Get this: being fit and wearing activewear have moved beyond the niche; they’re now a huge part of how we live and dress. According to McKinsey’s 2025 Sporting Goods report, “sport has become an increasingly potent vehicle for self-expression,” with 48% of respondents saying fitness and their active lifestyle are a core part of their identity. Among millennials and Gen Z, that number sits at a staggering 55%. And of course, where there is sport, there is most likely a pair of leggings to be seen.
Whether you’re lifting, lunging, lunching, legging it on the pavement or just chilling on the couch, there’s a pair of leggings for every body. And not to sound like we’re showing off, but here at WH, we know a good tight when we see one. From clever fabrics to seriously good-looking styling, these high-performing pairs are here to upgrade your workout wardrobe… no excuses, no see-through squats, no nonsense.
Jump To Your Favourite Section: Temperature-Regulating Leggings | Performance Compression Leggings | Seamless Leggings | High-Waist Power Leggings | Flared Or Bootcut Leggings | Eco-Conscious Or Sustainable Leggings
What To Look For In Everyday Leggings
The best leggings pull double duty. For all-day wear, prioritise flat seams that won’t dig in, moisture-wicking fabric that stays fresh and a waistband you can comfortably sit in for hours. If they can’t carry you from a core class to a coffee run without a wardrobe rethink, they’re not truly versatile.
The Squat Test: A Quick Way To Check The Quality
Before you buy, do the squat test. If the fabric turns sheer when you bend, put them back. Quality gym leggings should stay opaque no matter how deep you go. It’s the quickest way to tell whether a pair is built for training or just for looking the part.
READ MORE: How To Do A Goblet Squat Like A Pro
The Best Material For Workout Leggings
The fabric of your leggings matters more than you think.
- Elastane/Spandex is the go-to for that signature stretchy, compressive feel; lightweight and forgiving in all the right ways.
- Nylon brings softness and durability to the table, with the bonus of pulling moisture away from your skin so sweat never steals your confidence mid-workout.
- Polyester is a tough, water-resistant option that holds its own during intense sessions, though it does trade a little breathability for that extra durability.
Longevity Tip
If your leggings suddenly start sagging, the elastic may be done. Repeated washing and wear can weaken waistband stretch, even if the leggings still look fine. Wash them in cold water, skip fabric softener and air-dry whenever possible.
Temperature-Regulating Leggings
Icebreaker 200 Oasis Merino Leggings
100% merino wool delivers natural insulation, breathability and odour resistance in one. Whether you’re hitting the ski hill, tackling a trail or summiting in summer, these leggings adapt to wherever the mountain takes you.
Cotton On Fleece Lined Active Full Length Tight
A double-layer waistband, moisture-wicking fabric and brushed fleece lining make this a cold-weather warrior. No front seam, a concealed zip pocket and side pockets mean comfort and practicality are firmly in the bag.
Performance Compression Leggings
Mr Price Sport Elite Full-length Power Leggings
Here’s proof that performance doesn’t have to break the bank. These full-length tights offer firm compression which is ideal for both training and recovery – a smart, budget-friendly pick for everyday athletes. Plus, the wickable fabric draws moisture away from your skin, ensuring you stay dry and comfy.
2XU Women’s Form Stash Hi-Rise Comp Leggings
Built for high-intensity training, these compression leggings support muscles during gym sessions, runs and HIIT. The high-rise waistband delivers solid core support, making them a reliable all-around performance staple.
Seamless Leggings
Under Armour Vanish Elite Seamless Ankle Leggings
“Power through hardcore training with a gym buddy that genuinely supports you. These ultra-lightweight, high-intensity tights offer a locked-in compression fit that dries insanely fast, a waist-snatching midsection design and no front seam (IYKYK).” – Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor
Puma SHAPELUXE High-Waist Training Tights
ADAPTIV fibres and SHAPELUXE compression deliver a sculpted, flexible fit that moves with you effortlessly. The high-rise waistband and dryCELL technology keep you feeling fresh and confident from your workout straight to your next errand.
High-Waist Power Leggings
Fitness Fusion Luxe Motion Leggings
“High-waisted and tight-fitting with no pockets, these leggings feel like a second skin – in the best possible way. They move with you through squats and lunges without restriction. The fabric is soft yet firm, making them a great choice for strength training and gym sessions.” – Tanya Goddard, WH Sales Director
Duck Apparel Cocoa Butter Leggings
Buttery soft and created for movement, these nylon-spandex leggings offer four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric and impressive shape retention. A hidden zip pocket and breathable, second-skin fit make them an effortless, studio-to-street essential you need. Get the insider scoop on their legging range, here.
Reebok Lux High-Rise Leggings
“Let’s be honest, these days most of us need activewear that supports real life, not just lifts. These tights are a triple threat; delivering while running, in the gym and running errands. The wide high-rise waistband secures and flatters, Speedwick keeps you dry and MOTIONFRESH eliminates odours so you can go from workout to Woolies cafe without stressing.” – Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor
“Double-tested and approved! These are honestly the best-fitting tights that instantly give your butt a boost, sculpt and lift. I own three pairs and have put them through everything: trail runs, gym sessions, Warrior Races and hikes. They’ve also seen me through my fittest phase to my current post-partum body. Talk about versatile.” – Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor
ASICS Road High Waist Tight
“Designed by runners who genuinely get it. Made from 50% recycled materials, these ultra-breathable tights boast laser-cut knee ventilation and three pockets. The real winner? A clever waistband loop system to easily stash your jacket, tee or water bottle mid-stride.” – Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor
“Just to add to what Kelleigh said: the loop system at the back is genius! It solves the one problem every runner faces – figuring out what to do with your jacket, extra layers or arm sleeves mid run.” – Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor
New Balance RC Pocket Legging 25″
“Hate the mid-run slip’n’slide? These gorg tights (available in SIX colours) have an internal infinity drawcord that locks the high waistband securely in place to give a distraction-free fit (no mid-run tight yanking here). We also love the super deep side pockets, small reflective circles on the hem and the shockingly flattering fit.” – Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor
READ MORE: Best Training Apps For 2026 To Help Improve Your Performance
Puma CLOUDSPUN High-Waist Tights Women
“Ultra-soft is the best way to describe the Puma CLOUDSPUN leggings. The high-waisted fit is fantastic, feeling light and unrestricted during runs or gym sessions. They stay put without slipping and the fabric holds its shape perfectly.” – Tanya Goddard, WH Sales Director
OTG Active Core Tight
“From HIIT sessions to hitting the shops, these buttery-soft, squat-proof tights are an everyday staple. Available in four lengths, they feature sweat-wicking four-way stretch, chafe-free seams and a hidden waistband pocket for your essentials.” – Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor
On Studio Tights 7/8
“Made from a thick but breathable material, these are form-fitting and really comfy to run in. I love the pockets, and the fact that they actually stay up, even when fully loaded, is a massive bonus.” – Chamain van Zyl, Online Editor
“I love having multiple pockets for longer runs and these fit the brief perfectly. The two side pockets and back zip easily hold keys, gels and hydration. Plus, the Drytec fabric makes them some of the comfiest running tights I’ve ever worn, and they come in some awesome colours.” – Tanya Goddard, WH Sales Director
READ MORE: The Hottest Running Shoes Of 2026 (So Far)
Flared Or Bootcut Leggings
adidas All Me Essentials Flare Leggings
A retro-inspired silhouette meets active performance. Climacool wicks and disperses sweat for cool, dry and distraction-free moves. Equally at home on the yoga mat, gym floor or street, they’re a stylish nod to the flare trend without sacrificing function.
Burnt Form Flared Legging
If you’re looking for a “funky” pair of leggings for all-day comfort and low-intensity workouts, this pair by Burnt could be just what you need! Featuring a mid-rise waistband and a soft, flared-leg design, the Form Flared Legging is made for slow days of movement. Now, breatheeeee…
Fitness Fusion Lifestyle Align Flare Leg Pants
A high-waisted silhouette, four-way stretch, nylon-spandex fabric and a flowing flare hem make these an effortlessly chic pick. Breathable and supportive enough for the studio; polished enough for beyond.
READ MORE: The 411 On Wall Pilates Workouts From Experts. Plus, A Go-To Wall Pilates Routine
Eco-Conscious Or Sustainable Leggings
ASICS Road High Waist Capri Tight
“Who says runners can’t partake in the current fashion trends? Keep your cool in a chic, cropped capri cut featuring a supportive stretch-knit, a bounce-limiting side pocket and that genius waistband loop system to easily stash your layers as your workout heats up.” – Kelleigh Korevaar, Deputy Editor
Eco Threads Luna Cotton Leggings
Made from 96% natural cotton with four-way stretch, these breathable, absorbent leggings are built for yoga, casual wear and conscious dressing; proof that sustainable choices never have to compromise on comfort.
Hannah Lavery Bamboo Leisure Pants
Not your average pair of leggings, these are 95% bamboo and 5% spandex. The relaxed pair of pants is silky soft, naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking. A conscious, effortlessly stylish alternative for low-impact movement and everyday wear.
READ MORE: From Hike To Hot Girl Walk – 36 Gorpcore Pieces You’ll Live In
This article first appeared in the May + June 2026 Issue of Women’s Health South Africa. Words by Ifeoma Okobi. Additional reporting and products added by the Women’s Health SA team.
Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.
