This indie brand puts out some top-notch options that feel different from what you'd find elsewhere. Its apparel utilizes an "advanced weaving technique" that allows for max stretchability while also contouring to your muscles and compressing against them. This compressing action is intended to maximize your workout by making your muscles work harder (it also makes your butt look great). Try the Olympian Hi-Waist leggings, which are super soft, stretchy and slimming thanks to that high waist.
We're nominating Fierce and Regal for our splurge-y pick in this roundup. The price tags are a little lofty, but you'll feel great parading around the gym in these bad boys. For example, The Shiny Legging — which comes in black, orchid, taupe and ocean — reflects light in all the right places for a sleek, chic effect. And the Zippered Legging, which comes in six different hues, offers both function and cute aesthetic via angled gold zippers on one leg.
Crane + Lion might just be the providers of your new favorite pair of yoga or pilates tights (and tbh, they're also great for lounging in). They come in a few different styles, including lightweight, capri, hi-rise, mid-rise and the original cuts. The material is thick enough to provide you with protection and comfort, but not too thick that it prevents breathability throughout your sweat fest. We like that they're sold in sizes 0 through 12, versus "small, medium and large" for a more personalized fit. We're partial to the Original Tight, which comes in peacoat, quicksilver and black.
Body Love Athletica gets an A+ for design. Each of its leggings stands out just enough to make you feel like the stylish one in class, which can honestly do wonders for your self-esteem whether you're kickboxing or weight lifting. Try The Vogue leggings in black or burgundy, which feature a shiny material that makes it look like you were poured into them (in a good way). The mesh designs that swing around from front to back on either leg add a decorative touch, and the high waistband means a slimmed tummy and no cracks exposed during weird moves.
