These Are the Best Leggings, According to 7 New York City Fitness Instructors
Sometimes, finding the perfect workout leggings is harder than that actual workout itself. Unlike other items in your wardrobe, though, workout leggings need to withstand things like burpees, reformers, Russian deadlifts, sprints, and lots and lots of sweat. Looking good in your workout outfit on your way to Pilates or Barry's is part of the fun, but it's only so much fun if you have to pull up your leggings mid-workout or catch a glimpse at weird bunching in the mirror mid-squat.
And who knows better what workout leggings make you both feel and look good than New York City's best fitness class instructors? We asked around at our favorite studios to see what exactly they look for in a workout outfit, how they approach getting dressed to sweat, and of course, which leggings they would recommend. Naturally, we're taking notes and adding all of the below to our carts. The Pilates princess uniform has never looked this good!
Elle Wermuth, Barry's Senior Instructor
What do you look for in a workout outfit?
Fabric and comfort are everything. I look for high-quality sets that are soft, breathable, and never restrictive; something that makes me feel secure, sculpted, and confident. I do a variety of movements throughout the day—whether I’m teaching back-to-back classes, training clients, or taking a class myself—so the material needs to be durable and built to move with me.
What is your approach to getting dressed for working out?
I’m a big believer that if you feel comfortable in your clothing, you naturally radiate confidence. For me, it’s not just about being comfortable in my body. It’s about feeling held and supported. I look for sets that sculpt and secure me—whether I’m teaching, lifting weights, running, or doing Pilates.
I also want to look put together. I try to find pieces that don’t just say "I'm heading to train," but could also work if I’m grabbing a coffee or running errands after class. Function and style. Always both.
What are your favorite leggings and why?
The Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant will always be a go-to for me—they’re classic, timeless, and the quality speaks for itself. I’ve had some of my sets for years, and they’ve held up through countless sweaty workouts. The Align Leggings have seamless tops, are especially soft, and versatile enough for any type of movement.
And the Splits59 Clare High Waist Rigor 7/8 Leggings. These are my go-tos when I want something a little more elevated. Out of all the "trendy" activewear brands, they’re the ones that actually deliver. Their leggings are hands down the most flattering on all types of bodies—stretchy, sculpting, and formfitting in the best way. They look high-end and live up to it.
Lululemon
Align High-Rise Pant 25"
Splits59
Clare High Waist Rigor 7/8 Legging
What do you look for in a workout outfit?
I look for two main things in a workout fit: comfort and style! I need my clothes to fit the workout I am doing, which is usually running, weight lifting, indoor cycling, or Pilates. That means I want compression, a nice cinched waistband, and a supportive bra. I am solidly in the camp of anti-shirt if I'm getting sweaty.
