If there’s one piece of clothing we ladies need and love, it’s a nice pair of leggings. Whether you’ll be hitting the gym, finding your zen at the yoga studio, tackling your next trail, or simply walking to/back from work/school/grocery runs, the active-wear staple is a must-have in our wardrobes.
As a staunch believer of fitness and wellness, I’ve got a whole section of my wardrobe dedicated to leggings. My 8-year-old budding gymnast can’t get enough of them. We don these flexible gems for yoga, gym, park strolls, or just lazing around at the house.
Aside from being pocket-friendly, ultra-comfy, and super cute, we love that leggings marry stylishly and functionally well with pretty much any kind of shoes, from trainers to trusty boots. You can wear them as a statement piece, versatile fashion accessory, or a winter warmer.
Even better, leggings come in a whole bunch of sizes, shapes, and styles. Talking of styles, there’s one surprisingly hot trend that’s continued to dominate the world of leggings: camo. Since Madonna raised eyebrows at the 2017 Met Gala in a full Moschino camo gown, this military-inspired print has found its way into the athleisure department, and camo leggings are right up there.
Well, it’s 2021 and camo leggings are now dime a dozen on the market, available from a laundry list of athleisure brands in a dizzying range of designs, patterns, and sizes to match every price point. While you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice, picking the right pair for your active lifestyle and fashion needs can be a little tricky.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy shopping guide to help you pick the perfect pair of camo leggings. If you’d rather hit the buy button straight away (don’t we all!), be sure to check out our top 9 picks below. We absolutely love them, and each choice is backed by raving user reviews.
1- Sanctuary Clothing Forest Camo Runway Legging
Sanctuary Clothing Forest Camo Runway Legging
Sanctuaryclothing.com
This drop-dead gorgeous pair of camo leggings from Sanctuary Clothing is our #1 pick. And we’re not alone on this: one reviewer Colorist says, “I’ll get into these if it’s the last thing I do!” 5/24/2021.
The look of these pull-on leggings gets an A++ from us because of the calming yet statement-making forest camo print. We love that they feel comfy, stretchy, and airy, partly thanks to the unique fabric blend of spandex, rayon, and polyester.
As gym frequenters, we like that they stayed snugly in place with a second-skin feel throughout our intense workouts. They also passed our squatting, durability, and sweat tests with flying colors.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Incredibly breathable & sweat-wicking fabric
- Machine washable
- Stays up and fits snugly without digging into the skin
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Sizing can be slightly on the smaller side – Not a biggie, though; simply order one size up
2- Colorfulkoala Women’s High Waisted Patterned Leggings
Amazon
Colorfulkoala Women's High Waisted Pattern Leggings Full-Length Yoga Pants (M, Deep Grey Camo)
Amazon.com
Features
- Designed to complement curves and flatter your figure
- Fabricated to be soft with compression that feels like a gentle hug
- Detailed with unique pattern
- Hidden waistband pocket
- Approx. 28" inseam
It’s no big secret that camo leggings can be pretty pricey (I’ve coughed up well over $150 for a high-end pair), but this style from Colorfulkoala comes at a fraction of that price. This Amazon bestseller is our no-brainer second-best pick for its silky soft, comfy and flattering style; perfect for lounging, yoga, and hitting the gym.
They boast over 23,800 five-star ratings from Amazon reviewers who rave about their surprisingly top-notch quality for the cost. Amazon reviewer Birdie Kount says, “They’re so festive and fun and cute, and they fit absolutely perfectly.” 6/24/2021.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Buttery soft fabric
- Hugging fit
- Available in other cool patterns, such as animal and floral prints
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Slight durability issues reported by some users
3- ZOOSIXX High Waisted Leggings for Women
Amazon
ZOOSIXX High Waisted Leggings for Women - Tummy Control Stretchy Soft Printed Pants for Workout Yoga Running
$9.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- HIGH WAIST: Athletic leggings with an stretchy and comfy high waistband, offers a perfect fit, and keeps its shape over time. The high-rise waist hits just below your bust for nursing coverage and 360°of comfortable tummy control. Gentle compression and hugs your abdomen create a slimming visual.
- BUTTERY SOFT: The lightweight, butter smooth fabric has a barely-there feel, ultra soft, non see through, 4 way stretch, offers a perfect fit, and keeps its shape over time. The ankle leggings is versatile and comfortable with a refined casual style for super elastic.
- MULTI-OCCASIONS:ZOOSIXX women's align leggings versatile enough to wear for pretty much any occasion, like yoga, workout, athletic, training, running, gym and exercise.
- COLORFUL & FULL SIZE: Covers various patterns, such as: solid black, galaxy, green camo, leopard, block, red plaid, skeleton and tie dye colors for optional. This stretchy athletic pants come in a wide range of sizes, fit all sizes. Small - Medium = One Size US 2-14", "Large - X-Large = Plus Size US 14-20" or "XX-Large = Extra Size US 22-28’’.
- SERVICE &WARRANTY: 24 Hours responsive, friendly customer service available. Any questions, feel free to contact us first. Let‘s make it right! Your satisfaction is our topmost priority. Our 7/8 length leggings are also an ideal gift choice for your friends and family.
The ZOOSIXX high-rise camo leggings are a gorgeous design that’s comparable to Colorfulkoala’s in terms of the comfy & snug fit but comes a little short of the quality. We love that they feel fantastic both to wear and on the skin, but the icing on the cake is the surprisingly low price tag.
Amazon reviewer Penélope Vargas says the pair “gives a very pretty figure,” 6/24/2021. And we agree with her: they hug the body contours so beautifully.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Great give and stretch recovery
- Super low price for the quality
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Size larger than expected
4- Leggings Depot Activeflex Slim-Fit Jogger Black Camouflage
Amazon
Leggings Depot JYL19-BLACK-S ActiveFlex Slim-fit Joggers with Pockets, Small
$16.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- PREMIUM QUALITY FABRICS: Our performance ActiveFlex joggers are made from premium quality fabrics that will stretch in all directions and keep you dry with our moisture wicking fabric. Designed for everyday wear, our special blend of polyester and spandex will keep you comfortable all the time. Feels cool and sleek on the inside, soft and brushed on the outside.
- POCKETS AND STITCHING: The ActiveFlex joggers have pockets on both sides to hold your phone & hidden waistband pocket to stash your keys or cards. No need to take bulky bags to the gym. Our joggers are made using interlock stitching to reduce chafing and provide exceptional comfort.
- COMFORTABLE HIGH WAISTBAND: ActiveFlex jogger's waistbands are made with just enough compression to keep your pants in place without causing discomfort to your midsection. They are perfect for the gym, yoga, pilates, running, quick jog or just relaxing at home.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Our ActiveFlex joggers are made with high quality fabrics that are easy to care for. Just put them in the wash with like colors and tumble dry on low.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: If you are not 100% satisfied with your order, you have a 30 day, no questions asked return policy. If you have any other questions or concerns, do not hesitate to message us and we will help in any way we can.
Next up in 4th place is the Leggings Depot Activeflex jogger. Just like our top three picks, these leggings offer a comfortable fit, extra-soft feel, and great stretch. However, they’ve got tapered legs, which may not be everyone’s favorite element. Good thing, we liked the roomy pockets that can fit a whole smartphone, not to forget the cuffed hems.
These redesigned leggings have racked up more than 50,000 5-star reviews because of the slim-fit design and “nice suede feel.” They come in dozens of camo colors and other pattern options.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Slim fit
- Suede-like feel
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Users recommend ordering one size up for a better fit
5- Stretch is Comfort Women’s Knee-Length Leggings
Amazon
Stretch is Comfort Women's Knee-Length Leggings Black X-Small
Free shipping
Features
- SO MANY PLACES TO WEAR- Layered underneath clothes or on their own, our casual and comfy leggings have you covered at home or running around town.
- STYLISH AND FUNCTIONAL- Designed with women in mind. Made from soft, breathable cotton and our comfortable elastic waistband stays up all day. Available in extended sizes to fit every-body.
- KEY FEATURES- Our Best Selling 95% Cotton/ 5% Spandex 4-way stretch knit is durable enough for everyday wear, and perfect as loungewear. Machine washable for easy care.
- WHY CUSTOMERS LOVE US- Stretch Is Comfort was founded by a stay-at-home mother who understands the importance of affordable, great quality, and comfortable clothing for both herself and her family.
- EXCHANGE/RETURN POLICY- We're confident you'll love our clothing. If for any reason, you're not absolutely thrilled, you can exchange or return your item for a refund. We are known for our great-quality materials and our outstanding customer service. We won't rest until you are fully satisfied with your purchase!
We give these knee-length leggings from Stretch is Comfort a perfect score for opacity. We couldn’t see zilch through them even in the brightest light and deep squats. Hands down the best pair of camo leggings in the less favorable knee-length category.
Unlike the previous picks, these don’t offer women’s sizes below XS, but there’s good reason for plus-size girls to rejoice. Amazon reviewer Kathi R says they’re “very comfortable” while others add that they’re “very soft” and “lightweight.”
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Cropped fit for warmer weather
- Combined lift, flatter, and shape
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Fabric on the thin side
6- SYRINX High Waisted Leggings for Women
Amazon
High Waisted Leggings for Women - Soft Athletic Tummy Control Pants for Running Cycling Yoga Workout - Reg & Plus Size
$24.98 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- ★MULTIPLE COLORS: Our leggings have more than 20 available colors. These colors are very fashionable and beautiful and great for pairing with a variety of clothes and shoes so that you have yourself unique style of dress in each season and they are perfect for adding to your wardrobes.
- ★HIGH WAIST: Our leggings made from a polyester-blend fabric with a touch of spandex for easy, comfy wear. Cut in a high-rise silhouette with a slim fit and finished with a full elastic wide waistband, tummy control wide waistband contours your curves and streamlines your shape.
- ★SOFT FABRIC: You will love our leggings once you put them on and experience a combination of softness and stretchiness. They are made from 92% polyester and 8% Spandex to give you freedom of movement no matter what you’re doing. These super soft leggings will gently caress your lower half like a second skin. "Small/Medium = One Size US 2-12", "Large/X-Large = Plus Size US 12-24" or "XX-Large = Extra Size US 24-32 ", which are designed to figure flattering and supportive for all sizes.
- ★PERFECT FOR ANY SEASON, SETTING, OR OCCASION: Syrinx everyday leggings will pair well with a variety of looks, from day to night. Pair with anything from dresses and skirts to tunic tops and tees to create a look that shows off your sense of fashion. Use them as base layer leggings when layering up with boots and scarves during the fall and winter, or simply pair them with a tank top to stay cool.
- ★WASHING CARE: Machine Wash; Turn your gear inside out when washing; wash like colors and separately. Air dry or tumble dry low.
These SYRINX women’s camo leggings are high-waisted, just like ZOOSIXX’s at #3, but they’re a bit pricey despite coming in a pack of three — blue navy and black leggings are included. Still, as someone who appreciates tummy-scaping, I love that these leggings feature a wide waistband, so they won’t fall, slip, or roll during intense workouts.
These leggings are a huge hit with the plus-size crowd because of their tummy control, comfort, and softness. As Amazon reviewer Jennah puts it, “these leggings … are worth every penny.” 24/6/2021.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Great for plus-size women
- Amazing quality
- Also sold in a value pack of 7
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Fairly thin; not ideal as winter warmers
7- Camo Sport – Women’s Stretchy High Waisted Yoga Leggings
Amazon
Camo Sport - Women's Stretchy High Waisted Yoga Leggings Pants 7/8 Length with Pockets Tummy Control (Grey Camo, XS)
Features
- Improve your Workouts: The Camo Sport high waisted leggings are a must-have in your wardrobe! Lightweight, ultra-stretchy, and stylish, this pair of army yoga pants allows you to work out as hard as you want without worrying about comfort.
- Fitted Cut: The athletic compression leggings women have a fitted design with an ultra-high waist that keeps your tummy tucked and under control, without exposing anything. These women's leggings stretch with every move, so you feel comfortable and secure.
- Practical Design: The Camo Sport women high waist yoga leggings feature side pockets where you can keep your phone, keys, or other small accessories during your workout. This allows you to feel more secure and safe, so your training sessions are more fun than ever before.
- Stylish Model: Our 7/8 leggings for women feature a fierce military print that makes you feel more powerful and ready for an intense workout! The 7/8 length is super comfy and chic, exposing your ankles for an elongating effect that makes your figure appear slimmer.
- Choose your Size: The women's high waisted yoga pants 7/8 length leggings with pockets collection features 5 sizes suitable for all women: XS, S, M, L, and XL. They are great for your gym workouts and make for an awesome present for active women.
Though not well-known as the other top picks, Camo Sport’s camo leggings tick a lot of the right boxes. They’re machine washable, extremely stylish, super-stretchy, and offer excellent tummy control. However, they’re the most expensive of the bunch.
Most users, as we do, appreciate the quality construction, as well as the excellent fit and bright design. Most glowing reviews cite the strong, stretchy fabric blend, allowing us to focus on tough workouts without sacrificing comfort.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Excellent fit
- Grey camo goes with many outfits
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Occasionally, users run into sizing inconsistencies
8- Spalding Women’s Essential Capri Legging
Amazon
Spalding Women's Essential Capri Legging, Black, Small
Free shipping
Features
- 92% Cotton, 8% Spandex , Machine Washable
- Wide comfort waistband for support and fit
- 4-way stretch for comfort and full flexibility
- Super comfortable and stretchable cotton blend fabric that is soft to the touch and never slides down
- 18 Inch inseam
So far, we’ve not reviewed any product that focuses on the warmth aspect of leggings, and this is where this pair of Capri leggings from Spalding stands out. That’s all thanks to its 92% cotton content, but we can’t complain about the stretch because 4-way spandex is woven into the design. Yes, they’re plush, ultra-soft, and stay cozy during cold weather
But they don’t wick away sweat, so a no-go when it comes to working out. Even so, most users rave about its second-skin feel, with Amazon reviewer Pamela Butterfield claiming that they’re the “best thing next to wearing nothing”. 6/24/2021
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Second-skin feel
- Nicely slimming
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Slightly lacking in the tummy control department
9- THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Leggings for Women
Amazon
THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets, Tummy Control Workout Running Yoga Leggings for Women (X-Small, Black)
$24.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- Please check the Size Chart ( Last Image ) Before Ordering. Please Note: Color May Vary Slightly From Image. and don't worry about size problems, you can through the Online Returns Center exchange it if the yoga pant size doesn't fit
- Comfortable High Waist: Wide Waist Elastic Waistband to Cover Navel Which provides Tummy Control and Would not Fall. Suitable for Capri, Workout, Fitness.
- Ultra-Stretch Fit ( Enough thickness with breathability: No See-through) Featuring the super soft and skin-friendly material, the Workout Leggings are moisture-wicking with a four-way stretch material that promotes both compression and support. In addition, a gusset crotch to maximize free movement and interlock seams to minimize rubbing and chafing make these leggings for women the perfect Yoga Pant for workout
- For Daily Wear:Nylon fabrics have a more natural feeling than polyester ones which makes it perfect for everyday wear.This Yoga Leggings can also act as comfortable shapewear that keeps you hugged in and looking slim
- Side Pockets & Inner Pocket: No more worry about your essentials such as phone, wallet, sweat towel when doing every workout thanks to two big pockets on both sides. A hidden inner pocket in the back waistband is designed to conveniently stash your keys, credit cards or other small items.
As you may have already inferred, we love high-waist leggings, and they score high marks from fans of camo leggings, too. The extra-wide elastic waistband provides an anti-slip advantage and excellent tummy control – both areas where The Gym People leggings score A+. The only reason they’re not on top of the list is that they tend to pill.
For some reason, they didn’t meet our expectations when it comes to moisture control. Perhaps it’s because of the high polyester content. We recommend them for low-intensity activities like yoga, though. In fact, Amazon reviewer Karen Sherman couldn’t mince her words, saying they’re the “Best. Yoga. Pants. Ever!!!” 6/24/2021.
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Thick, comfortable fabric
- Roomy, secure pockets
WHAT COULD IMPROVE
- Susceptible to pilling after multiple wears
How We Chose Them
This list is the creative labor of many people here at Cool Things Chicago, plus input from multiple activewear and fashion experts. We understand that not all camo leggings are made the same.
To narrow down our choice, we reviewed dozens of camo leggings from many different brands, making sure to evaluate them for a variety of key factors that include but not limited to:
– The fabric
All leggings, especially workout pieces, must be able to stand up to heavy, intense, and frequent use. The last thing we need is a pair of leggings that will give way in the heat of an intense workout, resulting in awkward oops moments.
That’s why the first thing we considered is the blend of materials used to weave the leggings. Thankfully, most of them are made from unique fabric blends that include microfiber, polyester, spandex, rayon, nylon, and even cotton.
Cotton is always a crowd-pleaser, as it’s plush, extremely absorbent, and feels extra soft to the touch. However, cotton fabrics stretch out and lose their shape quickly. For this reason, we prefer low-cotton leggings featuring some spandex to conceal sweat stains and retain their shape.
Most brands actually use a blend of spandex and synthetic fibers — most prominently polyester, rayon, nylon, and acrylic — and with good reason. These synthetic fabrics are breathable, boast decent stretch, and retain dyes for long, which is what we want in a fade-proof camo fashion piece.
Spandex is the holy grail ingredient here, as it offers incredible stretch and awesome breathability. This breathe-easy material is also quick-drying and figure-hugging for a snug, comfortable fit.
For fashion-forward camo leggings, we wanted something that sports microfiber, a stretchy, comfortable, and extra-soft material. Leggings weaved from this delightfully plush fabric aren’t very breathable, making them ideal for wearing as winter warmers.
– Stretch recovery
We know the sting of forking out top dollar for a pair of leggings that’ll lose stretch after a few wears. Accordingly, we used our reliable stretch recovery tester to evaluate each item’s recovery, growth, and stretch properties. Of course, we also reviewed their spandex composition.
– The construction
We started with the seams, running the fingers across the seam line on the inside. The goal’s to make sure the seams are fairly flat and not raised. This is crucial for comfort and helps minimize friction and irritation caused by movement and sweat/moisture build-up.
The gusset is another important construction feature we examined. It’s an additional diamond-shaped or triangular piece of fabric weaved into the crotch area. If you hate when leggings ride up and become uncomfortable, this is one aspect you’d want to pay close attention to.
As avid fitness lovers, we also appreciate the presence of mesh panels in the legging design. Nestled on the sides of the calves or thighs, these panels boost breathability and the look of the leggings by giving them a sporty edge.
Other trendy design elements to look for in women’s camo leggings include functional pockets and zippers for that faux denim appeal.
– Sweat/moisture-wicking ability
It pays to take the manufacturer’s word with a grain of salt when it comes to the moisture-wicking capacity of the leggings. Luckily, we know a little trick — we put a small drop of water on the legging’s inside. It shouldn’t bead up, instead, the water drop should spread out wide and get absorbed fast.
And, wouldn’t you know it; a small number of the leggings we reviewed failed to pass our simple sweat test. Thankfully, all of our final picks did.
– Opacity of the leggings
We’ve all been there. Excited to receive a gorgeous pair of leggings only to find out that they are absurdly near-transparent upon wearing them. That’s where the squat test came into play.
To check each pair for opacity, we tried them in bright light. If you’d like to do this at home, for best results, make sure to bend over or squat with your knees deep in front of the mirror. Pay particular attention to the seat of the leggings.
We made sure that only the ones that we couldn’t see the skin through the legging’s fabric made the cut. We did this after three to four uses as the fabric can fade or thin out with every use. Leggings with a lot of sheer are usually not well-constructed and not worth your money.
– Washability
Not all activewear clothes are machine washable. That’s why we picked camo leggings that you can toss in the washing machine. Note, however, that the vast majority call for cold machine-washing to avoid damage to the stretchy spandex material.
– Fleece-lining
Although not all camo leggings are fleece-lined, it’s something I’d like to see in my favorite pair. We love that fleece-lined leggings can either be fashion or athletic wear. In workout leggings, the fleece lining provides extra warmth retention for running, walking, jogging, and whatnot in cold weather.
As a fashion piece, we love that you don’t have to layer it under other clothes. The pair is bulky, thick, and cozy enough to be worn on its own, or over an oversized sweater.
Women’s leggings don’t follow the same sizing as women’s pants and jeans. To find your correct size, consult the manufacturer’s size chart. You’ll often need to know your height, weight, inseam, and waist or hip measurements.
– Size and length
In terms of sizing, we recommend camo leggings that are available in standard sizes (i.e., XS through XL). We also included camo leggings that offer options for women on the extreme ends of the sizing spectrum, including women’s sizes XXS, extended sizes, and plus sizes 3XL and 4XL.
When it comes to length, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We love a nice mix of classic ankle-length cuts and full-length styles. However, there’s cropped cuts for those with shorter legs, as well as the Capri, skimmer, mid-calf, and other cuts predominantly targeted at the athletic wear market.
– Waistband
This is one feature we often overlook yet it’s incredibly important when choosing a pair of leggings. While regular waistbands have a thin 1-2-inch elastic band, they typically won’t withstand high levels of physical activity. With a low, medium, or high rise, these regular waistbands are ideal for fashion camo leggings.
Activewear leggings, however, call for wide waistbands, measuring 3 to 4 inches. We think you’ll find them comfortable when working out thanks to a material panel that serves as a tummy control and hugs the torso. Talk about extra comfort and snug fit!
In addition to opacity, moisture management, stretch recovery, size, construction, and fabric, we also evaluated them for colorfastness, pilling resistance, and much more.
Tips for Caring for, Styling, and Wearing Camo Leggings
We’re big fans of everything camo fashion, and leggings are pretty much our favorite variation. They’re compact, lightweight, and look good as part of most outfits, so they’re ready-made for travel. We often turn to leggings when hit by wardrobe panics like short skirts and lengthy tops.
Keep the following tips in mind to care for, style, and wear your camo leggings properly:
- Tone it down with classic looks: Camo leggings can add a lot of pizzazz and elegant drama to your outfit. We recommend pairing them with an adorable pair of heels, boots, or flats. Even if your outfit is plain, you can jazz it up with this military-inspired print.
- Wash separately the first time: Don’t you hate it when dyes in your new gym outfits and leggings bleed on other clothes, especially whites. If your pair of camo leggings are dyed, make sure to wash it individually the first time you do so.
- Try on before working out: Wear your leggings around your home before you wear them for your run, jog, or gym. I find that this gives me plenty of opportunities to get a feel for their comfort level, opacity, and fit.
- Match the top color: Camouflage leggings go well with practically any outfit. However, match the color of the top to your print. For example, if your camo legging is in green, wear a green top, preferably a shade lighter or darker. Spruce your outfit up with bolder colors with other accessories.
- Socks first wearing rule: When wearing your camo leggings, be sure to put on the socks first. This is a small secret to making sure your socks won’t fall down inside your footwear.
- Gentle washing is imperative: Since they’re made from stretchy fabrics, camo leggings require cool water washing. Use bleach-free, gentle detergent, making sure to avoid dryer and fabric softeners. For dying, hang or line drying will do the trick.
As a general rule of thumb, we normally snag at least 2-3 pairs when we find a great, go-to pair of camo leggings. This way, you don’t have to constantly wash the same pair, so it lasts longer.
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