When it comes to workout leggings, not all pairs are created equal. A high-quality pair will be soft, stretchy and have a second-skin feel that won’t chafe during a workout. They should be moisture-wicking, too. If they’re not, they’ll trap sweat and lead to odors.

The best leggings are also breathable, which will keep you cooler and drier during your workout. They should also have flat seams that won’t rub against your skin or cause chafing, especially during intense exercises like weightlifting or HIIT.

Lastly, workout leggings should have a comfortable fit. You should be able to bend and move easily in them without any bunching or slipping, even during high-intensity workouts like running or squats. They should also have a high waistline that stays in place during squats and lunges, and they should be comfortable enough to wear all day.

Finding the Perfect Fit: A Guide to Stylish and Functional Workout Leggings for Women

While a high-quality pair of leggings can cost hundreds of dollars, there are plenty of affordable options for under $50. To find our favorites, we rated each pair of workout leggings on a variety of factors including their opacity (we bent down to the knee and looked at the fabric for transparency), moisture-wicking ability (we used them during runs or workouts to see how well they held up to sweat), amount of stretch, and whether or not they were made with eco-friendly and/or organic fabrics. We then gave each pair a squat test, which looked at how well they held up during squats and if the material stretched with you.