Leggings are likely the most popular piece of athleisure across the globe. They are comfortable, easy to wear and don’t have to be used for the specific function of working out. But anyone who wears leggings can attest to the fact that they are not all created equal. If you’ve got a curvy body like me, leggings can be your best friend or your worst enemy.
I’ve found that the best leggings for my body type have a higher waist, a longer inseam and length, and are made from sturdy ‘squat proof’ fabric. That means, when I bend over (or do a squat) they don’t sheer out and reveal to the world what is happening underneath. I cannot tell you how many times I have been on the receiving end of this unfortunate visual from some unsuspecting student. No one should have to endure that kind of shoddy craftsmanship. Luckily, there are a few companies that got the memo.
WORK: You’d be hard pressed to find a more ‘abuse proof’ legging than the ones from Violate the Dress Code. These leggings put in WORK. I discovered them about 5 years ago, when I was looking to upgrade my fitness wardrobe. They were in their infancy then, so I was able to score the coolest leggings (bring back the Widow Maker {shown} print!) at a great discount. They’ve continued to grow with more apparel choices that will fit a wide range of body types. You can bring your hardest workouts in these leggings, and they will make sure you look great doing it. They wash and dry beautifully without any special care. I highly recommend them for curvy types that was smoothing, actual support, and comfort.
PLAY: If you’re looking for leggings that go from studio to street, Niyama Sol has you covered. They use fabrics that are almost like second skin. Their leggings pattern (high waist and long tapered leg) means that you’ll have enough space to do a proper downward dog to inversion without worrying about showing any of your cracks. Their ‘low adjustment’ design is one of the many reasons I love these leggings. There’s nothing worse than constantly coming out of poses and positions to adjust your waist or crotch area.
WORK or PLAY: Of course I made my own. Habibi Sport offers leggings that are strong enough to take you through the toughest workouts, but comfortable enough to take you to a casual anything. When we first launched, I had to wear the heck out of them before approving them for public sale. We offered black and it immediately sold out. Then we went with colors, and all the popular sizes sold out. We are still out of black, but working on the restock. At the moment, we are offering leggings (and other HABIBI apparel) with membership, but will restock them for public consumption soon!