Yes, compression leggings are different – experts share their go-to picks, plus advice on who should wear them

When searching for the perfect leggings, I, like most shoppers, am very particular. Since I’m 5 foot, 9 inches, I tend to look for leggings with a longer inseam so there’s less space between my ankle and the bottom of the leggings. But when I’m working out, I like a legging that has a bit more structure to it, so I know it won’t be see-through at the gym and won’t ride down as I’m moving around. 

Most leggings are listed on websites by their length and fabric makeup, but once you throw in compression options, shopping becomes a whole different ball game. Should I be shopping for compression leggings for workout classes specifically? Or are they the perfect companion to an eight-hour flight abroad? Do compression leggings even do anything at all? 

To get the answers to all your compression-legging questions, we tapped a mix of stylists and fashion experts to break down exactly what compression leggings are, how to shop for them and a few recommendations that they’re constantly making to their high-paying clients. We also turned to medical resources for more information about who can benefit from compression.

Here are the best compression leggings you can shop now, according to stylists and editors who have put these products to the test.

What are compression leggings? | Who should wear compression leggings? | What to look for in compression leggings | Editor-tested compression leggings | Expert-recommended compression leggings | How we chose | Meet the experts

According to Peter Martinez, stylist and designer at Leather Skin, “compression leggings work by using graduated compression, with the highest compression at the ankles and lower legs, and less compression further up the thighs.”

He says this helps increase blood flow which can then help relieve muscle aches — but there’s more to it than that.

Before you swap your workout leggings to compression pairs, let’s discuss compression therapy (bear with me).

Compression therapy — which can be accomplished with stockings, bandages, wraps and inflatable devices, per Cleveland Clinic — can help increase blood flow from your legs toward your heart. As a result, less liquid/blood pooling should occur in your lower limbs, which can help reduce swelling.

According to Cleveland Clinic, some patients who could benefit from compression therapy include those with poor blood circulation (for example, those with varicose veins and those at risk of blot clots in the legs, such as pregnant woman or those who are immobile).

However, you should consult your doctor if you think you’re a candidate for medically directed compression therapy.

When it comes to compression leggings (which, again, offer ample compression in the legs), there’s research supporting the fact that athletes can benefit from the extra support.

With that being said, if you’re a candidate for compression leggings (aka someone who can benefit from the increased blood flow while moving), we have expert-approved shopping tips for you to peruse.

When shopping for a compression legging, fashion designer, expert and author, Kadeem Alphanso Fyffe, says there are a few key things to look for.

• Fabric quality: Fyffe suggests looking for a blend that includes a high percentage of spandex or elastane for stretch and compression, “combined with a moisture-wicking material to keep you dry as you work out, or run errands.”
• Compression level: This will be found on the product description of the leggings you’re shopping. “The right level of compression can enhance blood circulation and muscle recovery,” says Fyffe. “Opt for medium to high compression depending on your activity level and comfort level.”
• Fit and comfort: Fyffe says the perfect fit will be snug but not too tight, with flexibility around the waistband and seams. High-waisted designs are usually preferred for extra core support.
• Performance: “The leggings should offer excellent support without restricting movement,” says Fyffe. “This is particularly important for activities like running or yoga.”

Impressive compression: Oner Active Effortless Seamless Leggings

Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 51 | Material: 52% polyamide, 37% polyester, 11% elastane

Shop TODAY editor Vivien Moon enjoys wearing these compression leggings from Oner Active. She says, “I’ve been a fan of this brand for years and have virtually stopped wearing other leggings because I want to reach for these every time.”

Moon continues, “I love them so much, I have them in four different colors so that I always have a pair to wear. They cinch me in perfectly to give me a very flattering shape and are on the higher end of the compression scale which is why I have so many — I can’t find anything that comes close to matching these. They are also squat-proof and the color doesn’t fade after years of wearing, washing and repeating.”

Sweatproof: Knix HiTouch™️ High Rise Legging – Piping

Size: XS-4XL | Colors: 1 | Material: 71% polyester, 29% spandex

Annie Shigo, a social media editorial assistant at Shop TODAY, says that “these are [her] first pair of compression and sculpting leggings.” She continues, “I really like how they keep you secure and do not slide down. The compression parts are not too constricting and they are sweatproof.”

Doesn’t roll down: Fanka Body Sculpt Leggings (Reversible Wear)

What we like

• Comfortable
• Great compression

Size: XS-4XL | Colors: 11 | Material: 70% polyamide 30% elastane

“If you want leggings that compress your thighs and booty, this is the one,” says Shop TODAY writer Jannely Espinal. “I wear this whenever I’m going for a run and need everything in place. This pair stays in place, doesn’t roll down and is very stretchy. I also love the linear designs around the back, which emphasizes your curves.”

It has (hidden) pockets! Oysho Compressive Running High-Rise Leggings

What we like

• Fabric is slimming
• Inside pocket

Size: XS-XL | Colors: 2 | Material: 62% polyamide, 38% elastane

Oysho is a sister brand to retail giant Zara, and fashion expert and stylist Juanita Carmet is a fan of these compression leggings from the brand.

Carmet loves that they have a shapewear-inspired waistband for tummy control and are made with a breathable fabric, which is perfect for working out. “Also, its hidden pocket and reflective design details on the legs are a plus,” she says.

Suitable for squats: Wolaco Fulton Legging

Something to note

• Waistband may be a bit high

Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Material: 79% polyester 21% spandex

Fyffe praises these leggings as his favorites for both high-intensity workouts and all-day wear. “These feature a luxurious technical fabric with a uniquely durable construction, moderate compression for both performance and 100% squat-proof fabric,” he says.

The separate constructed waistband gives you a secure feeling in the core, and since they sit just below the belly button, you won’t have to worry about adjusting them as you squat.

Size-inclusive option: Girlfriend Collective Black Luxe Legging

What we like

• Great for yoga
• Comfortable

Size: XXS-6XL | Colors: 4 | Material: 77% recycled plastic bottles (RPET) and 23% spandex

These luxe leggings from Girlfriend Collective not only come in multiple lengths and color options, but they’re also made from recycled plastic bottles. Stylist and co-founder of Armour 781, Ashley Full, loves this compression pair from the line. 

“It’s a compression legging that’s super soft and stretchy,” says Full. “These help with muscle recovery since they are compression leggings and if you’re a walker it helps absorb the shock of tough surfaces like concrete or pavement.”

Ideal for running: Lululemon SenseKnit Running High-Rise Tight

Size: 0-14 | Colors: 2 | Material: 76% Nylon, 24% elastane

Martinez votes for these Lululemon stunners due to their versatility. They’re perfect performance leggings for running, but can also easily be styled to wear for daily activities. “The breathable fabric with strategically placed ventilation helps regulate temperature, so the legging really holds you in without feeling restrictive,” he adds.

The curated list of compression leggings above were chosen by a mix of editor review and expert input. Shop TODAY spoke with stylists and designers to help determine what makes compression leggings different from traditional leggings, and why they’d be helpful for your next workout.

• Peter Martinez is a stylist and designer at Leather Skin.
• Kadeem Alphanso Fyffe is a fashion designer and expert and author of “Threading the Needle: A Fashion Designer’s Guide to Successfully Launching Your First Collection.”
• Juanita Carmet is a fashion expert and stylist who consults for Dona Jo. 
• Ashley Full is a stylist and co-founder at Amour781.