15 Best Compression Leggings, According to Textile Experts

One of Amazon's most popular styles of compression leggings, this three-quarters capri pair from CW-X provides targeted compression and stabilization, particularly to your knees. When putting them on, make sure the web is aligned symmetrically on both knees for proper support. These leggings feature Coolmax fibers to help keep your body comfortable when building up a sweat. Another pro: They are available in a ton of fun prints and colors.

If you're unsure if compression leggings are right for you, try an affordable option with less compression. These range from just $25 to $37 — way less than most compression styles. The fabric is designed to stretch in every direction so they move with you while preventing chafing. With over 2,800 rave reviews, Amazon shoppers love the level of compression and find them super comfy to wear when running, practicing yoga or completing errands.

CW-X's compression tights are designed to promote endurance when completing high-intensity exercise. These compression pants focus on the lower back, hips, quads, knees and calves to help prevent strain. They have a wide double-faced waistband to help support your core and flat seams to reduce chafing. These are machine washable, but we recommend hanging dry. 

If you have a growing baby bump, it can be hard to find leggings that are supportive but also allow room to grow, and these leggings do just that. They have compression throughout the legs with a stretchier panel around the waist to accommodate changing sizes. Take note, some reviewers say the fabric in the stomach area is slightly sheer so it may not look good with short tops.

Athleta is a favorite brand among our testers, so it’s no surprise their Salutation Stash II Pocket Tight has over 840 rave reviews. Along with soft compression fabric, this pair has a side pocket that’s large enough to stash a phone or other small essentials such as money, a credit card or keys. It also comes in a wide range of sizes from XXS to 3X as well as regular, tall and petite.

If you’re looking for plus-size leggings, consider this high-waisted style, which has over 6,000 perfect 5-star reviews. They're made with sweat-wicking, breathable fabric that has four-way stretch so you'll be comfortable whether you're working out or lounging. It comes in sizes X-small to 6X and has 19 styles with or without pockets, in different colors and prints.

Our GH Institute testers have consistently raved about how comfy Lululemon's workout leggings are for exercising. Lululemon recently launched these compression style leggings, designed to keep your key muscles supported with light compression. Using Lululemon’s classic Luxtreme fabric, these leggings feel smooth and breathable. Reviewers love how flattering these leggings are – especially for your booty!

If you're headed to a spin class or for an outdoor run on a humid day, you might want to try compression shorts. This pair will provide pressure on your quads to help maintain circulation while keeping you cool. There are small cutouts on the side with mesh paneling to allow more airflow. Reviewers love that these shorts stay in place and "don’t cut off circulation at the hem."

Athleta has done well across Good Housekeeping Institute tests. Made from Athleta’s buttery soft Powervita fabric, these leggings are designed for breathable comfort with a bit of light compression. Reviewers love that they're available in regular, tall, and petite options with sizes XXS to 3XL. 

When running long distances, you want to give your knees a little extra love. These compression leggings feature extra compression around your knees to provide more support and stabilization. Reviewers rave about the benefits of CEP compression tights during and after marathon races, as many found the leggings help reduce soreness. Note that these leggings sit a bit lower on the waist compared with other styles.

When jogging outside, especially in low light, you want to be visible. Certain colorways of these leggings feature reflective designs to help you stand out to drivers so you stay safe. Compression legging from Skins have tighter compression in specific areas to stabilize key muscle groups when exercising. These leggings feature gradient compression, so the compression is just right in every spot for ultimate comfort. 

Shopper after shopper says these leggings are extremely comfortable, soft and do not dig in anywhere. These are light compression so they feel like they are holding you in without feeling too tight. They come in 13 colors and prints and are one of the most budget-friendly pairs of leggings on this list.

Get ready to hit the gym with these training tights. Made with sweat-wicking and compressive fabric, these will keep you dry and supported while doing squats and more. They have a high-rise design for tummy support and also come in a capri length, the one downside is that they only come in black.

These are one of Spanx best-selling leggings, and they offer targeted compression in the tummy area with a double-layer waistband to help smooth the stomach. They are completely seamless for a sleek look and chafe-free feel.

When the weather gets chillier, a thin legging is not going to cut it, which is why shoppers love this thick compressive legging from Outdoor Voices. Many commented on the great quality and said it had just the right amount of compression. It’s a ⅞ length legging and comes in three stylish color block designs. According to the brand, these run small so you may want to size up.