Few things ruin the afterglow of a kick-ass workout like a swampy pair of leggings, am I right? It's a testament to the fact that not all "performance-driven" activewear is actually created equal. In reality, finding leggings that will wick moisture during (and after) the toughest of workouts can come to trial and error, as well as personal preference.
But that's also why you have us. As a crew of editors who enjoy a variety of workouts, we can definitely vouch for the leggings that keep us dry and happy, no matter how we're breaking a sweat (or how much we're sweating). So without further ado, shop our favorites below—and stay cool out there.
The Best Leggings
These running tights have Nike's signature moisture-wicking Dri-Fit technology, so you won't feel too gross after an especially tough workout.
Zella leggings are one of the most-purchased items on Nordstrom, and we can totally see why. They hug your body just right and feel so comfortable. This pair has moisture-wicking fabric, so you can dry off quickly after class. Plus, there's a hidden pocket for cash or a key.
Wear this pair to a yoga or studio class. The fabric is quick-drying, breathable, and soft, so they're comfortable for any workout.
These leggings have a cool moto detail, which will make a statement in your hot yoga class or the gym. Since the pair is high waisted, you won't have to worry about pulling up your leggings while working out.
The price really can't be beaten for these leggings from Amazon. They are soft and comfortable to move around in, but they also do a good job of keeping you dry (or as dry as you can be).
Girlfriend Collective is known for its premium activewear made from recycled bottles, and these leggings don't disappoint. They help you stay dry while the compressive fit and high waist leaves you feeling supported.
The Gym People makes some of the best activewear on Amazon. These leggings are a highly sought-after pair. The moisture-wicking medium-weight design has side pockets and breathable, non-see-through fabric.
"They're the only full-length leggings I can stand to work out in," says Who What Wear senior beauty editor Erin Jahns. "They don't trap sweat or heat or make me feel claustrophobic while I work out. Plus, on a more superficial level, I've never gotten as many compliments from total strangers on an item of workout clothing before."
Move freely with these popular Zella leggings. You don't have to worry about going hard and getting sweaty since they're moisture-wicking and quick-drying and have seaming that doesn't irritate.
Great for high-intensity workouts, this pair is lightweight and breathable. It's made with the brand's FrostKnit technology and has a compressive yet stretchy feel that dries fast while wicking away sweat. It also has an internal drawstring and reflective details.
Editor Aimee is a huge fan of these leggings. "I have literally participated in super-sweaty workouts where everyone else had visible crotch and butt sweat, and I didn't," she says.
You'll get plenty of support in these ultra-compressive leggings. They're squat-proof and moisture-wicking and and have reflective details.
Super breathable and sweat wicking, these tights are designed for running. The fabric has a cool feeling and four-way stretch. It also has side and back pockets so you can easily stash your phones or keys.
With no side seams, ALO's leggings are so comfortable. They're smoothing, sculpting, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial.
These are designed especially for medium- to high-impact workouts. The fabric is made with recycled material and is compressive. There are also large side pockets to store your phone.
Hit up those HIIT classes in these hard-working sweat-wicking leggings. The drawstring waistband is designed to stay put and not ride down.
These are super sculpting and supportive. The fabric also has reflective details, which are perfect if you normally exercise outdoors.
Even though these leggings are made of soft fabric, they're also moisture-wicking and feature a supportive high waistband, which is perfect for yoga class (and beyond).
Whether you're hitting up a yoga or strength training class, you'll be comfortable in these tights. They're quick-drying and breathable and feel cool on the outside and soft on the inside.
These leggings have breathable pinhole details, so you won't overheat during your workout.
These feature Adidas' CLIMACOOL technology, which wicks and disperses sweat for cool, dry, and distraction-free performance.
If you really want to stand out at the gym or in your studio class, wear this cool pair.
These leggings will cool you down thanks to breathable fabric that is also soft, compressive, and has a four-way stretch.
You'll feel comfortable wearing these leggings because they have a no-slip waistband and flatlock seams. They're also made of antimicrobial fabric to resist odors and germs.
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
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