Athleisure clothing has become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe over the past few months, but workout leggings are different from everyday leggings. Regardless of if you’re wearing them for HIIT workouts, yoga, running, cycling, or weight lifting, your leggings need to be comfortable, breathable, durable, and moisture-wicking. Here’s how to find the best leggings for your workout.
Check the Fabric
For workouts, synthetic performance fibers like nylon and polyester are better than cotton because they’re usually moisture-wicking, more durable, and they have more stretch. For high-impact workouts, smooth, shiny fabrics will help reduce chaffing and for yoga soft fabrics that are matte work better.
Look at the Construction
The seems should be flat, not raised as they’ll be more comfortable and prevent irritation while you’re exercising. Look out for an extra piece of fabric in the crotch that will prevent the leggings from riding up.
Do a Sweat Test
While most fabrics claim to be moisture-wicking, they don’t happen to be. To test it out, place a small drop of water on the inside of the legging and if it absorbs quickly and spreads out wide instead of beading up, then the fabric is moisture-wicking.
Check If They’re See-Through
No one wants to get to the gym and to start squatting only to realize that their leggings are see-through. Try on leggings in bright light and do a squat test to see if you can see through the fabric. Remember that over time fabric can thin and fade.
