Leggings are some of the most comfortable, versatile clothing pieces on the market. You can wear them with practically any outfit, either to dress it up or dress it down. All-day long, leggings will stay breathable and comfy, making them the ideal pair of pants for practically every type of person.
But, there are so many types of leggings on the market, it can be difficult to find what’s best. I mean, what even is the difference between cropped athletic leggings and streetwear leggings? Don’t worry, everything you want to know about leggings and their different types, ThreadCurve has you covered.
FYI, thanks to AI imagery software, we’re able to create very specific fashion and hairstyle examples to illustrate the points being made. In some cases, imagery is exaggerated to hammer home the point.
Athletic Leggings
One of the most popular types of leggings nowadays is athletic leggings. Instead of trying to work out in uncomfortable shorts or leggings that are too thick and hot, athletic leggings allow for added airflow and comfortability during even your toughest workouts.
Mesh athletic leggings make for the perfect workout outfit. These types of leggings are solid on top, but as they make their way down the legs, the material turns to mesh. This mesh material allows for so much more airflow during movement, as well as easier movement in general.
You don’t feel nearly as restricted, which can be integrated during workout routines. Especially during workouts where you’re constantly moving and stretching, mesh athletic leggings make movement easier than ever before.
Though they’re called “athletic” these leggings are incredibly fashionable and stylish. These leggings aren’t just plain black anymore–they come in all sorts of beautiful styles and colors. Brands like Fabletics have started wholly embracing this idea of wearing athletic leggings not only during workouts but during your everyday tasks, too.
High-Waisted Leggings
Sometimes, wearing leggings is frustrating because of where they sit on your hips. Leggings are meant to be form-fitting and much tighter than your regular pair of pants.
Because of this, if you have hips that sit higher up on your body, mid-rise leggings can often fall or just not look as though they fit properly. This also makes working out in mid-rise leggings nearly impossible, too. High-waisted leggings, however, are quite a game-changer.
For you ladies who have higher or bigger hips than others, high-waisted leggings are easily the best option. These leggings sit high up on your body, typically going up to about your belly button.
They’re incredibly comfortable on their own, but they also make wearing leggings even cuter than before. High-waisted leggings can easily just be paired with a matching sports bra and you have an adorably cohesive outfit that’s still appropriate to be worn practically wherever you go.
For years, it’s been tough to find the perfect pair of leggings for us ladies with higher hips. Now, high-waisted leggings hug your hips comfortably and help you move around without fear of constantly pulling up and readjusting yourself. Just like athletic leggings, you can find high-waisted leggings in pretty much any color or style you want.
You can even find cropped high-waisted leggings in case you want even more breathability. Speaking of cropped leggings, we’ll talk about those next.
Cropped Athletic Leggings
When we talk about cropped athletic leggings, we’re referring to leggings that don’t go all the way down to the ankle as full-length leggings do. Cropped athletic leggings typically go down to about your shin, leaving the bottom of half of your calves exposed and cool.
Cropped athletic leggings are ideal types of leggings for women who are doing more high-intensity workouts. The more intense a workout you’re doing, the more airflow and breathability you need. During exercises like running, cropped athletic leggings are the absolute perfect choice.
Cropped athletic leggings are not only really easy to work out in, but they’re easy for just everyday movement. Whether you’re going to the grocery store or going to yoga class, cropped athletic leggings make the ideal statement. With these types of leggings, you don’t have to worry about being too hot or too cold, as they regulate temperature perfectly.
The next time you’re getting ready for your workout in your regular athletic shorts, think about how much easier your movements would be with form-fitting cropped leggings instead. You can get these with mesh sides, pockets, or even high-waisted depending on your body style.
Never again do you have to worry about your shorts riding up and exposing more than you’d like when you’re working out. Instead, you’re fully covered and completely comfortable during your trips to the gym or your jog around the park.
Streetwear Leggings
When we talk about streetwear leggings, we’re definitely not referring to your everyday stretchy yoga pants. Streetwear leggings aren’t meant to wear at the gym or during your run; instead, they’re meant exclusively for the streets.
Streetwear leggings are incredibly stylish, sometimes designer pants that are a staple within the streetwear culture. Most popularly are Adidas’ three-stripe joggers: these stylish streetwear leggings look incredibly fashionable when paired either with sneakers or even a slight heel.
Streetwear leggings are incredibly comfortable style options that can easily be dressed up or down. As we mentioned, it’s not uncommon to see streetwear leggings being paired with some high heels or boots. On the other hand, it’s also incredibly common for streetwear leggings to be dressed down with an oversized t-shirt and designer sneakers. You can simply do whatever you want with these versatile pants, and they show that you know a thing or two about fashion.
You don’t have to spend a fortune on streetwear leggings, either. While many do come from high-end, designer brands, there are various other options that are just as stylish but don’t cost an arm and a leg. Even used clothing sites are wonderful for finding streetwear pieces but at a fraction of the cost. Regardless of what look, you’re going for with your comfortable yet stylish streetwear leggings, there’s the perfect pair out there waiting for you.
Fashion Leggings
Fashion leggings are a bit of a broad category. When we say “fashion leggings” we’re talking about leggings that aren’t made for everyday wear.
Typically, these types of leggings are made out of material that are best for a night out or a fancy dinner–not necessarily a stroll around the grocery store. Fashion leggings come in a variety of different materials, some being velvet and others being leather.
Both are quite a statement within any outfit you throw together. Whether you pair them with a plain t-shirt or something lacy and eye-catching, fashion leggings tie and outfit together unlike any other piece you have in your closet.
Leather fashion leggings may have gone out of style for a little, but they’re coming back and they’re arriving at full-force. These fashionable pants made quite a splash during the 50s, and women loved wearing these leggings at any chance they could.
They created such a jaw-dropping look and continued to thrive throughout the decade. Now, people everywhere are realizing the beauty of leather leggings once again. Though not incredibly practical for long periods of time, these statement leggings are ideal for wanting to show off–even if just a bit. Pair them with some heels and a basic top and you’ll still be looking like a bombshell.
Velvet fashion leggings are another type of legging that is quickly gaining popularity again. Just as they sound, these leggings are made out of super-soft velvet fabric that is just as appealing to touch as it is to wear.
During colder seasons, these leggings allow for even warmer wear, but they’re so much cuter than your regular fleece-lined ones. To the naked eye, you can tell that these leggings are fancier, classier than your workout leggings, making them a great piece within most outfits. Again, these you can easily dress up or down, but we’d suggest dressing them up to get the most out of their style.
Flare Leggings
These leggings are just now starting to make a comeback in the fashion world. That’s right: flare leggings are becoming popular once again. These super comfortable types of leggings look like your typical leggings on the wait and thigh, but once you get to the ankle, you see the signature flare that was so popular just a few decades ago.
These flared leggings are incredibly cute, making an outfit of a t-shirt and leggings totally transform into something more stylish than ever. Plus, it takes no effort to get these leggings looking great with your night-out fit.
Flare leggings come in various colors depending on what kind of look you’re going for. Because of the extreme flare on the ankle, we don’t recommend trying to work out in these; however, they’re great for wearing out and doing your daily errands.
From running to the store to getting your car worked on, you can wear these stylish leggings anywhere and look put together. With how fashionable you’ll look, people will have no clue how incredibly comfortable you’re feeling, either. After all, flare leggings are just as soft and snug as your traditional cotton leggings. They just have those fancy ankles, is all.
Pair your brand-new flared leggings with a tight t-shirt or cropped top and some heels, and you have the perfect outfit for a night with the girls. Or, put them on with a basic tee and your favorite sneakers, and you’ll be more than comfortable to get some work done around the house, yard, or right at your desk. No matter how you style them, flared leggings are some of the most perfect types of leggings for women.
You train hard and want to get the most out of your workout. Success in training and sports depends on discipline, consistency, drive, and what you wear. In the past, men only had the option to wear shorts or sweatpants to the gym, but with today’s technology, there are better things to wear.
Men’s leggings are more popular than ever when it comes to working out. Why? Because they squeeze every last drop out of your workout – and then some. Read on to learn all about men’s leggings, their benefits, and where to buy them.
Types of Men’s Leggings
Yes, it’s totally fine for guys to wear leggings (aka meggings).
Men’s leggings, also known as tights or compression pants, come in a variety of types, each with its own features, such as sweat-wicking technology and anti-chaffing. The purpose of men’s leggings is to give you a better workout through superior muscle strength and a faster downtime between training or working out.
What are compression pants?
Compression pants are made from materials that form-fit your body to compress your thighs, buttocks, and leg muscles. They’re used by athletes and come with many benefits.
Benefits of Wearing Leggings
There are many benefits to wearing compression pants. Some of the benefits of this garment include:
Strain Prevention
If you’re prone to strains, compression pants are perfect for your exercise regime.
Reduced Muscle Fatigue
Get the most out of your workout with improved performance due to your muscles experiencing less fatigue during and after your workout.
Reduced Muscle Soreness
We’ve all experienced muscle soreness a day or so after a workout. With compression shorts, however, you reduce what’s called delayed onset muscle soreness.
Better Jumping
Want to jump higher during your workout or sports game? Compression pants actually give you the ability to jump higher.
A More Effortless Workout
According to a study published in Sports Medicine, wearing a pair of tights that fit perfectly improves perceived exertion. You’re training actually feels more effortless.
Better Muscle Oxygenation
When you work out, your muscles need oxygen and the clothing you wear will either increase or decrease the amount of oxygen your muscles are getting. Compression pants offer improved blood flow and oxygenation which enhances your performance.
Faster Recovery
When you wear men’s leggings when working out, you can expect less recovery time between workouts. Compression pants actually promote muscle strength.
Groin Support
Some compression pants come with cup pockets for better groin support. This type of garment is perfect for sports like football or baseball.
Comfort
Men’s leggings are simply comfortable. Say goodbye to chafing and itching when you work out.
Nike Pro Tights
For a comfortable, athletic look, Nike Pro Tights offer compression for any activity you can think of – from playing basketball with friends to hitting the local yoga studio. These tights boast Dri-FIT Technology that keeps you dry as you crush your workout.
The tights have a comfortable, flat waistband and are made from 88% polyester and 12% spandex with mesh on the inner leg for more breathability. You’ll be sure to move freely and stay focused on the task at hand.
Strider Compression Tights
Source: Pacterra Athletics
Thicker than most brands, like Nike or Adidas, for added comfort, these compression tights actually come with a pocket that fits your cell phone and other essential items! The only con is that they only come in black. They also boast higher quality and durability than the name brands. These tights provide the muscle support you’re looking for. Fits true to size.
Under Armour Men’s Threadborne Vanish Legging
There’s nothing worse than getting sweaty and chaffed during a workout. With the Under Armour Men’s Threadbare Vanish Legging, you can prevent this and feel completely comfortable without the cling. These leggings come in a two-toned ergo dynamic style with micro thread technology that fits seamlessly.
The fabric is machine washable and dries quickly so your leggings will be ready for use again in no time. Other benefits of these compression leggings are their 4-way stretch that helps you move better in every direction, as well as anti-odor technology. Work out as long and as hard as you want without emitting odor.
These two-toned tights are made from UnderArmour’s MicroThread material with an ergonomic design that the company claims will prevent chafing and wick sweat.
WOLACO Fulton Full-Length Compression Pants
Love buying Made in America products? If so, these compression leggings are the way to go. This company boasts they are the only activewear company that makes their product in the USA. So how does it rank? Pretty darn great. These compression pants are perfect for warming up, working out, and cooling down. Use them for jogging, cross-training, sports, yoga, pilates, walking, and more. The sweat-proof pocket easily stows away your phone.
2XU MCS Run
For those who love to run and are looking to improve their performance, these tights are one of the best on the market. The company boasts increased speed and shorter recovery times due to the compression pants targeting key areas: claves and quads.
The pants also help with muscle fatigue so you can run longer and harder. Made from 80 percent Nylon and 20% Elastane, they are machine washable and come with a 12-month warranty. Great for long-distance runners and marathon runners.
ASICS Lite-Show Winter Tights
Winter won’t stop you from hitting the pavement. When the temperature drops, these leggings will keep you warm and safe with the 360-degree reflectivity feature that visibility even on the darkest of winter roads. Made from 100% Polyester, these leggings for men have a drawstring closure, rear leg zip opening, and secure media pocket. Customers say they’re super comfortable and there’s no chafing.
Adidas Response Tights
Basic, yet breathable, the Adidas Response Tights are made from polyester. They’re a regular fit, handwash only, pair of tights that every man should have in among his work out gear. Wear them for a quick run or when you hit the gym. One feature customers love is the bottom zippers, which make it easy to take the leggings off after training. What some customers don’t like is how the tights rest above the ankle.
EvoShield Recovery DNA Compression Tights
You know you need to rest after training so you’re fit to get back in the game. Take your post-training downtime a step further with EvoShield Recovery DNA Compression Tights designed specifically for your post-workout. The stretchy fabric and body-mapped compression work to improve muscle recovery and reduce any soreness.
You’ll cut your recovery time down by half if you wear these leggings. The strategically placed compression patterns enhance blow flow and flush out toxins. Be sure to drink lots of water to get even better results. Hand wash in cold water and hang to dry.
TSLA Compression Pants
You’re going to need more than one pair of compression pants, especially if you train multiple times a week all year round. No matter the season, TSLA compression pants work hard to keep you dry. Made from polyester and spandex, wear these tights for yoga, sports, gym training, running, and more. Love to train and workout outside?
Another feature of these compression pants is they protect your skin from harmful UV rays – up to 99%! Durable, comfortable, and deodorizing, TSLA tights have it all and come with a 3-month warranty. One con is the waist rolls when you sit down. Also, they tend not to be true to size.
TSLA Thermal Men’s Compression Pants
As the temperature goes up, your workout doesn’t have to fall short. TSLA thermal compression pants were made specifically for winter workouts, training, and sports both indoor and outdoor with an inner microfleece fabric for ultimate insulation.
Designed with technology that regulates your body temperature, these tights will help you work out longer and harder. Other benefits include improved ergonomic performance and sweat-wicking ability. Best if hand washed. Also, keep in mind that the tights rest just below the calves.
Runhit Compression Pants
Look the part on the court or in the gym with Runhit compression pants. They have handy pockets large enough to carry keys, debit cards, and other items. Like other compression pants, you can work out longer and harder.
Made from spandex with anti-itch technology, sweat-wicking features, and you don’t have to worry about odor as you work out. When you wear these tights, you’ll notice a faster muscle recovery time and less or no muscle spasms. Best to hand wash in cold water and hang dry. Keep in mind these tights run small and cut off in the calf area.
Vital Drive Tight 28″
Source: Lululemon
These tights promote both muscle and joint support. The design of interior gripping maps over your muscles to stabilize them for a better workout. The garment boasts sweat-wicking technology, quick drying time, abrasion-resistant material, including Lycra, for better mobility. There are two pockets for holding your phone, keys, and debit cards, along with reflective details.
DRSKIN Men’s Compression Pants
Made from ultra-soft polyester and spandex, these tights are comfortable and smooth. Wear them for playing sports, running, training, doing yoga, skiing, snowboarding, and more. The material is nonabrasive and has excellent elasticity. Mesh fabric adds ventilation so you won’t have to worry about sweating. Wear these compression pants during any season for intense training and a faster recovery time.
Roadbox Men’s Compression Pants
For high performance, these compression pants deliver. They boast excellent durability, elasticity, and muscle support. When you wear Roadbox tights, you won’t feel muscle soreness and fatigue after an intense workout. Extremely comfortable, these compression pants won’t rub up against your skin causing chaffing.
They also keep moisture at bay, as well as any odors. The company suggests using their sizing chart over Amazon’s for a perfect fit (they tend to run small). Also, these tights are all-weather for wearing during every season. The only con is that the waistband is not as durable as the rest of the tights and may loosen after washing. To prevent this, handwash only in cold water and dry flat.
DEVOPS Men’s Compression Pants
Designed for every season, these compression pants will improve your performance no matter what the temperature is. Protects you from harmful UV rays while providing the muscle support you need to outperform even your own expectations. Provides maximum mobility along with a pocket to stash your keys, phone, and any other essential items. Perfect for the gym, playing sports, training, or wear them as yoga pants.
CompressionZ Men’s Thermal Compression Pants
Designed for athletes, these compression pants perform. They’re made from 85% Nylon and 15% Spandex to form a perfect fit that supports your muscles while you train. Comfortable and breathable, you’ll have a full range of motion for a superior workout without the odor and sweat.
The company boasts reduced muscle cramping, weather regulated technology (stay warm in winter and cool in summer), anti-itch, and anti-odor. The only drawbacks are that the fabric tends to be too thin for some, the pant legs are extra long, and the compression around the waist is lacking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are leggings for guys called?
Leggings for men are called typically called tights or compression pants.
What are men’s leggings for?
Men’s leggings are for training, working out, running, sports, yoga, and more. The purpose of men’s leggings is to provide mobility, enhance performance, and reduce downtime between working out.
Should men be allowed to wear leggings?
Yes. Men’s leggings are created for the user to train longer and harder, and they look good too.
How should guys wear leggings?
Men should wear leggings that form-fit their bodies. If the leggings are too big or small, they won’t properly do their job.
Do you think guys should wear leggings?
Yes. Men who train, run, do yoga, or any other activity should wear leggings.
Can guys wear leggings like girls?
Men’s leggings are made specifically for men participating in working out, whereas, girls wear leggings for both working out and for fashion and comfort when they’re not at the gym.
Can guys wear leggings to the gym?
Yes. Leggings are actually more popular for men to wear to the gym than other work out clothes.
Can you wear leggings as pants?
Yes. Leggings can be worn as pants since they provide comfort and look good.
Is it ok for a man to wear tights?
Yes. Many men, including athletes, wear tights to the gym, when playing sports, during yoga, and when training.
Can guys wear leggings to yoga?
Yes. Many men wear leggings to yoga as these give the wearer the range of motion they need during yoga,
Do guys have to wear shorts over leggings?
No. Men do not have to wear shorts over leggings, but they can if they want to.
Do guys prefer jeans or leggings?
Most men prefer wearing jeans when not working out and leggings when working out.
What if your leggings are damaged?
Some leggings come with a warranty so if they are damaged, you can have them replaced. It’s not advisable to wear damaged leggings when working out.
Why do guys wear leggings undershorts at the gym?
Men wear leggings under their shorts when at the gym to compress their muscles. This gives the wearer the ability to train harder and longer and also helps reduce muscle fatigue and soreness.
How to wear men’s running tights?
Men’s running tights should form fit the body and shouldn’t be too big or too small.
What should guys wear to the gym?
Men should wear tights, otherwise known as compression pants, to the gym. These will enhance your performance and decrease downtime.
Is it ok to wear shorts over leggings?
Yes. Many men wear shorts over leggings.
Do you do more than work out in them?
Leggings are designed for working out, doing sports, training, running, doing yoga, and more. There are also compression pants that are designed specifically for wearing during downtime.
So Many More!
Surprisingly, this is only the start of the different types of leggings you can choose from. Clothing designers nowadays understand that fashion and comfort often go hand-in-hand. Thus, leggings create the perfect piece to embrace both.
These types of pants are some of the most comfortable pants you can wear on a daily basis, and when you pair them with a fancy top and some nice shoes, you suddenly have an outfit for the club. With what other clothing items can you do that with? (We all know you don’t want to be dancing in a pair of jeans, after all.)
Whether you want leggings that are full-length, cropped, mesh, cut-out, bright pink, black, great for dinner, or great for working out, there is a pair for you. We promise, leggings truly are as versatile as they appear to be.