A recent survey of staff members at the Strategist revealed their most-loved leggings, highlighting brands from Aerie to Lululemon. The inquiry focused exclusively on styles that editors and writers felt compelled to purchase multiple times. This reflects their genuine appreciation for these products amid the vast options available in the market.
Among the standout selections, Crystal Martin, a senior editor, shared her enthusiasm for Aerie leggings, claiming to own as many as nine pairs. She began her journey into fitness to manage chronic pain, which inadvertently led her to a laundry dilemma. “Things got crazy,” she explained, noting that the brand’s affordable leggings, often priced around $15 during sales, have become a staple in her workout wardrobe. Martin emphasized that these leggings stay in place during workouts and do not bunch at the ankles, making them ideal for gym sessions.
Another popular choice among staffers is the Girlfriend Collective leggings, known for their size inclusivity and sustainable materials made from recycled plastic. Amelia Jerden, a sleep writer, has accumulated six pairs since discovering them in 2021. She describes the compressive style as “a really good version of a basic athletic legging,” praising the fabric’s durability and substantial feel. This sentiment was echoed by Ashley Wolfgang, the newsletter editor, who also favors these leggings for running and spin classes. Both noted their preference for vibrant colors, expressing disappointment when the brand shifted to more neutral tones last year.
The Skims lounge pants have also garnered attention, particularly from senior editor Hilary Reid. After purchasing her first pair six months ago, she quickly returned to buy a second. Reid appreciates the lightweight, cottony fabric, which she finds flattering for both lounging and at-home workouts. She noted that the retro fold-over waist adds a practical touch, allowing for adjustable fit depending on the day.
For Pilates classes, Reid alternates between three pairs of Aritzia’s Butter leggings, available in different inseams and styles. She finds the fabric soft yet sturdy, ideal for workouts. Reid highlighted their affordability as well, stating they are approximately $30 less than typical high-end leggings, while still maintaining comparable quality.
In a similar vein, senior writer Lauren Ro has invested in six versions of Lululemon Align leggings since her original purchase in 2018. She describes them as her “most comfortable home pants,” noting their durability through significant life changes such as pregnancies. Ro prefers these leggings for home workouts due to their flexible fabric, which offers a smoothing effect without excessive compression. She appreciates that the waistband does not roll down and that the back pocket conveniently fits her smartphone.
The findings from this investigation showcase not just a variety of brands but also the personal stories behind the choices. The Strategist aims to provide expert recommendations for a wide array of products, helping consumers navigate the expansive e-commerce landscape. Each item highlighted reflects the individual preferences of staff members who have found value in their purchases, contributing to a collective understanding of what makes a great pair of leggings.
