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Best women's leggings for walking, lifting weights and running

Shoppers are flocking to Lorna Jane to nab the new leggings which are “super breathable and great for a summer workout”.

We've rounded up our favourite leggings for any activity. Picture: Supplied.
We've rounded up our favourite leggings for any activity. Picture: Supplied.

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It’s safe to say the events of the last four years means many of us are no longer just wearing leggings to exercise.

Leggings have migrated from strictly gym gear to everyday wear — and given how comfy and versatile they can be, I’m not mad about it.

But it also raises the bar as to what makes a pair of leggings worth investing in. They’ve got to be comfortable enough to sit through a day of Zoom meetings or a coffee date, and also hold up for whatever exercise you’ve got planned.

The news.com.au checkout team have rounded up our favourite leggings for walking, weights and everything in between — including the super comfy Lorna Jane Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings. and the massively reduced Jaggad Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging that are now only $22.

OUR TOP PICKS


EDITOR’S PICKS: BEST LEGGINGS

Lorna Jane Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings, $130 at THE ICONIC

Lorna Jane Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.
Lorna Jane Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.
Lorna Jane Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.
Lorna Jane Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.

Why we love it: Super comfortable leggings with extra stomach support across the waistband

What to consider: Recommended for studio workouts

Material: 71 per cent nylon, 29 per cent black lycra | Length: Full length | Colour: Black and navy colourways available

Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer

I think I’ve just found my new favourite leggings. To be completely honest, having been swayed by the newer, arguably “cooler”, brands I haven’t worn Lorna Jane for quite a few years now. And I now know how wrong I’ve been.

The new Liberty Ankle Biter Leggings are everything I love in a pair of leggings.

Personally, I don’t like to exercise in shorts so always wear leggings and I need a pair that will keep me cool. Crafted from a sweat-wicking active fabric, the Liberty leggings are super breathable and great for a summer workout.

While there are no side pockets, there is a large pocket at the back that fits your phone. I wasn’t sure if I’d find it annoying but I’ve gone for a few runs in them now and actually now prefer it.

And, there is no front seam which I know is a big plus for a lot of ladies.

While the leggings are recommended for studio workouts like yoga and Pilates, I’ve also worn them on walks and runs and have had no issues.

I’m now a Lorna Jane convert and these are by far the best leggings I’ve ever worn.

SHOP HERE AT THE ICONIC

SHOP HERE AT LORNA JANE


Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging, $22 (down from $89) at Jaggad

4 for $99 deal on tops, shorts, leggings and sweaters

Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging. Picture: Jaggad.
Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging. Picture: Jaggad.
Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging. Picture: Jaggad.
Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging. Picture: Jaggad.

Why we love it: Wide size range; bestseller; free returns and exchanges; highly supportive; squat proof

What to consider: Not full-length; some reviewers say they run small; loose in the waist

Material: 74 per cent polyester / 26 per cent elastane | Length:7/8 | Colour: Black and white

What You Need To Know

If you’re after highly supportive leggings that will get you through your next workout, this pair from Jaggad is perfect. Jaggad is an Aussie-based activewear label that champions stylish yet functional sports performance apparel — making them versatile pieces that you can incorporate into your everyday wardrobe seamlessly.

The Classic 7/8 Double Pocket Legging option is one of the brand’s bestsellers and for good reason. They’re crafted from their signature high support fabric that is great from medium to high intensity workouts like HIIT, running and circuit training, and they have a second-skin fit without feeling restricted. Plus, they’ve been specifically built to not be see-through and they offer a high-waisted fit, pockets on both sides and a gel logo.

They’ve garnered a 4.3-star rating with one reviewer writing that they “love these leggings”.

“Love them, so comfortable and the pockets are great,” a shopper wrote. “Phone, key … nothing moves while running. Best leggings by far. So good I bought 5 pairs so I can wear them all week.”

SHOP HERE


Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 25”, $129 at Lululemon

news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor Melody Teh is a big fan of these tights. Picture: news.com.au/Melody Teh
news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor Melody Teh is a big fan of these tights. Picture: news.com.au/Melody Teh
These are buttery soft and perfect for yoga or stretching. Picture: news.com.au/Melody Teh.
These are buttery soft and perfect for yoga or stretching. Picture: news.com.au/Melody Teh.

Why we love it: Soft, buttery fabric that’s comfortable

What to consider: Not suitable for high-impact workouts

Material: Lining: 90 per cent Nylon, 10 per cent Lycra Elastane, Body: 81 per cent Nylon, 19 per cent Lycra Elastane

Length: 25” so just above the ankles for most people

Colour: Available in 12 colours including black, dark red and navy

Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor

The leggings from Lululemon’s best-selling Align collection are specifically designed for yoga, but they’re so comfortable you will want to wear them everywhere.
Made from the brand’s soft and stretchy Nulu fabric, these leggings feel like a second skin when you’re wearing them.

I find they manage to hold their shape while not feeling restrictive at all when you’re wearing them — I also like their Align High-Rise Shorts for hot yoga.

They currently have over 450 five-star reviews on the Lululemon website (that is not counting the 65.6 million views #align has or the 42.3 million views #alignleggings has). One reviewer says: “The most comfortable legging, the best I’ve found yet. This is the second pair I’ve purchased but won’t be the last.”

Also check out news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor, Melody Teh’s, honest review of them here.

SHOP HERE


Phone Pocket Tights Nandex, $66.47 (down from $94.95) at Stax

Sleek high-waisted leggings with handy phone pocket. Picture: Stax
Sleek high-waisted leggings with handy phone pocket. Picture: Stax
The Stax Core Collection features the sleek and comfy Phone Pocket Tights. Picture: Stax
The Stax Core Collection features the sleek and comfy Phone Pocket Tights. Picture: Stax

Why we love it: Flattering design with a handy pocket

What to consider: One customer would have liked a bigger pocket to hold their phone

Material: Signature Nandex | Size: XXS to 4XL | Colour: Black, Dark Blue, Dark Grey, Light Grey, Sage, Thyme

What You Need To Know

These stylish leggings from Stax are made from their famous signature stretch fabric with a high waist and super flattering fit. The full length is perfect over the cooler months and the side pockets are handy for phone, keys, cards and whatever else you need when you’re on the go. If you’re after a pair of hardworking leggings that are up for the exercise challenge, yet fit well and make you look amazing, then these are the ones for you.

There are plenty of shoppers who agree and have left five-star reviews to back it up. One happy customer commented, “They are the best material and so comfy and functional especially with the pockets, WOW.”

Another said, “The tights are so comfortable and the fabric so soft. It feels great when I exercise!”

SHOP HERE


BEST HIGH-WAISTED LEGGINGS

CRZ YOGA Women’s Naked Feeling High Waist Tummy Control Stretchy Sport Running Leggings, from $48 at Amazon Australia

CRZ YOGA Women’s Naked Feeling High Waist Tummy Control Stretchy Sport Running Leggings with Out Pocket. Picture: news.com.au/Hannah Paine.
CRZ YOGA Women’s Naked Feeling High Waist Tummy Control Stretchy Sport Running Leggings with Out Pocket. Picture: news.com.au/Hannah Paine.
CRZ YOGA Women’s Naked Feeling High Waist Tummy Control Stretchy Sport Running Leggings with Out Pocket. Picture: news.com.au/Hannah Paine.
CRZ YOGA Women’s Naked Feeling High Waist Tummy Control Stretchy Sport Running Leggings with Out Pocket. Picture: news.com.au/Hannah Paine.

Why we love it: Great quality for the price tag

What to consider: Limited sizing as it only goes up to an XL which is roughly a size 16

Material: 71% Polyamide, 29% Spandex; Lining: 78% Polyamide, 22% Spandex | Length: Ankle length | Colour: 40 including black, purple and blue

Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor

These are Amazon’s best-selling women’s leggings for a reason: They come in 31 different colours and have more than 11,000 five-star ratings.

My first thoughts when they arrived, which was the next day thanks to Amazon’s speedy delivery, was how good the quality was for the price.

The stitching, phone pockets and cut were all very similar to more expensive leggings I own, I was honestly blown away.

The quality is just like nothing else I’ve seen at that price point for leggings — it’s lovely, thick material that holds you in while still having plenty of stretch and movement. They’re also squatproof and didn’t fall down when lifting weights or running.

Many shoppers consider these leggings a dupe for the famous Lululemon Align Leggings, however, but I think they’re more similar to Lululemon’s Fast and Free pair in terms of look and feel. One thing to consider is that the material is slightly thicker than Lululemon’s leggings which means they may not be suitable for intensive cardio or HIIT training.

SHOP HERE


Active Studio Soft 3/4 Length Tights, $30 at Target

"My new fave leggings": Active Studio Soft 3/4 length Tights in Khaki by Target. Picture: Susannah Hardy
"My new fave leggings": Active Studio Soft 3/4 length Tights in Khaki by Target. Picture: Susannah Hardy
Target's Active Studio range is made of soft buttery fabric that “literally shaped itself around my body”. Picture: Susannah Hardy
Target's Active Studio range is made of soft buttery fabric that “literally shaped itself around my body”. Picture: Susannah Hardy

Why we love it: Soft, smooth stretchy fabric in a range of colours

What to consider: No side pocket for phone or keys

Material: Nylon/Elastane | Size: 4 to 14 | Colour: Black, Khaki, Navy Blue, Expresso

Tried and Tested by Susannah Hardy, news.com.au, partnerships writer,

I exercise regularly and I’m always on the lookout for new leggings. I particularly love the three-quarter length as they’re ideal for in-between seasons — and I usually opt for black. However, I trialled the khaki colourway in Target’s Active Studio range — and I love the change in tone as it’s subtle and goes with everything. The leggings themselves are absolutely divine. The high waist is firm yet flattering and the length is perfect. I got the size 8 and at first thought they might be too small as they were fairly snug. However, within a few hours, they literally shaped themselves around my body and became so incredibly comfy, that they’re now my new fave leggings. The fabric is super soft and buttery, and while it offers plenty of give, it’s also supportive where you need it most. Since wearing these leggings, I’ve been raving about them to anyone who will listen, saying they’re a dream to wear and half the price of most leggings on the market. I will definitely be buying more in this range.


Active Studio Soft 7/8 Length Tights, $30 at Target

How can you not love quality, budget activewear? It’s a win/win. Picture: Kara Byers / news.com.au
How can you not love quality, budget activewear? It’s a win/win. Picture: Kara Byers / news.com.au
They may be designed for low- to-medium-impact workouts, like Pilates, but I found them great for HIIT and strength training too. Picture: Kara Byers / news.com.au
They may be designed for low- to-medium-impact workouts, like Pilates, but I found them great for HIIT and strength training too. Picture: Kara Byers / news.com.au

Tried and Tested by Kara Byers, eCommerce content lead

If there’s one thing I love more than exercise, it’s hanging out in activewear. So when I heard that Target – which is much more affordable than most sports brands – had this new range I was super keen to try. I tried the 7/8 tights as I am 165cm and find full length tights are always too long. These were the perfect length.

I also always, always wear black activewear because it’s supposed to be “slimming” – so over it – so opted for the navy for a gear change. Although the range is designed for low-to-medium-impact workouts, like Pilates, I actually wore them for HIIT and strength training (as well as just hanging out in) and I LOVED them through all of it. I was so comfortable and the right temperature throughout so I didn’t think about my clothes once.

The fit was so comfortable, nice and supportive but not too tight. The peached and brushed fabric finish feels buttery-soft. My only note is that the T-shirt was quite short and tight compared to what I would usually choose, it is definitely a figure-flaunting combo.

SHOP HERE


Lorna Jane Lotus Ankle Biter Leggings, $74.99 (down from $99.99) at THE ICONIC

Lorna Jane Lotus Ankle Biter Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Lorna Jane Lotus Ankle Biter Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Lorna Jane Lotus Ankle Biter Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.
Lorna Jane Lotus Ankle Biter Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.

Why we love it: Buttery soft material sets these tights apart from other brands

What to consider: Quite thin so some underwear lines can be seen

Material: 71 per cent Polyester / 29 per cent Elastane

Length: Ankle length

Colour Black and light blue

What You Need To Know

Lorna Jane’s best selling legging – the Lotus Ankle Biter – is one of our top picks if you’re looking for a high-waisted, supportive option. With a wide size range of XXS-XXL, the classic and flattering leggings are made out of a breathable stretchy, yet supportive, fabric.

They’ve racked up almost 2000 five-star ratings on the Lorna Jane website, with countless happy customers noting how “comfortable” they are.

“Great leggings, very comfortable, don’t ride up or fall down – they stay put! Quite warm so definitely more for cooler weather,” said one five-star rating reviewer.

Three news.com.au checkout writers put these tights to the test, check out their review here.

SHOP HERE AT THE ICONIC

SHOP HERE AT LORNA JANE


Full Length Tights Nandex Original, $62.97 (down from $89.95) at STAX.

Full Length Tights Nandex Original. Picture: STAX.
Full Length Tights Nandex Original. Picture: STAX.
Full Length Tights Nandex Original. Picture: STAX.
Full Length Tights Nandex Original. Picture: STAX.

Why we love it: Super soft yet not too hot for working out

What to consider: A small percentage of people found the tights didn’t stay up as they would like

Material: Nandex

Length: Ankle length

Colour: 24 colours including black, blue and blue

Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer

STAX.’s Best Black range is made from buttery soft Nandex fabric that feels great to work out in — even JLo is also a fan.

These leggings get my tick of approval for strength training as they’re supportive and compressive but don’t feel too tight.

They don’t move around while I’m working out but still feel nice and comfortable enough to wear them while running errands, going to a cafe.

SHOP HERE


P.E. NATION Amplify Leggings, $49.50 (down from $99) at THE ICONIC

P.E. NATION Amplify Leggings. Picture: THE ICONIC.
P.E. NATION Amplify Leggings. Picture: THE ICONIC.
P.E. NATION Amplify Leggings. Picture: THE ICONIC.
P.E. NATION Amplify Leggings. Picture: THE ICONIC.

Why we love it: No branding

What to consider: There is a zip feature at the bottom of leg

Material: 78 per cent Recycled Polyester, 22 per cent Elastane

Length: 7/8

Colour: Black

What You Need To Know

Made from a lightweight recycled polyester and elastane blend, they feature a wide elasticated waist band and offer generous stretch. With no branding, these tights are perfect for someone after a more understated look.

These leggings are perfect for pairing with a crop top or sports bra — they’re stylish enough to wear them on a coffee run and durable enough for gym training.

SHOP HERE


BEST PLUS SIZE LEGGINGS

Nike Universa Women’s Medium-Support Leggings (plus size), $120 at Nike

Nike Universa Women's Medium Support Leggings. Picture: Nike.
Nike Universa Women's Medium Support Leggings. Picture: Nike.
Nike Universa Women's Medium Support Leggings. Picture: Nike.
Nike Universa Women's Medium Support Leggings. Picture: Nike.

Why we love it: Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry; squat-proof; mid-weight fabric; smoothing and supportive

What to consider: Limited plus size options

Material: 76 per cent polyester / 24 per cent elastane

Length: 7/8

Colour: Black, Pink and Hot Pink

What You Need To Know

These high-waisted Nike leggings come in at a great price point and are designed to hug your waist to keep you confident and comfortable in every pose. It has a snug fit to keep you supported and is squat proof — making them a great pair to pick for your everyday gym sessions and beyond.

SHOP HERE


BEST LEGGINGS FOR RUNNING AND GYM

Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 28” Reflective, $149 at Lululemon

Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 28” Reflective. Picture: Lululemon.
Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 28” Reflective. Picture: Lululemon.
Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 28” Reflective. Picture: Lululemon.
Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 28” Reflective. Picture: Lululemon.

Why we love it: Great for high-intensity workouts

What to consider: Thin material so lightweight coverage

Material: Body: 84 per cent Nylon, 16 per cent Lycra Elastane, Waistband Lining: 89 per cent Nylon, 11 per cent Elastane

Length: Full length

Colour: Six colours including black, grey and khaki

Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor

Lululemon’s Fast and Free leggings have got to be my favourite item from the cult activewear brand.

While they’re priced on the expensive side, their sweat-wicking Nulux fabric is perfect for any cardio or weight training you might be doing.

I’m on my third pair of these leggings in seven years and love them for their super flattering style that supports you without feeling restrictive.

They hold up after multiple washes (I still wear a pair I bought in 2017) and feature both pockets and reflective markings, making them great for running or walking outdoors.

SHOP HERE


Kic Full Length Tights, $89.95 at STAX

Kic Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.
Kic Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.
Kic Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.
Kic Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.

Why we love it: No front seam

What to consider: 4cm longer than the regular Full Length Tights from STAX.

Material: Nandex

Length: Full | Colour: Black and dark pink

What You Need To Know

Chances are you’ll have heard of Steph Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw’s health and wellness app, Kic, and now they’ve collaborated with Australian premium activewear brand, STAX. The leggings are part of a 15-piece limited edition collection with inclusivity, quality and comfort at the core.

Steph and Laura say of the collection, “Our collection is designed to motivate to move, with confidence. Stamped with a simple yet powerful reminder that you are enough, just as you are.”

We love the dark pink to add that bit of fun to a workout but if pink isn’t for you then you can never go wrong with a pair of black tights. Other features including a high waist, no front seam and a 4cm longer length than the Full Length Tights NANDEX ™ Original.

SHOP HERE


Women’s UA Meridian Ankle Leggings, $60 (down from $85) at Under Armour

Women’s UA Meridian Ankle Leggings. Picture: Under Armour.
Women’s UA Meridian Ankle Leggings. Picture: Under Armour.
Women’s UA Meridian Ankle Leggings. Picture: Under Armour.
Women’s UA Meridian Ankle Leggings. Picture: Under Armour.

Why we love it: Available in a short, regular and tall range (as well as regular sizes)

What to consider: Some people preferred the original Meridian range which was made from more Nylon instead of Polyester.

Material: 79% Polyester/21% Elastane

Length: Sits just above ankles

Colour: Black, gray, brown, blue, purple, or orange

Tried and Tested by Shireen Khalil, news.com.au Travel Reporter

I absolutely love the feel of these tights. The fabric is super soft and the design is on point.

It has pockets on either side which is fab for when you don’t want to hold your phone while training. It’s also super stretchy so if you do HIIT sessions, or even weights and things such as kickboxing, you’re not restricted.

It’s also great at absorbing sweat, so you’re not left with sweat patches in awkward areas.

SHOP HERE


The Upside Matte Tech Midi Pants, $119.99 at The Upside

The Upside Matte Tech Midi Pants. Picture: The Upside.
The Upside Matte Tech Midi Pants. Picture: The Upside.
The Upside Matte Tech Midi Pants. Picture: The Upside.
The Upside Matte Tech Midi Pants. Picture: The Upside.

Why we love it: High waistband that doesn’t fall down

What to consider: Not a huge size range

Material: The Upside’s Matte Tech

Length: 7/8

Colour: Black

What You Need To Know

These sleek leggings by Australian brand, The Upside, will never do you wrong. Created with the brand’s Matte Tech performance fabric, these leggings with endure any position you stretch them into. The high-rise waistband won’t budge and comes with a handy concealed pocket and the seamless sides give you a smooth, streamlined look.

SHOP HERE


BEST LEGGINGS FOR PILATES AND YOGA

Serenity Scrunch Leggings, $75 at Crop Shop Boutique

Serenity Scrunch Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.
Serenity Scrunch Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.
Serenity Scrunch Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.
Serenity Scrunch Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.

Why we love it: No front seam

What to consider: Scrunch bum detail may not be for everyone

Material: Polyester and spandex blend

Length: Full length

Colour: Seven colours including black, green and white

Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer

Crop Shop Boutique’s cult favourite leggings are taking the TikTok world by storm, loved for their compressive, sculpting and most importantly comfortable fit.

They’re high-waisted with no front seam, plus they come with a hidden pocket in the waistband. The fabric is a unique blend of polyester and spandex, and with a four-way stretch, these leggings are perfect for training and everyday wear.

They are so incredibly soft and lightweight, while also cinching you in at all the right places. I wear them for walks and weight training and nothing feels like it’s digging in, it just feels super supportive and comfortable.

The Serenity Scrunch Leggings have also racked up an average score of 4.9 out of five on the website, with over 1000 five star ratings. Countless happy customers have called them the “best leggings ever” noting how they are “flattering and sculpting”.

There’s loads of beautiful and wearable colours to choose from, plus they also come in a non-scrunch version if that’s not your thing.

SHOP HERE


STAX. PSF Full Length Tights, $25.49 (down from $84.95) at STAX.

STAX. PSF Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.
STAX. PSF Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.
STAX. PSF Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.
STAX. PSF Full Length Tights. Picture: STAX.

Why we love it: Seamless so no awkward situations

What to consider: Not great for high-intensity activities

Material: Sweat wicking fabric

Length: Full length

Colour: Baby blue, bone, dovetail, dusty rose, pine

Tried and Tested by Hannah Paine, news.com.au checkout Editor

These seamless leggings sold-out in just seven minutes when they first launched in 2020 and are favoured by celebrities and influencers like Martha Kalifatidis, who has said on Instagram she is “obsessed” with the collection.

When I say these are my favourite leggings that is no understatement — I have four pairs of them, all in different colours, including a gorgeous burgundy shade.

Their super-flattering waistband cinches you in at the middle and its thick nylon-spandex blend material holds and lifts your butt, without being restrictive.

I wear these leggings for everything: For walks, weight training, pilates, working from home and love how sweat-wicking their material is.

Their thicker-than-normal material means I probably wouldn’t wear them for anything high sweat intensity like running or hot yoga.

But they’re a good all-rounder pair that comes in at a great price point, with a variety of colours, matching tops and sizes available.

SHOP HERE


Piped Full Length Leggings – Green, $77 (down from $110) at Bondi Active

Bondi Active Piped Full Length Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.
Bondi Active Piped Full Length Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.
Bondi Active Piped Full Length Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.
Bondi Active Piped Full Length Leggings. Picture: news.com.au/Philippa Tonkin.

Why we love it: On-trend deep green colourway

What to consider: Probably more suited for more relaxed activities like yoga

Material: Recycled Nylon Elastane | Length: Full length | Colour: Green

Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au shopping writer

I’ve always been a black leggings girl but if I’m going to stray from my usual rule then I’m very happy to do it with these chic green leggings from Bondi Active.

Made from recycled nylon elastane, they are a little thicker than my usual go-to Lululemon Wunder Train leggings but they didn’t feel too hot when working out. Admittedly, it has been winter while I’ve been trialling them.

I will say that they did fall down a little bit and I felt like I had to pull them up fairly regularly when out on a walk. With this in mind, I would say they’re probably better suited to less rigorous exercise like yoga or pilates.

They were super comfy though and I liked how the side pockets weren’t too obvious either. It actually took me a second to realise there actually were pockets at all.

Overall, these tights are a welcome addition to my activewear drawer and look just as good at pilates as they do getting a coffee after class.

SHOP HERE


IM Serenity Drawstring Leggings, $28 (down from $70) at Crop Shop Boutique

IM Serenity Drawstring Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.
IM Serenity Drawstring Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.
IM Serenity Drawstring Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.
IM Serenity Drawstring Leggings. Picture: Crop Shop Boutique.

Why we love it: Features an adjustable draw string

What to consider: Tights have a V-front look rather than the usual straight across

Material: Polyster, spandex blend

Length: Full length

Colour: Black, khaki and grey

What You Need To Know

Designed in collaboration with Aussie influencer and model, Isabelle Mathers, these leggings are just like the cult-favourite Serenity Leggings but with a twist. Made from the signature polyester-spandex blend Serenity fabric, they feature a high waist with an adjustable drawstring for a flattering V-front look, full-length legs, compressive and sculpting fit and a velvety matte finish.

Holding a 4.9-star rating, five-star reviewers have hailed them “perfection” and love that it “gives you shape” thanks to the drawstring feature.

“The V-shape is super flattering, you can tighten it to make the V-shape more obvious or loosen it. The material is amazing, fits the body super nice and snug but still offers stretch and comfort when wearing,” one wrote.

“My body goes straight up and down, so love that these leggings gives you shape,” another wrote.

“Absolutely love these leggings! They are soft, flattering and have the right amount of compression,” another five-star reviewer wrote.

SHOP HERE


Essential Leggings, $100 at Lounge

Essential Leggings. Picture: Lounge.
Essential Leggings. Picture: Lounge.

Why we love it: Also available in a petite size

What to consider: Quite high-waisted for those with short torsos

Material: 78 per cent Polyamide, 22 per cent Elastane

Length: Ankle length

Colour: Black, charcoal, coffee, espresso, gunmetal, oat, olive and pine green.

What You Need To Know

Comfort meets style in this luxe pair of leggings from UK-based underwear brand, Lounge. Crafted from a polyamide-elastane soft stretch fabric, these leggings feature a super high waisted design with a cinched-in fit, logo detailing at the back and ankle length legs. It offers a figure-flattering, sculpting fit and tonal stitch detailing for a sleek finish.

Perfect for wearing at home, the gym or running errands — these leggings will be a forever staple in your everyday wardrobe.

Available in sizes XS to 3XL and in a regular or petite leg length, you can also snap this pair up in black, charcoal, coffee, espresso, gunmetal, oat, olive and pine green.

Five-star reviewers say they’re so flattering and comfy”.

“Best leggings around … so comfy and they shape everything up,” one wrote.

“Absolutely love these leggings, I now own two different pairs and they are so comfy and look great!” another wrote.

One five-star reviewer praised the pair for its “amazing quality”, writing: “These leggings are so flattering. Amazing quality and smooth out any imperfections. True to size, very flattering fit. Highly recommend.”

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AIM’N Ribbed Seamless Tights, $49.50 (down from $99) at THE ICONIC

AIM’N Ribbed Seamless Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.
AIM’N Ribbed Seamless Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.
AIM’N Ribbed Seamless Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.
AIM’N Ribbed Seamless Tights. Picture: THE ICONIC.

Why we love it: Seamless

What to consider: Ribbed fabric unlike usual style of tights

Material: 92 per cent Nylon, 8 per cent Elastane

Length: Full length

Colour: Black, off white, lemonade

What You Need To Know

These seamless leggings have a cult following for a reason. Their wide waistband and cut accentuates your waist and booty, while their ribbed finish is super-flattering on the skin.

I wear my AIM’N leggings for pilates and find them really comfortable to work out in — and their waistband never falls down on me.

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BEST FLARE LEGGINGS

LSKD Everyday Flare Leggings, $29 (down from $100) at LSKD

LSKD Everyday Flare Leggings. Picture: LSKD.
LSKD Everyday Flare Leggings. Picture: LSKD.
LSKD Everyday Flare Leggings. Picture: LSKD.
LSKD Everyday Flare Leggings. Picture: LSKD.

Why we love it: Fold over waistband

What to consider: Not for high intensity workouts

Material: 70 per cent Polyester, 30 per cent Elastane

Length: Full length

Colour: Black and red

What You Need To Know

As you might’ve seen on TikTok, flare leggings are all the rage right now and we’re loving the sellout Everyday Flare by LSKD. Made from their signature four-way stretch REP fabric, these super soft tights feature a high-rise fold over waistband with a hidden phone pocket and flared legs. Perfect for wearing in and out of the house, you can easily pop them on with a cropped tee and sneakers for a quick errand run.

They’re available in sizes 2XS to 3XL and in also in another red colourway.

Boasting a 4.9 out of five-star rating from over 200 reviews, many reviewers rave about the “amazing” quality, and how “comfy” and “flattering” they are.

One shopper wrote: “Absolutely love these pants. Can wear out and about for coffees with the girls or to pilates. A must buy — so-so comfy. I am getting a second pair for my daughter. Fabric is lovely quality and so flattering.”

“The quality of the material is AMAZING. So flattering on and fits so well,” another wrote.

SHOP HERE


WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING LEGGINGS

When choosing leggings to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:

Fabric: We looked for lightweight fabric that will keep you cool in a workout but is also thick enough to pass the squat test. The fabric is also dependent on what type of workout you will be doing.

Style and length: While full-length tights are the current trend, 3/4 and 7/8 length tights are also great options to consider.

Comfort and fit: Everyone hates when leggings keep falling down so we read thousands of reviews to ensure that only the best made the cut.

Price: Although price does often reflect quality, we worked to ensure that we included a range of leggings at different price points for different budgets.

Versatility: Whether you’re wearing your leggings to the gym, on a run, a walk or simply for lounging at home, we’ve found the leggings for your every need.

HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS

With hundreds of styles available, it’s impossible to test every legging out there. To help you find the best one, we tested a handful of well-known brands at different price points. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best leggings from premium to budget to help you find the right one for your activewear collection.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF MATERIAL FOR LEGGINGS

What material you opt for will depend on what you’re purchasing them for — if it’s for everyday wear and light exercise like walking, you will probably want to purchase a pair that is a cotton blend.

For more intense exercise you will want to make sure your leggings can stretch and move with you, so checking to see if they’re made from a spandex or elastane blend will be useful.

WHAT IS THE BEST LEGGINGS BRAND IN AUSTRALIA?

What brand is best for you will depend on your budget and what you’re looking to wear them for. If you’re able to spend $100-plus on leggings, then in my opinion, Lululemon is definitely worth the investment as their material, make and design is top-notch.

Next I would choose STAX., as it’s a great mid-priced brand for leggings that are available in a wide range of sizes and trendy colours, while their styles are super flattering.

But if you’re on a budget then Amazon Australia would be my choice purely for the variety and value they offer. Plus their leggings have so many customer reviews that mean you can buy the right pair for you based on shopper feedback.


Need more activewear? Make sure to check out news.com.au coupons for more deals and discounts on Nike, Rebel Sport and STAX.

Lastly, sign up to the free news.com.au checkout newsletter here for all the latest shopping news.

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/checkout/fashion-and-accessories/clothing/activewear/best-womens-leggings-for-walking-lifting-weights-and-running/news-story/2c6f9da51b711d170425b0fd21025cc2