The Top 16 Compression Leggings Recommended by Fitness Experts

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Not all workout leggings are created equal — compression leggings are a prime example. These bottoms are designed to hug the body like a second skin, creating slight constriction without affecting your movement. “Compression provides heat and stimulation to the muscle, which increases blood flow and oxygenation to improve metabolism,” says Dr. Stephen Liu, chairman, co-founder, and CEO of Forme, the performance clothing company loved by the likes of Taylor Swift. 

In addition to benefiting your form and muscle stimulation, the best compression leggings out there are also known to look pretty fantastic when they're on. All of this is why it's worth keeping a few pairs in your closet.

To find the most spectacular options, Shape editors tested a slew of compression leggings that fitness experts love, from high-level pairs to less compressive everyday styles, narrowing down the best of the best for various workout types. Whether you prefer relaxing yoga to marathon training or desire different levels of compression from the diverse range of exercises you're partial to, a pair of compression leggings exists for every person, style, and movement type. Read on to discover Shape editors' top picks, many from beloved active brands like Lululemon, Spanx, and Nike.

Sizes: XS-3X

While other compression leggings aim to help you achieve workout-related benefits like reduced soreness and inflammation, Spanx also wants you to look good with its Booty Burst Active 7/8 Leggings. Testers rave about this style because of its high-rise, contoured waistband that lifts your butt, providing it with a sculpted, smoothed-out appearance that can give you a burst of confidence while working out at the gym, going on a power walk, or even just running errands around town. Plus, its high-quality performance fabric seamlessly wicks sweat, making it ideal for workouts ranging from hot yoga to intense outdoor runs, and it will remain breathable the entire time.

One detail to note is that these leggings can feel a little tight around the waist at first, which speaks to the excellent compression level you'll get from these under-$100 leggings. However, if you know this factor will make you feel just a tad too uncomfortable so that you won't be able to focus on anything else, consider ordering up a size. You'll still get great compression without any restrictive feel. Also, if you're partial to full-length leggings, check out this version of the Spanx Booty Boost Leggings.

Sizes: XS to 4XL 

Old Navy’s High-Waisted PowerSoft Leggings are a steal at under $35 (even less with markdowns). If you can’t resist a bargain, these leggings won’t disappoint, proving that brands don't have to sacrifice quality for lower prices. Barber continues to be a huge fan of Old Navy activewear, calling the brand's leggings 'reliable, shockingly durable, and just as cute as high-end athleisure brands. If you refuse to splurge on compression gear, consider this pair your new holy grail. They feature a high elastic waist and soft, moisture-wicking material with lighter compression compared to other legging styles mentioned. The polyester fabric ensures it wicks sweat well, while the almost 30% spandex promises comfortable stretch as well.

Shape editors love the extensive size range, offering tall and petite sizes alongside a regular size range from XS to 4X. Plus, this style comes in various colors and patterns, including animal prints and camo.

Sizes: S-XL

Fanka's Body Sculpt Leggings convinced skeptics of all the glory that comes with finding the best compression leggings for your workouts. 'For the first time in a long time, my legs experienced less pain after exercise,' says Shape writer Maddie Barber, who tested this pair during workouts like a four-mile power walk. 'I couldn't believe how good my legs felt.' For someone who deals with constant shin splints, knee pain, and other leg-related ailments that flare up during her weekly long walks, this additional compression provided major relief.

Another great aspect of the Body Sculpt Leggings? Its sweat-wicking fabric. 'These pull moisture off your skin like few other pairs I've tried,' says Barber. Additionally, the brand offers various colors, with or without a pocket, and in full-length, 7/8-length, capri-length, and biker short-length.

Sizes: XXS-3X (regular, tall, and petite sizes available)

For more high-impact workouts like running and cycling, Shape editors prefer this particular Athleta pair, which offers the brand's highest level of compression. 'They're a solid pair of running leggings that never fail me on a long run,' says Summer Cartwright, Shape's senior commerce editor and marathon runner. 'They don't fall down, even during interval training, and they somehow keep my legs warm in the winter and not overly toasty during the spring or fall.' This is likely because the waistband also has a hidden adjustable tie that offers supreme support in the stomach and abdomen areas, helping the pair remain secure on your body while exercising, so you won't worry about adjusting them throughout high-intensity and high-impact workouts.

What's more? The design includes a pocket large enough for a phone but conspicuous enough that it won't add bulkiness (ideal for storing your phone and keys on a run). They're also not a pain-and-a-half to put on or take off.

'These are the most compressive leggings in my closet that actually easily comes on and off of my body before and after a workout,' says Barber.

Sizes: XS-XL

If high-compression leggings are your go-to, the Ultra Compression Women’s Recovery Leggings by Zensah won’t disappoint. Zensah emphasizes compression and seamless construction, so you know that they won't mess around when it comes to providing a perfectly tight fit. This style features 'muscle-mapped ribbing' and graduated compression, stimulating the muscles to recover faster after a workout. They’re seamless for total freedom of movement without pesky chafing. Plus, no matter how sweaty the workout, the breathable material (a blend of polyamide and elastane) wicks moisture and odor away before it seeps in. As a side note, the brand’s apparel is manufactured with near zero waste.

Sizes: 0-14

Serious runners know the impact a good pair of compression leggings can have on your run — they can mean the difference between a PR and stopping every 5k to yank up your waistband. Lululemon’s SenseKnit High Rise Running Tights (which we reviewed in full here) were designed with runners in mind and crafted with targeted compression and breathable ventilation so you don’t overheat. They also run true to size, which takes the guesswork out of shopping for compression leggings. Like the brand's top-rated workout shorts, they felt like a second skin on our legs, and we especially appreciated that they still held their shape after multiple uses and washes.

However, they’re not necessarily for shoppers looking for a steal — Lululemon makes splurge-worthy clothes, considering the premium quality and high-performing products. Also, the size range for this style is limited compared to the rest of their leggings.

Sizes: XS-2XL

For a not-too-tight, not-too-light level of compression, the Nike Go Firm-Support Leggings offer just the right amount of support (and they’re Shape editor-approved, too). They’re crafted with Nike’s InfinaLock fabric, a sleek, midweight material that’s strong enough to stay in place but light enough that you can move around without feeling restricted. Want proof? “I wore the Nike Go leggings for a day-long fitness photo shoot, followed by a workout,” says Kristen Geil, NASM-certified personal trainer. “During the photo shoot, I was on the move: squatting, moving equipment, repositioning lights, and doing everything short of actually working out myself. I felt like I was able to do everything I needed on set, without stressing out about my leggings riding up or down in an awkward way.” You’ll also appreciate the multiple pockets, the extra-wide waistband, and the internal drawstring for adjustability.

However, the waistband on these compression leggings tends to roll down a tad after repeated use. It didn’t bother us during our many tests, but it’s worth flagging.

Sizes: XXS-XXL

If you prefer leggings with high waistbands, Nike Go Women’s Firm-Support High-Waist Leggings may be the anti-rolling, anti-pinching, and anti-sliding leggings of your dreams. An extra-wide waistband with an included adjustable drawcord ensures everything is snugly held in place, which works magic alongside the InfinaLock compressive fabric. Six pockets — two at the side, three drop-ins, and one zip pocket at the thigh — afford you plenty of storage options. Plus, there’s no worry about your phone (or you!) being drenched in sweat as Nike’s Dri-FIT technology wicks moisture away for quick evaporation. Plus, the 7⁄8 length will see you through warmer and chillier seasons.

Sizes: XS-XXL

If you appreciate the science behind why people wear compression leggings for workouts, you'll equally love hearing how Forme's Sculpt+ Leggings function. The 3D waistband alignment technology (which is patent-pending, BTW) has several layers of pliant fabrics that engage your core, glutes, and spine to improve your posture, stability, and mobility. The result? Reduced hip and lower back pain, less stiffness, and faster recovery. The compression is mostly in the waistband area, and the fit in the legs is snug but comfortable. Another interesting note? Forme’s leggings are FDA-registered in the spine brace category, so you can purchase them with your FSA or HSA (although a prescription may be required).

While the Sculpt+ Leggings have slightly higher price tags than other options on the market, they're worth the splurge if you're willing to gain extra benefits from your compression leggings.

Sizes: XXS-XXL

An adjustable drawstring is vital to getting the elusive perfect-fitting compression leggings, but the fabric should also have the right blend of support and flexibility as a finishing touch. Sweaty Betty's Power Workout Leggings are buttery soft and more lightweight than other compression leggings for a barely-there feel, and the elastane and polyamide fabric makeup proves durable enough to stand up to multiple washes and wears. This style prides itself on its ability to snap back into shape, retaining the leggings' glove-like fit.

While Shape editors favor this pair, they wish the included left side pocket offered more space for larger essentials like an iPhone. However, for anyone who likes to key a house key or single credit card on hand for quick outdoor workouts, the waistband has a tiny back zip pocket for storing those items.

Sizes: 0-20

Lululemon’s Wunder Train Leggings are ultra-popular among the gym crowd thanks to their fast-drying, medium-compression fabric that prevents pesky sweat marks. The four-way stretch moves with you during every squat and lunge, and the added Lycra helps the leggings spring back into shape after multiple washes and wears. It's important to note the major upgrade this Lululemon style has over the traditional Wunder Train tights: pockets. Each pair of leggings has two side drop-in pockets that comfortably secure your phone in place, plus a hidden pocket in the waistband for your must-haves (think: credit card or house key).

As for sizing, keep in mind that if you’re between sizes or usually find Lululemon leggings to run small, definitely size up. These leggings feel tighter than others if you're not used to sporting this pair, but the upside is that they stay locked in place through every movement.

And while the price is up there, know that what you're buying will last for a long, long time. 'I have had my Wunder Trains for a decade — I'm not kidding,' says Cartwright. 'I first got them as a freshman in college and now I have a fully developed frontal lobe, contribute to my 401k, and somehow they're still in my regular leggings rotation and have minimal wear and tear.'

Sizes: XXS-6XL

Shape editors, first and foremost, love Girlfriend Collective for its standout ethos. The brand's clothing uses recycled materials, and it promotes both circular fashion with a recycling program for used clothing and size inclusivity with a size range that goes from XXS to 6X. With this, it's an added bonus the Girlfriend Collective also makes the best compression leggings for those who prefer light compression. The stitching makes these leggings feel structured (but not stiff), and the material is thick enough for colder weather. The brand also offers different inseam options to fit different heights.

'I wear these on long walks through the park, to the gym, to SoulCycle, and barre classes,' says Barber. 'This pair offers enough compression to feel supported through all these workouts and feels truly like a second skin. Plus, you can't beat the pocket and the cute color options.'

Sizes: XS to 3X

The Athleta Salutation Stash ⅞ leggings (our favorite Athleta leggings) may quickly become your favored yoga leggings, offering a hint of compression to level up your low-impact movements. This style uses the brand's signature soft, stretchy, and breathable Powervita fabric, which uses recycled polyester and lycra and offers UPF 40+ protection so you can safely take your workout outdoors if need be. Plus, if you prefer more intense sculpt yoga classes or are partial to CorePower or other hot yoga studios, you can trust that the style's moisture-wicking, quick-drying features will keep you dry against perspiration. The waistband is high-rise to hold you in place during flows, while side pockets allow you to stash your must-haves to and from class.

Sizes: XXS-XXXL

While you may reserve your compression leggings for workouts, the comfort Adanola's Ultimate Leggings provides ensures you can wear them during all everyday activities, not just your trip to the gym. The simple, sleek design, which comes in over ten colors, easily pairs with any athleisure in your closet, creating the ideal casual look for running errands, grabbing coffee, or stopping to get breakfast on your way home from a workout. This pair isn't so compressive that you feel constricted when not working out, yet it's enough so your legs and butt feel supported and get that sculpted look for a boost of confidence when you're strutting through the aisles of the grocery store or walking the dog.

Barber loves these leggings, explicitly praising their 'stretchy, super-soft feel' and 'stylish design that makes [her] look and feel put-together despite being in a pair of compression leggings.' Plus, the brand boasts a squat-proof fabric, so when you do wear these for actual exercise, you won't have to worry about anything showing through.

Sizes: XS to XL

If high waistbands are not your flow, the 2XU Women's Mid-Rise Compression Tights may be the one for you — even more so if hardcore workouts are your forte. Made from the brand’s signature PWX (power weight flex) fabric, they’re designed to blend compression and flexibility to give you the most from a workout. The material is moisture-wicking to keep the leggings from sticking from sweat, and Shape editors love how the waistband sits perfectly below your belly button while staying firmly in place with its signature elastic powermesh fabric. They also keep your blood flowing with graduated compression that tapers further up the leg.

Sizes: XS-XL 

If you’re motivated by heavy weight lifting and high-impact workouts, your joints may find relief with the CW-X Stabilyx Joint Support 3/4 Compression Tight. The leggings are designed with the brand’s EXO-stretch body fabric and EXO-WEB support panel. This acts like kinesiology tape to target and support your joints, including knees and hips, and improve movement biomechanics. This includes the waistband for pelvic and lower back support (plus, it conceals a slip-in pocket). Thanks to the multi-directional stretch fabric, you'll be able to move freely in all directions, too — so no excuse to skip the box jumps!

Kristen Geil was previously a senior editor at Shape. Throughout her 7+ years in the fitness industry, she’s tried hundreds of leggings for every workout you can imagine. She led Shape’s Fitness Awards, which featured an entire category dedicated to the best activewear picks, and she’s a NASM-certified personal trainer.

Madison Barber is a Shape writer and updated this article in 2024 with her personal favorite compression leggings picks, including options from beloved brands like Athleta and Girlfriend Collective.