Legging Buying Guide
Buying the right legging comes down to matching length, fit, fabric and features to how you will wear it. This hub pulls the whole centre together into a simple, confident way to choose. Browse women's leggings (/collections/womens-leggings-track-bottoms).
Match to your activity
Start With the Use
Let the activity lead the choice.
How to decide
Decide first whether the leggings are for running, gym, yoga or everyday, as this sets the fit, fabric and features you need.
Quick tip
One pair rarely does it all; buy for your main activity first. Browse women's leggings (/collections/womens-leggings-track-bottoms).
Pick the Length
Choose length by height, season and activity.
How to decide
Pick 7/8 or full length for all-round use, capri or biker for hot weather, and match the hem to your height.
Quick tip
A 7/8 length is the most forgiving across heights.
Choose the Fabric
Match fabric to sweat, warmth and feel.
How to decide
Choose nylon or polyester blends for training, brushed fleece for winter, and cotton or modal for casual comfort.
Quick tip
Skip cotton for high-sweat workouts.
Get the fit right
Size at Waist and Hip
Fit both the waist and the hips.
How to decide
Size so the waistband sits secure without digging and the hips are covered without pulling; check both, not just one.
Quick tip
If between sizes, size to the hips and adjust the waist. Browse women's leggings (/collections/womens-leggings-track-bottoms).
Check It Is Squat-Proof
Make sure the fabric stays opaque under stretch.
How to decide
For gym and floor work, choose a dense knit and, if you can, bend to check it does not go sheer.
Quick tip
Read reviews for squat-proof comments before buying.
Match the Rise
Pick a rise that stays put for your workout.
How to decide
Choose high rise for training and squats where you want a no-slip, tummy-smoothing waist, and mid rise for relaxed wear.
Quick tip
High rise is the safest choice for the gym.
Judge the quality
Inspect the Seams
Look for flat, neat, stretchy seams.
How to decide
Look for flatlock or bonded seams, a gusset and neat coverstitched hems as signs of a well-made legging.
Quick tip
Raised, single crotch seams chafe and wear faster. Browse women's leggings (/collections/womens-leggings-track-bottoms).
Weigh the Features
Pay only for features you will use.
How to decide
Add a side phone pocket, zip pocket or reflective trim only if your activity needs them, rather than paying for extras you will not use.
Quick tip
A side pocket is the most useful single extra for most people.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the right leggings?
Start with the activity, since running, gym, yoga and everyday wear each need a different fit and fabric. Then pick a length to suit your height and season, size to fit both waist and hips, check the fabric is squat-proof, and look for flat seams and a gusset.
What size legging should I buy if I am between sizes?
If you are between sizes, size to your hips and adjust the waist, since a waistband can hold a range of sizes more easily than the legs can stretch over wider hips. Sizing down too far causes sheerness and digging, so favour the more comfortable fit.
What is the one feature worth paying for?
For most people the single most useful extra is a side thigh pocket that holds a phone securely against the leg. Beyond that, only pay for features your activity genuinely needs, such as reflective trim for outdoor runs or a zip pocket for the trail.