The legging hugs the skin, the sports trousers let in some air: two philosophies for the same desire to move freely. Depending on your workout and the weather, one or the other will make the difference.
Explore the styles, lengths and materials here to choose the bottoms that really suit you.
The legging moves with you and stays in place during squats, lunges, and yoga. The looser sports trouser is great for warm-ups, cooler days, and relaxed sessions. Many sporty women keep one of each in their bag.
A long model protects against the cold, while the 7/8 length shows the ankle and works well with low shoes. The high waist holds in your stomach and doesn’t slide down when you squat. Also, check the waistband: wide and flat, it won't dig into your skin.
Bend forward in front of a mirror, in bright light: a good opaque fabric doesn’t become see-through when stretched. This is a good habit to have before wearing light leggings in the gym.
Pair your bottoms with a bra, a t-shirt, or a jacket. If you want more support, also check out compression wear, and for hot days, the shorts.
The selection includes adidas, Mizuno, Gym Glamour, Dare 2B, Fabletics, and Johaug. From studio leggings to outfits designed for winter sports, the uses are varied; read the details to find out what each model is made for.
Wash them inside out, at a low temperature, and without fabric softener, which reduces elasticity. Avoid the tumble dryer and rough surfaces like Velcro, which can snag the fabric. A well-cared-for pair keeps its shape much longer, as well as its colours.
If you train several times a week, alternating between two or three leggings gives the fibres time to regain their shape between sessions.
To find cheaper options, check out women's clothing deals or clearance sales. The pages Black Friday also feature workout outfits.
For yoga and Pilates, opt for soft, seamless material. For running, choose a fabric that wicks moisture, with flat seams and, if possible, a pocket. For heavy strength training sessions, an opaque and abrasion-resistant fabric prevents snags at pressure points.
Think about the colour and pattern: a plain legging pairs with everything, while a patterned model makes a statement but limits combinations. A neutral base and a brighter model are often enough to vary your outfits.
Stick to your usual size if the fit is close. If you're between sizes, the larger one avoids a too tight feel.
For short runs, yes, if the fabric breathes and the seams don’t rub. For longer runs, technical tights are more suitable.
Choose a high waist and a wide waistband, possibly with an internal drawstring to adjust the fit.
A flexible model, with no thick seams, that allows for full stretching without compression.
It’s handy for a key or phone; make sure the pocket is secured before running.