Leggings are tight-fitting garments that sheathe the legs and hips from waist to ankle. They’re made of a stretchy material like cotton, nylon or elasticized fabrics such as spandex and Lycra. They’re typically skin-tight and have a waistband, pockets and sometimes a crotch reinforcement. They may be sheer, opaque or a combination of both. They can be worn by both women and men.
Legging-style pants, or jeggings, are a form of leggings that are styled to look like skinny jeans. They’re a great weekend wear option for errand running and other casual activities. They’re often made from a blend of spandex and denim.
Our tester gave these leggings a thumbs up for lounging, but they weren’t ideal for a gym workout because the material is a bit too thick to be comfortable in sweaty conditions. However, they’re still good for everyday wear and travel because they’re durable, soft and flexible.
In the early 1980s, Jane Fonda helped to popularize the shiny disco pant leggings that are still fashionable today. Her aerobics workout videos merged the comfort and practicality of leggings with the sleek look of tracksuits and athletic wear. The 1990s saw the rise of Lululemon Athletica, which marketed its high-end lycra leggings as fashionable activewear.
Today, leggings are available in a wide range of styles and materials. Many are a blend of spandex and fabric such as cotton or wool, while others are pure spandex. Some are full-length, while others stop at the knee or just below the ankle. They’re also available in a variety of colors and finishes, from black opaque to glossy and sparkly. women’s bamboo leggings