The Best Leggings in 2026, According to How Women Actually Get Dressed

Photo Credit: Savannah Egart

In 2026 Leggings have officially crossed into everyday territory.  Long days. Errands stacked back-to-back. Sitting, standing, walking, stretching, repeating. The best leggings today don’t just feel good out of the package. They stay comfortable, flattering, and wearable long after the novelty wears off.

They’re no longer reserved for workouts or travel days. The best pairs now work just as well with oversized sweaters, tailored jackets, and boots as they do with sneakers. This guide breaks down the best leggings for women right now, focusing on fit, fabric, durability, and how they actually wear over time.  

Quick Picks: The Best Leggings for 2026

If you want the short answer, start here.

Best Overall Leggings: Lululemon Align No Line -$108

Best Everyday Leggings: Athleta High Rise 7/8- $89

Best Affordable Leggings: Nike One High-Waisted 7/8 - $60

Best Leggings With Pockets: Girlfriend Collective Compressive- $108

Best Trend-Forward Leggings: Alo Yoga Bootcut - $128

Best Overall Leggings: Lululemon Align No Line

lululemon

Align No Line™ High-Rise Pant 25"

$108

Lululemon’s Align No Line leggings continue to earn their reputation for a reason. They feel weightless but still provide enough structure to smooth without squeezing. The updated front panel eliminates the visible seam, which makes these easier to wear with shorter tops and fitted layers.

These are the leggings people reach for when they want something that feels effortless. They work for lounging, casual days out, and low-impact movement. While they’re not designed for high-intensity workouts, they excel as everyday leggings that don’t lose their shape after months of wear.

Why they work: soft fabric, no front seam, polished finish
Best for: everyday wear, travel, casual outfits

Best Everyday Leggings: Athleta High Rise 7/8

Athleta

Elation Ultra High Rise 7/8 Legging

$89

If you want leggings that hold you in just a bit more, Athleta’s high-rise leggings are a strong contender. The fabric is thicker and more compressive than lounge-style leggings, which gives them a more structured look without feeling restrictive.

They’re especially good if you want leggings you can wear as pants. The waistband stays in place, the fabric doesn’t turn sheer when you bend, and the overall fit feels intentional rather than sporty.

Why they work: supportive fit, durable fabric, inclusive sizing
Best for: long days, walking, casual outfits that still feel put together

Best Workout Leggings: Vuori Daily Form

Vuori

Daily Form Legging

$98

For workouts, walks, and travel days, Vuori’s Daily Form leggings strike a rare balance. They offer compression without stiffness and warmth without bulk, which makes them especially popular for cooler weather.

They’re comfortable enough to sit in for hours but supportive enough to move in. That versatility makes them a solid choice if you don’t want separate leggings for exercise and daily wear.

Why they work: comfortable compression, smooth fabric, versatile design
Best for: workouts, travel, colder seasons

Best Affordable Leggings: Nike One High-Waisted 7/8

Nike One

Women's High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings with Pockets (Plus Size)

$60.00

Nike One leggings are proof that affordable doesn’t have to mean flimsy. They’re lightweight, breathable, and easy to move in, with just enough structure to stay in place during daily activity.

These are a great option if you want leggings that work for errands, casual movement, and low-impact workouts without investing in a premium price point. They don’t feel overly technical, which makes them easier to style outside the gym.

Why they work: budget-friendly, flexible, easy to wear
Best for: errands, walking, casual wear

Best Leggings With Pockets: Girlfriend Collective Compressive

Girlfriend Collective

Eucalyptus Foldover Legging

$108.00

If pockets matter, Girlfriend Collective’s compressive leggings are one of the most reliable options. The fabric is thick, supportive, and fully opaque, which gives them a more athletic look but also makes them practical for everyday wear.

They’re especially popular among people who want leggings that stay put and don’t require constant adjusting. While they feel firmer than lounge-style leggings, they hold their shape extremely well over time.

Why they work: strong compression, functional pockets, durable fabric
Best for: hands-free days, walking, structured outfits

Best Trend-Forward Leggings: Alo Yoga Bootcut

Alo

Airbrush High-Waist Bootcut Legging

$128

Flare and bootcut leggings continue to be one of the biggest legging trends for 2026. Alo’s bootcut leggings bridge the gap between activewear and casual pants, making them easier to dress up.

They feel more like a soft pant than a traditional legging, which makes them ideal if you’re easing into the leggings-as-pants look. Styled with a sweater, blazer, or fitted jacket, they feel current without trying too hard.

Why they work: flattering silhouette, polished finish
Best for: casual outfits, travel, everyday wear

Best Leggings That Aren’t See-Through: Aerie Offline Real Me High-Waisted Legging

OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging

$44.95

Sheerness is one of the biggest dealbreakers when it comes to leggings, especially if you plan to wear them beyond the gym. Aerie’s Offline Real Me leggings are known for staying opaque even when stretched, bent, or worn all day.

The fabric feels lightweight but substantial, offering coverage without stiffness. They’re a reliable option if you want leggings that feel easy and comfortable while still looking appropriate for everyday outfits.

Why they work: squat-proof fabric, smooth finish, reliable coverage
Best for: everyday wear, errands, casual outfits

Best Leggings That Don’t Pill: Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Waisted Midi Legging

Beyond Yoga

Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging

$99

Pilling can make even great-fitting leggings look worn far too quickly. Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye leggings stand out for their durability, maintaining a smooth appearance even after frequent wear and washing.

The fabric is soft without being fuzzy, which helps prevent friction-related wear over time. They’re a strong choice if you want leggings that continue to look polished season after season.

Why they work: pill-resistant fabric, long-lasting finish, soft but durable
Best for: frequent wear, travel, low-maintenance wardrobes

Best Leggings With Tummy Control: Spanx Look at Me Now Seamless Leggings

SPANXshape™

Everyday Legging

$78.00

For visible smoothing through the midsection, structured compression makes the difference. Spanx’s Look at Me Now leggings are designed with built-in shaping that offers tummy control without feeling overly tight.

They smooth the stomach area while still allowing movement, making them wearable for long days rather than just short outings. The finish is sleek enough to style beyond loungewear.

Why they work: targeted tummy control, seamless construction, smoothing support
Best for: shaping, everyday wear, confidence-focused outfits

Best Leggings for Plus Size Women: Universal Standard Roya Legging

Universal Standard

Next to Naked Pocket Ankle Leggings

$96.00

Consistency across sizes is what separates good leggings from great ones. Universal Standard’s Roya leggings are designed with the same fit and fabric quality across an extended size range.

They offer a supportive waistband and durable stretch that holds up throughout the day, making them a dependable everyday option rather than a compromise.

Why they work: inclusive sizing, consistent fit, durable fabric
Best for: plus size women, everyday wear, walking

Best Leggings for Petite Women: Zella Live In High Waist Legging (Petite)

Z by Zella

Perform High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings

$79

For petite frames, proper length is just as important as fit. Zella’s Live In leggings are available in petite sizing, which helps eliminate bunching at the ankle.

They offer a clean, streamlined look without alterations, making them an easy staple for everyday wear.

Why they work: petite inseam, clean fit, balanced proportions
Best for: petite women, everyday outfits, ankle-length styling

Best Leggings for Cold Weather: Athleta Rainier Tight

Athleta Gap

Rainier High Rise Legging

$119

Cold-weather leggings need warmth without bulk. Athleta’s Rainier tights are made with a brushed interior that provides insulation while still feeling streamlined.

They’re practical for winter walks, travel days, and outdoor wear when temperatures drop but comfort still matters.

Why they work: brushed interior, warmth without heaviness
Best for: winter wear, cold climates, outdoor walking

Best Running Leggings With Pockets: Janji Groundwork Tight

Janji

W's 7/8 Trail Tight

$108

For runners, storage and stability matter just as much as comfort. Janji’s Groundwork tights feature secure pockets that hold essentials without bouncing or shifting.

They’re designed for movement, with a supportive fit that stays in place during runs while keeping items accessible.

Why they work: secure pockets, runner-focused fit, movement stability
Best for: running, training, hands-free workouts

FAQ

• Legging Trends to Know in 2026

  • Proportion is Everything: The biggest shift in 2026 is moving away from outdated tops. The modern formula pairs slim leggings with oversized sweaters, longline tunics, or structured layers to create balanced, chic proportions.  

  • "Errand-Run Chic": This sporty style trend relies on high-quality black leggings paired with cropped sweatshirts, lightweight bomber jackets, and crisp white sneakers for a look that is functional yet polished.  

  • Monochrome Moments: Wearing leggings in shades like gray or brown instead of basic black adds an elevated, modern feel to an outfit.  

  • Flare & Bootcut Silhouettes: Trend-forward styles like bootcut leggings are bridging the gap between activewear and casual pants, making them even easier to style for everyday life.  

  • Performance Features for Real Life: Trends have moved toward highly functional details, such as stay-put wide waistbands that don't roll down and usable side pockets for hands-free days

• Are Leggings Still in Style in 2026?

  Yes. Leggings are still a staple in 2026, but the focus has shifted toward better fabrics, cleaner silhouettes, and more intentional styling. The best leggings today feel less like gym wear and more like a foundational wardrobe piece you can build outfits around. As the "MVP of all wardrobes," they bridge the gap between a morning workout and afternoon errands. The key to keeping them current is ensuring they look intentional rather than like pajamas.