With the rise of athleisure—high-performance, sports-oriented clothing worn, well, everywhere—leggings have carved out an important place in many women’s wardrobes. They can be stylish, cozy, and versatile, and they can even be worn as a layering piece under dresses, skirts, and jeans. They can also be a great addition to workout outfits because they offer extra coverage and support during exercise, especially during high-intensity workouts like yoga or HIIT classes.

But with so many types of leggints on the market, it can be hard to know which ones to buy. Some have special features that help with specific exercises, others have more of a fashion feel. There are a variety of materials, finishes, and colors available too, from smooth jersey or matte stretch to shimmery metallic or disco styles. And a few have fleece-lined knees or ankles to keep you warm.

Leggings 101: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Styling the Perfect Pair

If you’re looking for a pair that work well in the gym, look for one with good squat proofing and good compression. And if you’re a fan of brushed leggings, look for ones that have an elastic waistband at the top, which makes them easier to put on without hittingching up any fabric around your hip.

Our expert tester tried a pair of the Superfit Hero Superhold Pocket Leggings and found that they fit her (who wears a size 2XL) a little snugly in the waist, but were comfortable for sweaty workouts. She also liked the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught in the Midi High Waisted Legging, which has a similar style and a higher waistline.