14 Beloved Legging Brands That Aren't Lululemon

While Lululemon is a mainstay for many athleisure enthusiasts, you may be in search of other options.
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Purchasing a fresh pair of leggings is always a delightful experience, regardless of whether you’re the kind of person who wears them daily, relegates them to gym or reserves them for lounging peacefully at home. And while most people seem to have their favorite leggings brand locked in, there’s no time like the present to explore all options.

Lululemon is a mainstay for many athleisure enthusiasts, but if you’re looking for an alternative, we’ve got you covered. The internet is awash with popular, highly-coveted leggings brands, and many of them retail below Lululemon’s premium price point. They range from super-soft and cozy leggings to high-performance leggings that are ideal for workouts. Below, we’ve curated a handy list of some of the most popular brands available at a range of price points, so you can pick up a new pair for your workouts, coffee runs and everything in between. 

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
Target
Target will always have you covered, both in terms of how well-made and durable their leggings are and their very reasonable price point. I'm a huge fan of these cute ultra high-rise leggings with a touch of flare from Target's in-house brand All In Motion. They're great for everyday wear and are available in three colors. Head over to Target and check out their entire selection of lovely leggings, from workout-friendly pairs to style-forward trendy options.
2
Nordstrom
Nordstrom’s in-house activewear brand Zella is a best-kept secret among fans of the department store. These Zella Live In high waist leggings are made with moisture-wicking material that is stretchy and comfortable and ideal for yoga, pilates and beyond. Nordstrom also has a large collection of leggings options from brands like Beyond Yoga, Vuori and Nike.
3
Walmart
There's no place like Walmart to majorly save on fashion staples, including leggings. These Athletics Works plus-size core active capri leggings are highly rated and boast hundreds of reviews from happy shoppers. They're available in five colors and come in under $15. Capri-length pants and leggings are making a comeback, so you might as well hop on the trend without breaking the bank. Walmart is also a great place to get two- or three-packs of leggings, simple full-length options and much more.
4
Vuori
My parents are huge Vuori fans — they go on and on about how soft all the clothing is — and these leggings are no exception. Featuring a high-rise silhouette, they promise to be breathable and lightweight while also being supportive and stretchy so you can move with ease. They're made with the brand’s wildly soft and innovative fabric, which makes them a great alternative to the famous Lululemon softness.
5
Old Navy
Available in regular, tall and petite sizing, these Old Navy cropped leggings are cute enough to wear while on the go. They're made with soft jersey material that won't make you feel oppressed and come in a couple neutral colors. I love Old Navy workout clothing; it's much more varied and durable than you might assume. I'm also a huge fan of the relatively low price points. Be sure to check out their entire leggings collection, you won't want to miss it — they've even got wide leg options.
6
Athleta
These breathable and sweat-wicking leggings from Athleta are soft while still providing a fair amount of compression, which is helpful when doing low-impact work like yoga or pilates. They're available in a range of colors and have a three-layer waistband that won't pinch your skin but will provide ample support. Athleta has quite a few leggings in its arsenal, but these Ultra High-Rise Eltation tights just might be the most highly-rated and popular option.
7
Alo Yoga
If you go to workout classes, there's a good chance you've seen some pretty chic girlies sporting Alo leggings. This stylish brand knows how to infuse major style into even the most basic workout items, like these high-waisted “airbrush” leggings. Available in a range of cool colors, they're smoothing and sculpting, and would look just as cool with a button down, blazer and loafers as they would with sneakers and a hoodie. Alo also has a variety of different legging lengths, fabrics and styles, so be sure to check out the brand's entire roster of goodies.
8
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective
I'm a huge fan of Girlfriend Collective leggings and have several pairs, including this compressive high-rise legging, which just might be the brand's most popular style. I love how smooth the fabric is and how slimming it feels without stifling movement or feeling like sausage casing. They come in a range of colors and look good on everyone. If you like a bit more pizazz, rest assured that Girlfriend Collective's varied selection has something for everyone. They're absolutely worth the investment.
9
Aerie
Aerie is a great place to go for all kinds of closet staples that won't cost a fortune, and that includes leggings and other workout apparel. Available in six colors, the Hugger high-waisted legging is warm and cozy, featuring external pockets and a hidden pocket at the back of the waistband, which is ideal for a key or a card when you don't want to carry a bag. Aerie also has just about every leggings style available, so make sure you take a look at their wide selections before making your choice.
10
Spanx
Who says all leggings are for working out? While Spanx certainly has a wide-ranging leggings collection that includes lounge-y and athletic leggings, their "going out" faux patent leather leggings are among their most iconic. Available in regular, tall and petite lengths, these sexy leggings are as cool as it gets. They have Spanx's famous compressive technology and a contoured design that can help to perk up your booty — and because there is no center seam, you never have to worry about camel toe.
11
Free People
Free People
Free People has majorly stepped up their athleisure game. Not only are their offerings super cute, but they're incredibly functional for a range of activities as well. These Never Better leggings are made of lightweight fabric, perfect for light-to-medium intensity workouts, and you can get them in a very wide range of colors. If these aren't quite your style, take a look at the rest of FP's offerings. Each one is better and more exciting than the next.
12
Nike
Available in eight colors, these flared leggings (or, "yoga pants" as the youths like to call them) are simple without being boring. The soft fabric has a gently compressive feel with enough stretch to keep you comfy during any kind of movement. Nike's leggings offerings are incredibly varied and functional — especially compelling for athletes who prefer high-impact sports and workouts.
13
Aritzia
These high-rise leggings from Aritzia are a great alternative to your Lulus. They're made with buttery-soft fabric that promises to feel like heaven whether you're working out or just relaxing around the house. They feature a curved waistband that makes your bum look extra perky, so you'll look as good as you feel. Aritzia has a wide range of leggings styles, so be sure you take a look at the brand's various options and pick the one that's best for you.
14
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices has endured a visibly bumpy ride since its inception in 2014, but the brand's collection of leggings remains top-notch and worth a serious look. The FrostKnit 7/8 legging is perfect for those who dwell in chilly regions — this is the brand's warmest legging and is designed for cold-weather cardio. They're supportive and sweat-wicking without feeling heavy-duty. I especially love the reflective details that can help to keep you safe while looking good. Live somewhere warmer or ready to stock up for spring? Take a look at Outdoor Voices' other leggings styles, they're just as chic.

Before You Go

These Winter-Ready Leggings Are Basically Pants
A pair of Spanx faux leather leggings to embrace your inner rockstar(01 of07)
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A little edgy and cool while still being super wearable, these faux leather leggings hit you in all the right places. They have a shaping waistband and a contoured fit to keep your booty perky while still being thick enough to wear as pants. Best of all, there's no center seam, so say goodbye to awkward bunching in the front.

Promising review: "I originally borrowed a pair of these leggings from a friend. It was love at first try on. I had to get my own pair. They are so versatile - can be worn to work, just to kick it around town, or dressed up for a night out. They are comfortable and make me feel great about my body. Still show my curves but give me a little tuck where I need it." — Katie G.
(credit:Spanx)
A sporty pair of Lululemon cold weather running leggings(02 of07)
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They're called running leggings, but you'll find yourself wearing them while running errands, too. Made from technical fleece with weather-repellent panels, they have a drawstring and ankle zips for a little extra shaping and pizazz. Wear then on a winter hike or run, or sport them during the day with a sweater and boots.

Promising review: "This is the cold weather running tight I have been waiting for Lululemon to make. It checks all the boxes: drawstring at the high waist, fleece inside, wind proof, ankle zips, zipper pocket for phone (although I prefer it on the back so the phone stays warm and dry under the jacket in rain/snow)" — Sara
(credit:Lululemon)
A pair of fleece-lined Athleta leggings that look super chic(03 of07)
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Stay cozy and warm while still looking put together with this pair of fleece-lined leggings from Athleta. They have masterfully placed and concealed pockets to hold all your belongings and an internal drawstring to ensure they fit great.

Promising review: "These fit super well and keep me toasty warm on my winter walks. Warm enough that I don't need a long puffer coat to keep my tush warm. Gray a nice neutral change from my usual black." — Athleta customer
(credit:Athleta)
Or another Athleta option that are basically legging cargo pants(04 of07)
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Stay dry, warm and stylish with this pair of water-repellent hiking leggings from Athleta. They have pockets along the hips and thighs to hold your valuables and add a little visual interest. They're abrasion-resistant, so they won't snag or pill, and they're water-resistant to keep you cozy and dry on the go. Though they're made for hiking and outdoor sports, they're sharp enough to wear to the office or dinner.

Promising review: "I'm in secondary education and our primary goal when buying work clothes is to find that magic combo of comfort and professional. These leggings are perfect!! The pants themselves are very well made and so comfortable! Very practical when teaching and doing lab work. With all the pockets, you can hold a phone, keys, clicker and some random things students tend to hand you throughout the day. I wear them some days with boots similar to those in the picture and other days with sparkly converse. They look amazing with both styles. I have 2 pairs and about to purchase 2 other others. Athleta please make these in cherry red!!! I would die of excitement. Be sure bury me open casket while wearing these in cherry red." — Rachel S
(credit:Athleta)
A budget-friendly set of thermals you'll wear all winter(05 of07)
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A great base layer, these lightweight, quick-dry leggings are stretchy and soft while still being comfortably compressive. The fabric has a brushed feel and offers a snug fit for layering under snow pants or jeans. Breathable and odor-resistant, you'll love to rock these on the ski slopes or later on the couch.

Promising review: "These base layer leggings are perfect! Super soft, stretchy and lightweight enough to wear under any pants without feeling like I have too many layers on. I will wear them around the house and to sleep in, but too thin to wear alone outside of the house. I bought the dark gray and the stormy night. I'm 5'6" 140 lbs with an apple shape (carry my extra weight in the middle with slim legs) and Large fits me perfect. I could likely wear a medium as well. I will be buying more now!" — dreamer7
(credit:Amazon)
A set of fleece-lined water-resistant thermals with helpful pockets(06 of07)
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We've written about these reviewer-loved fleece-lined thermal leggings before at HuffPost — and we will again. Owned and loved by senior editor Janie Campbell, these ultra-warm leggings have a high-waist fit with gentle midsection compression to keep you feeling snatched, and five utility pockets for your phone, keys and wallet. Campbell says they're great for extra coziness when lounging around the house or when spending time out in the cold.

Promising review: "I don't generally leave reviews unless I absolutely love or hate something. These leggings are one of the best pair I have ever bought! They have 2 pockets on both legs and a zip pocket in the back that is big enough for a phone (unless you have a tablet sized phone); think palm sized phone. They are comfortable and not restricting, and are warm but not too warm; down to 30s today and I did not feel chilled but house is around 70 and I was fine there too. They are a little long for my short legs but I don't mind the slight bunching. I got the burgundy XL which fits great! I am 215lbs at 5"4' and I have thicker thighs and butt for reference. Very happy with this purchase. I'll see how they hold up!" — Amy Lasley
(credit:Amazon)
Uniqlo's “ultra warm” leggings that promise to live up to their name(07 of07)
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Known for their elevated basics, it's no surprise Uniqlo makes amazing winter leggings. They're moisture-wicking to keep you dry and comfortable with a fluffy brushed lining that promises to feel great on the skin. The heat-absorbing fabric will help keep your body warm throughout the day.

Promising review: "Originally purchased to attend an outdoor sporting event, and worked perfectly under jeans. As someone whose thighs are always freezing, I can confidently say these are hands down the best base layer for cold weather. They kept me warm without being too bulky to wear under fitted jeans. Also love wearing them to lounge around the house when it gets chilly!" — Uniqlo customer
(credit:Uniqlo)

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