Say Hello to Your New Favorite Leggings

In a universe of pants, with their too-tight buttons and restrictive zippers and top stitching that rubs against our skin, we need something a little more forgiving. Enter the world of leggings, which we still consider pants, only 100 times softer, stretchier and kinder on our bodies. Here are some top picks.

Leggings get their signature sleek, stretchy looks from brushed fabric. Most styles are made from single brushed poly-spandex, which means they have a soft fuzz on the outside and are smooth on the inside. Double-brushed fabric means both sides are coated in pillowy fuzz, and is preferred for colder climates or maximum snuggliness.

If you want to work out in your leggings, look for a lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric that soaks up sweat and lets your skin breathe. Spandex, also known as Lycra or elastane, moves with your body. Nylon stretches too, but it’s a little stronger than spandex, so pick a pair with both to avoid a wardrobe malfunction mid-squat.

For maximum flexibility, a gusset at the crotch is key (no, we did not come up with that terminology). A gusset is a triangular panel of fabric that makes tight clothing less restrictive. It also helps protect against rubbing and chafing.

Polyamide refers to a variety of fabrics composed of long fibers. It can be naturally occurring fabric, like wool, or synthetic, like nylon. Synthetic polyamides wick away moisture and stretch easily. To extend their lifespan and minimize the environmental impact of purchasing and washing synthetic fibers, hand wash instead of tossing in the machine.