Table of Contents
Material
Look for leggings woven with materials, like elastane, which are stretchy and moisture-wicking, unlike cotton, which is not. Mesh panels and cutout perforations are details to consider for ventilation, especially if you wear leggings in warmer weather. In cooler conditions, leggings with a fleece interior provide insulation.
Length
Leggings come in various lengths, from below the knee to covering the ankle. Brands usually list these lengths as:
- Capri: where the cuff stops mid-calf or just below the knee
- 7/8: where the cuff hits just above the ankle creating a slightly cropped look
- Full length: where the cuff reaches the ankle, offering full coverage
However, lengths can vary depending on the runner’s height or if the legging is petite, regular, or tall. Refer to the brand’s size chart to check for inseam lengths so the desired fit doesn’t run too short or too long.
Pockets
We love pockets. If you’re wearing leggings for other activities, like yoga, consider zipper-less drop-in pockets to prevent poking during poses. If you run with your phone, placement is another consideration. Deep thigh pockets keep your phone secure and easy to reach. Some runners—myself included—prefer their phone in the rear mid-back pocket because the weight of the phone on their thigh messes with their stride.
Fit: Waistband length and compression prevent your leggings from slippage. (Back when I started at RW, I tested a pair of leggings that required me to run holding the waistband up so I wouldn’t moon passing cars). Too much constriction, however, can cause gastrointestinal upset on sensitive stomachs. A drawcord and some troubleshooting with sizing—I’ve had to size up for a with some brands’ leggings—will help you find a pair that fits comfy and won’t distract from your workout.
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