I wanted to stock up on leggings because I haven't had much success in Europe finding quality leggings at a price I'm willing to pay. (USA people, we have it good here, in terms of clothing prices!) I wanted to try new brands and branch out from the brands I know well, like Lululemon and Teeki.
I have just two requirements for a quality legging: 1) they must have a diamond or triangle gusset because there is nothing more uncomfortable than leggings all up in yo' business, and 2) the fabric must hold its shape for the duration of the yoga class or workout. The four pairs I want to share with you today are recent purchases that are check these two boxes and therefore are on heavy rotation.
1. Calvin Klein capris, $44 - If you're into funky patterns, these are a great option that have reinforced stitching and ruching along the bottom of the leg. They have a wide, flat waistband and I find them best for working out, because they tend to shift just a bit when in downward dog, causing me to frequently adjust them.
2. Athleta capri, $59 - These are my favorite for lifting and for throwing on and running errands. They aren't as thick nor as tight as the next pair (nothing beats the next pair), but they are still high quality, and I love their funky pattern.
3. Athleta capri, $79 - These are my favorite yoga pants of the four. They're so flattering, and they really stay put whether you're lifting or in down dog or riding a bike. They're a thicker material, much like Lululemon's luon, which means they're basically like wearing a pair of photoshop pants, as they suck everything in and smooth out the legs. Plus, you can't beat their red color. I will also add that I took a horrifyingly sweaty spin class in these babies, and the sweat did not show through. That may be a testament to how thick the material is.
4. Nike capri, $90 - I like these a lot. These are super comfortable, and have little gradient stripes that I think are kinda funky. I love their vibrant turquoise color, but was surprised that these were not my favorite. The red Athleta ones were, in my opinion, better for yoga or working out because the fabric was thicker and the seams gave a bit more structure. These Nike leggings are great, don't get me wrong, but they're just a basic cut. It just goes to show you that the pricier option doesn't always mean it's the best!
I'd love to know - what's your favorite yoga brand for pants? What are your legging requirements?