How to Choose Workout Leggings — Complete Guide
How to Choose Workout Leggings — Complete Guide
You know the feeling — you buy leggings, they look great, but after your first squat they suddenly become see-through. Or after a month of working out, the knees are baggy and the waistband keeps sliding down. Frustrating.
Choosing the right workout leggings isn't just about what looks good on Instagram. It's about functionality, comfort, and being able to focus on your training — not on whether your pants are falling down.
In this guide, we'll show you everything you need to know: from materials to fit, and how to tell quality leggings from ones that barely survive their first wash.
Why Does Choosing the Right Leggings Matter?
Leggings aren't just "workout pants." The right leggings can actually help you train better:
- Muscle support — compression leggings improve blood flow and reduce fatigue
- Freedom of movement — the right fit doesn't restrict you during squats, lunges, or deadlifts
- Moisture wicking — quality material keeps you dry
- Confidence — when you know you look good and everything stays in place, you train with more confidence
Materials — What Works and What Doesn't
Material is the foundation. Here's an overview of what you'll encounter:
Polyester
The most common material in fitness apparel. Pros: dries quickly, wicks sweat well, holds shape. Con: can be less breathable than natural materials. Ideal for intense training.
Nylon (Polyamide)
Softer to the touch than polyester, conforms better to the body. More resistant to abrasion — great for exercises where the material rubs against a mat or bench.
Elastane (Spandex/Lycra)
This is what gives leggings their stretch. Most quality leggings contain 15-25% elastane. Less = less flexibility and faster stretching out. More = better compression and shape retention.
Cotton — Why to Skip It
Great for everyday wear, not for working out. Cotton absorbs sweat, becomes heavy and uncomfortable. Plus, it loses shape quickly. If you see "100% cotton" on fitness leggings, move on.
Fit and Waist Height — What Suits You?
High-waist
Currently the most popular fit, and for good reason. High waist:
- Stays in place even during intense movement
- Provides core support
- Visually lengthens legs
- Covers the belly area, if you prefer that
Mid-rise
Classic for those who don't like high waist. Sits at navel level. Less restrictive feel, but be careful — it can slide down during squats.
Low-rise
Sits below the navel. Less popular nowadays, mainly due to the tendency to fall during exercises. More suitable for yoga or light cardio.
Compression vs Regular Leggings
Compression leggings fit tightly against the body and create pressure on the muscles. Benefits:
- Better muscle blood flow
- Reduced muscle fatigue
- Support during strength training
Regular leggings are looser and more comfortable for longer wear. Ideal for:
- Yoga and stretching
- Casual wear outside the gym
- Light cardio training
How to Choose the Right Size
Most common mistake? Buying according to your regular clothing size. Fitness leggings have their own sizing logic.
How to Measure Yourself Correctly
- Waist circumference — measure at the narrowest point (usually above the navel)
- Hip circumference — at the widest point across the buttocks
- Leg length — from crotch to ankle (for full-length leggings)
Tip: When in doubt between two sizes, choose the smaller one — leggings will stretch. A larger size will slide down.
5 Things to Watch Out for When Choosing
1. Squat Test (Transparency)
Before buying (if possible) or right after unpacking, do a simple test: wearing the leggings, bend forward or squat in front of a mirror. If you can see your underwear, return them.
2. Seams
Quality leggings have flat seams that don't chafe the skin. Thick or protruding seams = chafing during longer workouts.
3. Waistband
A wide waistband (min. 7-10 cm) holds better and doesn't dig in. Bonus: elastic or silicone strips on the inside.
4. Pocket
Might seem like a small thing, but try working out without a pocket for your phone or keys. Ideally a side pocket that doesn't interfere with movement.
5. Material Recovery
Stretch the material and let go. Quality leggings snap back immediately. If they stay stretched, after a few wears they'll have "bags" at the knees.
Conclusion
Choosing workout leggings isn't rocket science, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Material > brand (look for polyester/nylon + elastane)
- High-waist holds best for strength training
- Always do the squat test before wearing
- Invest in quality — cheap leggings cost you more (when you have to buy them every 3 months)
If you're looking for leggings that meet all these criteria, check out our collection. We designed them specifically for people who take their training seriously.
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