Finding Leggings That Love Your Legs

Ever slipped on a pair of leggings and felt an instant surge of confidence?

Like your legs were suddenly hugged by a second skin, ready to take on the world? That's the magic feel of the perfect pair.

But finding leggings that truly love your legs — that flatter, support, move with you and have just the right level of thickness — can feel like searching for the right thing to watch on Netflix at 10pm.

So let’s take a closer look at what makes for the ideal pair of leggings, and how to find them. And let’s start at the beginning with when the hell did leggings become so ubiquitous?

From Jane Fonda to booty-sculpting seamless: A brief history of leggings

Remember those neon spandex leggings from the 80s? Maybe not, and that’s a tragedy. Because we're talking Jane Fonda workout videos - leg warmers, bodysuits, big hair, to a soundtrack of iconic synth bangers. Leggings were all about making a statement back in a world where going to the gym wasn’t on anyone’s agenda.

Then came the 90s and early 2000s, where leggings took a backseat, becoming more of a casual, under-the-radar piece of clothing. Everything went a bit grungy, a bit too baggy for leggings to be at the centre of anyone’s wardrobe. Gym usage was still centered around group cardio classes and was about socializing as much as it was about working out.

Fast forward a couple of decades and everything has changed and leggings are center stage again. In and out of the gym.

Covid and the work from home/stay at home revolution did help advance the popularity of wearing leggings from dawn until dusk, however that wasn’t the start of their rebirth.

Advancements in fabric technology, gyms in every town with affordable memberships (and not being permanently housed by intimidating men) meant that keeping fit became a non-negotiable for many people.

This spawned the global athleisure wear trend, accelerated by covid, and leggings are now more comfortable, versatile, and stylish than ever.

We've got bum-sculpting seamless leggings, moisture-wicking gym leggings, and even faux-leather leggings for a night out. The leggings game has leveled up, and we're here for it.

So, what's the perfect pair?

The perfect pair of leggings is the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to take on the world. Simple!

Whether you're hitting the gym, running errands, or just lounging at home, there's a pair of leggings out there that's perfect for you. Gone are the days when leggings were just one-size-fits-all. Today, we have a plethora of options to choose from.

So, how do you know which ones are right for you? Let's break it down.

Workout leggings

Let's find the right fit for how you intend to workout.

Yoga Leggings

You’ll want a pair of leggings with a good amount of stretch and a high waistband that won't roll down during downward dog. Breathable fabrics on the thinner side are a plus, especially for hot yoga.

Running Leggings

Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics are key here. As are those with a reliable waist band. You'll also want leggings that offer compression to support your muscles as this helps to reduce fatigue. Leggings with pockets are a bonus here, to store a key or a phone. 

Lifting Leggings

First up, you'll want to look for leggings that are squat proof and offer good support. Look for thicker fabrics and a high waistband to keep everything in place during those heavy lifts.

It’s worth checking whether the leggings are squat proof, meaning that the leggings don’t become see-through when you’re mid squat. Some brands highlight this, and it’s worth checking customer reviews to understand what they’re really like under pressure.

Check out our squat proof leggings, all of which went through testing with a company to assess their quality and performance. And they all passed the squat proof test.

Leisure leggings

Not all leggings have to be capable of keeping up with your squats. Sometimes you just want a day-to-day pair of leggings that can take you from sofa to supermarket.

For a reliable pair of day-to-day leggings, we’d recommend looking out for soft and breathable fabrics like cotton blends that feel gentle against your skin all day long.

A mid-rise or high-rise waistband ensures a secure fit without digging in, while a bit of stretch allows for ease of movement whether you're running errands or curling up on the couch.

Remember, the perfect leisure leggings should feel like a cozy second skin, allowing you to embrace effortless style and comfort throughout your day.

Legging Styles

Decoding the leggings jargon and terminology is actually pretty straightforward, however for the uninitiated, let’s breakdown the more common styles.

High-waisted leggings

These are a godsend for keeping everything tucked in and feeling secure. They also create a flattering silhouette and can even make your legs look longer.

7/8 leggings

These hit just above the ankle, offering a bit of breathing room while still providing coverage. They're perfect for warmer weather or showing off your cute ankle socks. Or just your ankles.

Seamless leggings

Say goodbye to chafing and uncomfortable seams. Seamless leggings offer a smooth, second-skin feel that's perfect for any activity.

Flared leggings

These retro-inspired leggings are back and better than ever. They offer a fun, flowy look that's perfect for transitioning from the gym to brunch.

So go forth and find your perfect match! Your legs will thank you.