I've Tried Dozens of Workout Pants, and I Keep Coming Back to These $30 Leggings

As a health and fitness writer and self-proclaimed leggings aficionado, I've made it my personal mission to get my hands on—and legs in—as many pairs as possible. And, while I've certainly had my share of flings (Lululemon's Align Pant and Reebok's Lux High-Rise Tights are definitely up there), I always find my way back to Old Navy's High-Waisted Elevate Compression Leggings (Buy It, $20, $30, oldnavy.com). Why? Because they're freaking amazing and ridiculously affordable.

I'll never forget the first time I tried them on: I immediately noticed how they fit my curves just right. Because of the high waistband, they sit right around my belly button and hold me in like a pair of Spanx leggings (even hiding the evidence of the previous night's burrito!). The high rise also makes them comfortable enough for all my workouts and offers more coverage when paired with sports bras and crop tops.

Despite the fact that they're designed with a pretty compressive fabric, the High-Waisted Elevate Compression Leggings are incredibly comfortable, thanks to a soft-to-the-touch blend of polyester and jersey spandex. The four-way stretch construction allows you to move freely without feeling constricted, but you don't have to worry about them shimmying down when you're jogging or hitting downward dog in your yoga flow.

Another perk is that they're breathable and moisture-wicking, so you stay cool and dry (and don't need to concern yourself with any embarrassing stains) no matter how much you sweat during your workout. Plus, the flat-lock seams keep uncomfortable chafing at bay. More good news: These leggings are available in a wide range to accommodate women of all sizes, including regular, tall, petite, and plus.

While my go-to pair is the High-Waisted Elevate Compression Leggings in classic black (or as the brand refers to it, Black Jack), the activewear bottoms also come in other neutral shades like navy and gray, and have proven to be the perfect companion for just about everything—from morning runs to work Zoom calls to unwinding at the end of the day with a pilates class or Netflix binge session. Since they don't have a shiny finish to them like many other workout leggings (and, therefore, don't scream activewear at first glance), I've even worn them with a Chelsea boot for brunch and to a casual dinner. (Although, I suggest dressing them up with a long, slouchy sweater for social occasions, dining, and such.)

If you're still on the fence (though it's worth noting that my girlfriends are equally obsessed with this athletic legging), maybe Old Navy reviewers can sway you. The leggings currently have a nearly perfect rating and almost 3,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who praise them for their controlled yet comfortable fit, the fact that they never fall down, and for their affordable price point (many customers bought more than one pair, FWIW!).

One reviewer summed it up perfectly: "I will never wear another pair of leggings other than Old Navy. These are not see-through, which is extremely important to me. I've worn these to work and now at a friend's house and they haven't lost their firmness on my legs the entire day. I have five pairs now and can't get enough!"

Perhaps the best part is that, right now, they are on sale for a cool $20. But you'll want to act quick and add them to your shopping cart ASAP, as I've learned the hard way that these babies go fast!

Buy It: Old Navy's High-Waisted Elevate Compression Leggings, $20, $30, oldnavy.com