Women's Leggings

Whether you wear them to stretch out at home, to a yoga class or to your favorite workout, women's leggings are versatile and comfortable. They come in a range of colors, styles and fabric thicknesses. Some are even made with built-in UV protection to keep you cool and protected from the sun when you're outdoors.

Tight-fitting pants, leggings are usually made from cotton, wool or an elasticized polyester. Some are smooth from waist to toe tip, while others cut off at the thigh (called thigh highs) or are tighter in the lower torso (control tops). Some are designed for wearing under clothing, such as pants or dresses, and are sometimes called “socks for your legs.”

One pair we tested that's designed for both yoga and studio workouts is the Athleta Salutation Stash 7/8 Tight, which is soft, supportive and breathable. The fabric also has a luxurious hand feel and is completely opaque (according to our sizing test with a mirror and direct sunlight). The subtle side pockets make this legging ideal for running errands, as well.

Leggings have been worn for warmth and comfort by men, women and children throughout history. The separate hose worn by men in Europe from the 13th to 16th centuries were a form of leggings, as were the trews worn by Scottish Highlanders and the buckskin leggings that some Native Americans wore. In the 19th century, soldiers of many nations wore canvas leggings to keep dirt and sand from entering their shoes and to provide additional ankle support.women's bamboo leggings