Before you start scrolling through endless options, it’s worth understanding the features that make a pair of leggings truly stand out.

Fabric and Durability

A high-quality pair of leggings should be built to handle whatever your adventures throw at them. The right materials and construction not only improve comfort but also ensure your leggings last longer and perform better.

Features to look for:

• Nylon or spandex: Durable fibres that provide strength and flexibility.

• 280gsm or above: Offers better tear-resistance and coverage.

• Four-way stretch: Ensures unrestricted movement and all-day comfort.

• Reinforced seams: Adds durability in high-stress areas for longer wear.

• Odour-resistant and quick-drying properties: Keeps you fresh and comfortable on multi-day trips.

Comfort is Key

If something in your wardrobe isn’t comfortable, you won’t find yourself reaching for it. The same goes for leggings, and that’s why high-waist active leggings are a game-changer. They offer a flattering fit, stay put when you’re running or hiking, and provide extra support where it counts. The right waistband should sit just above the belly button, feel comfortable, never digging in or slipping down, so you can move freely, no matter the activity. 

Functionality

Practical features make a difference, especially when you’re on the move. Tights with pockets are perfect for storing essentials like your phone, keys, or trail snacks, keeping your hands free. Secure side pockets keep your gear in place when you’re on the go, while pockets placed higher on the thigh can create a flattering silhouette and prevent you from feeling weighed down. 

If you spend a lot of time in the outdoors, performance and practicality are key. Look for leggings that are:

• Water-resistant, ready for sudden showers or brushing past wet grass

• Odour-resistant and quick-drying, ideal for multi-day trips

• Shape-retaining, tough enough to handle repeated wear

• 7/8 length, perfect for warmer days and shoulder seasons

High waist active leggings with these features offer comfort and coverage, letting you focus on the adventure at hand instead of constantly adjusting your gear. The Bushbuck Ascent Women’s Leggings are designed with these qualities in mind. They combine durability, stretch, and practicality, and have secure side pockets for essentials. Designed and tested in New Zealand's rugged outdoors, they're built to withstand the elements in the backcountry. You can read our reviews to see how they perform in the field.

Activewear leggings aren’t just for hiking, they’re perfect for the gym or daily routines too. Look for leggings that support your movements and maintain their shape through intense workouts. High waist active leggings again come into play here, providing a comfortable fit that won’t ride down during squats, lunges, or cardio sessions. For casual wear, fashion tights and leggings strike a balance between comfort and style. They should allow you to move freely while still looking polished enough for a coffee meet-up, running errands, or even a casual office setting. Black leggings are a versatile staple, effortlessly pairing with just about anything in your wardrobe, while 7/8-length leggings offer a stylish and streamlined look when worn with sneakers.

Ultimately, the best leggings for every occasion comes down to your lifestyle. Ask yourself:

• Do I need leggings for outdoor adventures, gym workouts, or everyday wear?

• Are features like water resistance, odour control, and quick-drying fabric important for me?

• Do I want pockets for practicality?

By considering material quality, fit, and functionality, you’ll find leggings that not only meet your needs but also enhance your comfort and confidence.

When you’re looking for leggings, it’s worth investing in a versatile and durable pair that stands up to every aspect of your lifestyle. Quality materials, comfort, fit, and practical features are what separate leggings that collect dust in the wardrobe from the pair you’ll reach for time and time again, no matter the occasion.

Are they see-through?

No, the Ascent Women’s Leggings pass the squat test and are constructed from thick 280gsm fabric.

What’s the sizing like?

The Ascent Women's Leggings may feel snug at first due to the nylon-spandex blend, which gives the garment its toughness and durability. After a few wears and a wash, the fabric will relax and fit true to size.

Do they stay up during activity?

Yes, the Ascent Women’s Leggings have a high-waisted design with strong shape retention, so they won’t slide down or move around while you’re running or hiking.

Do they have pockets?

Yes, the Ascent Women’s Leggings feature dual secure side pockets, large enough to carry your phone and other essentials.

Are they suitable for outdoor and adventure use?

Yes, the Ascent Women’s Leggings are designed and tested in New Zealand for outdoor use. They are quick-drying, odour-resistant, water resistant (DWR-treated), and constructed from tough 280gsm fabric.

How resistant are they to tearing or snagging?

Leggings are unmatched for comfort and freedom of movement, but all stretch fabrics can be vulnerable to tearing if they catch on sharp objects like barbed wire. If you’re heading into rough terrain, consider pants constructed from canvas fabric such as our Venture Pants or our Defender Waterproof Pants.