14 best leggings for long flights, hiking, and lounging in 2025

Pros: Multiple inseam lengths available, super soft, good colour range
Cons: Sizes run large, so you might need to size down

The best kind of leggings to wear on a plane are the ones you don’t even notice, and I can confirm that after my recent journey, Lululemon’s Align™ high-rise leggings do just that. Designed for yoga, the leggings have a high waist and a length that’s intended to sit just above the ankle. But it’s the fabric – a breathable combination of nylon and elastane that Lululemon refers to as Nulu™ fabric – that makes them a buttery soft winner. For the whole 24-hour journey, my lower half sat cocooned in comfort, never having to adjust a seam or pull at the waistband once. Then keep them to hand for your morning yoga class – we’ve not found another brand to top Lululemon leggings for comfort during a deep stretch. To complete your set, pair with one of the brand’s sports bras, which also earned a well-deserved place in our round-up of the comfiest bras to travel in. Lauren Burvill, senior commerce writer

Whether I’m catching a long-haul flight, heading off on a jog or tacking up at the stables, these leggings have been my go-to for as long as I can remember. I’ll sometimes even wear them to the office with tall boots and an oversized button-down, or throw them under my ski pants ahead of a day on the slopes. They’re the definition of versatile, easy to pack (you can roll them up to the size of a pair of socks), and dry very quickly post-wash. They’re also incredibly durable – and in the unlikely instance that they do tear, it’s Lulu’s policy to give you a new pair, so you can rest assured it’s worth the investment. Tamara Southward, commerce producer

Pros: Made from recycled materials, stylish matte finish, two leg lengths
Cons: Waistband can roll during squats, but this isn’t an issue for on a flight

Out of all the pairs I own, these Sisterly Tribe leggings have travelled along with me the most. I’ve worn them on a fitness retreat in Saint-Tropez, for reformer pilates in Marbella and for hikes through Wyoming’s expansive backcountry on a ranch trip to America. After countless washes, they’ve never bobbled (other expensive pairs haven’t fared so well), the deep grey is flattering on everyone, and this shade pairs easily with plenty of tones – white, black, grey, pink all look equally lovely. For post-Yoga catch ups and airport hops, they’re easy to style without feeling ratty. It’s reached the point where, on gym days, if they’re in the wash, I’m disappointed I can’t wear them. I look forward to pulling them on every time – I want the flared pair next, so I’m not left in the lurch ever. Charley Ward

Pros: Very flattering, ultra-lightweight, matching items available
Cons: Waistband rolls a little during squats, but not a problem on a flight

New London-based sustainable fashion brand Leny has made gym leggings chic. They have a four-way stretch made from squat-friendly polyamide with a quick-dry finish, which is equally handy for sweaty weights sessions as rainy hikes. The seamless construction, gentle compression and, most importantly, rich navy tone is grown up enough to work even on office days, should you switch your sports bra for a shirt and trainers for a pair of loafers or boots. I’d not head into work in any of my other gym gear, but these strike a perfect balance between performance wear, comfort and style. I paired mine with the brand’s cropped pullover and I’ve never looked so cinched around the waist and somehow remained totally comfortable. This combo (plus my Alo Sunset sneakers) is my new cheat’s guide to looking smart while feeling good, even on a 10-hour red eye. Small batch production and mix-and-match top-bottom combinations makes it easy to pull together full looks – the tracksuit bottoms are next on my wishlist. Charley Ward

Pros: Choice of inseam lengths, two side pockets
Cons: Ships from the US, so longer-than-average delivery times – although delivery is no more expensive than average, and free with a £100 spend

I’m not sure what witchcraft US brand Girlfriend Collective has done here, but it must be something, as these are hands down the most impressive leggings I’ve ever tried. They’re a holy mix of very comfortable, very soft, very supportive and even very flattering to boot. The waistband doesn’t dig in, ever, there are two side pockets for your phone, and they’re compressive without being annoyingly grippy – aka, it’s not difficult to get them on or off. The black shade is chic but given the solid range of colours on offer, there’s more on my to-buy list. I’ve not worn much else since they arrived. Charley Ward

Pros: Thin material is both breathable and completely opaque, waistband stays securely in place without digging in
Cons: Zero insulation makes the leggings chilly in cold climates, placement of the brand label on the left thigh feels a little random

If you’re jetting off to the tropics, the best-selling AllTheFeels Leggings from Vuori use a mix of recycled polyamide and elastane known as BlissBlend to deliver lightweight breathability. When I first received them I was worried they would be far too small. But the super soft fabric stretches impressively to deliver a perfect, second-skin fit that stays in place well and affords complete freedom of movement. Plus, they’re completely squat-proof, which was proven when I performed a series in front of the mirror to convince myself that despite the thinness of the material, they really were opaque.

The high-waisted leggings kept me cool even when I wore them running so, flights aside, reach for these when it’s time for high intensity workouts. In fact, they were so effective at regulating temperature I barely sweated. I think they’d be perfect for flights to hot countries – you know, the ones where the cabin door opens and you’re faced by a wall of humidity that must be waded through to reach passport control and baggage claim? Available in three lengths, they’re designed to sit just above the ankle for a cropped look that goes well with flip-flops and sandals. There’s an impressive size range, running from XXS to XXL while colours include everything from goes-with-everything black to summery claret (blush pink).

Pros: Textured panels help to smooth and shape for a flattering fit, regulate temperature well for comfort in different climates, compressive qualities to help blood flow on long flights
Cons: Limited choice of colours, with little difference between them, can look cropped on taller women, with only one length available

We’ve already established that high-rise leggings are the ultimate choice for in-air comfort. But being comfortable doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style points, as the Seamless Shaping Leggings from Falke prove. Made from a soft polyamide and elastane blend, they offer a matte finish, high rise and textured shaping panels on the buttocks, stomach and thighs. I found that these not only added visual interest but also provided noticeable, elasticated support that worked to smooth my legs and hold everything in place. They’re versatile too, pairing as well with a suit jacket and heels as they did with a knit jumper and comfy boots.

Colour choices are classically stylish and include black, graphite and marine. The shades are perhaps a little too close (I tried marine and had to check the label to make sure I hadn’t accidentally been sent black). In terms of comfort, the leggings are ideal for short and long-haul trips. With full freedom of movement, shimmying around your fellow passengers from window seat to aisle is easy. The waistband stays up without digging in, even when sitting for hours at a time. Meanwhile, compression panels on the legs encourage blood flow and may help prevent swelling and muscle fatigue.

Pros: Thick yet breathable material hugs in all the right places, foldover waistband allows for a high- or low-rise fit
Cons: Sizing isn’t particularly inclusive, running up to an L only, bootcut style is difficult to wear with mid-length boots

Of all the pairs I tested, the Alo Foldover Bootcut Leggings were my favourite. With their retro flared hem, they tap into the current Noughties flashback trend and offer the chance to make a statement with your travel outfit. I found the bootcut style fun, flattering and unbelievably comfortable. Alosoft fabric uses a blend of polyester and elastane to deliver buttery, brushed-finish softness with all the flexibility of four-way stretch. The combination of breathability and thickness (for opacity and warmth in overly air-conditioned airport terminals) was a real win for me.

The fit is impeccable, clinging snugly in all the right places with a compressive effect that made me feel reassuringly supported. Then there’s the foldover waistband which allows you to switch between a high- and low-rise fit. When folded, the material stays in place and doesn’t wrinkle or add noticeable bulk. No matter which way you wear them or how long you’re sitting for, these leggings are going to be comfortable. The bootcut style means that, if you’re going to wear them to exercise, you’d be better off doing low impact like pilates or yoga over more rigorous cardio, or keep them for running errands. Colours include Black and Dark Cactus, both with a reflective alo logo. I chose the latter and loved that it could be dressed up or down to suit any destination or type of trip.

Pros: Super soft, made from organic materials, very flattering
Cons: Be mindful not to throw them in your regular wash; they need a gentle wash on 30 degrees to remain at their best

Bamford is known for producing lovely things, be it a scented candle, a hand cream for your handbag or a gift the recipient is guaranteed to love. Its new range of activewear, made in small batches from recycled, organic materials, is no exception. The pine shade is beautiful and the compression fabric makes this pair undeniably one of the most flattering pair of leggings I’ve worn. They’re also impressively soft; a fact that remained so after multiple washes, and isn’t something that all leggings can claim. Paired with the brand’s new jacket and the matching Balance bra, you’re set for pilates, a long flight or a day running errands alike. The waistband especially is supportive feeling restrictive or tight – I’ll absolutely be reaching for this pair to wear on my next long haul schlep. Charley Ward, commerce writer

Pros: Powerful compression technology stimulates blood flow, material dries quickly and regulates temperature effectively
Cons: They’re almost double the price of our next most expensive choice, the generous length is a pro for tall women, but something to consider for shorter ladies

The name Wolford has long been synonymous with luxury. The Wonderful Leggings fulfil brand expectations from the start, arriving cocooned in tissue paper inside a ribboned box. Once these have been dispensed with, it’s clear the leggings are worth their significant price tag even without the VIP packaging. Made from a blend of polyamide and elastane, the material feels different than one might expect with an initial starchiness that disappears as soon as you put them on. They conform to the shape of your legs, like a second skin that stretches to accommodate every movement.

They offer full-length compression for increased blood flow whether you’re flying or working out. An extra-thick waistband keeps the leggings in place without any uncomfortable restriction when sitting or bending. I also loved how it streamlined my figure for a flattering fit whether worn under loose or tight-fitting layers. They were breathable inside by the fire but plenty warm enough when walking outside on a freezing day. They also seemed to repel water and dried instantly after being caught in the rain – a major plus for getting to and from the airport on bad weather days. Choose yours in Black or Titanium with an ever-so-elegant tonal Wolford monogram.

Pros: Extra stretchy material for a sculpting, supportive, second-skin fit, designed without a front seam to eliminate camel toe
Cons: Material is so form-fitting that lighter colours may show skin texture, sizes come up small

When I opened my Ultimate Leggings from Adanola for the first time, my first thought was that they’d be a better fit for my five-year-old. They looked tiny! It’s a testament to the incredible four-way stretch of the nylon and elastane fabric that they ended up accommodating my size 10, 5’10” frame perfectly. I will say that they redefined the term “second skin”, however – there was no loose fabric anywhere, which meant no bunching, but if you prefer a more forgiving fit, consider sizing up. I loved that despite being so close-fitting, the absence of a front seam meant there was no risk of unsightly camel toe.

I could bend and stretch with complete freedom (great for stowing and retrieving luggage). And the high waistband provided support and contouring without any discomfort or tightness even after hours of wear. When I spilled water on the sweat-wicking fabric it dried without a trace in a matter of minutes, suggesting the leggings would be good for tropical holidays. They come in two lengths from XXS to XXL and several interesting colours (Olive Green, Burgundy and Mauve Purple being some of my favourites). Best of all, they offer the same quality as other activewear on this list for a fraction of the price point, so they’re great value for everyday wear.

Pros: Double waistband stays in place without being too tight or restrictive, ultra-soft nylon and spandex blend provides supportive, all-day comfort
Cons: Leggings must be hand washed and line dried which can be inconvenient for travel, may need to size up for complete opacity

Luxury legging brands can be limited when it comes to sizing, but that’s not the case with Skims. The Soft Smoothing Seamless Leggings has an impressive inclusive sizing range from XXS to 4X and are designed to flatter all body types. A high waist lengthens your legs and contours your silhouette, while the double waistband cinches and smooths without digging in. We especially like that it stays securely in place – no irritating rolling or slipping here.

The fabric is a focal point, using a blend of nylon and spandex to offer butter-soft comfort whether you’re lounging at home or snoozing 40,000 feet up in the air. With plenty of stretch and light, all-over compression, the leggings are designed to offer lasting support and unhindered freedom of movement. They hit at the ankle and come in a choice of colours from classic, slimming Black to attention-grabbing Fuschia for every taste and purpose from business trips to getaways with the girls.

Pros: Zonal panels in the waistband stretch to accommodate growing bump, high-quality material resists snags and washes well
Cons: Stiff labels can be uncomfortable against bare skin

I asked a friend who’s currently 36 weeks pregnant to test the Nike One High-Waisted Maternity Leggings. She reported being impressed by the quality of the material, which stayed intact after being pawed at by her pets and didn’t pill after several washes – a good indication that they’d be up to the rough and tumble of travel. The polyester and elastane fabric was super comfortable whether she was active or taking it easy and she found that she was able to sit for hours without any chafing or constriction. The leggings come in Black or Smokey Mauve; she tested the former and found them fully opaque.

Zonal panels around the waistband provide added support and an elasticity that allows the leggings to grow through each stage of your pregnancy. You can even fold the waistband down to sit below your bump if you prefer. The fit was as expected (albeit being a little long on my friend’s shorter-than-average frame). She felt the leggings would fit just as well after the baby comes, too, so they’re a good pair to keep handy. She also liked that they kept her warm even when it was snowing outside. The leggings include Nike’s Dri-Fit technology for moisture-wicking, quick-drying comfort and contain at least 75 per cent recycled polyester.

Pros: Great price, squat-proof
Cons: Not as soft as higher-priced leggings we’ve tried

I’ve had a couple of pairs of these H&M leggings on rotation for about three years now and, despite the lower price tag, they’ve really stood the test of time. Even after what must be at least 100 washes, they’ve never gone baggy – not even around the knees – and they don’t roll down when in use either. It’s really impressive. I struggle to fault them but, if I have to nitpick, I’d say that they’re not the softest pair I own. They’re also not compressive, so if you’re using them as workout leggings, wear them to yoga rather than for any intensive cardio. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a great value pair of full-length leggings that will go the distance, these are a fabulous option. Charley Ward, commerce writer

Pros: Surprisingly sleek for something so warm, completely opaque, affordable
Cons: The colour softens with time

Lovall’s Extreme Fleece Lined Leggings were a late addition to my Norwegian cruise packing list, tossed in more with curiosity than conviction. But somewhere between the wind-whipped streets of Tromsø and the stillness beneath the spectacular northern lights, they proved themselves indispensable. The fleece lining is dense, velvety, almost conspiratorial in its warmth. The high-rise waistband doesn’t roll, pinch or waver. And the ribbed exterior is both functional and flattering, adding insulation while making your legs look streamlined. They’re snug without being stifling, thick without the bulk and they make you question whether real trousers are ever necessary. They’re the rare winter piece that works just as well in motion – snow boots on, wind in your face, as they do when you’re still, watching the sky blush pink over a frozen fjord. Now I own every winter pair Lovall makes, and I’m already scrolling for snow-covered destinations to wear them in. Preshita Saha, Director of Content, CNT Global Video

Finding leggings that don’t roll down has been a genuine battle, but these actually stay in place no matter what class I’m doing. And they definitely live up to their name – they’re super soft, which means I don’t feel like I’m squeezing into something uncomfortable. Bonus points for the pocket, which is spacious enough to hold a phone and my keys. Abigail Malbon, manager, global audience development