13 Best Leggings For Summer That Are Lightweight And Amazing
Create a chic outfit by pairing a colorful crop top with leggings this summer.
Expertise: Makeup & Fashion
Experience: 3 years
The day Priyam learned that having strong opinions about everyday products can be a full-fledged writing career was the greatest day of her life. Partially driven by a passion for everything timeless,... more
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Working out during the hot sunny days can seem overwhelming because of the added heat, sweat, and the uncomfortability that comes along with it. This is why having some of the best leggings for summer in your arsenal is imperative. These leggings are lightweight and can be worn for outdoor runs, pilates, yoga, or HIIT. When you’re in your best workout outfit, you will be able to give your best at what you’re doing rather than getting distracted by uncomfortable clothes.
The key to purchasing the best leggings for the hot sunny days is looking for features like breathability, lightness, softness, and the ease of maintenance. These leggings should also be easy to wash and quick drying so that you don’t remain sweaty after a run around the park. Most of these leggings are made of fabrics like nylon and polyester with lace-up and mesh details. They prevent overheating and are stretchable to give you maximum comfort. These leggings can also be worn casually since athleisures are a stylish and trendy option for all the girls who love comfy clothes. In this article, our fashion experts bring you a carefully curated list of summer leggings that you will love. Read on to know more and purchase the ones you think will suit your needs the most.
In This Article
13 Best Leggings For Summer That Are Lightweight And Amazing
1. Best For Plus Size Women:Leggings Depot Cotton Women’s Premium Quality Leggings
Trainers and workout enthusiasts swear by the Leggings Depot Cotton Women’s Premium Quality Leggings and call it one of the best tights for summer. The fabric is made from 95% cotton and 5% spandex, making it soft and lightweight. The high-quality fabric is machine washable and keeps you dry all through your workout. You don’t have to struggle while wearing these leggings, as they glide right on with minimal effort. You can choose from a variety of colors to find one that suits your style the best. Additionally, the opaque material is perfect for the gym because it isn’t shiny or see-through.
Pros
- Buttery soft fabric
- Available in a variety of colors
- Suitable for plus size women
- Machine washable
Cons
- The dye may get transferred to your skin
2. Best Moisture-Wicking Fabric:Baleaf High Waisted Yoga Capri Leggings
If you want leggings with a strong waistband and a good grip around the calves, these Capri leggings are a great choice. The leggings are made from nylon and spandex with a fabric that is moisture-wicking, breathable, stretchy, and offers full coverage. They also have a pull-on closure, which means they are not only breathable but also easy to wear. The leggings are perfect for activities like rock climbing or cycling because they are not see-through, stretchable, and have a moisture-wicking technology that keeps you dry. In addition, the high-rise waistband ensures that the leggings don’t roll down when you move and provides a steady fit. You will also love the hidden waistband pocket, as you can stash any personal belongings while you go about your routine.
Pros
- High-Waisted Legging
- Moisture-wicking technology
- Hidden waistband pocket
- Ergonomic seams that prevent chafing
Cons
- May have weak compression around the tummy area
3. Best For All Body Types:Satina High Waisted Soft Leggings
For women who want comfortable leggings that feel light and almost like they are wearing nothing, these leggings can check all those boxes. The buttery soft leggings are made from peach skin fabric that is non-see through, stretchy, opaque, and is ultra-comfortable during and after your workouts. The high waistband is super stretchy and provides enough compression to give you the hourglass look and prevent unwanted sagging. These leggings are available in many sizes that range from small to XXXL, so they will look amazing on any body type.
Pros
- Suits all body types
- High waist
- Opaque fabric
- It can be worn for all seasons
Cons
- The stitching may be weak
4. Best For Tummy Control:LMB Capri Leggings for Women
These Capri leggings are a great choice for women who feel conscious about their midsection and want it to stay in place when they work out. The leggings are made from 8% spandex and peach skin fabric, making them perfect for the gym or just lounging around the house. Even though they provide a dreamy fit that is true to size, the high waistband does a fantastic job holding your midsection in and providing a feminine silhouette. You can choose from sizes that range from small to XXXL.
Pros
- Peachskin fabric
- Compressing high waist
- Suitable for all body types
- Machine washable
Cons
- May not have pockets
5. Best Breathable Fabric:Adidas Women’s Essentials Single Jersey Joggers
If skin-tight leggings are not your cup of tea and you would want some loose-fitting bottoms, then you can choose these sporty leggings for your subsequent outdoor workouts. The jogger leggings are made from stretchy cotton single jersey for a soft feel, making them perfect for hot weather because they will keep you cool and prevent any overheating. The fit is slender and provides a refined silhouette from the hips all the way to the ankle, so you won’t feel bulky when you move. The waist has a drawcord that will help you adjust the waistline to your convenience, and the ribbed cuffs will provide a snug fit.
Pros
- Loose and a breathable fit
- Refined silhouette from hips to ankle
- Adjustable waistline
- Machine washable
Cons
- It may not be suitable for yoga or Pilates workouts
6. Best Durable:Jockey Women’s Leggings
Jockey is known for its amazing activewear selection, and its lightweight leggings are popular for a reason! The fabric is made from a durable and stretchy cotton and spandex blend that offers support, full coverage, and is long lasting. It is also breathable and perfect for hot/humid weather. The pull-on closure makes it easy to wear, and the stretchy material provides an amazing fit. The cotton and spandex blend ensures that you stay cool as a cucumber during any intense training sessions while providing maximum coverage. The leggings also have a wide waistband that provides generous support to your midsection.
Pros
- Built-in gusset
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Machine washable
- Durable
Cons
- May not prevent thigh chafing
7. Best For Kids:City Threads Capri Crop Summer Leggings
These cropped half-length leggings are a great choice for teens and young adults. They are 100% organic cotton and can be worn on their own or under skirts and dresses. These leggings are great for spring and summer because of their breathable fabric. They are 6 inches shorter than regular leggings. They offer a comfortable fit that is perfect for daily activities and lounging around the house. You can choose from over five vibrant colors, and select the one that matches your style the most. The leggings have a secure elastic band that is gentle on the skin, making them perfect for kids who suffer from skin issues like eczema because the band won’t irritate them or make the condition worse. They don’t have any tummy compression so your little one can wear them the whole day, without feeling stuffy or uncomfortable. The best thing about these leggings is that they get softer with each wash, and the color gets more vibrant as well.
Pros
- Suitable for lounging or wearing under skirts/dresses
- Made from premium quality cotton
- Machine washable
- Breathable
Cons
- It may not be suitable for high-intensity workouts
8. Best For Yoga And Pilates Workouts:Lululemon Wunder Under Yoga Pants
Image: Lululemon Leggings should not only fit you well, but they have to match your aesthetics too. Simply put, your workout leggings should make you look and feel good. The Lululemon Wunder Under Yoga Pants delivers on that promise! They are made from lycra, which provides premium comfort and longevity. The pants are specially created for yoga enthusiasts because of the stretchy fabric. Also, the waistband lays flat, which means that it doesn’t dig into your skin and irritate it. An added bonus is that the waistband has a hidden storage pocket that you can use to store cards and keys.
Pros
- Suitable for yoga and pilates workouts
- Hidden waistband pocket
- Stretchy and breathable fabric
- The waistband lays flat against the skin
Cons
- The fabric may not be completely opaque
9. Best Compression Leggings:CzSalus Summer time Flat Knit Leggings
This high waist legging is quite the rage among fitness fashion enthusiasts because it is specially made for people who experience lipoedema. The leggings offer compression from the waist to the ankles, that passive massage and encourage the lymphatic drainage process. The leggings also offer plenty of lumbar support, so you won’t suffer from back pain or sore legs once you’re done with the workout. The leggings are specially created to have a light and structured design. This helps alleviate any issues that are triggered due to Lipoedema or Lymphoedema; which usually gets intense when the weather gets warm. These leggings can reduce your size by an inch or 2, which provides a flattering silhouette.
Pros
- Alleviates hardships caused by lipoedema
- Compression helps with lymphatic drainage
- Offers plenty of lumbar support
- Odor control
Cons
- It may not be very stretchable
10. Best For UV Blocking:Coolibar UPF 50+ Women’s Monterey Summer Leggings – Sun Protective
These full-length leggings feature everything you will need in daily leisurewear. The fabric is made from cotton and viscose, and it has a pull-on closure that makes it effortless to put them on. The unique selling point of these leggings is that it has UPF 50+, which means it blocks 98% of UV radiation; so, you can wear them on your daily walks and runs, without having to worry about excessive sun damage. In addition, the leggings are super gentle on the skin and provide the highest quality zinc oxide protection.
Pros
- Machine washable
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Pull-on closure
- Full coverage
Cons
- Some may find the material too thick for high-intensity workouts
11. Best For Sweat Absorbing:adorence Capri Leggings with Pockets
Attend your next yoga class in style with these super comfortable and stylish Capri leggings with pockets. The leggings are made from 75% polyester and 25% spandex, and they have an elastic closure, making them lightweight and soft on the skin. In addition, the spandex fabric is stretchable and moves with the body, so you can do all your asanas with ease. Also, the leggings have a special “Y” streamlined design that streamlines your silhouette and provides a subtle lift to your butt. These leggings are made from premium quality fabric that is designed to keep moisture at bay, thanks to its sweat absorption and drying capabilities. The waistband has elastic that runs through it and helps keep your leggings from rolling down, so you are secured whenever you have to move. Additionally, the pants have two functional side pockets which can easily fit large phones and any other personal item. The leggings also provide great tummy control and compression, which helps with blood circulation too.
Pros
- Compression and opaque material
- “Y” streamlined design
- Elastic closure
- Sweat absorbing
- Sunlight protection
- Functional side pockets
Cons
- Must not be machine washed
12. Best For Low-Intensity Workouts:World of Leggings Plus Size Capris Leggings
These leggings are perfect for any “hot day” workout because they keep you cool and prevent overheating episodes. The material combines 92% polyester and 8% spandex, which results in a superior quality milk silk fabric blend. The luxurious leggings feel buttery soft against the skin and stay in place when you move. They are suitable for yoga, Pilates, and any other low-intensity workout. The elastic waistband helps create a smooth silhouette and doesn’t roll down as you go about your day. The high-waisted leggings are perfect for all body types, and the fabric gets softer with every wash. You don’t have to worry about feeling stuffy or out of breath as they sit comfortably around your stomach.
Pros
- Milk silk blend fabric
- Suitable for low-intensity workouts
- Elastic waistband
- Double cross stitch finish
- Tummy control
Cons
- The material may be see-through
13. Best Lightweight Fabric:Ouyishang Capris Workout Leggings
Made from soft, flexible fabric that is 75% polyester and 25% spandex, these lightweight and breathable leggings are perfect for your daily workout sessions. They are perfect for women who don’t want much compression but just enough to feel comfortable. They also have deep side pockets where you can keep personal belongings like keys and cards when you are working out. In addition, the design is opaque and squat proof, so you can do all your exercises with confidence and safety. If you want to have some fun with your gym attire, then you can always choose from different colors or prints to jazz up your outfit. The leggings are true to size, so they will give you the perfect fit. You can move, bend, sit, or run however much you want, and they will stay in place without slipping down or pinching your skin.
Pros
- Squat-proof and opaque fabric
- Deep side pockets
- Moisture-wicking
- Full cover opaque
- Lightweight fabric
Cons
- The waist may roll down when you move around
Whether it’s a stroll through the park or a class at the hot yoga studio, you need a pair of breathable leggings during the summers. Now that you know the popular ones available online, you need to find a pair that suits your needs. Hence, we have created a buying guide to help you find the perfect leggings for the summer.
How To Choose The Best Leggings For Summer
- Fit
When looking for summer leggings, you have to ensure that they fit snugly around your hips. Opt for high waist leggings as they provide a slimming and flattering silhouette, along with extra support. Don’t go for leggings that bunch around the ankles and knees, as the fit will get worse with longer wear.
- Fabric
All leggings are not the same, and the fabric is what sets them apart. Spandex, also known as elastane, is one of the common materials used to make leggings because it is stretchy and durable; these are two features that are trusted in workout leggings. However, you can also look for natural materials along with spandex like bamboo and cotton, as they absorb sweat and are quite comfortable.
- Functionality
Some leggings are perfect for high-intensity workouts, while others are great for low-intensity workouts, so you must ensure that you choose leggings that suit any type of activity. For example, if you are into running and weightlifting, then choose leggings that absorb sweat and have pockets, along with a secure waistline that doesn’t roll down. When looking for yoga or Pilates leggings, look for ones that are extra stretchy and high-waist. Avoid leggings that have drawstrings or zippers.
If you are using sweating as an excuse to skip exercising during the summer days, your couch-time ends here. With a couple of moisture-wicking leggings in your wardrobe, you can resume your workout routine without feeling icky at the end of the session. These lightweight and breathable leggings will keep you feeling fresh even during the humid summertime. These leggings are perfect for both high-intensity and low-intensity workouts. A good pair of leggings stand at test time and can also be used as gym attire. The leggings on our list offer tummy control and are also machine washable.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Priyam Gupta, is a makeup and fashion enthusiast. She loves to experiment with new styles for various occasions. Workouts during sweaty summers are challenging without the proper clothes. Priyam, therefore, went through hundreds of online reviews to curate the list of the best leggings for summer. The buttery soft material and moisture-wicking qualities of these leggings will keep the users comfortable throughout the sweatiest training sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are leggings good for hot weather?
Yes, look for leggings made from natural materials like bamboo and cotton because they have moisture-wicking fabric technology and prevent your legs from overheating.
Are cotton leggings good for summer?
Yes, cotton is a great fabric to wear during the warm summer months. They also help prevent any nasty sunburns and are super comfortable.
What is the coolest fabric for hot weather?
Some cool and breathable fabrics to wear during hot weather are;
• Cotton
• Linen
• Rayon
When it comes to leggings, we suggest that you look for fabric that combines cotton and spandex.
Should leggings be lighter or darker in the summer?
Wear light-colored leggings during summer as darker colors absorb more heat, making you warmer.
Can you wear leather leggings in the summer?
No, it is best not to wear leather leggings in the summer season because the heavy material may make you sweaty and uncomfortable.
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