Best Pilates Leggings for Women: Mat and Reformer Picks (2026)

Pilates is hard on leggings in ways a run isn't, which is why the best Pilates leggings look different from your running tights. Waistbands roll down when you curl up, thin fabric turns see-through when you fold forward, stiff running tights fight you in leg circles, and a zippered pocket can scratch a reformer's upholstery.

What works in women's Pilates leggings is simple: form-fitting, high-rise leggings with four-way stretch, light compression and no exposed hardware. That's the consensus from trainers quoted by NBC Select, from instructors quoted by ELLE, and from reformer maker Balanced Body.

Quick comparison

The best Pilates leggings

Best Overall

1. Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 25"

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The Align is the pick our sources mention most often for Pilates. Certified personal trainer Rachel Coyle told NBC Select the Align is great for low-impact workouts including yoga, Pilates and barre. Trainer Vanessa Willett added that it has slight compression while still being stretchy, and called it great for heated classes since it's moisture-wicking and dries quickly.

• Fabric: 81% nylon / 19% Lycra elastane (Lululemon's Nulu)
• Inseams: 23", 25", 28" and 31", per NBC Select
• Sizes: 0–20, per NBC Select
• Extras: hidden waistband pocket for a card or key, according to Lululemon

Lululemon says it designed the Align for yoga. Specs are from Lululemon's listing and NBC Select; check the product page for current inseams.

Pros

• ✓ Recommended for Pilates by trainer Rachel Coyle (NBC Select)
• ✓ Slight compression with lots of stretch
• ✓ Wide range of inseams and sizes
• ✓ No exposed hardware

Cons

• ✗ Sold by Lululemon, not on Amazon
• ✗ Within the $50–100 tier, not a budget pick

Best Budget

2. CRZ YOGA Butterluxe High Waisted Legging 25"

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CRZ YOGA's Butterluxe is the budget pick NBC Select keeps coming back to. Its workout leggings guide describes "minimal compression and more stretch" for yoga, Pilates and barre, and its Amazon roundup calls the pair "light on compression and high on stretch, making them ideal for low impact sports like yoga and pilates."

• Fabric: 81% polyamide / 19% Lycra elastane, per NBC Select
• Rise: high, according to CRZ YOGA, which calls the fabric "Extremely Soft" with "Gentle Compression"
• Sizes: NBC Select lists XXS–XL in one article and XS–XL in another, so check the listing for your size

Pros

• ✓ Under $50 and sold on Amazon
• ✓ Very stretchy with gentle compression
• ✓ Named for Pilates by NBC Select

Cons

• ✗ Limited size range, per NBC Select
• ✗ Light compression may feel too loose if you like a held-in fit

Best for Sweaty Reformer Classes

3. Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight with Pockets 25"

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NBC Select tested the pocket version, the Wunder Train High-Rise Tight with Pockets 25". It placed second in NBC's test of more than 50 pairs, where it was named the best splurge, and an NBC editor called it "equally perfect for reformer Pilates sessions and strength training." It also won best leggings in NBC Select's 2025 Wellness Awards, where Zoe Malin, who has owned a pair for nearly two years, reported "no pilling, see-through spots or color bleeding."

• Fabric: 77% nylon / 23% Lycra (Lululemon's Everlux), four-way stretch and sweat-wicking, per NBC Select
• Waistband: internal drawcord plus a hidden pocket, per NBC Select and Lululemon
• Inseams: 23", 25" and 28" (pocket version), per NBC Select

Because the drawcord sits inside the waistband, there's no exposed hardware to worry about on the reformer. The NBC tester noted they "aren't cheap" and found NBC's top pick slightly more supportive and better at wicking moisture. NBC's test didn't count it as a compression legging; the Wellness Awards write-up describes a semi-compressive waistband.

Pros

• ✓ Recommended for reformer Pilates by an NBC editor
• ✓ Internal drawcord keeps the waistband up
• ✓ No pilling after nearly two years, per NBC's Zoe Malin

Cons

• ✗ $100+ price tier for the pocket version
• ✗ Top-ranked Nike pair was slightly more supportive, per NBC Select
• ✗ Sold by Lululemon, not on Amazon

Best for Petite and Tall

4. Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise 7/8 Legging

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Athleta's Salutation Stash ranked fourth in NBC Select's test. Its standout is fit options: Athleta sells it in XXS–3X across Regular, Petite and Tall lengths, and NBC Select noted the thick waistband keeps it from slipping.

• Fabric: Athleta's Powervita, 75% nylon / 25% Lycra per NBC Select. Athleta describes it as "buttery soft with support that feels like a gentle hug."
• Pockets: bonded side stash pockets, per Athleta
• Extras: UPF 40+, per NBC Select
• Ratings: Athleta listed 4.64 out of 5 from about 16,000 reviews as of October 2026

NBC Select's con: the thicker fabric may overheat you in hot yoga, so it's better suited to a cool studio.

Pros

• ✓ Petite and Tall lengths up to 3X
• ✓ Deep side pockets
• ✓ Thick waistband stays put

Cons

• ✗ Thicker fabric can run warm
• ✗ $100+ price tier

Best Lightweight Feel

5. Vuori AllTheFeels Legging

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If you want leggings that barely feel like they're there, NBC Select's tester liked the AllTheFeels for yoga, Pilates and barre because "they don't constrict any movement. I can squat, stretch and lift my legs without any strain or squeeze." NBC editor Mili Godio said its smooth, stretchy waistband never feels like it's squeezing her stomach or hips.

• Fabric: 75% recycled polyamide / 25% elastane (Vuori's BlissBlend)
• Inseams: 22", 24" and 27" (Short, Regular and Long), per NBC Select
• Sizes: XXS–XXL, according to Vuori, which says it fits snug and suggests sizing down if you're between sizes
• Pocket: Vuori's page lists a side waistband pocket (NBC Select's review said no pockets; we went with the brand)

NBC Select's cons: it has no compression, so it's not as supportive, and the tester wouldn't reach for it for high-intensity workouts. On the plus side, she said the full length never bunched at her ankles.

Pros

• ✓ Very stretchy for flexibility work
• ✓ Waistband doesn't dig in
• ✓ Three inseam lengths

Cons

• ✗ No compression, so less supportive, per NBC Select
• ✗ Not for high-intensity training
• ✗ $100+ price tier

Best Budget With Extended Sizes

6. Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8 Leggings

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Old Navy's PowerSoft 7/8 is the cheapest way to get petite, tall and plus sizes in one legging. Old Navy describes "light compression" in a "peachy-smooth, sweat-wicking fabric" and sells it in XS–4X in Regular, Tall and Petite.

• Fabric: 77% nylon / 23% spandex, per NBC Select (Old Navy's page didn't list fiber content)
• Inseams: 26", 28" and 32", per NBC Select
• Use: NBC Select lists it for yoga, Pilates and barre; Old Navy says it's designed for medium-intensity workouts

Pros

• ✓ Under $50
• ✓ Petite, Regular and Tall up to 4X
• ✓ Light compression for Pilates

Cons

• ✗ Fabric details come from NBC, not the brand page
• ✗ Not in NBC Select's 50-pair wear test, so less long-term evidence

Most Size-Inclusive

7. Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging

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Girlfriend Collective's Compressive Pocket Legging runs XXS–6XL, which NBC Select called the most size-inclusive option in its Amazon roundup. A tester there saw no drop in quality or hold after two years, and it ranked seventh in NBC's test of more than 50 pairs.

• Fabric: 79% recycled polyester / 21% spandex, according to Girlfriend Collective
• Inseams: 23.75", 28" and 31"
• Rise: ultra-high (10.25" on a size S, 12.75" on XXL, per the brand)
• Pockets: deep side pockets

This is a firmer legging than most on this list, and the brand positions it for high-impact workouts. It's a good fit if you like a held-in feel; if you want something lighter, Vanessa Willett's advice to NBC Select favors slight compression for Pilates. NBC Select's cons: it's expensive, and the shortest inseam may still be long for petite people.

Pros

• ✓ XXS–6XL sizing
• ✓ Ultra-high rise stays up
• ✓ Deep side pockets
• ✓ Sold on Amazon

Cons

• ✗ More compression than most Pilates picks
• ✗ Expensive, per NBC Select's tester
• ✗ Can be long on petite people

Honorable mentions

• Baleaf Yoga Leggings with Pockets: NBC Select named it the best budget pair in its test of more than 50 leggings, and it's sold on Amazon. We couldn't confirm its fabric or inseams, and we found no Pilates-specific review.
• Neiwai Ballet Drawstring Leggings: NBC Select's tester called them one of her most used pairs for yoga and barre, with a drawstring waistband and no compression. The con NBC listed: they're quite thin and not very versatile.

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Best leggings for reformer Pilates

None of the seven picks lists exposed zippers, rivets or buttons in the brand and NBC Select specs we checked, so none should snag the upholstery. For reformer classes, the Wunder Train is a strong bet: its internal drawcord keeps the waistband up while you're on your back, and an NBC editor called it "equally perfect for reformer Pilates sessions." If full-length pairs bunch on you, a 7/8 or 25" inseam leaves less fabric around your ankles at the footbar.

Tap the diagram to enlarge

Balanced Body, which makes reformers, recommends "form-fitting clothing that allows for a full range of motion without being loose enough to get caught in the Reformer's parts." That rules out very loose flares, which could catch on the footbar or springs. Balanced Body also says to "always choose clothing without exposed zippers, metal rivets, or plastic buttons," which can tear the vinyl upholstery, and its warranty excludes damage from zippers, snaps and other apparel adornments.

Shorts work too if they fit the same rules. NBC Select's experts say shorts aren't ideal unless they're longer and lined, since your legs are often in the air.

New to the machine? Our first reformer Pilates class guide covers what else to bring.

How to choose Pilates leggings

NBC Select's test of more than 50 pairs judged leggings on wear over time (pilling, shrinkage, color retention), fabric quality (including see-through fabric), performance (compression, insulation, sweat-proofing and quick drying) and sizing accuracy. Those are good criteria for Pilates too, with a few studio-specific additions.

Fit and stretch

Pilates moves through a full range of motion, so stretch matters more than support. Nofar Hagag, founder of the Nofar Method, told ELLE that "the four-way stretch is non-negotiable." Fit matters as well: Club Pilates master instructor Vanessa Johnson told NBC Select that "form-fitting clothing helps instructors see your body and correct your form more accurately."

Waistband and rise

You spend a lot of Pilates on your back and curling up, which is when low-rise leggings slide down. Hagag told ELLE that high-waisted leggings stay in place, and Club Pilates instructors favor high-waist pairs with thick waistbands that "stay put." An internal drawcord, like the one on the Wunder Train, adds extra hold.

Compression

Tap the diagram to enlarge

For most people, lighter is better. Certified personal trainer Vanessa Willett told NBC Select that for low-impact exercise like yoga and Pilates, you should "consider options with slight compression" that still feel lightweight and allow easy movement. Firmer pairs, like the Girlfriend Collective, suit people who like a held-in feel.

Opacity

Do the fold test before class: bend forward or squat in front of a mirror in good light. NBC Select checked every pair in its test for see-through and squat-proof fabric.

Length

Full-length, 7/8 and ankle lengths all work, and it's mostly personal preference. NBC Select editor Mili Godio, who is 5 feet 3 inches, said most full-length leggings bunch up at her ankles, which is why she likes a 7/8 length. If you're on the shorter side, a 7/8 or 25" inseam is worth a look.

What to skip

• Stiff running tights. NBC Select's tester said the On Performance Tights "aren't super stretchy, so I don't recommend wearing them for workouts like barre, yoga and Pilates when you need flexibility."
• Zippered pockets. NBC Select's top overall pick in its leggings test, the Nike Go Firm Support, has zipper closures, which Balanced Body's guidance says to avoid on the reformer.
• Baggy pants. Obé Fitness instructor Marcia Meade told NBC Select to avoid "oversized, baggy clothing, which can get in the way."

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of leggings are best for Pilates?

Form-fitting, high-rise leggings with four-way stretch and light compression. Trainer Vanessa Willett told NBC Select to consider options with slight compression for yoga and Pilates, and Club Pilates instructor Vanessa Johnson says form-fitting clothes help instructors check your form.

What should I wear on the bottom for reformer Pilates?

Fitted leggings, or longer lined shorts per NBC Select's experts, with no exposed zippers, rivets or buttons. Balanced Body says those can tear the reformer's vinyl upholstery, and it advises against anything loose enough to get caught in the machine's parts.

Are Lululemon Aligns good for Pilates?

Trainer Rachel Coyle told NBC Select the Align is great for yoga, Pilates and barre, and trainer Vanessa Willett said it has slight compression while staying stretchy. Lululemon designed it for yoga and makes it from 81% nylon and 19% Lycra.

Should Pilates leggings be compression?

Light compression suits most people, per trainer advice in NBC Select. Firmer pairs like the Girlfriend Collective Compressive work if you like a held-in feel, but very stiff tights can restrict movement; NBC's tester didn't recommend the On Performance Tights for Pilates for that reason.

How do I know if leggings are see-through?

Bend forward or squat in front of a mirror in good light. NBC Select's testers checked every pair in their test of more than 50 leggings for see-through fabric.

What length leggings are best for Pilates?

Full-length, 7/8 and ankle lengths all work. It's mostly preference: NBC Select editor Mili Godio, who is 5 feet 3 inches, prefers 7/8 because most full-length leggings bunch at her ankles.

Are leggings or shorts better for Pilates?

Either works if they're fitted. NBC Select's experts suggest leggings, or shorts only if they're longer and lined, since your legs are often in the air. Balanced Body only asks that clothing not be loose enough to catch on the reformer.

Can you wear flare leggings to reformer Pilates?

Very loose flares aren't a good idea. Balanced Body recommends form-fitting clothing that isn't loose enough to get caught in the reformer's parts.

The verdict

For most people, the Lululemon Align is the safest choice for both mat and reformer: soft, stretchy and lightly compressive. On a budget, CRZ YOGA Butterluxe offers a similar light-compression feel on Amazon. If you sweat a lot or keep hiking your waistband up, the Wunder Train's drawcord helps. For petite or tall fits, look at Athleta Salutation Stash or the cheaper Old Navy PowerSoft. For sizes up to 6XL, Girlfriend Collective is the most inclusive pick.

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Sources

1. NBC Select, Best leggings of 2026, tested and reviewed
2. NBC Select, Best workout leggings, with trainer advice
3. NBC Select, Best leggings on Amazon
4. NBC Select, Wellness Awards 2025
5. NBC Select, Pilates equipment and apparel guide
6. Balanced Body, All about Reformer Pilates
7. Balanced Body, Warranty
8. Lululemon, Align High-Rise Pant 25"
9. Lululemon, Wunder Train High-Rise Tight with Pockets 25"
10. CRZ YOGA, Butterluxe Yoga Origin Legging 25"
11. Athleta, Salutation Stash High Rise 7/8 Legging
12. Vuori, AllTheFeels Legging
13. Old Navy, High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8 Leggings
14. Girlfriend Collective, Compressive Pocket Legging
15. Club Pilates, What to wear to your first class
16. ELLE via Yahoo, Pilates class in your future? Here's what to wear
17. Amazon, Baleaf leggings with pockets