6 Best Plus-Size Leggings for Workouts, Lounging and Beyond in 2024

COURTESY OLIVIA HANSON

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Best overall plus-size leggings

Girlfriend Collective Float Ultralight Legging

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Girlfriend Collective’s Float Ultralight Legging is the best plus-size leggings because it checks all our boxes. From comfort to design to price and size selection, these leggings did their job well whether I was working out or spending time on the couch. The TLDR? They’re compressive enough to be a workout legging while still soft, comfortable and aesthetic enough to wear on the go.

Another reason I gave these leggings top billing is that not only are they one of the most size-inclusive brands I’ve seen, but you can also choose between two different inseam sizes to customize to your perfect fit. One of the biggest size selections on the market I’ve come across, they come in sizes XX-small to 6X. You can also choose between a 28.5-inch inseam or a 23.75-inch, depending on your height and preference.

Both the material and fit of these leggings feel top tier. They’re made of 90% recycled plastic bottles and 10% spandex for stretch, making them an eco-conscious clothing pick, too. Whether squatting or sitting down to relax, these leggings moved with my body and felt smooth against my skin. I also loved how they compressed my stomach and thighs to make them appear a little more flattering. If I had one gripe about the leggings, it’s that they’re a little bit pricey, but frankly, I’d pay that price 10 times over for that kind of quality.

Pros

• Available in sizes XX-small to 6X
• Comes in two inseam lengths
• Can be worn for all sorts of activities
• Made from 25 recycled water bottles
• Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) 50+ sun protection

Cons

• Pricey
• Colors may bleed during first wash, so wash carefully

COURTESY OLIVIA HANSON

Shop on Amazon

Best budget plus-size leggings

Amazon Essentials Active Sculpt Mid-Rise Leggings

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These Amazon Essentials mid-rise leggings are affordable, but don’t skimp on quality. They’re made of a polyester-elastane blend that feels as high quality as some of my more expensive leggings. They’re thick, yet lightweight enough not to feel like they were weighing me down. The fabric also passed the squat test, meaning they’re non-see-through.

During my workouts, they stayed put no matter what I was doing, were stretchy enough to move with me and wicked sweat away from the skin. While lounging, they were lightweight enough to be comfortable for cozying up in. I also love that they are mid-rise, so they cover my tummy just enough without being too high-waisted. For me, the bottom of the leggings sits just above my ankle, which feels like just the right height.

These best budget leggings come in a similar massive size selection as our Best Overall leggings: sizes extra-small to 6X. I’m a size 12 and got an XL, which turned out to be my perfect fit. They also come in various colors such as black, navy and pink. Though still a great option without breaking the bank, if I had one critical point about these Amazon leggings it’s that they’re less compressive, so they’re not as flattering as some other leggings I tried.

Pros

• Affordable price
• Moisture-wicking fabric
• Mid-rise waistband
• Available in sizes extra-small to 6X
• Comes in a variety of colors and patterns

Cons

• Less compressive

COURTESY OLIVIA HANSON

Shop on Old Navy

Best high-waisted plus-size leggings

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted PowerChill Leggings

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I tested Old Navy’s Extra High-Waisted PowerChill Leggings while running and walking. This was a strategic test because I wanted to see if the high waist would ever fall. Well, I’m here to confirm that the high waist did stay in place even when I picked up the pace on my run or bent over to sit down.

My walks and runs in these leggings proved that they wick moisture away and feel light and breathable, thanks to their cotton-polyester-tencel modal fabric. And though I loved the high waist of these pants, I also love how incredibly flattering they looked on me. The high waist pulled in my stomach without being too tight while the leg fabric helped to conceal some cellulite.

If I had one minor complaint, it would be that the lightweight fabric makes my legs feel slightly cold on winter days, however, I will most definitely grab them in the summer. The size selection isn’t as big, going from extra-small to 4X, so there’s room for growth in the size department. They’re available in black, charcoal gray and navy blue.

Pros

• Designed with an extra high waist for tummy control
• True to size
• Available in sizes extra-small to 4X
• Can be worn for all sorts of activities
• Made with go-dry moisture-wicking technology

Cons

• Thinner fabric

COURTESY OLIVIA HANSON

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Best moisture-wicking plus-size leggings

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi Legging

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While I love the accomplished feeling of a high-sweat workout, I don’t want my leggings to show it. And, of course, if they did, it shows up in the worst places—aka under the butt and the crotch area—so it’s an absolute no-go. With these Spacedye midi leggings from Beyond Yoga, you’re guaranteed a pair of leggings that will wick away moisture from even your most high-intensity workout, leaving you worry-free about any sweat in unwanted places.

Upon first impression of the leggings, I noticed their super, buttery-soft fabric made of polyester-elastane blend that includes a four-way stretch. They have a 5-inch high waist that went right up to my belly button and flattered my curves. They also have a midi length, which frees up the ankle, and a convenient pocket should you need to carry any small items.

I tested these best plus-size leggings while doing a long workout on my downstairs elliptical, guaranteed to work up a sweat. By the time I was done with my workout, sure, the leggings had a little natural moisture but nothing major, and certainly not to the point where it was gathered in any unwanted places. Considering it was a 40-minute-long workout, I was impressed.

But beyond workouts, I also use these leggings for lounging or running errands since the fabric is so soft. You can find them in sizes XX-small to 4X and several muted tones, such as teal, dark green and purple. My main beef with these leggings is that they don’t come in any neutral colors, which is a preference for me, but the magenta I got them in was a nice change of pace.

Pros

• Made with moisture-wicking fabric
• Figure-flattering design
• Incredibly soft fabric
• Includes hip pockets
• Available in sizes XX-small to 4X

Cons

• Doesn’t come in neutral colors

COURTESY OLIVIA HANSON

Shop on Popflex

Best plus-size seamless leggings

Popflex Criss-Cross Hourglass Seamless Legging

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While these plus-size leggings are seamless, they’re also quite flexible. As someone who wears leggings with seams, these were a huge upgrade. Knowing that seamless leggings are some of the most flexible on the market, I tested these Crisscross Hourglass leggings from Popflex on leg day and pilates day to see if this rang true. They were less restrictive during my workouts no matter which exercise I did, and I can say for certain that I will wear these for those workouts from here on out.

While the flexibility was the biggest benefit, these seamless leggings were also flattering. They feature a ribbed, criss-cross waistband that mimics the shape of the curves around the waist, helping to accent the area instead of covering it up like most other leggings. The brand also claims it is anti-camel toe, which was true in my testing.

And last but not least, these leggings’ unique sizing system is a major benefit to those of us who tend to fluctuate in weight. The leggings come in sizes Extra Smallflex, Smallflex, Midflex, Curveflex and Extra Curveflex. This may sound a little intimidating considering it’s something different. Look at their size chart to find which works best for you and voilà! You’ll have a pair of leggings that’ll fit even when your weight fluctuates. As a size 12, I got a Curveflex, which provides a sculpting fit. These sizes accommodate everyone from a size 00 to a size 24.

Pros

• Seam-free design
• Flattering and unique criss-cross waistline
• Unique sizing, allowing for weight fluctuation
• Anti-camel toe and squat-proof
• Available in sizes for 00 to 24

Cons

• Only available in three colors

COURTESY OLIVIA HANSON

Shop on Lane Bryant

Best plus-size capri leggings

Lane Bryant Livi Signature Stretch Capri Legging

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One of my favorite parts about these Livi Signature Stretch Capri Leggings from Lane Bryant is that I don’t have to jump and pull numerous times to get the bottom of the leggings over my ankles. They slide on quite easily, ideal for days when I’m running short on time. Another thing they’re ideal for? Spring and summertime workouts when you want to wear leggings and avoid getting too hot.

I tested these while on outdoor runs with my dog, and just the capri length helped to keep my temperature down as my heart rate went up. They’re not as ideal for being outside in the winter when you’re doing everything to stay warm, but I know they’ll be fantastic in the warmer months. I can picture myself pairing these with a bodysuit or a plain T-shirt while golfing or sitting around the fireplace with friends and family.

These leggings double as loungewear since their cotton-spandex fabric is super soft and flexible. They have a 4-inch waistband that stayed put while I worked out, and come in sizes 10/12 to 38/40. Note: I got the 10/12 that fit true to size like many other Lane Bryant plus-size pieces I’ve tested.

Pros

• Mid-calf length
• Designed with a breathable cotton-spandex blend
• Second-skin feel
• High waistband stays in place
• Available in sizes 10/12 to 38/40

Cons

• Only available in two colors

What to consider when buying plus-size leggings

While on the hunt for the best pair of plus-size leggings, there are a few things to consider before purchasing. Firstly, consider what you want to use the leggings for. If you’ll be using them for running or things like exercise machines, you’ll want a pair of compression leggings since they have an array of benefits that aid in exercise. However, if you’re using them for things like yoga or pilates, make sure they have a significant amount of stretch so you can move freely. If you want to use them just to lounge in or wear them out and about, confirm that they’re extra soft and comfortable, and suit your aesthetic taste.

Types of plus-size leggings

• Knee- and ankle-length leggings: Leggings come in a variety of different lengths and this is something you’ll want to think about as you’re searching. You can find everything from knee-length leggings to mid-calf leggings and ankle-length leggings. Selecting one comes down to your preference and comfort level. Knee-length leggings are smart when you want to wear leggings but don’t want to be too hot while full-ankle leggings are better able to help keep heat in.

• Compression leggings:  Compression leggings can be used for everything, but they do their best work when using them in a workout. They hug the skin while also compressing targeted areas, such as the butt and tummy. Added benefits to compression leggings are that they increase sweat, aid in muscle recovery, improve blood flow and make you look a little slimmer.

• Seamless leggings: Hence the name, seamless leggings have little to no seams and a few added benefits. For some, the added benefit is the aesthetics—having no additional seams keeps the leggings sleek and simple. Allowing for more airflow, seamless leggings can help keep you cool during a workout. They can also be more flexible than other leggings and can help prevent chafing.

Why you should trust us

As a seasoned shopping writer who’s been testing and trialing products in the fashion and beauty spaces for over three years, I know how to spot the items that are a cut above the rest. I’ve written stories like best plus-size pajamas and the best wedding guest dresses for brands like InStyle, People and UsWeekly. I’m dedicated to helping shoppers find the products that help better their lives and spark some joy. For this story, I tested several pairs of the best plus-size leggings for over a month from brands like Girlfriend Collective, Old Navy, Lane Bryant, Beyond Yoga, Amazon and Popflex. I saw how each measured up to the next based on metrics like fit, material, comfort, size selection, price, durability and design.

How we found the best plus-size leggings

With all the leggings on the market, I narrowed the search by focusing exclusively on the most popular and best-selling leggings, keeping fit, comfort, durability, size selection, material, price and design in mind. For context, I wear a size 12. I tested the leggings in several of my weekly workouts, such as going for runs and walks with my dog, elliptical workouts on my downstairs exercise machine, yoga sessions and lounging around the house. I spent a total of 50 hours testing six different pairs of plus-size leggings. From there, it came down to two pairs of leggings to see which would get the Best Overall spot, so I spent another eight hours wearing each of those to feel confident in the top pick.

FAQ

Do compression leggings make you look slimmer?

Yes, compression leggings can make you look slimmer. Much like the best plus-size shapewear, they’re made of stretchy, elastic-blend fabrics that pull in areas of your body that might have more fatty tissue. However, they must be worn at your proper size to reap the most benefits. In addition to slimming the body, they aid with muscle recovery and muscle fatigue and help to increase sweating.

Should you size up or down on compression leggings?

Finding the right compression-size leggings for you is never a one-size-fits-all process. It can depend on a variety of factors, such as preference and brand. Of course, compression leggings are meant to be tight, but they should never be tight enough to where they’re squeezing you or making you uncomfortable. If you’re someone who doesn’t like too much tightness, consider sizing up. If you’re someone who does want the full compression effect, stay at your regular size. But overall, they should hug the body comfortably.

Unfortunately, not all leggings brands are a standard size, so that’s where some personal research might come into play. I suggest considering consumer reviews of the brand or product for insight into which size is best for you.

What’s the best material for plus-size leggings?

Leggings come in various materials and the best material for plus-size leggings will come down to your preference and lifestyle. Generally, the best materials for plus-size leggings go as follows: cotton, polyester, elastane, spandex and nylon. However, the one you select should be specific to your taste and what you’ll be using them for. If you want a softer, more breathable material, look at leggings with a cotton blend. Leggings with a polyester blend will likely be more affordable, durable and stretchy. Nylon-blend leggings are stretchy, durable, soft and smell resistant. However, no matter which one you choose, all of them should have some spandex or elastane mix to ensure proper stretchiness.