Affordable Athleisure: These Petite Leggings Are Flattering and Functional (2024)

• Our Picks

• How We Selected

• What to Look For

• FAQ

• Why Trust Verywell Fit

OFFLINE by Aerie’s High Waisted Crossover Legging is our top overall pick due to its soft fabric and budget-friendly price point. Designed with a 7/8 length that hits just above the ankle, it comes in three inseams—Short, Regular, and Long—so you can find the right fit. “The Short length leggings fit me like a dream, with no bunching at the bottom,” says Alayna Curry, an NASM-certified women's fitness specialist at Workout with Mom, who also likes this pair’s high-rise crossover waistband.

We love that these leggings are made from buttery fabric that feels like a second skin. The fit moves with you without rolling down, which is a real plus when you’re lifting weights or holding Wheel Pose. And the light compression is supportive, without feeling tight or restrictive.

Some wearers have found that these leggings are prone to pilling over time, and they don’t have any pockets. Still, we love that they’re a reliable option that costs less than half of what some of our other picks do.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Inseam: 23, 25, or 27 inches | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash}

For budget-friendly petite leggings that have a more traditional waistband, Old Navy’s Extra High-Waisted PowerChill Leggings are our top pick. They’re made from a smooth, breathable fabric blend that wicks away sweat, keeping you cool during hot yoga or outdoor workouts. And we love that they feature four-way stretch that has great hold—no readjusting necessary.

The wide elastic waistband features a hidden pocket at the back for storing your phone, change, keys, or other essentials. But although we like that there are three inseam lengths to choose from, the Petite size range is fairly limited. Some wearers have also found that this pair isn’t as opaque, so they may not be ideal for squats or weightlifting.

Still, these petite leggings are designed to hit at the ankle, providing the perfect length at a price that makes stocking up on multiple pairs simple.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to 4X regular, XS to XL petite | Inseam: 26, 28, or 32 inches | Materials: Polyester, TENCEL modal, cotton, spandex | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low}

We love Athleta gear for its true-to-size fit and high-performance materials. When we tested flare leggings, the brand’s Elation Flare Pant was our favorite compressive pair. With a higher-rise waistband and a tapered leg, Athleta’s Ultra High-Rise Elation Tight has many of the same features we loved in our flared pairs.

The thick, opaque fabric is soft to the touch, while the waistband has three layers of smoothing material that offers medium support without pinching or squeezing. And both pairs are rated UPF 50+, meaning they block 98% of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays for better protection when you’re walking or exercising outdoors. Curry also loves these leggings because they provide plenty of support, which is great if you're lifting heavy weights or going for a run.

Plus, we like they have a sizable hidden pocket in the waistband to keep your essentials close by. The 7/8 length is designed to fall right above your ankle. Choose from a 27-inch seam in Regular sizes or a 25-inch inseam in Petite sizes (which are more limited). Just note that some wearers have found the fabric to be prone to pilling, especially between the thighs.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to 3X regular, XXS to L petite | Inseam: 25, 27, or 30 inches | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash and dry}

When we tested lululemon leggings, we fell in love with the brand’s high-quality fabrics and barely-there feel. This pair is offered in lululemon’s petite-friendly 25-inch inseam and features a flattering, low-rise, V-shaped waistband—a nice upgrade if you’ve already worn your Align High-Rise Pants too many times to count.

Made from Nulu fabric—which is silky soft, lightweight, and stretchy—these leggings are ideal for yoga, walking, or everyday wear. And they’re a great alternative to lululemon’s more common high-waisted styles. For Curry, these leggings are another favorite: She says the higher price is absolutely worth it (and we agree).

A pocket in the back of the waistband has room for your cards or phone. Ideal for low-impact workouts, like yoga, these comfortable leggings will hit right above your ankle. However, some wearers have noticed that they may pill between the thighs over time.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0 to 14 | Inseam: 25 inches | Materials: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low}

Featuring two deep side pockets that are large enough to securely stash your phone, Outdoor Voices’ Superform 7/8 Legging is our top pick for petite leggings with storage. The 25-inch inseam will fit most petite wearers well, while the high compression offers plenty of support whether you’re running or tackling a HIIT class.

This pair’s durable nylon and Lycra blend has great hold that won’t sag as you move. We like the matte finish, and that they’re resistant to pilling. The Superform 7/8 Legging is also lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking, with a UPF protection rating of 50. And as an added bonus, the high-rise waistband will stay in place, thanks to an internal drawstring that allows you to customize the fit.

They’re easy to care for, too—just machine wash them on cold and tumble dry them on a low setting. But since they’re so compressive, some wearers recommend ordering one size up for a more comfortable fit.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Inseam: 25 inches | Materials: Nylon, Lycra | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low}

With fewer pockets, but just as much compression, Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High-Rise Legging is our recommendation for petite leggings that offer ideal support for high-impact activities. We love that they come in three inseam options, starting at 19.5 inches—shorter than most other leggings on our list. And with sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL, finding the right fit is easy.

Made from recycled water bottles, the material is squat-proof, breathable, and sweat-wicking. Plus, it has four-way stretch that won’t lose its shape after a long day of wear. We also like that the ultra high-rise waistband (which has a hidden pocket for your keys or cards) won’t roll down.

Some wearers have noticed that the fabric is on the thinner side. Since these leggings aren’t lined, they may show underwear lines—so we recommend wearing a seamless pair underneath. But we love that when you’re ready to part with them, they’re recyclable through the brand’s Re-Girlfriend program (where you’ll score store credit in exchange for helping the planet).

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Inseam: 19.5, 23.75, or 28.5 inches | Materials: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry flat}

Our favorite running leggings are breathable, with high compression—like Sweaty Betty’s Zero Gravity Running Leggings. Made with polyamide, which is often found in high-quality activewear and swimwear, the quick-drying fabric is sturdy and durable. It also has UV 40+ protection, to shield your skin during outdoor runs.

The 7/8 length, which translates to a 24-inch inseam, is ideal for petite wearers. We also love the deep side pocket, the back zippered pocket, and the adjustable waistband. This feature (plus all-over compression) helps the band stay in place while you run.

Breathable perforations up the sides of both legs boost airflow, so you’ll stay cool and dry for miles. Although these are some of the most expensive leggings on our list, we think their smart design is worth investing in.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Inseam: 24 inches | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Pockets: Yes | Care: Wash warm on reduced spin}

Alo Yoga’s 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging is our top pick for yogis due to its thick, wide waistband that won’t roll down. It also has a smoothing panel in front for extra coverage and support from Downward Facing Dog to Savasana.

These leggings are made from a soft blend of polyester and spandex that’s also moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, making them ideal for even the sweatiest hot yoga sessions. Plus, you can bend with confidence, knowing that these leggings are completely opaque. And four-way stretch makes them comfortable from the studio to brunch, and everywhere in between.

The brand’s sizing guide confirms that these 7/8 leggings will hit petite wearers right at the ankle. But they don’t have any pockets, so you may want to pick up a yoga mat bag with extra storage for your studio must-haves.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to XL | Inseam: 24 or 24.5 inches | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash cold on gentle cycle, inside out, with like colors, tumble dry low}

Designed for flexibility and comfort, Vitality’s Daydream V Pant is our favorite petite legging for everyday wear. It comes in sizes 2XS to 4XL and is made from silky, lightweight fabric with four-way stretch. Plus, the crossover waistband is flattering and supportive.

Available in a variety of bright and pastel colors, these leggings are also designed to prevent camel toe. And we love that the material is made with recycled materials, is antimicrobial, and has UPF 50+ sun protection. With light compression, these leggings are ideal for long hours of wear—although petite wearers note that you can size up for more support without drowning in additional fabric.

They don’t have any pockets, and some have found that they’re not fully opaque. If you’re searching for a thicker legging, we recommend Alo Yoga’s 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 2XS to 4XL (00 to 28) | Inseam: Not listed | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester, Lycra | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low}

The best flared leggings cover your ankles without causing a tripping hazard. Luckily, Adidas’ Yoga Studio Flared Leggings come with an easy-to-use Fit Finder that will help you choose the perfect size for your height.

Made with recycled polyester and elastane, the silky, moisture-wicking fabric will keep you cool and comfortable. And we love that it offers a contoured fit with a barely-there feel.

The high-rise waistband is both supportive and stretchy. As a bonus, it has a hidden pocket in the back, to hold your cards or phone. But we wish this pair came in colors beyond black and gray.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Inseam: Not listed | Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane | Pockets: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold on a delicate cycle with like colors}

Born Primitive is a veteran-owned activewear brand that makes durable basics. Their Maternity Legging is one of our top recommendations because it’s soft and comfortable, but doesn’t skimp on high-performance features. Petite wearers have found that these leggings are ideal for everything from CrossFit and cardio to yoga classes.

Nylon and Lycra make these leggings stretchy and breathable. We love that the wide waistband offers customizable support—wear it under your bump while lounging or pull it up for more compression while you work out.

Some users have found that these leggings run small, so you may want to order a size up from your usual. But once you find the right fit, this pair will be your new go-to.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to 2XL (00 to 16) | Inseam: Not listed | Materials: Nylon, Lycra | Pockets: No | Care: Wash with like colors on cold, line dry}

For leggings that contour your curves, we recommend Knix’s HiTouch High Rise Legging. The inseam is a petite-friendly 25 inches across all sizes. Meanwhile, detailing and seams in the back help sculpt, shape, and lift for a flattering fit.

These leggings have a wide, high-rise waistband that keeps you feeling supported, with light compression. Made from a blend of nylon, Lycra, cotton, spandex, and carbon, the material is both soft and breathable. We also like that they’re anti-chafe, with bonded seams for extra durability—so you can count on them not to fray or fall apart over time.

Available in sizes from XS to 4XL, this pair comes in over ten jewel tones and patterns. Sadly, they don’t have pockets. If you’re looking for a place to stash your phone, a running belt or fanny pack might come in handy.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to XXXXL | Inseam: 25 inches | Materials: Nylon, Lycra, cotton, spandex, carbon | Pockets: No | Care: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry}

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the length of petite leggings?

  Petite leggings usually have inseams between 19.5 and 27 inches. Full-length petite leggings are often 26 inches long. Or, you can opt for a 7/8 length, which is usually 25 inches.

• What is the difference between petite and regular leggings?

  The only difference between petite and regular leggings is the inseam length. While regular leggings may be too long for petite wearers, petite leggings are shorter, to prevent any bunching around your knees and ankles.

• Who should wear petite leggings?

  You may prefer petite leggings if regular leggings are too long for you. Petite leggings may also fit you better if you have shorter legs and a longer torso, even if you don’t normally wear petite clothing. We recommend measuring your inseam to decide which length of leggings will fit you best.

• Do leggings contain BPA?

  Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications.

  In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing blends of polyester and spandex, including sports bras from Sweaty Betty, leggings from Nike, Athleta, Champion, Patagonia, and Kohl’s, shorts from Champion, Nike, and Adidas, and athletic shirts from Fabletics. We may recommend some of these products or similar items from these brands in this list, as these products have not been recalled and the science on transdermal absorption of BPA is still not settled.

  “The best way to prevent BPA exposure is to make educated decisions in choosing your personal care products,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. As a precaution, it is best to limit the amount of time you spend in activewear by changing out of it when you are finished working out.

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