When it comes to fitness, I’ve tried pretty much every kind of workout imaginable—from HIIT boot camp classes to hot yoga to strength training to ballet. But after much trial and error, I finally found the one workout that I’ve actually stuck with religiously: Pilates. I see the most significant changes in my body when I’m doing Pilates consistently, and I actually enjoy it. Who knew? I’ve been committed for a few years now and have even become somewhat of a Pilates snob. I’ll only take classes using the megaformer and the Lagree method, as I just feel it’s the most efficient workout for your time. (If you’re in the L.A. area, check out The Studio MDR. It’s the best!)
Through my consistent Pilates classes, I’ve also become a bit of a legging snob. I need leggings that hold me in comfortably and stretch with me but don’t stretch out. Oh, and I’m partial to a super-high waist. I just feel it’s the most flattering and comfortable. I’ve narrowed it down to five legging brands that check all the boxes and I find myself coming back to over and over again. Below are the best legging brands for Pilates, IMO.
If Nordstrom reviews are any indication, Zella leggings are a cult favorite. They’re super high-waisted and made of a material that’s so soft and comfortable you’ll find yourself wearing them even when you have no intention of working out. My favorite is the Live In High Waist Leggings, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I wear them at least three times a week. Oh, and the price points are great. You can’t beat $59 for quality leggings.
Alo leggings are like the holy grail. They’re ultra flattering thanks to the performance fabric that actually helps lift and hold you in while still being insanely comfortable. They also happen to make your derrière look phenomenal. You won’t find a brand with more aesthetically pleasing colors and designs, so good luck choosing just one pair.
FP Movement is one of the best things to happen to the activewear world. Its leggings are ideal for Pilates and yoga, where you want something comfortable that will also hold you in but aren’t as thick as you’d want for, say, a HIIT class. FP Movement also always has leggings with the coolest little details, from cutouts to gorgeous colors to piping.
Nike is one of those heritage brands that have been around for decades for a reason. It creates a high-performance product that translates to whatever fitness activity you’re into. Now, typically when you think of Nike, Pilates probably isn’t the first workout that comes to mind, but don’t let that fool you. Its leggings have all the qualities one would look for. Plus, you might even feel a bit sportier rocking the Nike symbol on your reformer.
Beyond Yoga is one of my newer discoveries that I’m bummed I waited so long to try. Similar to Alo, its leggings are perfectly high-waisted, made of fabric that’s just the right weight and stretch, and always come in the prettiest colors. I now have to stop myself from purchasing more of its matching sets.
