The seven best leggings for workouts

When it comes to picking the perfect legging, there are a lot of facts to consider: fabric, length and style of waistband all rank high on the list.

Make sure that you're picking a heavy material. Nobody wants the dreaded stretch-and-they're-sheer thing happening on their behind. It's not attractive — and on top of that, it's embarrassing.

So we rounded up seven of our favourite leggings. They'll tuck, they'll shape and they'll stay opaque. No sheer thing happening here. (Promise.)

1. TNA Action Leggings

These leggings are one part performance, one part fashion. Made from a fast-drying fabric, they're perfect for high-impact (read: sweaty) activities, but the flat seams and wide waistband make them fashionable enough for coffee runs and errands.

TNA Action Leggings, $55. Available at Artizia.

2. Lululemon Wunder Under Crop

What originally started out as a yoga brand, Lululemon has become an iconic brand synonymous with comfort and style. These wunder under crops are thick enough to wear in the winter, cute enough to pair with a long sweater and boots, and comfortable enough for a yoga or spin class.

Lululemon Wunder Under Crop, $86. Available at www.lululemon.com.

3. gFast Capris

The latest launch from Gap, Gap Fit is a fantastic line of active wear. The fabric is thick, wicking and fast-drying. These gFast crops have a matte finish and a hidden back pocket to safely store your keys or cards while you're on a run or in a class.

gFast capris, $45. Available at www.gapcanada.ca.

4. The North Face VPR Legging

The North Face is known for high-performance gear and these leggings definitely do not disappoint. Made from super stretchy Nylon Supplex fabric, they'll move with you. The ruched bottoms and flat seams give them a casually cool look.

The North Face Women's Tadasana VPR Leggings, $70. Available at www.thenorthface.com.

5. Stella McCartney Three-Quarter Tights

These are definitely not your average leggings. Designed to wick away sweat as you run, Stella McCartney's three-quarter tights forego basic black and are adorned with her signature snakeskin print. Paired with a basic blank tank or T-shirt, this is a pant that makes a serious statement.

Stella McCartney Three-Quarter Tights, $100. Available at www.shopadidas.ca.

6. Spanx Shaping Compression Knee Pant

Talk about a double-duty item. Spanx came out with a line of active wear that offers the same tummy-tucking magic as their hosiery but in performance fabrics. These compression pants will hold you in and smooth you out. Stand proud in those leggings, supermodel.

Spanx Active Knee Compression Pant, US $78. Available at www.spanx.com.

7. Icebreaker 150 Legging

Made from Icebreaker Merino, these leggings are the ultimate item to have in your closet. Cool in the summer and warm in the winter, the fabric is renewable, biodegradable and odor-free (perfect for high-impact activities).

Icebreaker Ladies' 150 Leggings, $75. Available at www.sportinglife.ca.

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