10 Things to Consider When Buying Women's seamless workout leggings

Whether you're heading to yoga, off for a run, sweating on the spin bike, or even boarding a long-haul flight, you need a pair of trusty workout leggings. And, there's no better motivation for working out than breaking in your brand new athletic leggings, right?

Link to UNIMETONE

Yet, finding the best workout leggings can be an overwhelming task. You want comfort, functionality, support and style, but with so much choice on offer where do you start? Luckily, we've put together our top 10 key features to look out for in the best workout leggings.

And no, we're not just talking about whether they give you the dreaded 'camel toe' (although that does make it onto our list!). We want workout leggings that simultaneously heighten performance and maximise comfort, while bringing all the technical points to the table too.

1) A high waist

Black Compressive High-Rise Legging, £78, Girlfriend Collective

Good workout leggings should provide a second skin that make even those toughest spin classes or HIIT sessions a walk in the park - and all without exposing your backside.

For those burpees, sprints and squats, a high-waist from the likes of Girlfriend Collective is a definite requirement in a pair of fitness tights. Because showing off our undies mid-star jump has never been our best look.

High Waist Goddess Legging, £87.85, Alo Yoga

If you prefer doing downward dog over mountain climbers, than the High Waist Goddess Legging from Alo Yoga has got you covered. Its four-way stretch means it effortlessly move with your body as you practice your flow, while your waistband stays reliably in place.

Shop high-waisted leggings >

Also check out our guide to Alo Yoga Leggings >

2) A seamless construction

Launch Crop Legging - Dark Grey Marl, £109.20, LNDR

Seamless workout leggings mean there are no stitches or seams. They provide a smooth, non-chafing layer for your skin, so you can flex in comfort with zero irritation.

One of our favourite pairs is the Launch Crop Leggings from LNDR. Famously flattering, they slip on like a second skin with no zips, stitches or seams to get in the way. We wear ours for everything from ballet to bootcamp to brunch (and bed if we could).

3) Compression panels

If you want your workout leggings to feel super supportive and taut, compression panels are a must. Compression leggings are particularly tight-fitting and designed to hold your muscles firmly in place as you workout.

The benefit? A boost in your athletic performance as they improve blood flow to the muscles, increasing agility and reducing muscle fatigue. Plus, you're guaranteed to look good too in this pair from 2XU . Win-win, right?

When buying compression leggings, it can sometimes be tricky finding your right size as they are really TIGHT. Have a look at our Compression Leggings 101 before you buy yours.

4) Breathability

Michi Inversion Leggings , £154.80, Michi NY

Breathability is highly important when it comes to getting active in your workout leggings. Plus, it's a major factor to consider if you're prone to doing a vinyasa-yoga sequence in 37-degree heat or a sweaty spin class.

Ventilating mesh panels are guaranteed to keep you cool and stop you feeling like a hot-mesh. We're all over the Michi Leggings. Not only do the mesh panels provide optimum ventilation, but they're also strategically placed to emphasise your leg's contours.

5) Moisture-wicking fabric

Black Moon Yoga Leggings, £59.95, Teeki

Along with mesh panels, moisture-wicking fabrics mean you don't have to break a sweat when it comes to being kept cool and dry. Heading to a Bikram class?

You'll definitely be wanting to look out for workout leggings that are crafted with sweat-wicking material. Our go-tos? Teeki's moisture-wicking, eco-friendly yoga leggings. Choose to be covered in stars, rather than sweat.

6) Super Soft Fabric

Spacedye Take Me Higher Long Legging, £78.00, Beyond Yoga

Comfort is key when buying workout leggings, especially if you have a penchant for living in your leggings more than any other types of bottoms. And, if you think your current activewear leggings are comfy, then wait until you try the exceptional Spacedye legging from Beyond Yoga.

Their Spacedye Performance fabric is the definition of comfort. It's luxuriously soft. So soft, in fact, that you'll never want to take them off. And, they're also functional with the ability to evaporate sweat and dry off quickly. Say hello to your new legging love affair.

7) Sculpting Features

High Waist Airbrush Capri Legging, £68.00, Alo Yoga

When you have workout leggings that nip, tuck and hold you in all the right places, you can focus on your form that much easier - something that's particularly handy when you're the flyer in acro yoga.

We're couldn't be without the Alo Yoga High Waist Airbrush Leggings. Tested by real yogis over 1,000 times to find the perfect bum-sculpting fit, these workout leggings are designed to smooth and lift your figure. Plus, they're moisture-wicking for when you fancy a bit of time at Hot Pod yoga. Namaste indeed.

8) Elongation

Delta Legging, £115.00,PE Nation

Activewear stripes are having a moment right now. And can you blame them? Not only does this retro trend make you the envy of everyone in the gym, but they're also guaranteed to elongate your silhouette. Legs for miles so we can run for miles? We're all set.

9) Anti-Camel Toe

Lux Star Knockout Leggings, £170, Ultracor

Leggings so good you can go commando? We've found them! If you're in the market for such a pair, then get to know Ultracor's game-changing range of leggings.

Using ACT (that's Anti-Camel Toe technology if you didn't yet know), these streamlined leggings are 100% guaranteed to avoid any camel-toe scenario (trust us - we tried and tested).

'We wanted shapewear that gives you a butt lift, no camel toe, and no panty lines, so that women can feel extra confident and wear their leggings,' explains Ultracor designer Melissa Pizzuto. Amen to that.

10) Versatility

Moto Legging, £89.95, Alo Yoga

Everyone who's worn a good legging knows that its worth goes way beyond the gym. Studio to street? Yes please. Cardio to coffee? We know you want leggings that can do both. That's why versatility is key when buying workout leggings. And, there's no better place to look than the Moto Collection.

These are performance leggings with moto-inspired styling, so that you can wear them weight-lifting or with a cotton tee for that effortless 'off-duty' look. If the Moto Legging is good enough for Gigi and Bella...

If shimmer is more your vibe, then a pair of show-stopping shiny leggings are what you need. Guaranteed to have people ask you where you got them from, these disco-inspired leggings look good and work hard - the ultimate staple for any athleisure wardrobe.

Why We Love It: Stelter likes this option because it's lightweight, feels super smooth, and holds its shape over time. She's not alone; Reviewers spoke positively about wearing the leggings for exercise, lazy days, and nights out, pairing them with heels and a cute top. They're also comfortable travel pants. It's important to note that you should only hand-wash this garment, and some reviewers noted that the fabric is a bit sheer in places. Still, they raved about the leggings' comfort, support, and versatility.

Who It's For: With its inclusive sizing, these Skims leggings work well on a variety of body sizes (4X is a size 26'28). There's an inner-leg seam, but reviewers didn't complain about it chafing their skin. If you like these leggings, Skims has a whole Soft Smooth Seamless line. And if you're looking for a set, Skims sells a matching T-shirt and bralette. 

Material: Nylon, elastane | Size: XXS'4X

Why We Love It: It's a fashion truth: You often (but not always!) get what you pay for. Thus, high-quality seamless leggings sometimes have higher price tags attached to them. LNDR crafts this pair with "state-of-the-art seamless technology," and it has high-compression paneling as well as shaping throughout the butt and legs. It's worth noting that if high-compression isn't your thing, you can opt for medium- or light-compression leggings (however, those pairs aren't seamless).

The company is the world’s best Women's seamless workout leggings supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

Who It's For: There are two inseam lengths, which is a plus for people with petite frames, who normally have to hem their leggings. And if you like this pair, it also comes in two shorts options.

Material: Recycled Polyamide, elastane | Size: XS/S'L/XL

Why We Love It: Every detail of Shapermint's shaping leggings is made with comfort in mind, from the medium-level compression to the smooth crotch area to the anti-roll band. Reviewers said they love the thick, no-show fabric, adding that they can wear it in a variety of temperatures and situations (including long days in the office).

Who It's For: If you want a multifunctional, affordable legging, this Shapermint one is it. Given the design specs, these leggings are specifically geared toward people who have experienced discomfort while wearing regular cut-and-sew leggings. Plus, the style has an inclusive sizing range that goes up to a 4XL, and with so many classic color options, you can buy a couple of versatile pairs without spending a fortune.

Material: Nylon, spandex | Size: S'4XL

Why We Love It: Billing its products as strength-training activewear, Oner Active designs its leggings to feel lightweight, stretchy, and supportive. They're not squat-proof, so the brand recommends wearing nude underwear with them. They come in dozens of colors, so make sure to browse the offerings.

Who It's For: This legging comes in two lengths (regular/short and long), so they fit people who are a range of heights. The design defines your glutes, legs, and curves without any gaping. If your desired color or size is out of stock, get on the waitlist. 

Material: Polyamide, polyester, elastane | Size: XS'XXL

Why We Love It: Fashion stylist Catherine Bibeau loves this best seller. "With a thick and comfortable waistband that holds in your midsection and core, these leggings are perfect for jogging, lifting, and even running errands after your gym session," she explains. They have an inner seam and a subtle striped knit on the side.

Who It's For: According to Gymshark, these leggings aren't squat-proof (the squat test determines whether fabric becomes sheer when you squat or bend down, assessing the material's quality and durability during intense exercise). This option can withstand light exercise at the very most, and its comfortability truly shines during low-intensity activities.

Material: Nylon, elastane | Size: XXS'XXL

Why We Love It: This highly breathable material has a cool ribbed design that's lightweight and supportive, and reviewers said they love its look and feel. It has medium-level compression that hugs your curves, particularly in the waist and glutes. Fabletics is one of designer and sewist Aaronica Cole's favorite leggings brands. 'It has fabrics and fits that really work well for me, no matter the activity I'm doing, from lounging to long walks."

Who It's For: With three inseams (short, regular, and tall), the leggings fit people who are a wide range of heights. This particular product only goes up to an XL, so if you need more expansive sizing, opt for the brand's non-ribbed version (it goes up to a 6X).

Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Size: XS'XL

Why We Love It: CiaoGym's seamless black leggings have a unique design. Jesus Simosa, the brand's CEO and founder, explains that they hug the body without squeezing or leaving marks. 'This second-skin feel also allows for fluid body movements and provides exceptional comfort during any workout session." He adds that the design is durable, "as there are no panels sewn to each other by nonelastic textiles that rip when you extend or draw them away from the other." The mesh is breathable and supportive, and the small holes can make you feel less sweaty during exercise. 

Who It's For: These leggings can make it through different types of exercise'barre, Pilates, or weight lifting, you name it'without issue. It's important to note, however, that they only come in two sizes. Even though the material is quite stretchy, you should still consult the size guide.

Material: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Size: XS/S'M/L

Why We Love It: This legging is perfect for low-impact exercises like yoga, but it can also hold its own through dancing, weight lifting, and HIIT, too. Its high waistband doesn't roll down, and reviewers described the material as thick and soft with a ton of stretch. They also noted that the lack of front seam and soft ribbing on the top and sides make the leggings more comfortable. Like any good yoga bottom, this pair of leggings is squat-proof. 

Who It's For: The waistband is great for anyone looking for a little midsection support. Since its design is meant to minimize chafing, it's ideal for anyone who's experienced discomfort in the thigh area while wearing other leggings. According to reviewers, they're not the best at defining your bum'in fact, they might even flatten it a bit. That said, fit depends on your proportions and body shape. 

Material: Recycled nylon, nylon, elastane | Size: XXS'XXL

Why We Love It: This Under Armour legging has a "nearly sew-free' design to stave off chafing during intense workouts. The quick-drying mesh fabric is also 'mapped" to your body, specifically to the places where you're most prone to sweating. So even if you tend to sweat a lot, this legging is designed to keep you dry.

Who It's For: This high-compression pair of leggings is best-suited for people doing rigorous movement. Reviewers loved how these stayed in place and said they felt so comfortable in them that they kept them on before and after workouts. That said, if you don't like leggings that hug your body, stick to a pair that has medium or light compression. 

Material: Nylon, elastane | Size: XS'XXL

Why We Love It: Stelter likes Spanx seamless leggings for their four-way stretch. 'It holds up its shape and doesn't bag out," she explains. They stay in place, look opaque, and can even handle light exercise. The recycled-nylon material is also comfortable and environmentally friendly. Although these leggings run small, they stretch a tiny bit after you've had them on for a few minutes. Just consult the size guide carefully.

Who It's For: If you want leggings that leave you "snatched but comfy," as one reviewer puts it, these are for you. They're also a good pick if you're looking for structure and support at the waist and a contouring effect down the legs. 

Material: Nylon, elastane | Sizes: XS'3X

Why We Love It: Lululemon removed the inner-thigh seam on these leggings specifically so that runners (and anyone else exercising in them) wouldn't experience chafing. There's also a drawcord waistband that keeps the leggings in place even during intense activities, like sprints or hikes. The leggings are lightweight, but reviewers said they work well in cold weather (although not quite as well as the brand's thermal leggings). They also loved the five-pocket design, as they could go hands-free while still having their essentials on them.

Who It's For: Outdoorsy people who need leggings that support them during hikes, runs, and rock climbing adventures. This pair comes in three different inseams, and although they cost more than others on this list, they're some of the most versatile and wearable. 

Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane, elastane | Sizes: 0'20

Why We Love It: These leggings have no front seam, top seam, or elastic band, and they don't need them; They're like a second skin'soft, stretchy, and supportive without digging into your body. Kamo Fitness designed them to be squat-proof and camel-toe-free, and their lifting back seam has a contouring effect. Reviewers said the leggings support their abdomen, butt, and crotch area and remain comfortable no matter how long they wear them.

Who It's For: If comfort is your top priority in leggings, seek these out. They're great for lounging, and the absence of a front seam makes them equally good for everyday activities and a fun night out. Do note, though, that the lighter shades will show sweat after exercise or strenuous activity.

Material: Nylon, spandex | Sizes: XS'XL

Why We Love It: These squat-proof leggings hold up under any kind of activity, from running and cycling to sitting in front of the television. The leggings help visually shape the legs and butt, and the "tummy control" waistband adds support in the front, too.

Who It's For: The person who loves a matching set. The best part? You don't have to go hunting around the website for a matching top; A seamless bra is included in the affordable price. The leggings don't come in a ton of sizes (they run up to a large), but the colors are vibrant and cute.

Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Sizes: S'L

What to Keep in Mind

• Design: There's a wide variety in legging construction, even among seamless pairs, but the right pair of leggings should fit your specific body shape. Some run long or short in the legs, and others have more room in the waist and hips. Ask yourself if you're looking for a compressive waistband, lightweight materials, or a sculpting behind. 
• Fabric: Seamless leggings usually combine small, stretchy fibers with elastane and spandex. High-quality garments usually use minimal or no polyester (or other synthetics). "Nylon helps leggings hold up longer, avoid stretching out, and cause less pilling," says Stelter. As Cole points out, some of the fabrics run just like pantyhose, which isn't conducive to being active. Check how see-through the material is when you try on the leggings.
• Size: This detail depends on the brand, so consult the size guide and read reviews to determine the best size for you. Generally speaking, "It's best to get your true size for a better-fitting, flattering legging," explains Stelter. 
• Waistband and Rise: The waistband is one of the trickiest parts of a pair of leggings to get right. 'A legging that's too tight in the waist is what causes them to roll down," says Stelter. Bibeau suggests getting a pair of high-waisted leggings, 'as those typically sit above the hips, which helps them stay in place.' She adds that leggings with a wide waistband offer extra support.
• Wash Instructions: Pay particularly close attention to the washing and care instructions, which are particularly important for seamless leggings. 'Due to the fabric not having seams, it's more prone to snagging. You should take extra care while washing and wearing them," says Stelter. Properly caring for your leggings prevents you from destroying or damaging them. If you despise hand-washing your clothes, seamless leggings might not be your first choice.
  

Your Questions, Answered

What makes leggings seamless?

"The term 'seamless' refers to clothing that doesn't have stitching. It's an innovative way of manufacturing garments," says Simosa. However, seamless leggings still have seams. As Cole explains, they have one running along the inside of the legs, but because there's no outer seam, they appear completely seamless. Some of the options on this list have panels or an outer seam, but it varies by brand, so look at the on-site images and descriptions carefully.

What's the difference between seamless leggings and leggings with seams?

Seamless garments aren't new, but they've become increasingly popular'particularly within the activewear category'in the past few years. There are slight differences in seamless garment construction, but it often uses a tubular machine that runs in a circular motion to construct the garment into one piece instead of several. As a result, there are fewer steps in the design and production process, a shorter turnaround time, and the capability to make more complex patterns. The downside? Seamless leggings can be more expensive than leggings with seams. 

Are seamless leggings better than leggings with seams?

It depends on personal preference. If seams bother you when you wear leggings or skinny jeans, a seamless pair might be a good fit. 'They mold to your body without the extra front and side stitching, making them very comfortable for activities such as yoga, weight training, or walks," explains Bibeau. Because of how seamless legging patterns are drafted, they require a very stretchy fabric, Cole points out. "I prioritize fabric quality over the seamless feature. Breathability is key in a hot class,' Swan says. 'And, of course, feeling good in what you wear makes all the difference."

How do you prevent your leggings from rolling down?

No one'and we mean no one'likes when their leggings sit incorrectly on their waist and roll down their body. It often happens because of a sizing issue, but there are some options on this list with waistbands that are specifically constructed to prevent it. As Cole notes, "Sometimes sizing down can help prevent the rolling. If it doesn't, making a small slit on the inside of the waistband to add some elastic is also really helpful."

Why Shop With Us

Katherine J. Igoe is a writer covering fashion trends and products who has been exercising, lounging, and doing various activities in leggings for decades. For this story, she drew from her firsthand experience wearing and testing seamless leggings, scoured the internet, and read countless reviews (especially the ones with one star).

The following experts spoke with InStyle for this story:

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Personalized Swaddle Blanket.

• Kristin Worra Stelter is the director of merchandise at Zappos.
• Jesus Simosa is the CEO and founder of CiaoGym.
• Catherine Bibeau is a fashion stylist with over a decade of experience in the industry, including at Buffalo Jeans and Ferragamo.
• Ariel Swan is a cofounder and head of product of Jaybird and a Pilates and yoga instructor with over 20 years of experience.
• Aaronica Cole is the creator behind the blog The Needle and the Belle, the host of the podcast AudaSEWtea, and a mom of three.