Leggings are a staple in my wardrobe, reserved exclusively for exercising (mostly yoga and walking) and wearing as house clothes because they’re more comfortable than wearing a full outfit when I’ve nowhere to go and nothing to do. I don’t count them as part of my all-seasons wardrobe (because I rarely, if ever, wear them outside the house) but they are no less important.
Unlike some clothing items, finding ethically-made leggings made from sustainable sourced materials isn’t all that tricky, but knowing which pair to pick can be. Sizing, fit, and durability is important especially when we’re looking at prices over £50. Leggings are a surprising investment but so worth it, providing you pick the right ones.
I’ve tried and test a few different pairs of leggings from some of my favourite brands. All three pairs featured below were gifted, having said that, I would highly recommend all three depending on what you're wearing them for. I’m sharing my thoughts about which pairs to buy if you’re looking for some to add to wardrobe, whether that’s for your exercise routine or your working from home capsule.
Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Legging
These High-Rise Compression Leggings are designed for high-impact activities in mind, although they’re just as comfortable to wear running as they are sitting on the couch. They have an extra high-rise, compressive fit that’s squat-proof, which is exactly what you need if you plan to wear them as pants.
They’re true to size and very comfortable to wear. They won’t go see-through and they don’t pill. The fabric, which is made from recycled plastic, is supportive yet soft to the touch and moves with your body making them perfect both exercising and lounging.
The best thing about these leggings, in my opinion, is that they’re customisable. You can pick your colour and size as well as the in-seam, which means you receive a pair of leggings that are tailored to fit you. If you’re looking to buy a pair of leggings, the Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Legging would be my top recommendation.
Everlane Perform Legging
The Perform Leggings have lightweight compression and sweat-wicking properties making them less suited to high-impact actives and more suited to leisurely walks (or yoga) and lounging. Having said that, they’re the perfect option for when you need leggings that can double up as loungewear you don’t mind being seen in. They’re very slick and smart looking.
The fit has a slight compression with a high-waisted band that makes you feel supported and not strangled. The fabric, made from a mix of recycled nylon, is sleek to the touch and very soft against your skin making movement easy and comfortable. There are two options for length, ankle and regular, which allows for a better fit. If you’re in between sizes though, definitely size up.
These are the leggings I wear when I’m running errands. They’re very sleek looking so easily pass for a pair of form-fitting trousers rather than activewear. There’s not a great deal of support, just enough for low to moderate exercise. I’ve found them to be a very reliable pair of loungewear leggings.
Organic Basics Active Leggings
Stretchy but with a tight fit, these Active Leggings take a little work to break them in but it’s worth it. They have a thick elasticated band that fits snug against your waist. After a couple of hours, the leggings loosen up to fit perfectly.
Designed with seamless knitting for extra comfort and durability, and made from recycled materials treated with Polygiene meaning they stay cleaner for longer. They're sweat wicking, breathable, and flexible making them an ideal legging option if you’re wanting a pair that will be tough enough for regular exercise.
These do look more like activewear leggings than the other two options I’ve shared. I wouldn’t choose to wear them to lounge in or run errands but I do often reach for them when practicing yoga. They’re supportive without being restrictive, lightweight without being see-through, and durable because of the quality materials they’re made from.
