a second pair. Def would recommend!" —nichole campton
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in one size and plus size, three types, and in 22 colors and patterns).
7. An Athleta Salutation tight designed to be more supportive than your friends when you tell them you're thinking about shaving your head. When you wear these leggings, you'll feel like you're getting a gentle hug, and how nice is that?
Promising review: "These leggings are honestly the best! As a bigger girl, it's difficult to find leggings that stay put and are squat proof. These hit both! The material is super soft and buttery, and the pockets are a great touch. This is my first purchase from Athleta, but it certainly won't be my last!!" —anonymous
Get them from Athleta for $34.97+ (originally $109; available in sizes XXS–3X, regular, tall, and petite, three lengths, and in 10 colors).
8. A full-length pair that are actually made to feel like you're not wearing anything at all — yeah, they're THAT comfortable.
Promising review: "Love love love these! Super soft. They stay in place and pass the squat test. I was so impressed I went back for a tank.... and after the tank two more pair of leggings. I honestly can't think of many cons. They may be a wee bit long on my 5'4 frame but don't look awkward." —Elizabeth
Get them from Amazon for $26+ (available in sizes XXS–XL and 24 colors and patterns).
9. An Old Navy PowerSoft style in a tie-dye color to help you make a statement, and that statement is that you're a fun person who likes to wear fun workout clothes you can move in.
10. A pair of seamless leggings many reviewers say are great alternatives for more expensive pairs — but that doesn't mean that the quality is lacking. You'll be able to do as many squats, lunges, and deadlifts as your heart desires.
Promising reviews: "These leggings look like other high end leggings but without the high price tag. They’re soft and passed the squat test. They have a thick waist band. However, the rest of it doesn’t because it’s not compression material. I did sweat, and they didn’t look horrible. I got the blue color, so if you don’t want sweat to show, go for a darker color." —juliana
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 20 colors and patterns).
11. A pair of Lululemon Wunder train tights combining comfort and support (minus any pilling) into one great pair you can wear for years.
There's a lot of buzz around Lululemon leggings and if they're worth it. Well, let me tell you that these are one of my favorite pairs of leggings I've ever owned. I also have a pair of their Aligns, which are supposed to be everyone's favorite, and while I like them, I LOVE this style. These leggings are so comfortable yet supportive. I've worn them for every type of workout, including dance classes, weight lifting, and even yoga. I've had them for more than a year, they haven't pilled at all, which is something I cannot say about my Align leggings. I know these are a bit pricey for leggings, but I think this style is totally worth it.
Promising review: "These are my favorite kind of Lululemon leggings. They stay up well, do not pill, and are completely squat-proof. I have them in numerous colors, and I love them all." —Abby
Get them from Lululemon for $98+ (available in sizes 0–20, four lengths, and two colors).
12. A DYM Athletics seamless legging people may mistake for a more expensive brand...but that's kind of the point. These leggings are high quality, made with buttery soft fabric, and stay in place, without you having shell out the big bucks. It's what we like to call the best of both worlds.
DYM Athletics is a woman-owned small business offering high-quality active and athleisure wear.
Promising review: "I bought a few pairs, and I've shopped different brands, and by far DYM is one of my favorites. These leggings are squat-proof, so soft, and make me feel great in them. True to size. 10/10. (:" —Cassie
Get it from DYM Athletics for $24+ (originally $58; available in sizes XS–XL and in six colors).
13. Capri patterned leggings that come in solid colors or a butterfly-inspired print. But just be careful because these comfortable and functional bottoms might ~fly~ right out of your clean laundry pile every single time.
Promising review: "These are the best leggings!! Great fabrics and seams. I was concerned about them being 'see through', but they were not! They also passed the squat test! Very pleased! It’s so hard to find plus size workout clothes. I will definitely be ordering from this company again." –Elaine
Get them from Amazon for $11.90+ (available in sizes 1X–5X, and five colors and patterns).
14. A pair of textured leggings that'll accentuate your favorite ass-et and make you so feel good as hell, you'll probably do a couple of squats and start singing Lizzo the second you put them on.
Promising reviews: "I LOVE these leggings! My thighs are really muscular and this fabric fits great. They definitely pass the squat test — not see through at all. I’m not typically one to buy colored leggings either, but I got the dark green (love it!) and now I need one of each color!" —Amazon Customer
"I love these leggings!! I’m a personal trainer, and I wear leggings all day, every day, so I’ve gotten to the point where I’m super picky about them. I ordered a pair after admiring these on a coworker — and learning of the very affordable price! I loved them so much that I went back for three more pairs. They are sooooo comfortable, excellent quality for the price, and definitely squat-proof (not see-through!). But my favorite thing is the magical little scrunch at the bum that actually gives my tiny, ectomorph bum the roundness and pop that I have been working towards! When I wear them, I just want to stare at my own butt because I can’t believe how good it looks! I think the four pairs I have right now are not enough so I’m gonna have to get some more colors. I LOVE THESE LEGGINGS 🍑🔥🍑🔥🍑🔥" —Jill Hill
Get them from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in sizes XS–4X and in 15 colors and styles).
15. A sparkly pair that are practically perfect in every way because they're stretchy, squat-proof, and have pockets. Yeah, I think even Mary Poppins would approve of them.
Senita Athletics is a woman-owned small business that has been creating affordable and functional activewear since 2015. The products are designed with small details, such as pockets on the sides of most of their leggings and shorts and a back pocket on the sports bra that fits a phone.
Promising review: "It looks small when you first take it out of the package but putting it on was not a struggle and it’s extremely soft has a nice thickness to it but not too thick! I can’t get over how soft it is and it even has pockets!!!" —Seanna F.
Get them from Senita Athletics for $25+ (originally $45; available in sizes XS–XXL and in 14 colors).
16. A pair of Terez TLC leggings worth the splurge because they're made to stand the test of time. The waistband has no elastic, so it won't dig in, and the material is super soft — you may find yourself wearing these even on your rest days.
Promising review: "Great fit, love the high waist band, great quality, fabric, and worth every penny. Not cheap, see-through leggings like so many. You might want to size up. I typically wear an M, but I order an L in these, and they fit perfectly." —Terez Customer
Get them from Terez for $116 (available in sizes XXS–XL and in three colors).
17. High-rise patterned leggings with a four-way stretch fabric that will be ideal for any kind of movement you may have on your schedule for the day.
18. Bold, bright leggings so you can express your personal style even as you do your HIIT class in your garage.
19. A pair of smooth organic cotton leggings designed with movement in mind so you know you'll be 100% comfortable wearing them. The waistband is also cotton so it won't dig into your skin. Plus, they'll look great styled with your fave tops because of the lovely ruched ankle design, which gives them a more elegant look than regular leggings.
20. Mesh leggings, because these are see-through in all the trendiest places. The mesh design makes a statement, while the side pockets hold all your essentials. The perfect balance of fashion and function.
21. A pair of high-waisted leggings with a gusseted crotch and butt scrunch, so you can have a cute and comfy Leg Day.
22. A pair of cross-waist leggings that will be perfect for the gym but also look stylish enough for everyday life.
23. A pair of flared leggings that combine comfort with convenience, since their breezier silhouette is ultra soft and made for movement and their tiny back and inseam pockets are perfect for your little bits and bobbles.
Promising review: "I'm a plus size girl and have trouble finding great fit and great quality...I found both with these yoga pants. They fit perfectly in the waist and hips as well as great length!!!! I am happy and will order more. 😊" –Cheri
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (clip the coupon on the product page to get it for $28.49; available in sizes S–3XL, four inseam lengths, and 21 colors).
24. A pair of cotton leggings if you're not a fan of super-tight, constricting leggings that squeeze your body like there's no tomorrow. These are made of stretchy cotton with an elastic waistband, making them the ideal lounge-around pants.
25. Faux-leather leggings for the showstoppers among us! But don't worry, these still offer four-way stretch.
26. High-waisted leggings that have side and waist pockets to hold your essentials. Reviewers said their phones stayed in place during each of their workouts.
27. A pair of Levi's skinny jeggings because sometimes you want to give the illusion of putting on real pants.
28. A pair of patterned-panel leggings, so you can take a break from the plain black leggings look, but also have more versatility than a leggings with an all-over pattern.
29. A pair of ultra-soft high-rise leggings so comfortable you won't want to take them off even after a long workout. (But you probably should, because you're stinky!!)
30. A pair of hybrid leggings and joggers for when you have a gym session right after work. Pair these with a blouse and oxfords for the office *or* another workout top for a sweat session!
Promising review: "I work from home and now I only want to wear these pants. They are super comfy and very versatile. Perfect for a casual look, working out, traveling, or as just mentioned, working from home. Definitely my new fave." —Alejandra V.
Get them from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in sizes S–3X, three lengths/fits, and in 32 colors).
31. Water-resistant fleece-lined leggings because, even in the summer, lots of hiking trails, especially in the mountains, can get deceptively cold. With these, you won't freeze your tush off before you reach the summit.
Promising review: "These were so much more comfortable and warmer than expected! They feel amazing on. The material is so soft inside and out. I wore them to a football game where there was a chance of rain. My legs weren’t cold at all! I’ll be buying more of these!" —Sunshinegurrl
Get them from Amazon for $29.98+ (available in sizes S–5XL and in six colors).
32. A pair of full-length, high-waisted leggings with plenty of stretch ~and~ support because you probably don't need to spend $90 on a pricier version when you can get these for less than 40 big ones! Savings and style? Please and thank you!
Promising review: "These leggings are absolutely awesome. They are very stretchy and comfortable. They don’t slide down at all throughout the day. I love the high waist and smooth, soft material. I have now bought three of them and wear them all the time!" —Alice
"My favorite thing about these leggings is that they are high-waisted and do not roll down. You can bend, squat, stretch, and they don’t budge, but are not too tight. I do size up one from my normal size because I don’t like them too snug. However, I would say they are true to size. They are very comfortable, and they do make a line that has pockets, although these do not. I own many pairs of these and have washed repeatedly and they wash up and hold up very nicely. Very affordable for the quality you receive." —Lisa Re
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XXS–XXL, two lengths, and in 22 colors).
33. A pair of colorful leggings that come in 24 different colors if you're tired of the black leggings you've had since 2017 and want to spice things up a little bit.
Promising review: "These leggings are AMAZING! Not only are they soft, comfortable, and squat-proof, but they look so good on! I have a hard time finding leggings that are big enough around the thighs/butt area but fitting enough around the waistline. I can’t believe the price and the fact that my new favorite leggings are from Amazon." —MLK
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 30 colors).
34. A pair of stretchy faux-leather leggings if you want to go straight from a day at the office to a night out on the town without having to swing home and change up your look.
Promising review: "These leggings are amazing. They’re stylish and so comfortable. I can use them on a night out or just to amp up my everyday look. Love them!" —Amazon Customer
"Super great quality. Fits true to size. Great price. Passes the squat test! :)" —Lisa
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and three colors).
35. A four-pack of high-waisted leggings because there's a pair for every day you plan to work out. These have a four-way stretch and are made for lounging or working out. Those are just a couple of reasons why these have 3,000+ 5-star reviews!
36. Or a three-pack of leggings with pockets because you always need a place to keep things like extra hair ties, your phone, and lip balm when you're out and about.
37. Velour leggings that'll let you feel like you're wearing pajamas while making you look like a fashion icon.
38. Offline by Aerie high-waisted pocket leggings that will hold all of your essentials AND make sure no one sees anything they shouldn't while you're swatting at the gym.
39. A ruffled capri legging so you can go from barre to brunch without changing your 'fit. They're perfect for doing downward dog and downing iced coffees.
40. A pair of sculpting leggings with four-way stretch that'll stay in place while you work out. Plus, they have a smoothing panel for comfort and style.
41. A pair of quick-drying leggings so you can break a sweat without worrying about having to deal with uncomfy wet leggings til you get home from the gym or your run.
42. A pair of scalloped leggings because nobody else at the gym will be wearing them. Thanks to the cute scalloped hem and waist, you'll never want to take them off.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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Courtney Cummings is a shopping editor at BuzzFeed, helping people find everything from whimsical treat-like products to cleaners they never knew they needed and now can’t imagine living without. Before she was an editor, she freelanced for the BuzzFeed shopping and pop culture verticals, contributed to Seattle Met Magazine, and kept seriously up to date with her own Bachelor recaps. When she's not editing or scouring the web for new products, she's rewatching New Girl, devouring fantasy novels, or dreaming about hiking and camping in the PNW.
Courtney Hayes is a freelancer who has been writing for BuzzFeed Shopping since 2019, covering a wide range of topics including home decor, fashion, beauty and skincare, gift guides, pet products, and more. When she's not online shopping, she's thrifting, exploring new restaurants in Durham, North Carolina, and trying to get her dogs to behave.
Gabrielle Moss is a former editor who has been writing for BuzzFeed Shopping since 2020, where she's focused on everything from home decor to beauty to where to buy the world's most comfortable high heels.