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.
Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting that’s too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today.
Photograph: Athleta Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise Legging The Salutation Stash leggings are made from Athleta’s Powervita fabric, a buttery material that offers light compression for when you’re heading to yoga or Pilates—or lounging like you might work out later. I wear these to heated workouts. They’re one of the few pairs that don’t feel soggy afterward, which, if you’ve ever done hot yoga in the wrong leggings, you’ll know is nothing short of a miracle. The high-rise waistband stays put, and with a UPF rating of 40+, they offer decent sun protection for outdoor activities too. Some shoppers have said that the pocket stitching can pucker over time, but it hasn’t been an issue for me (yet). 75 percent nylon, 25 percent lycra. Available in sizes XXS through 3X.
Best Overall
Photograph: Vuori Vuori Daily Pocket Legging I’ve put the Vuori Daily Pocket Legging through just about everything, from hot Pilates and indoor cycling classes to grocery runs and Bravo TV marathons, and they’ve kept up every step of the way. I love the drawstring that lets me tweak the fit as my body fluctuates throughout the day. The ⅞-length cut, cuffed ankles, and high-rise waistband give these a refined silhouette. An updated model of the popular Daily Legging, these come with side pockets—because the best leggings must have pockets. My one gripe is that they’re a magnet for pet hair and lint, but for their versatility and comfort, I’ll keep a lint roller on standby. 72 percent polyester, 28 percent elastane. Available in sizes XXS through XXL.-SOURCE-Vuori.jpg)
Most Versatile
