TOP 17 Best Workout Leggings for Women 2024 (Gym Style!)

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TOP 17 Best Workout Leggings for Women Reviewed 2024 (Gym Style!)

Looking for the best women’s workout leggings of 2024? Look no further!

Here are 17 of the best workout leggings for women that WON’T:

  • Show your bum when you bend over.
  • Creep down and need constant adjustment.
  • Pill up or lose elasticity.

And best of all, these 17 workout leggings for women WILL:

  • Look great!
  • Stay up without adjusting.
  • Last a long time.

TOP 17 Best Women’s Workout Leggings of 2024

Nike Women's Pro Cool Training Tights

Review: Nike Pro cool leggings are great whether you choose the sweltering Hot Yoga class or choose to work out on in a packed crowded gym, these ladies gym tights will help you keep your cool.

They incorporate sweat-wicking, heat dissipating technology that hugs your curves and stay up, so you are not constantly adjusting.

Pros

  • Long inseam – good for tall ladies.
  • NOT see-thru, even when you bend.
  • DriFit technology keeps you dry and cool.

Cons

  • No pockets.

Takeaway

Stay cool, look cool in these Nike Pro Cool tights.

Lululemon High Times Pants

lululemon High Times Pant Full On Luon 7/8 Yoga Pants (Black, 8)
  • Lululemon designed these pants to help us move from Hatha to happy hour, no questions asked. With a high-rise fit that keeps us covered as we bend, twist and sip, these pants, formerly known as the Wunder Under High-Rise Pant and now called the Wunder Under Hi-Rise 7/8 Tight, have our back when post-practice drinks turn into impromptu dance parties.
  • Luon fabric is four-way stretch, sweat-wicking and gives incredible support and coverage. Added LYCRA fibre bends with you and stays in great shape.
  • The smooth, wide waistband lies flat against your skin. Flat seams help keep chafe in check—go ahead, bust a move.
  • 7/8 length is bike-friendly and stays out of your way. Stash your keys and gym pass in our signature waistband pocket.
  • Luon 92% Nylon, 8% Lycra Elastane.

Review: Soft and lightweight, like a second skin, is how I would describe the Nulu fabric used to make these High Times workout pants.

They are high waisted and offer just a bit of compression so you will always be comfortable, instead of tugging the waistband up or feeling it roll down.

Pros

  • Sweat-wicking 4-way stretch Super soft and light Nulu fabric.
  • High waist – stays put.
  • Inner waistband pocket for a key or cash stash.

Cons

  • Expensive.

Takeaway

Like second skin – best women’s high waisted workout leggings.

90 Degree By Reflex Power Flex Leggings

90 Degree By Reflex - High Waist Powerflex Legging - Tummy Control - Violet Storm - Medium
  • Power Flex Fabric. Our 28” athleisure leggings are squat proof and will keep you covered whether you bend, squat, or lunge. The 87% Nylon 13% Spandex/88% Nylon 12% Spandex fabric was developed to endure everyday wear and machine washings to last for years. No matter how you move, our exercise leggings will move with you and never dig in or chafe uncomfortably. Customers have been seeking a thick, lasting, durable legging, and we created what they were looking for!
  • Slimming High Waistband. Our yoga leggings have a stretchy high rise elastic waistband that will gently compress your midsection and streamline your silhouette. Muffin top is a thing of the past with these women’s active leggings that are comfortable and high quality. The high-rise waistband lies flat so it won't dig in or slide down. Best of all, there is a hidden key pocket in the elongated waistband that can store your credit card or an extra hair tie while you workout at the gym.
  • Hidden Waistband Pocket. Our athleisure leggings have a hidden pocket in the front waistband. If you’re traveling light, these are the yoga leggings for you. No need to carry a heavy purse or backpack. Simply keep your credit card, smartphone, or house keys in this pocket and you’re good to go. The logo adds fashion sense and visual interest to these otherwise solid colored leggings.
  • Innovative, technology-driven Features. All 90 Degree By Reflex leggings for women are constructed with the highest quality materials and are designed with our customers in mind. Our high compressive waistbands offer tummy control, our ankle length inseams prevent bunching at the ankles, and our thick and stretchy fabric provides freedom of movement while remaining squat proof.
  • 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. 90 Degree by Reflex’s products are sold with a 30-day, full-money-back warranty and can be returned no questions asked. Add these women’s leggings to your cart by clicking the "Add-to-Cart" button and buy it now. We run out of inventory quickly, so order now while colors and styles last.

Review: The budget-friendly and widely popular 90 Degree brand make these bestselling high waisted leggings that every woman should make part of her workout wardrobe.

They have good compression and tummy control and act as a two-in-one body shaper and gym pant in one.

You’re going to love the way they make you look!

Pros

  • Tummy flattening technology – shapes your tummy, thighs, and bum.
  • Great price.
  • Not at all see-thru.

Cons

  • Not consistent fit across all colors.

Takeaway

Great fit, great price! Best women’s gym leggings on a budget.

Reebok Women's Printed Capri Leggings

Review: These stylish Reebok Capris are 7/8 length, which makes then perfect for the air bike or spin class because they stay out of the way of the pedals.

They are made from thin sweat-wicking fabric that stays snug and feels like a second skin.

Pros

  • Snug fitting.
  • Wide waistband.
  • Stylish logo on back and right leg.

Cons

  • Narrow through the hips.

Takeaway

Great leggings for bike or spin class.

Under Armour Women's Fly-By Leggings

Under Armour Women's Fly-By Leggings
  • Super light HeatGear fabric delivers superior coverage without weighing you down
  • Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
  • 4 way stretch construction moves better in every direction
  • Anti-odor technology is a superlative innovation which helps prevents odor
  • Super breathable mesh leg panels to dump excess heat

Review: These Under Armor leggings are as cute as they are useful.

They have heat dissipating mesh panels at the calves to keep you cool, are made from black fabric with striking blue accents, and a little pocket to hold a key or stash of cash.

Pros

  • Ultralight fabric that still covers well.
  • Heat dissipating mesh panels.
  • Small pocket with key clip.

Cons

  • No pockets.

Takeaway

Best workout pants for women with a key clip.

Virus ECo42 Women’s Sonic Stay Cool Pants

Virus ECo42 Womens Sonic Stay Cool Compression Pants - Black/Teal Green (Black/Teal Green, X-Small)
  • 3 Inch Waistband
  • 26.5 Inch Inseam
  • Quick Dry Wicks Away Moisture and Sweat
  • Mesh Side Panels
  • New Internal Single Loop Non-Removable

Review: These Virus Stay Cool compression pants add just the right amount of snug fitting compression, paired with mesh strips across the thigh and sweat-wicking material so you stay cool.

The drawstring keeps the waistband secure, even under the strain of deep squats. These pants are a winner!

Pros

  • Compression fit.
  • Ventilation mesh panel keeps you cool.
  • Inside Drawstring means you always feel secure.

Cons

  • Seams on the mesh panels do not stretch.

Takeaway

Best training leggings for functional fitness like CrossFit and HIIT.

Vull Sport Essential Fold Over Hug Crop Tights

VULL SPORT Essential Fold Over Hug Crop Tights (Black, Medium
  • fight fatigue, soreness AND gravity
  • iving more compression at the lower contact points and gradually reducing as they hug the calves, quads and hips
  • The ultimate perfect-fit compression crop that feels like butter and wears like a glove
  • Fold over waistband allows for HIGH-OR-LOW waist wear
  • Made of completely opaque Italian compression approved for squatting

Review: Wear these gym leggings as a high waist or low waist, thanks to a folding waistband that allows you to choose.

These VULL leggings are crop style that sit at mid-calf for most women. Two things I really love about VULL leggings in general, they have great compression and they are squat proof – in other words not see-thru.

Pros

  • Compression leggings.
  • Crop style mid-calf cut.
  • Opaque – not see through even if you bend.

Cons

  • Expensive but worth it.

Takeaway

Best non see through workout leggings.

WOD Gear Clothing Crop Pants

WOD Gear Clothing Crop Pants

Review: These Capri style pants are versatile and comfortable. The Capri cut makes it ideal for the air bike, the material is opaque and will not become see-through as you squat or deadlift, and the pants have a 2-inch waistband that stays secure so you can focus on meeting your next PR (Personal record) instead of adjusting your leggings.

These are my choice for best women’s workout leggings for 2024.

Pros

  • Hidden waistband pocket.
  • Stylish ROGUE logo on the calf.
  • Opaque, won’t show through as you bend over.
  • Thin breathable material.

Cons

  • The rise is too low for some.

Takeaway

Best women’s workout pants for CrossFit and Functional fitness.

Looking for CrossFit shorts?

Check out the best CrossFit shorts for women here.

New Balance Women's Highrise Transform Tights

Review: I love, love, love these tights from New Balance. They feature breathable mesh strips at both the calves and thighs, and have a wide, comfortable high rise waist that stays up and covers well.

Pros

  • Mesh inserts at the calf and thigh to keep you cool.
  • Two large side pockets.
  • Sweat-wicking form fitting material.

Cons

  • Pockets are on the outside of the hip, not concealed in the waistband.

Takeaway

Great women’s workout leggings with pocket to hold your phone!

O'Neill Women's Motivate Capri

Review: Surfs up! Pick up a pair of these O’Neill women’s leggings when your workout is water based.

Great for surfing, sailing and even hiking or lounging, these versatile tights are a must-have for every beach lover out there.

Pros

  • Appropriate for beach or gym – made from durable Polyamide material.
  • Capri style mid-calf length.
  • Quick drying – great for water sports.

Cons

  • Not machine washable – simply hand wash and hang dry.

Takeaway

Best women’s workout leggings for the beach.

Adidas Women's Alphaskin Sport Long Tights

adidas Women's Alphaskin Sport Long Logo Tights, Black/White, Small
  • Compression fit molds to the body for a supportive feel
  • Long length
  • Alphaskin wraps the body to support dynamic movement and delivers a locked-in feel
  • Mesh insets for breathability
  • These tights are made with recycled polyester to save resources and decrease emissions

Review: I love these Alphaskin tights by Adidas because they offer a little energy returning compression.

They are made from multiple curve conforming panels and move like you do as you exercise. This prevents them from shifting and sliding, so you can keep your mind on your workout without worrying about adjusting your pants.

Pros

  • Compression fit.
  • Long inseam-perfect for long legs.
  • Alphaskin contoured panels for tights that move as you do.

Cons

  • Only available in one color – black.

Takeaway

The workout leggings that move with you and hug you in all the right places.

Bombsheller Badass Workout Leggings

Bombsheller Badass Performance Leggings (XS, UnicornVsDragon)
  • Printed and sewn at our factory in America
  • Fabric Fatale is 20% spandex/80% polyester from Italy
  • High-rise elastic waistband for squat proof fit that won't pull down
  • Photo quality graphics printed with dye sublimation
  • Machine wash cold, line dry

Review: What can I say? The illustration of the war between a unicorn and a wolf on these tights is pretty badass.

Besides how cool they look, they are functional as well, because looks aren’t everything ya’ know?

They have a high waist and decent elastic which keeps them up pretty well during squats and bending.

Pros

  • Sublimated printing, will not fade or wear.
  • You WILL receive tons of compliments.
  • Made in the USA.

Cons

  • Not machine washable – hand wash and hang dry.

Takeaway

Easily the most badass women’s tights out there – they are THE BOMB!

Roxy Women's Relay Capri Pants

Roxy Women's Relay Capri Pants, Sea Salt Jungle Times, Large
  • Quick drying fabric
  • Recycled nylon fabric
  • Extra life chlorine resistant lycra fabric
  • Excellent shape recovery
  • Fold over waistband

Review: There are two things I really love about these Roxy Relay leggings.

There is a hidden zippered key pocket in the back so no more worrying about losing your keys and stuff.

They also have a subtle but useful drawstring tie in the front so you can be sure they stay up without adjusting.

Pros

  • Capri Cut.
  • Chlorine resistant – great for poolside activities.
  • Small, hidden zippered pocket in back.

Cons

  • Fabric is not super stretchy.
  • Runs small.

Takeaway

Whether your workout is on the water or at the gym, these leggings tick all the right boxes.

Lululemon Align Pant Full Length Yoga Pants

Sale
lululemon Womens Align Pant Full Length Yoga Pants, Black, 2
  • With a longer inseam than the original, these full length lightweight pants minimize distractions and maximize comfort. The high rise covers your core, lies smooth under tops and won't dig in.
  • Lightweight buttery soft Nulu fabric is four way stretch, sweat wicking and soft against your skin. Added LYCRA fibre moves with you and stays in great shape.
  • Waistband lies flat against your skin and won't dig in. Stash your keys and gym pass in the signature waistband pocket.
  • High Rise. 28" inseam, tight fit, naked sensation.
  • Nulu 81% Nylon, 19% Lycra elastane. Machine wash with like fabrics in a cold, gentle cycle and lay flat to dry.

Review: These high rise pants have such good coverage, stay up well, and are made from ultra-thin, soft Nulu fabric that even though it is thin, does not become see through.

These pants have a long inseam and work for us taller ladies, and there is a small hidden waist pocket that is quite convenient.

Pros

  • High rise fit, lays flat and stays up.
  • Long inseam, good for long legs.
  • Soft Nulu Fabric releases moisture so you stay dry.

Cons

  • Best to hand wash – Nulu is a delicate fabric, be gentle!

Takeaway

Best workout leggings for yoga and similar exercises.

Platinum Sun Women's Leggings

Platinum Sun Women's Swim Workout Pattern Leggings Wetsuit Pants Tights UPF 50+ (Mystica - S) Purple
  • Sun proof womens leggings . The garment offers ultra violet protection factor UPF 50+ uv sun protection for maximum safety: Our swim leggings for women block 98% of harmful uva & uvb rays, that strike your skin! The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends to wear rash guard swimwear with UV / sun protection to prevent sunburns & rashes. Quick-drying: Our beach sport pant are breathable & have quick drying properties to prevent moisture build up, which means it won't smell & will not leave spots.
  • Premium quality: Our designer's workout leggings for women is a perfect combination of performance, comfort, quality, & elegance. High waisted printed leggings will make you look more slim & attractive. High-rise wide-waist elastic tummy control waistband covers navel & provides you with a smooth secure flattering fit . These long ankle surf leggings are 4-way stretchy, opaque, non-see-through. These yoga tights for women are squat proof & offer total coverage while bending, squatting, lifting.
  • Flat lock low profile seams of these swimming tights are to minimize rubbing & chafing. Extraordinarily brilliant colors NEVER FADE, will stay bright & colorful & withstand abuse from SALT WATER & CHLORINATED POOLS. We're super confident you'll love your new athletic pants for women. However, if for any reason you're not absolutely thrilled, just let us know. Check other Platinum Sun's water gear: neoprene jackets, rashguards for women, wetsuits, swim & yoga accessories, other sportswear.
  • How we're different: All our watersports gear is designed & tested by kiteboarders & athletes around the world. We know exactly what product features you need the most & how to create extremely comfortable workout outfits for women you will love. We focus on quality & details & guarantee materials & accessories used are of the best quality. We assure our yoga pants for women will give you max protection & will provide all the support you need. Investing in a quality product - saving you money.
  • Perfect Christmas gift for women engaged in any water sport - swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, river-rafting, surfing, kiteboarding, SUP, diving, snorkeling, paddle boarding, river rafting, paddling. Perfect partner for the gym. With max support & added UPF 50+ sun protection, these top-quality performance women surfing leggings are also great for sauna & workout. Use them as running pants, hot yoga pants, rash guard pants, swim leggings, sports pants for women or as casual wear leggings.

Review: If your workout takes you to the pool or beach, pick up a pair of these Platinum sun leggings which have built-in sun and water protection.

They dry super-fast, won’t get stinky in your gym bag thanks to their anti-microbial properties, and they come in several fun prints.

One of my favorite things about these leggings is the manufacturer takes the time to match up the pattern across the seams, a rare and flattering detail.

Pros

  • 30 SPF sun protection.
  • Pool and ocean safe – durable and resistant material.
  • Antimicrobial quick drying material.

Cons

  • Runs small.

Takeaway

Great compression leggings for beach, pool, water or outdoor activities.

Alo Yoga Women's Goddess Ribbed Leggings

Alo Yoga Women's Goddess Legging, Rich Navy/Black, S
  • Flat seaming with no side seams
  • Hidden key/card pocket in waistband
  • Patent pending

Review: My favorite thing about these super cute yoga leggings is the versatile ribbed fabric leg warmers that covers the calf.

These leggings can be worn to sit at the ankle or stretch beyond and cover your feet Ballet or Barre class style.

Pros

  • Booty lifting and thigh slimming compression.
  • Thick material with good coverage – the black color is completely opaque!
  • Leg warmer style.

Cons

  • Runs small.

Takeaway

Super cute leg warmer style workout leggings for Goddesses of all kinds.

Under Armour Women's HeatGear Leggings

Under Armour Women's HeatGear Armour Edgelit Ankle Crop Leggings, Jet Gray (010)/Metallic Silver, Medium
  • Super-light HeatGear fabric delivers superior coverage without weighing you down
  • Mesh panels provide strategic ventilation
  • Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
  • 4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction
  • Under Armour’s mission is to make all athletes better through passion, design and the relentless pursuit of innovation

Review: My favorite thing about these leggings is the flattering contrasting color piping. But since looks aren’t everything, I appreciate their functionality too.

They have just the right amount of compression, sit above the ankle so they can be used for biking, and are made from ultra-light sweat-wicking anti-odor material so you stay cool, dry and stink free.

Pros

  • Ultra lightweight material.
  • Wide waistband – sits at the hips.
  • Light compression.

Cons

  • Some may find the material too thin, but it is not see-through.

Takeaway

Best women’s leggings for gym especially for air bike or spin class.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Workout Leggings

woman wearing black workout leggings

Material

When it comes to performance-not all fabrics act the same.

Here is a breakdown of different sports fabrics and how they perform.

Cotton

Cotton is a natural material and while that seems good on paper – its performance for sportswear sucks-literally!

Cotton grabs hold of and hangs on to moisture. This means cotton gets heavy and may show sweat.

If you like the feel of cotton, consider a cotton-synthetic blend.

Polyester

If the even saying the word polyester conjures up pictures of tacky 70’s style pant-suits take heart!

Polyester is the budget fabric that wears well, holds color and can take a beating without looking bad.

That’s good news for workout leggings which must be able to withstand a lot of abuse. It will not shrink or warp, two more reasons to embrace polyester.

Lycra, Spandex or Elastane

These terms mean the same thing. Lycra, Spandex or Elastane are manmade synthetic materials that are very stretchy. They are also very durable.

These materials offer a lot of compression too. If you want compression, body-hugging or shapewear like fit look for a high Lycra, Spandex or Elastane content.

Nylon

Nylon is the MOST durable of all these fabrics listed here.

It is also sweat wicking and dries really fast. Nylon is a desirable component of workout leggings.

Pro tip: A blend of Nylon, Spandex and Polyester is IDEAL for workout leggings.

Pockets

Small pockets, hidden in the waistband are beyond convenient when you hit the gym.

These small pockets give you a place to stash car keys, your gym pass, a few bucks, and even a credit card or drivers’ license.

What to look for:

Look for hidden pockets that don’t get in the ways. Zippered pockets are even better because they are secure.

I personally do not like outside pockets because they detract from the sleek look of leggings and may create bulges or bumps where you least want them.

woman doing dumbbell row exercise and using weight bench

Length

Shorts, Capri, 7/8ths and full length are the most common lengths.

If you plan to include a cardio bike or are headed to a spin class, look for a pair of Capri or 7/8th length workout leggings.

They are a little shorter and sit above the ankle for 7/8th length and mid-calf for capris. This means they stay out of the way of bike pedals.

If you are headed to Yoga class or plan to exercise in cold weather, get a pair of full-length workout leggings to warm up your legs and prevent them from being exposed to the elements.

Drawstring?

I personally love the drawstring. If you are a curvy woman with a smaller waist and a generous behind, you may appreciate a drawstring close too.

If you constantly struggle to keep leggings secure around your waist and always need to adjust, look for workout leggings with a drawstring.

Woman’s Workout Tights FAQs

woman exercising with slam ball

What is the Best Material for Workout Leggings?

I believe a blend of Spandex, Nylon and Polyester is best because you have the benefit of the properties of all three fabrics working together for the best performance.

See above to learn more about these wonderful sportswear fabrics.

Is it Better to Workout in Leggings or Shorts?

It’s really a matter of preference. Shorts work well for spin class or if you plan on riding a bike or using a recumbent bike at the gym because they won’t interfere with the pedals.

Full-length leggings obviously offer more coverage and can help keep you warm on a chilly day.

I also like to use full length if I want the max benefit of the compression. Full-length compression tights enhance circulation, so I want my calves included.

What is the Difference between Leggings and Workout Pants?

While there are no hard and fast strict definitions, pants are often considered to be looser fit activewear, while leggings are considered more form fitting.

Pants may be loose at the calf-think flare, bell bottom or boot cut style.

Leggings will be fitted, like a slim fit or skinny style.

What should I Wear Under Workout Leggings?

Most people wear their everyday undergarments, or panties, under leggings. This is perfectly acceptable.

Some ladies like to wear boyshorts or really thin booty shorts to add coverage in the rear.

Other ladies wear shapewear under leggings to accentuate and improve their body shape, but I find shapewear too restrictive for working out. Just my opinion, for what it’s worth.

It’s really up to you.

How Tight should Workout Leggings be?

Some leggings are really tight, especially compression gear.

How tight leggings should be is really up to you and how comfortable you are working out in them.

Remember, you need to be able to breathe and bend or flex comfortably too.

How to Wash Workout Leggings?

Most leggings are machine washable in cold water. However, if you want to get the most out of your leggings hand washing them is the way to go.

Hate hand washing? I get it! Me too!

Here is what I do. I machine wash my leggings using cold water and a bit of laundry detergent designed for colors.

Then I hang them to dry in the shade. Avoid direct sunlight which can break down and fade fabrics of all types.

Avoid the clothes dryer! The heat and constant movement of the dryer is really hard on clothes, especially on the elastic material sportswear is made from.

That wraps up the 17 best workout leggings for women.

I really hope you find your goldilocks pair of leggings here, because there are so many great workout leggings here to choose from.

Now that you have women’s workout tights covered, it’s time to start looking for the best fitness watches for women.

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