We love the commitment that comes with assembling a never-leaving-the-couch outfit — from trendy, coordinated sweatsuits to charming hair scrunchies paired with polished tops. But, while those fashion-forward efforts are worthy of applause, let’s be real: leggings are the true MVP, even when venturing out. That’s why we’re always on the lookout for the absolute best pairs to shimmy our legs into. Enter: the soft legging.
It’s all about the fabric here, though function should never fall by the wayside. Some leggings come with fun mesh panels, others with handy pockets. There’s the Saturday night faux-leather pair, the super-smooth compressive style for workouts, and the barely-there, airy option that feels like a second skin. But, if they’re not that “snuggle-next-to-these-legs” kind of soft? Well, we’re just not interested. So sit back, relax, and slip into one of the butter-soft bottoms ahead.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
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These Halo Vintage leggings give us all the cozy feels — perfect for a piping cup of coffee and a good book on a chilly morning. Made with a R29-loved silky soft DreamKnit fabric, we can’t wait to style them with a vintage rugby shirt or cable-knit sweater for the preppy vibes.
Shop Vuori
Vuori Halo Vintage Legging, $, available at Vuori
Lululemon’s Align collection is pure bliss. Available in several lengths and styles, like this high-rise version, the line is made with four-way stretch and extra lycra for a feel that’s as close to nothing as you can get.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 25″, $, available at Lululemon
Breathable and sweat-wicking, these leggings are the real deal for working up a sweat — or lounging — in style. Oh, and the color options? *Chef’s kiss*
Shop FP Movement
FP Movement Never Better 7/8 Length Leggings, $, available at Free People
True to its name, these leggings are indeed very soft and smooth. Crafted from SPANXsmooth fabric, they’ll gently hug your body in a way that’s almost too buttery-soft to function. The high waist, center-seam-free, and no-dig waist design features are all for one top priority: your comfort.
Shop Spanx
SPANX SPANXsmooth Soft and Smooth Active 7/8 Leggings, $, available at SPANX
From the empress of loungewear herself, Kim Kardashian, these Skims leggings feature the brand’s signature cotton rib fabric, hugging the body while letting the skin breathe in the softest ribbed jersey blend.
Shop Skims
Skims Cotton Rib Legging, $, available at Skims
Designed for both lounging and getting active, these leggings are made from super-soft recycled material that’s stretchy yet supportive enough for any workout.
Girlfriend Collective FLOAT Ultralight Legging, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Nordstrom’s activewear brand Zella gets it when it comes to workout gear, and this high-waisted, cropped flare pair is no exception. Designed for softness and function, they’re ready for whatever the day has in store.
Shop Nordstrom
Zella Studio Luxe High Waist Flare Ankle Pants, $, available at Nordstrom
Your next yoga (or couch-lounging) sesh awaits in Athleta’s uber-soft Elation legging. Made from the brand’s much-loved Powervita fabric, this new release from the Fine Lines collection comes with coordinating top options for a put-together look, whether you’re perfecting yoga poses or checking shows off of your watch list.
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Athleta Elation Ultra High Rise Piping Legging, $, available at Athleta
Celebrated for its comfort and inclusive sizing (00 to 40), Universal Standard’s stirrup leggings go from home to office without missing a beat (or looking out of place).
Shop Universal Standard
Universal Standard Next-to-Naked Stirrup Legging, $, available at Universal Standard
Crafted from a super-soft performance knit, these leggings promise lasting comfort — no matter what you’re doing (or not doing). And with two (!!) pockets, they’ve got storage handled.
Shop Under Armour
Under Armour Meridian Rib Ankle Leggings, $, available at Under Armour
These bootcut leggings are easy to love for their breathable and weightless fabric. Even better, they’re eco-conscious, made from organic cotton, and fair trade-certified — a feel-good choice in every way.
Shop Pact
PACT On The Go-To Cropped Bootcut Legging, $, available at PACT
Feel confident and comfortable in these cool-girl-coded leggings from Rhone. With four-way stretch and anti-odor technology, they are the ideal pick for gym-goers who value texture and functionality as much as aesthetics.
Shop Rhone
Rhone Apparel Revive 7/8 Pocket Legging, $, available at Rhone Apparel
The four-way stretch Supplex fabric isn’t the only thing we love about these softies — the sporty stripes bring a fun athletic vibe to any activity.
Shop Splits59
Splits59 Raquel High Waist Supplex Flare 30″ Legging, $, available at Revolve
Elevate your leggings game with this R29-editor-loved pair from Nylora. Hailed as “so super soft that they feel weightless,” it’s a versatile black style step above the rest.
Shop Nylora
Nylora Kai Leggings, $, available at Nylora
There’s lounging soft, and then there’s stepping-out-into-the-world soft. This tactile, tailored pair brings comfort with a moody print and a sleek vibe — equally suited for the office or after-work drinks.
Shop Anthropologie
By Anthropologie Tailored Leggings, $, available at Anthropologie
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Everlane’s Perform Legging is basically like a second skin, making it one of our most tried-and-true pairs for workouts. With a truly perfect stretch, they’re on point at the office, gym, or a coffee date.
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Perform 24/7 Legging 25″ Inseam, $, available at Everlane
She’s olive green and most definitely the moment. Look luxe in Varley’s FreeSoft leggings, from a cozy polyester-elastane blend.
Shop Varley
Varley FreeSoft High Waist Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
While this isn’t Year Of Ours’ usual football-inspired designs, the minimalist graphic detailing on these crossover leggings is a win while featuring that signature comfy ribbed fabric we love.
Shop Year of Ours
Year of Ours Ribbed Two Tone Veronica Legging, $, available at Revolve
What’s better than a flare legging? One with a crossover waist! Aerie’s bootcut take on their best-selling supersoft crossover design comes in 11 different colors and three lengths. I can vouch — these are affordable, super-cute, and totally worth it.
Shop Aerie
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare L, $, available at Aerie
With four-way stretch, flat seams, and Alosoft performance fabric, these bold leggings are the definition of velvety-soft perfection.
Shop Alo Yoga
Alo Yoga Alosoft High-Waist Head Start Legging, $, available at Alo Yoga
Reviewers rave about the ultra-soft feel and universally beloved fit of these everyday leggings. With a five-inch waistband and no outside seams, they’re all about comfort — plus, they come in 14 (!) colors.
Shop Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging, $, available at Beyond Yoga
Parade, a Refinery29 reader-favorite for fun, comfy underwear, also makes buttery-soft leggings that are exactly it for kicking back. You’re welcome.
Shop Parade
Parade Comfort Rib Leggings, $, available at Parade
This one goes out to those who like to stay comfy and polished during the colder months. The full-length silhouette offers a superb fit while keeping your leggies and stomach so warm. Plus, they’re just under $20, so you may want to stock up.
Shop Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Leggings, $, available at Uniqlo
While the form-fitting silhouette will give you aerodynamic movement, a sewn-in gusset allows for ultimate ease in movement. Plus, a smooth elastic inside means these fit the bill for a quality soft legging.
Shop Just My Size
Just My Size Plus-Size Stretch Jersey Full Length Legging, $, available at Amazon
With an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars and about 200 reviews, the world of opinionated shoppers seems to be largely in agreement that these are a solid (yet soft!) purchase.
Shop Adidas
Adidas 3-Stripes Leggings, $, available at Adidas
The super-soft performance knit makeup of these leggings promises lasting comfort, no matter what you’re doing (or not doing). Plus, they’ve got mesh calf panels for extra breathability.
Shop Under Armour
Under Armour Links Leggings, $, available at Amazon
This pair skates the line between pants and leggings in the best way. Lauded for its comfort and inclusive size range (00-40), this pair of Ponte leggings/pants can go from home to office without ever looking out of place.
Shop Universal Standard
Universal Standard Minimalist Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants, $, available at Universal Standard
The casualness of athleisure isn’t for everyone — these Runway leggings allow you the comfort of leggings with an office-ready look.
Shop Anthropologie
Sanctuary Runway Leggings, $, available at Anthropologie
Feel like Barbie all the time in these pink leggings from Vuori’s AllTheFeels line. Seriously, I’ve tried running in them, and they’re almost so soft that they slide right off my skin. Talk about silky!
Shop Vuori
Vuori Vuori AllTheFeels Legging, $, available at Vuori
For those who prefer a super-high-rise waist, an extra-long leg, comfy ribbed texture, and stylish lace-up detail, these body-conforming leggings may be the pair for you.
Shop Year of Ours
Year of Ours Ribbed Football Legging, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
The adjustable waistband, back pockets, and banded cuffs make this pair of leggings a loungewear staple.
Shop Target
Wild Fable High-Waisted Ultra Soft Leggings, $, available at Target
These leggings by Summersalt are both functional and comfortable. They’re made from soft, moisture-wicking fabric crafted from recycled plastic water bottles and feature an extra-wide waistband and four-way stretch for unrestricted movement.
Shop Summersalt
Summersalt The Cross-Waist Straight-Leg Leggings, $, available at Summersalt
A pair of trousers that are actually leggings? Yes, please. These leggings in disguise have another secret: ankle zippers that add a little flair.
Shop By Anthropologie
By Anthropologie Legging Trousers, $, available at Anthropologie
Brought to you by the new empress of loungewear, Kim Kardashian, these thermal leggings hug the body while still allowing the skin to breathe through a ribbed stretch cotton fabric.
Shop Skims
Skims Cotton Rib Thermal Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
We’ve said it once before, and we’ll say it again: The stretchy factor on these is unreal — they’re basically like a second skin. Talk about soft leggings.
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Perform Legging®, $, available at Everlane
These leggings are already lovable for their breathable, next-to-skin fabric, but they’re also made from organic cotton and are fair trade-certified.
Shop Pact
PACT Purefit Legging, $, available at PACT
These high-rise, adjustable leggings are just the things to lounge in for some extra-cozy relaxation.
Shop FP Movement
FP Movement Kyoto High-Rise Ankle Legging, $, available at Free People
Thanks to an R29 reader for reminding us of the wonder that is the Align collection. There are several lengths and styles to choose from, including this comfy jogger version. The Align collection is designed with four-way stretch and extra lycra, so it feels almost like you’re wearing nothing at all.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Align™ High-Rise Jogger, $, available at Lululemon
If it’s seamless in construction, it’ll be seamless to wear as well. These bottoms are made from a lightweight but compact double-knit stretch fabric that’s curve- and confidence-boosting.
Shop Good American
Good American Scuba Pull-On Leggings, $, available at Good American
Our shopping director swears by these leggings she found on Amazon. According to her, they are indeed velvety soft, as promised, and run long, so they’re great for taller people.
Shop Felina
Felina Velvety Super Soft Lightweight Legging 2-Pack, $, available at Amazon
Made from what the brand describes as a “buttery soft tri-blend,” these everyday leggings are a slim fit with just the right amount of stretch. But, honestly, they had us at “butter.”
Shop Splendid
Splendid Terry Legging, $, available at Splendid
This jogger/legging hybrid is soft enough to sleep, gym, and lounge in, according to some reviewers.
Shop Honeydew Intimates
Honeydew Intimates Kickin’ It Jogger Pants, $, available at Shopbop
This dreamy pair of investment leggings is made from plush cotton and silk, and it features a thick, no-twist waistband and additional lining.
Shop Lunya
Lunya Cozy Cotton Silk Ribbed Legging, $, available at Lunya
If these bottoms were designed to accompany you around the globe, they can definitely keep you feeling fine set up at the kitchen bar. The stretch-cotton construction and high-and-wide waistband is a winning combo.
Shop HUE
HUE Plus Size Wide Waistband Blackout Cotton Leggings, $, available at HUE
A bold print does not have to come at the expense of comfort. This lightweight mesh option is made from recycled polyester and is completely unlined. Easy on, easy off.
Shop Baum Und Pferdgarten
Baum Und Pferdgarten Leggings, $, available at Yoox
With a company name like Cuddl Duds, it’s hard to imagine the leggings they make would be anything other than the ultimate snuggle fest for your legs. Considering this particular pair is made from a lightweight, lightly brushed, ultra-soft knit, the product lives up to its brand name.
Shop Cuddl Duds
Cuddl Duds Soft Knit Leggings, $, available at Kohl’s
After a few months at home, it’s come to everyone’s attention that jeans simply are “hard pants.” Another realization, jeggings might not be so bad after all.
Shop Lyssé
Lysse High Waist Denim Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
If it’s seamless in construction, it’ll be seamless to wear as well. These bottoms are made from a breathable cotton and lightweight ribbed fabric so you’ll never feel restricted.
Shop Good American
Good American The Icon Legging, $, available at Good American
How could we not trust a five-time Wimbledon champion to make the most versatile leggings we could find? This smooth, sleek pair feels like, as one reviewer puts it, “a second skin.”
Eleven by Venus Williams Advantage 7/8 Legging, $, available at Eleven by Venus Williams
Because these leggings are made from a silky and gentle fine-rib fabric, they work as pjs, lounge pants, even breathable bottoms on a hot summer’s day. It’s a finer rib than most ribbed garments, adding a touch of delicate glamor to this loungewear staple.
Shop Les Girls Les Boys
Les Girls Les Boys Fine Rib Leggings, $, available at Les Girls Les Boys
These high-rise soft jersey leggings still feature a touch of spandex for some added move-with-you comfort. And with 5 out of 5 stars, customers are pleased with the mix.
Shop Hanes
Hanes Originals Stretch Jersey High-Rise Leggin, $, available at Hanes
Soft-knit but solid in construction, these leggings strike the perfect balance between comfort and support for those who want a little extra something holdin’ them in.
Shop Z By Zella
Z By Zella High Waist Daily Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Of course, you can count on the OG brand of the covetable underwear world to make an ultra-stretch, ultra-soft pair of leggings, too.
Shop Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein Modern Stretch Leggings, $, available at Macy’s
According to AE, these leggings are so smooth that there are “no limits to their amazingness.” Extra points for the stretchy-yet-supportive cloud-like fabric and drawstring waist.
Shop Aerie
OFFLINE by Aerie Warmup Drawcord Legging, $, available at Aerie
This flexible, high-waisted iteration of the legging trend features stretch cotton fabric fit for all-season wear.
Shop Lou & Grey
Lou & Grey High Rise Essential Leggings, $, available at LOFT
If it’s seamless in construction, it’ll be seamless to wear as well. These bottoms are made from a breathable cotton and lightweight ribbed fabric so you’ll never feel restricted.
Shop Good American
Good American Seamless Chunky Rib Legging, $, available at Good American
Refinery29 reader-favorite brand Parade is known for its fun yet comfortable underwear, but did you know it also makes buttery-soft leggings?
Shop Parade
Parade Lush Rib Warm Base Legging, $, available at Parade
These stylish leggings from Vuori are made from recycled performance material and have a smooth suede-like feel. One reviewer states that they’re “the most comfortable yoga pants I’ve ever worn. They’re like a hybrid of sweatpants and yoga pants.”
Shop Vuori
Vuori Vibe Elevation Legging, $, available at Vuori
We love these for the high ribbed waistband and ankle cuffs, but the perfect pockets are the extra detail we can’t get enough of.
Shop Zella
Zella Restore Soft Pocket Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
This pair skates the line between pants and leggings in the best way. Lauded for their comfort and inclusive size range of 00-40, this pair of Ponte legging/pants are an investment for at-home wear now and polished office dressing later.
Shop Universal Standard
Universal Standard Moro Pocket Ponte Pants, $, available at Universal Standard
The name says it all! These super comfy leggings have a fold-over waistband and are as cozy as your favorite unrestrictive oversized sweater.
Shop Capezio
Capezio Ribbed Sweater Legging, $, available at Amazon
These luxurious cashmere leggings from TKEES are constructed with a little extra wiggle room and a stylish slight drop crotch.
Shop TKEES
TKEES The Ribbed Legging, $, available at Tkees
These light-weight Champion leggings are brushed for extra softness and offer plenty of stretch.
Shop Champion
Champion Soft Touch Eco High-Rise Tights, $, available at Champion
This legging jogger hybrid features moto ribbed detailing and zippered front pockets. Hot tip: reviewers say the length of these pants is perfect for tall girls.
Shop Alo
Alo Urban Moto Sweatpants, $, available at Zappos
This one goes out to anyone that likes to get be comfy and put-together during the colder months — these full-length Uniqlo leggings feature a superb fit while keeping your legs and stomach super warm. Plus, they’re just under $40 so you may want to stock up for the fall and winter.
Shop Uniqlo
Uniqlo HEATTECH Ultra Stretch High-Rise Leggings Pants, $, available at Uniqlo
The name of this product may sound like anything but soft, but it features a smooth, easy fit that’s true to size and “holds you in without constraining movement,” as one reviewer puts it. They’re great for days divided between IG Live workout videos and Zoom calls from the couch.
Girlfriend Collective Compressive Mid-Rise Legging, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
These soft jersey leggings still feature a touch of spandex for some added move-with-you comfort. And with 4.2 out of 5 stars and more than 300 reviews, customers are pleased with the mix.
Shop Hanes
Hanes Stretch Jersey Leggings, $, available at Hanes
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
How To Style Your Black Leather Leggings
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20 Cozy Loungewear Styles For 24-Hour Comfort
This article was originally published on refinery29.com.
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