women’s gym bottoms have to meet a high standard, ranging from fabric that’s stretchy and breathable to fit and function. We looked for options that were thick enough to be squat-proof but still breathable, and comfortable with an interior waist drawcord to prevent slipping down every few strides—plus they must look stylish and feel like a second skin when worn.
We also considered whether the pants were eco-friendly and/or organic and priced reasonably, keeping in mind that there’s nothing worse than wasting money on a pair of leggings that fall down mid sweat or reveal your gym mates to all the world while you’re doing a set of burpees. This pair is a clear winner, thanks to an impressively secure waistband that holds in the core and a triangular gusset for easy movement.
Strategist former fashion director Dena Silver says this minimalist legging from Everlane “feels like nothing at all.” She notes that they’re “ideal for lower-impact workouts,” such as yoga, barre and Pilates. However, their light color can show sweat stains, so you might want to opt for darker shades for high-impact workouts such as running or cardio. This pair is a good value for its sleek look and soft, thick fabric that’s squat-proof and breathable.