Leggings have their origins deep in workout gear. They are great for stretching, running, or hitting those yoga poses. Although they’ve moved outside the gym to everyday closets, leggings are still the go-to for women’s fitness.
These bottoms have persisted for years for several good reasons. They are comfortable, versatile, and fit different body sizes and types. This article will dive into the five best workout leggings and how to choose them.
Table of Contents
A quick look at the women’s leggings market
Best workout leggings: 5 options for active women
What to consider when choosing the best workout leggings
Rounding up
A quick look at the women’s leggings market
Leggings have been a favorite for many fitness enthusiasts for ages, so it’s no surprise that they are one of the most popular markets today. Experts say the global leggings market will reach US$ 74.8 billion by 2032, growing at a 5.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The market’s major driver is the increasing demand for comfortable, versatile outfits.
The same report also states that Asia Pacific will register higher growth over the forecast period. The region will be dominant thanks to the rising wellness and fitness culture among its younger population.
Best Workout leggings: 5 options for active women
1. Knee-length leggings
When the weather heats up, many women see it as the perfect opportunity to switch to knee-length leggings. They offer more coverage than shorts but are cooler than regular, full-length leggings. For this reason, ladies can comfortably work up a sweat even on hot summer days.
Their breathability and comfort extend to outdoor activities like hikes and runs. Knee-length leggings are the perfect way to offer consumers performance and everyday style.
2. Compression leggings
Compression leggings are the best workout options. They are tight and sculpting, which makes them worthy of the nickname “shaper leggings.” But that’s not all their tightness offers.
The real reason behind these leggings’ “compression” is to help boost the wearer’s blood flow to their muscles and improve circulation. Working out in these bottoms can help women push through workouts and even reduce fatigue after working up a sweat–it’s all about performance!
Note: Compression leggings are not great for lounging, so avoid marketing them. They are perfect for workouts but not all-day wear.
3. Nylon leggings
Most sports leggings feature spandex and polyester, but nothing beats nylon. It’s tough and lightweight, and women can say goodbye to wrinkles. Plus, it’s got the perfect stretch and moisture-wicking power that keeps wearers dry during their workouts.
However, nylon is not quite feasible on its own. That’s why manufacturers blend it with other synthetic fabrics to make it more comfortable, especially as consumers wash it. But be sure to include the water temperature requirements, as washing nylon leggings in the wrong settings can shrink them.
4. Crossover leggings
Crossover variants are among the best options for ladies who want something different from the usual high-waisted leggings. With a v-shaped waistband, they’ve recently become one of the hottest design trends—and even went viral.
The magic of crossover leggings is all in the fit. They slim the wearer’s waist and highlight their curves, giving them that extra-flattering look. Plus, they pair perfectly with sports bras and crop tops, whether consumers are hitting the gym or running errands.
5. Wool leggings
A list of the best leggings won’t be complete without discussing wool leggings. They’re a must-have for women after something cozy this winter. Thanks to their thermo-regulating magic, wool leggings are perfect for hiking or staying warm while working out outdoors.
Additionally, wool leggings are 100% breathable and incredibly easy to clean. But that’s not even the best part. They’re also one of the most eco-friendly options available, meaning consumers can stay warm while feeling good about their choice.
What to consider when choosing the best workout leggings
1. Length
Choosing the right legging length depends on consumers’ comfort and working conditions. If it’s chilly, women will want more coverage to stay warm. But if it’s the opposite or ladies prefer less fabric, shorter leggings are their go-to. Here’s a tip: Stock different lengths to appeal to various women’s activities and weather conditions. See the table below for the different legging sizes to consider:
| Length | Uses |
| Full-length leggings | This length is perfect for cold-weather workouts and consumers looking for maximum coverage. |
| 7/4 leggings | If consumers don’t think full-length looks fit their frame or prefer some that are a bit shorter, they’ll love this length. |
| ¾ leggings | This length is great for women looking for something with less coverage but not too short. |
| Capri leggings | This length sits just below the knee, appealing to consumers seeking freedom of movement. |
| Bike shorts | This short length is the best option for comfortably working out in warm weather. |
2. The consumer’s preferred activity
Since workouts often require different forms or movements, women will choose their preferred pair based on the activity they plan on doing. Here’s a look at different legging requirements for various activities.
| Activity type | Description |
| Running | Consumers into this technology will need leggings with sweat-wicking technology to keep them comfortable for longer. These leggings should also have pockets to allow women to carry important items on their runs. |
| HIIT | If women prefer HIIT, they will look for leggings with waistband grippers to stop them from falling off during fast-paced movements. |
| Gym | Gym activities call for leggings with merrow-style stitching. These offer the most comfortable, durable seams, reducing weakening or stretching over time. |
| Studio | These activities work best with shaping leggings, contour seaming supporting different postures, and flat flush seaming strategically placed to reduce chafing during long sessions. |
3. Features
What’s a workout experience without leggings with extra features? Depending on the consumer’s preferred workout type, these features are necessary for convenience and comfort. Here’s what to look for:
- Pocket: Do consumers prefer bringing essentials to their sweat sessions? They will want leggings with well-placed pockets.
- Drawstrings: No one wants their leggings to fall when working out. Thankfully, drawstrings can help tighten the fit, especially with an adjustable waistband, for a hassle-free experience.
- Mesh panels: Although mesh looks flattering on the legs, they are not there for only style. Mesh panels are responsible for cooling areas notorious for sweat, keeping consumers comfortable throughout their workout.
- Internal gripper: If drawstrings alone don’t cut it for consumers, they can go with internal grippers instead. Leggings with this feature is great for keeping the waistband secure during explosive and sporadic movements.
Rounding up
The leggings market offers a lot of variety, with each option having special benefits to help improve workout sessions. Whether women are doing aerobics at the gym, hiking their favorite trails, or lounging, leggings are comfortable and supportive enough to handle all kinds of activities.
Remember to consider the factors discussed here before stocking the five workout leggings in this article. That way, businesses will ensure they offer what their target customers are looking for and make more sales.
