Leggings might as well be my actual skin. They’re my uniform for everything, from working out to working from home to working up an appetite. The best leggings rise to the challenge. But finding those can feel like an Olympic sport. I’ve tested countless pairs, searching for the perfect ones, and not all are great. Some compress you like a sausage casing, others sag into shapeless blobs after one wash, and the worst? The ones that look amazing until the light hits just right and suddenly they’re see-through.
This guide features the pairs of leggings WIRED staffers and I keep on heavy rotation. They’ve been through the wringer—squats, sprints, and endless hours on the couch—and they’ve come out unscathed. Our top picks are more than just multifunctional; they’re stylish enough to wear outside the gym, built to handle repeat wash cycles, and comfortable enough to wear all day. We also prioritized thoughtful details like zippered pouches for your keys, deep side pockets for your phone, and wide waistbands that don’t roll or dig into your skin.
For more apparel recommendations, check out our Best Running Shoes, Best Hoodies, and Best Merino Wool Clothes guides.
Updated April 2025: I added Alo Yoga’s High-Waist Airlift Legging, Forme’s Sculpt+Legging, Set Active’s AirLuxe Breathe Leggings, CRZ Yoga Butterluxe High-Waisted Leggings 28″, and Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise Legging as new picks. Prices and links were also updated.
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