15 Best Cotton Leggings For Women In 2023

There are no 100 percent cotton leggings: They blend with other fabrics (like Lycra, spandex, polyester, or nylon), with at least (minimum) 50% cotton. Compared to polyester and nylon leggings, cotton leggings are best for everyday wear. 

Various cotton leggings are also great as workout outfits but not as efficient as nylon or polyester. 

Here are some of the best cotton leggings we have tried. We can attest that they are some of the finest brands worth every penny. You can choose the one that will satisfy your needs while we give details for each pair. Here it goes!

1. No Nonsense Women Cotton Legging

Looking for cotton legging for everyday use and at the same time, you remain stylish? Well, the No-Nonsense Women Cotton Legging is a good option. You will also appreciate No Nonsense’s affordable price range. 

Key Features:

• The material blend is spandex, cotton, and polyester.
• It features a 29-inch inseam.

Specifications:

• Size: S, M, L, X-L, XX-L, 1X, 2X, 3X
• Color: Red Hot, Royal Blue, Black, White, Espresso, Twilight, Charcoal Gray, Charcoal Heather.
• Material blend: 57% cotton, 38% polyester, 5% spandex
• Weight: 6.38 ounces (180 grams)

Pros

• The legging is just 180 grams in weight, so it is not heavy on your body.
• You will love No Nonsense’s eight color variations.
• It keeps your shape flatter and too easy to wear.

Cons

• The waistband is not thick enough, but it will cover your muffin top.

Bottom line:No-Nonsense rebrands to more high-quality tights & leggings without the high price tag. The brand is one of the best cotton leggings with tummy control to keep your contour more slender. But this one comes with thinner fabric than the previous model.

2. Hanes Women Stretch Jersey Legging

The Hanes Stretch Jersey Legging varies in quality from pair to pair. It has a standard 29-inch inseam length coming in two colors. You can wear the leggings every day as you please.

Key Features:

• No visible panty lines at the back and camel toe at the front.
• It has thick fabric ideal for cold weather.

Specifications:

• Size: S, M, L, X-L, XX-L
• Color: Black, Charcoal heather
• Material blend: cotton, spandex
• Weight: 150 grams

Pros

• The legging may not help lift your butt, but it will cover your cellulite well.
• The heavier fabric will cover much of your bulges and varicose veins (if you have any).
• It is too easy to wear because it has an elastic waistband.

Cons

• The fabric may fade early depending on the color. The black pair seems more tolerant to fading, as we have observed.

Bottom line: Women wanting thick cotton leggings for chilly weather will find the Hanes Stretch Jersey more suitable. If you have thin legs, you should choose the small or medium size.

3. Leggings Depot Cotton Women Premium Quality Ultra Soft Solid Leggings

Another cotton legging with a lower price range is the Leggings Depot Ultra Soft Solid Leggings. One of the most admirable features of this legging is that you can wear it anywhere, even in the office. For office wear, you can choose white, lavender, or navy.

Key Features:

• It comes in more than 20 colors.
• The legging is high-waist for better tummy control.

Specifications:

• Size: One Size Plus, X-S, S, M, L, XL 1X, 2X, 3X
• Color: from dark to light like black, green, mocha, navy, lime, mint, lavender, white, ivory
• Material blend: 95% cotton, 5% spandex 
• Weight: 4.16 ounces (117 grams)

Pros

• If you are petite, you may choose the x-small or small size.
• The thin fabric makes the legging ideal for lounging.
• The numerous color options assure you won’t meet someone wearing the same color.

Cons

• Wash the legging with like colors (and cold water) to keep it long-lasting.

Bottom line: Aside from a more relaxed lazing in the house: you can also wear the Ultra Soft Legging Depot at the gym, especially during summer. We opt to wear this kind of leggings even outside the house because of its more comfortable feel.

4. Amazon Essentials Women Pull-On Knit Jegging

Average-size and plus-size women will have options in choosing the proper leggings for them. One of the best jeggings is the Amazon Essentials Pull-on Knit Jegging. The pants have belt loops, like jeans, which you can fit with stylish belts.

Key Features:

• It is a denim-style jegging with back and front pockets.
• The inseam sizes come in short (26”), regular (30”), and long (30”).

Specifications:

• Size: Several size ranges are available, 1X to 6X; X-Small to XX-Large
• Color: 21 colors are at hand, like burgundy, dark wash, khaki, white, black, and animal prints.
• Material blend: spandex, cotton
• Weight: 15.2 ounces (430 grams)

Pros

• The loops will let you style the outfit with fashionable belts. 
• The knit jegging is available for plus-size women.
• If you want your legs, thighs, and hip to feel more comfortable, a jegging helps.

Cons

• Plus-size women need to figure out their correct measurement for a proper fit.

• The thick fabric may not be comfortable on hot days.

Bottom line:Women belonging to a family with different builds will enjoy the benefits of the wide-array sizes of Amazon Essentials jeggings. If you want to look slimmer even inside your home: the jegging is an awesome treat for stay-home moms.

5. Women Cotton Plus-Size Leggings- Stretchy

Plus-size women can enjoy the benefits of leggings without suffering the pain of over-stretching their bulges. The Stretch is Comfort Women Cotton Plus-Size Leggings offer one of the most convenient stretches in stretchy fabrics. 

Key Features:

• The waistband has pull-on closure for easy wearing.
• It comes in light and dark colors, which are all opaque.

Specifications:

• Size: X-L, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X, 6X, 7X
• Color: Comes in more than 38 dark and light colors (solid & with prints) like black, white, charcoal gray, orange, red, hot pink, etc.
• Material blend: Solid Colors: 95% Cotton, 5% Spandex; Metallic and Prints: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex; and Black: 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
• Weight: 7.37 ounces (208 grams)

Pros

• The leggings are for plus-size women of various builds.
• The leggings have enough stretch preventing tight constriction.
• It comes in American sizes suited for American ladies.

• Made in the U. S. A.

  Also Read: How To Store Yoga Mats The Right Way

Cons

• There are no x-small, small or medium sizes.

• Only the solid colors have cotton.

Bottom line: These leggings are a tummy-tucker that will give justice to your body shape. Even if you are plus-size, you will reap the benefits of tight leggings without the uncomfortable compression on body parts.

6. HUE Women Cotton Ultra Legging with Wide Waistband, Assorted

Women on the go will find the HUE Cotton Ultra Legging the most comfortable wear on the job. The legging is also great as casual wear every day. The tightness of HUE is just enough to keep you moving more comfortably.

Key Features:

• The pull-on closure provides convenience for active women.
• It is non-see-through in any color.

Specifications:

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X
• Color: Black, Graphite Heather, White, Espresso, Bungee cord, Black cherry, Country blue, Navy
• Material blend: cotton, spandex
• Weight: 7.05 ounces (200 grams)

Pros

• The HUE Cotton Ultra Legging fits ideally with sneakers or heels.
• The legging is ideal for tucking to enhance your body silhouette.
• The price varies with color but starts from a low range.

• If you feel more comfortable with a wide waistband, this legging is for you!

Cons

• The legging has no pocket.

• Not great for butt lifting.

Bottom line:When looking for a legging that does not bind on the waist, even if you are plus-size, then go for it! The HUE cotton leggings are one of the lightweight stretch pants. The weight of the fabric will not add to your burden when you are overweight.

7. Estelle Cotton Spandex Basic Leggings Pants-Jersey Full/Capri Regular/Plus Size

The EttelLut Cotton Spandex Basic Leggings are one of the pants that you could wear and take off quickly. The designs come in Capri and Full Pants –Jersey in assorted colors (from light to dark). The legging will take you to the next level of your yoga class or Zumba fitness because of the lightweight fabric.

Key Features:

• The fabric blend is one of the most breathable.
• The diverse colors will match your lifestyle.

Specifications:

• Size: S, M, L, X-L, XX-L
• Color: It comes in 26 colors, such as White, Black, Capri yellow, full yellow, Full wine ginger, etc.
• Material blend: 92% cotton, 8% spandex
• Weight: 4 ounces (113 grams)

Pros

• The 8% spandex of the cotton blend makes it more convenient for plus-size ladies.
• The EttelLut Cotton Spandex is also ideal for everyday wear: wherever you go.
• When doing yoga, the opaqueness of each color keeps your privacy to a maximum.

Cons

• • The fabric is thin; it is not ideal during cold weather.

Bottom line: Although the EttelLut Cotton Spandex has thin fabric, it is comfy for everyday wear. You can also wear it during the cold season, but top it with your favorite outfit.

8. Spalding Women High-Waist Essential Capri Legging

One of the best cotton leggings for women preferring high-waist is the Spalding Essential Capri Legging. When we try a pair, we found the sun-kissed coral color looks stunning to the body contour! But you can try the other colors that come darker and see for yourself.

Key Features:

• The 4-inch wide waistband adds comfort for plus-size ladies.
• It has a high-waist feature that hides muffin tops and bulges on abs.

Specifications:

• Size: 1X, 2X, 3X, S, L, M, X-L
• Color: Black, Gray, Navy Blazer, Sun-kissed Coral
• Material blend: cotton, spandex
• Weight: 5.6 ounces (158 grams)

Pros

• If you like Capri legging with cropped leg style, this is it!
• The cropped legs provide more waist support that will not slide.
• It comes with a 19-inch inseam for easy bending and squatting during exercises.

Cons

• No sizes are available for XX-L women.

Bottom line:The higher price range may intimidate you initially. But you will learn that the price becomes higher depending on the size. These soft and high-quality leggings have flawless seams that are more durable for long-lasting use.

9. Premium Stretch Jersey Cotton Leggings for Women – Full – Capri – Shorts – Regular and Plus-Size

Do you want the feeling of snugness without tightening your skin when wearing leggings? The Premium Stretch Jersey Cotton Leggings for Women by Conceited will give you more choices considering your size. The leggings come in various styles, like full-length; bike shorts, Capris, knee-shorts, and slip shorts.

Key Features:

• The 5-in-1 style of leggings in one brand is rare.
• The materials are the same for all styles.

Specifications:

• Size: S, M, L, X-L, XX-L, 3X-L
• Color: White, Navy, Charcoal, Heather Gray, Black
• Material blend: 92% cotton, 8% spandex
• Weight: 7.94 ounces (225 grams)

Pros

• You can own one or more of these leggings, considering your activities.
• The price range is one of the lowest among competitors.
• All styles have breathable features for your advantage.

Cons

• The knit jersey does not have an extra small size.

Bottom line:The 3-inch high yoga waist of the leggings will benefit women wanting to wear stretchy pants every day. The various styles will give them more options on what to wear depending on the weather.

10. Danskin Women Essentials Ankle Legging

The Danskin Ankle Legging is probably one of the best cotton leggings that are not see-through. The opaqueness of Danskin and its ankle-length features will give you more privacy even when doing workouts in the park.

Key Features:

• The crotch has a wicking gusset to keep you dry all day.
• Compared to jeans, the Danskin Ankle legging enhances waist contour.

Specifications:

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, XL, 1X, 2X, 3X
• Color: Black, Charcoal Heather, Midnight navy
• Material blend: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
• Weight: 5.93 ounces (168 grams)

Pros

• Petite women will find the waistband below their belly button.
• The thin cotton material will not slide during exercises.
• The Danskin is great for running or wearing underdresses (like tunics).

Cons

• The legging has no pockets.

• The material is not as thick as the original Danskin.

Bottom line:These Danskin leggings are not the same as the original. The new versions run smaller than the previous ones. But you can pick one size up from your original leggings if you own an old pair of Danskin. The Danskin is considered pure cotton leggings.

11. American Apparel Women Cotton Spandex Jersey Legging

American Apparel features some of the best not-see-through cotton leggings like their Cotton Spandex Jersey. The high-waist legging has an elastic closure, which is ideal for women on the go. The variety of colors and slim fit make American Apparel popular among Gen X, Y, and Z.

Key Features:

• It is one of the few brands with animal prints (like Cheetah & Leopard).
• The lightweight fabric is perfect for a heavy workout.

Specifications:

• Size: X-S, S, M, L, X-L
• Color: Asphalt, Red, Cheetah, Forest, Heather Gray, Leopard, Navy, Heather
• Material blend: 92% cotton, 8% spandex
• Weight: 3.4 ounces (96 grams)

Pros

• If you want a more flattering and streamlined fit, choose this brand.
• The non-see-through fabric enhances mobility without sacrificing privacy.
• It has one of the lightweight materials but with a figure-hugging feature.

Cons

• If you want your pair to last long, wash them with cold water without bleaching.

Bottom line: Women in intense workouts will benefit the most from the durability and stretch of American Apparel. The legging has a double-needle hem that assures its longevity.

12. Amazon Essentials Women Legging

Amazon is becoming one apparel company giving more credence to the purchasing power of women or the lack of it. The company understands that most women want quality and affordability in leggings: Like the Amazon Essentials Women Legging. It has one of the lowest price ranges on our list.

Key Features:

• The legging provides ample support to your tummy.
• It comes in short, regular, and tall inseams.

Specifications:

• Size: It comes in various sizes from X-Small Short to Large
• Color: Comes in 20 dark to light colors such as Navy, Dark Olive, Dark Green, Pink, Plum, and Coral orange.
• Weight: 7.05 ounces (199 grams)

Pros

• The stretchy fabric is thin like a jersey knit.
• The flawless seam entails a secure fit on the thigh, hip, and leg.
• It comes without a pocket for a cleaner look.

Cons

• The light colors may show panty lines, but they are not see-through.

Bottom line:Ladies who want to wear leggings every day without color repetition throughout the week can count on Amazon Essentials. You can afford to buy many color variants of these leggings in different hues.

13. Adidas Originals Women 3-Stripes Leggings (Cheap price)

Do you want training tights from Adidas? The brand is iconic sportswear like the Adidas Originals Women 3-Stripes Leggings. The high-rise leggings come only in four colors. Each color varies in price from low to high.

Key Features:

• The fabric is Primegreen, an environment-friendly recyclable material.
• The long tights have mesh panels for more breathability.

Specifications:

• Size: XX-Small, X-Small, Small, Large, X-Large
• Color: Black-White, Halo Blue, Gray Heather, Scarlet
• Material blend: 88% recycles polyester, 12% elastane
• Weight: 6.88 ounces (195 grams)

Pros

• If you are looking for a tight fit but not restrictive, the 3-Stripes leggings are adequate.
• The compression fit supports your body in every squat and lunge.
• The Adidas 3-Stripes dry quickly, even in intense exercises.

Cons

• It has limited colors to choose from.

Bottom line: The Adidas 3-stripes leggings will offer more comfort for women doing intense workouts. The crotch has a mesh gusset and inserts below the back waist for keeping you dry all the time.

14. 90 Degree by Reflex Cotton High-Waist Ankle Length Compression Leggings with Elastic Free Waistband (Our Top Pick)

If you want mid-price compression tights, the 90 Degree by Reflex Cotton High-Waist Leggings is one big deal! 

Key Features:

• The high-rise 4.5 inches waistband provides pleasant compression.
• It tones and streamlines your figure.

Specifications:

• Size: X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
• Color: 15 colors from dark to light (Black, Navy, Deep Mocha, Dark Sage, Terracotta, etc.)
• Material blend: 87% cotton, 13% spandex
• Weight: 10.12 ounces (287 grams)

Pros

• The ankle-length leggings are ideal for active women.
• Although the fabric is thick, the smooth and soft feel provides more comfort.
• The fixed price for any color allows you to choose different hues.

Cons

• Some colors do not have pockets.

Bottom line: Not all colors have pockets: you can choose the one you need the most. Women with the hour-glass figure will boost their appearance wearing the Reflex!

15. RBX Active Women Plus-Size Cotton Spandex Workout Yoga Capri/Ankle Leggings

Plus-size women active in sports and exercises still have a choice for their workout leggings. One of the options is the RBX Cotton Spandex Capri or Ankle Leggings. Even if you are plus-size, these leggings will define your curvature.

Key Features:

• The lightweight cotton breathes well even when stretched.
• It has a 25-inch inseam length.

Specifications:

• Size: 2X, 3X
• Color: Black
• Material blend: 90% cotton, 10% spandex
• Weight: 8.32 ounces (235 grams)

Pros

• The leggings are perfect for women with a waistline range from 39” to 41”.
• The Capri or Ankle-length tights are ideal with sneakers.
• It has a 4-way stretch to keep your curve more noticeable.

Cons

• It comes only in two sizes for plus-size women.

Bottom line: If you are plus-size, choose either Capris or ankle-length leggings to give you more freedom of movement when exercising. These styles will keep the tights flat even if you do intense workouts.

Best Cotton Leggings – Factors That Matter the Most

1. Stretchability

Cotton is not stretchy, after all! But the fabric that makes the cotton leggings stretch is the spandex or elastane. If the legging is pure cotton, it will constrict your butt. 

Many fashion gurus suggest that you pick a legging with a 5% to 10% elastic blend (like spandex). But if you want more stretch, a 13% spandex blend is still ideal.

2. Fit

Buying leggings online might be a risk of picking the wrong size. There are efficient ways to come up with the correct ones to enjoy the benefits of online shopping at home. Each product has a size guide on its link where you can check the accurate size before ordering.

3. Tummy Control/Shaping Waistband

If a cotton legging does not have an elastic waistband, it will not provide ample support to your tummy. It will not shape your contour either. So, find a legging that you feel has the precise elasticity to enhance your body contour.

4. The opacity or non-transparency

The opacity of fabric makes it non-see-through (or transparent), be it thick or thin, even when it stretches. So, look for opaque leggings to cover your underwear and sensual body parts.

5. The level of breathability

Cotton is the best fabric to trap your sweat. If you want your body to stay dry even after intense exercise, look for a high cotton content legging. It will also keep your body cooler.

6. Durability and Quality

A durable pair of leggings should have sturdy stitching. A piece of fabric too thin may not last long, especially for plus-size women.

7. Flat-locked seams

Flat-locked seams ensure that two fabrics stay together no matter what. It also avoids skin irritation. So, choose leggings that have these seams to protect your skin. 

8. Crotch Gusset

A crotched gusset is a triangular patch of cloth that keeps the privates dry and cool. The fabric also redistributes the stress on a seam sustaining lots of movements. A gusseted crotch also prevents the appearance of camel toe on ladies active in sports, yoga, and other exercises.

9. Comfort

Choose leggings that you feel you are more comfortable with. If you sense that a legging can enhance your figure without constricting body parts, go for it!

10. Moisture-wicking

Moisture-wicking fabric draws moisture away from the body. Pure cotton is not ideal for this purpose. However, it wicks more sweat from the body when combined with polyester or spandex.

11. Cost

Modern tech brought us cheaper leggings because of the proliferation of tights online. Pierce competition makes them cost less than buying from physical stores. But the quality remains the same.

Some of the best cotton leggings with low prices are:

• Amazon Essentials Women Legging, and
• American Apparel Women Cotton Spandex Jersey Legging.

We recommend these leggings to budget-conscious ladies looking for inexpensive tights but with unquestionable qualities.

12. Style

There are several styles of leggings: But some of the most popular are the Capris (better for hiking or running), full-length (most common), and the jeggings. The jeggings are leggings with denim-like vibes.

One of the most popular jeggings nowadays is the Amazon Essentials Women Pull-On Knit Jegging: But unlike ordinary non-cotton jegging, Amazon Essential Jeggings have a majority cotton blend. Here are some of the salient features of jeggings:

• They are skin-tight but soft to the body.
• The jeggings wear like jeans but stretchy.

Most Useful Tips for Buying/Wearing Cotton Leggings

• When washing leggings in the machine, always use cold water. Using hot or lukewarm water may shrink or fade the fabric.
• If you need tights as an exercise outfit, pick cotton leggings with compression: but without constriction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are cotton or spandex leggings better?

If you want a softer feel on your body: cotton leggings will provide the softness you desire. When cotton combines with spandex, you get a legging that softly hugs your body, no matter how you move. 

But each fabric will not be a better legging if constructed on its own. Combining the cloth with inappropriate percentages (like 90% cotton and 10% spandex) will create a better legging.

2. What is the most comfortable fabric for leggings?

Polyester is one of the most sought-after fabrics for activewear leggings because of its water-resistant and moisture-wicking properties. But if you want to wear leggings as everyday casual wear, choose cotton leggings. Its soft and versatile fabric will make you more relaxed and comfortable.

3. Are cotton leggings see-through?

Cotton leggings are mostly opaque or non-see-through. The opacity of a cotton legging is more defined if the cotton has a higher percentage than other fabrics.

4. Do cotton leggings stretch?

Pure cotton legging has minimal stretch because the fabric itself is not stretchable. When combined with elastane (such as Lycra or spandex): the material becomes stretchable and hugs the body smoothly. 

5. Are cotton leggings good?

Cotton leggings are best for daily lounging or lazing around the house. The softness of cotton makes it more comfortable while you relax, especially on hot days.

6. Are cotton leggings good for working out?

Cotton leggings will not harm you during low-intensity workouts. Although a high percentage of cotton fabric is not the best option for athletic activities: you can utilize them during yoga or low-impact exercises.

7. How to know if you are wearing too small cotton leggings?

It is easy determining if your legging is too small for you. Check the skin on your waist if it wrinkles or pinches. If it does, it suggests that you have too small leggings. You can order a size higher.

8. Is it possible wearing leggings when you are over 50?

There is no age limitation in wearing a legging. Anyone who feels like wearing one can do so. Leggings are universally appealing and appropriate for all ages! 

Here’s how to wear leggings if you are 50 or over: 

Conclusion

One of the cheapest leggings on our lists is the Amazon Essentials Women Legging. You can purchase several of these leggings if you intend to use them just for lounging at home. 

But if you are looking for the best cotton leggings to wear during strenuous workouts, we suggest you buy the Adidas Originals Women 3-Stripes Leggings. The fabric has mesh panels for more breathability while doing intense exercises. The crotch is gusseted for maximum protection on your privates.