In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable fashion, faux-leather leggings have emerged as style staples that you can feel good about buying and wearing. These leather alternatives don’t compromise on fashion or comfort: The best faux-leather leggings—including our top pick overall from Spanx—won’t sag, stretch out or betray the look of “real” leather. For those who want a specific fit and finish, we researched and reviewed the market to find a handful of pairs that we highly recommend.
The best faux-leather leggings combine fashion and functionality. Faux Leather Stretch Fabric
At Forbes Vetted, we take fashion seriously—in a good way—and we included extra tips and pointers in this story so you can make smart shopping decisions. Finding the right leggings is inherently easier if you have an expert on your side (that’s us). Here, all the best faux leather leggings, with our honest review of each pair.
J.Crew: best faux-leather pants | Athleta: best for active days | Alo Yoga: best tall length | CRZ Yoga: best matte finish
Spanx is known for their shapewear and their top-rated leggings have a lot of smart details: The faux-leather fabric shapes and smooths the body (without suffocating you) and the center-free seam and high-rise waistband create a flattering silhouette. Plus, the leggings come in three inseam lengths and they’re machine washable, which is not the case with all types of faux leather. This pair has compression technology so the fit is meant to be a bit snug (size up if you prefer a looser fit).
Sizes: XS to 3X | Materials: 87% nylon, 13% elastane with polyurethane coating | Inseam: 28 (petite) to 32 (tall) inches | What the reviews say: Buyers comment on how the fit “hugs the body in the right places” but note that the petite length can still bunch at the ankles if you’re on the short side.
Gap’s high-rise leggings are cut from stretchy fabric that allows for movement and shape retention. The flatlock seams and wide waistband also smooth the silhouette while preventing chafing in common problem areas, like inner thighs. A hidden pull cord at the waist can be tightened for even more secure fit.
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Materials: 79% recycled polyester, 21% spandex | Inseam: Regular, Tall, Petite | What the reviews say: While some commenters say these “fit like a glove,” some noticed they roll at the waist. Sizing down might help achieve a slimmer fit.
Commando’s legging cost a bit more than others on our list but the quality comes through in a few key areas: The stretch fabric is high recovery, meaning this pair won’t lose its shape and get saggy at the end of the day. The leather-like fabric also looks “real,” resists pilling and even after multiple wears, reviewers note that these leggings maintain their smoothness and luster. Another bonus: You can throw them in the washing machine; just be sure to use cold water and hang dry to preventing shrinking.
Sizes: XS to 3X | Materials: 97% viscose, 3% elastane | Inseam: 27.25 to 29.1 inches | What the reviews say: This pair “looks exactly like leather” and many consider it a closet staple. Others note some issues with the fabric not being durable.
Lululemon’s hugely popular Align leggings come in a faux-leather (black foil) colorway that looks chic and has all the comfort features you’d expect, including 4-way stretch and moisture-wicking abilities. The Nulu fabric is lightweight—although not as buttery-soft or as resistant to pilling as other Lululemon leggings—and this pair has a high-rise waist that lightly tucks you in without any compression.
Sizes: 0 to 20 | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% Lycra elastane | Inseam: 23 to 31 inches | What the reviews say: Commenters consider these leggings the “everyday standard” for comfort and like how they “contour the body so well,” but some reviewers say pilling can be an issue after multiple wears.
Emma Grede and Khloé Kardashian founded Good American to create clothing that flatters every body type, and these Better Than Faux Leathers do just that. With a built-in stretch that enhances your curves and a soft interior that feels great on the skin, this pair really nails the important details. The glossy, sleek finish also has a dressy feel, so you can wear these day or night.
Sizes: 0(S) to 8(5XL) | Materials: 100% polyurethane | Inseam: 29 inches | What the reviews say: These leggings “have the perfect amount of stretch” and “fit like a glove,” but also might not be super durable for high-impact activities.
These soft, stretchy leggings come in petite sizing so you can get that perfect ankle fit no matter your height. The fabric holds you in place without being too restrictive and the soft lining adds a little warmth for cooler weather—and makes them easy to pull on and off.
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Materials: 92% polyester, 8% spandex | Inseam: Petite, Regular, Tall | What the reviews say: Many commenters say these petite leggings have “literally the perfect fit,” but consider sizing down if you prefer a slim look.
These buttery soft trousers from J.Crew look polished for the days at the office or nights out. The comfortable, straight leg drapes well in three different lengths and the front isn’t bulky thanks to a simple zip fly, tab closure and lay-flat side slash pockets. The only downside is that you’ll have to dry clean this pair.
Sizes: 00 to 24 | Materials: 60% polyurethane, 40% viscose | Inseam: 26 (petite) to 31 (tall) inches | What the reviews say: This pair “works with sneakers and heels” and the high-quality faux leather isn’t fake-looking or too shiny. Reviewers note that you’ll need to size appropriately to avoid extra fabric in the crotch area.
Ideal for travel or busy days on the go, Athleta’s faux-leather stretch leggings have two zippered back pockets to hold essentials and the curve-hugging back seams elongate the legs. The subtle sheen elevates the look in an office-appropriate way but also works for just running errands or grabbing coffee.
Sizes: XXS to 3X | Materials: nylon, spandex | Inseam: 25 (petite) to 30 (tall) inches | What the reviews say: Wearers like the “buttery soft” feel and “flattering tight appearance.” Some report the fit is looser than Athleta’s other styles and recommend ordering one size smaller for the best fit.
Alo took their popular Airlift Elongated Legging and added a faux-leather foil finish. The slimming, modern silhouette is great for taller frames and is designed to hang over the foot with a flared ankle slit. A compressive performance fabric lifts and hugs your curves while the foil detail stands out, in a good way.
Sizes: XXS to L | Materials: poly-elastane blend | Inseam: Not listed | What the reviews say: The high-waisted “fit is perfect” and the elongating ankle design is on-trend. Shrinking was noted if you put this pair in the dryer.
A favorite on Amazon, CRZ Yoga’s matte faux-leather leggings are cut from performance fabric with a matte finish. Although they’re run on a little on the thin side, they’re both stylish and functional. The high-rise, elastic waistband gives a tucked-in feeling and a gusseted crotch helps the legging conform to the body. At this price, you can pick up a couple pairs for different outfits.
Sizes: XXS to XL | Materials: 71% polyamide, 29% spandex | Inseam: 25 to 28 inches | What the reviews say: Many reviewers consider these “the most comfortable workout pants,” plus they’ve “held up perfectly wash after wash.” But some found the fabric to be too see-through.
Here at Forbes, we understand the desire for smart purchases and getting the best products at the best price. That’s why we spend hours researching, reading reviews and testing a large range of products, including the best sports bras and the best high-waisted leggings. Our senior fashion editor, Kari Molvar, has more than 20 years’ worth of experience in the editorial space, and helped us sort through hundreds of faux leather legging options to bring you the best of the best.
Faux leather leggings are a wardrobe essential thanks to their versatile styling options, elevated look, reasonable cost and ease of wear. Genuine leather, on the other hand, tends to be more expensive, less sustainable and have special care requirements. With this in mind, we looked at evaluated many faux leather leggings and considered real customer reviews. Style is always on our list of criteria, but comfort, sizing inclusivity and functionality also came into play for making our top picks.
The faux leather legging market is surprisingly vast and it can be hard to know where to start when so many styles actually look similar to each other. To narrow the options, focus on your taste, budget and lifestyle. Here’s more advice:
Black is the most popular option for faux-leather leggings since they closely resemble a classic leather pant, adding a sophisticated feel to most outfits. Some brands also offer faux-leather leggings in other neutrals—think camel, cream or navy—and brighter shades is another option if making a louder statement is more your aim.
Like workout leggings, the best faux-leather leggings are comfortable, mostly because the synthetic fabric is forgiving with some built-in stretch, making them easy to take on and off. If you’re looking for a lift and to smooth out your legs, consider leggings with some compression features. A high, wide waistband can have a slimming effect that makes you feel a little tucked in. If you’re planning on wearing faux-leather leggings to the gym, make sure they have extra stretch for movement and moisture-wicking features.
Not all faux-leather is the same. Some faux-leather leggings are made to look like real animal skin with a texture, while some are sleek and smooth without any visible grain. Think about how you’ll be styling your leggings: If you plan on pairing them with a heavily textured sweater or blazer, a smooth finish might be your best bet to create a balanced look.
Faux-leather legging care can vary depending on the brand. Most leggings can be washed in cold water by hand or put in the washing machine, and we recommend turning them inside out to preserve the faux-leather finish. It’s also a good idea to hang dry leggings to prevent shrinking. Some pairs are dry clean only, so keep that in mind when choosing a pair that works for you.
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I cover fintech for the money team at Forbes. I am an NYU graduate with bylines at AMNewYork, Gotham Gazette, and Prague Daily Monitor. Reach me at emason@forbes.com or follow me on Twitter @emilymason00
I cover fintech for the money team at Forbes. I am an NYU graduate with bylines at AMNewYork, Gotham Gazette, and Prague Daily Monitor. Reach me at emason@forbes.com or follow me on Twitter @emilymason00
I lead our fintech coverage at Forbes and also cover crypto. I edit our annual Fintech 50 and 30 Under 30 for fintech, and I’ve written frequently about leadership and corporate diversity. Before Forbes, I worked for ten years in marketing consulting, in roles ranging from client consulting to talent management. I’m a graduate of Middlebury College and Columbia Journalism School. Have a tip, question or comment? Email me jkauflin@forbes.com or send tips securely here: https://www.forbes.com/tips/. Follow me on Twitter @jeffkauflin.
Follow me on Twitter @JeffKauflin or email me at jkauflin@forbes.com.
I'm the executive strategy editor at Forbes Vetted and a functional nutritionist. In between geeking out over SEO and obsessing over products, from mattresses to treadmills to every kitchen gadget I can get my hands on, I've written more than a dozen books and cookbooks and created over 1,000 original recipes.
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I am an updates writer for Forbes Vetted, and I optimize content related to fashion, beauty, and travel. Before joining the team, I was a commerce writer for Bustle Digital Group as well as a freelance entertainment journalist with regular contributions to ScreenCrush, PopCrush, and more. I have a B.F.A. from Chapman University's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, and I currently reside in Long Beach, California.
I am a staff writer and product reviewer for Forbes Vetted currently residing in Austin, Texas. I primarily cover deals and consumer shopping, and previously worked as a deals staff writer for Wirecutter. My byline has also appeared in the New York Times. I have over four years of experience writing in the e-commerce sphere, and spend most of my time scouring the web for the latest consumer news and best discounts.
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Pvc Leather Vs Faux Leather As the senior beauty editor, I edit, assign and write about all things beauty and grooming, from buzzy styling tools to celebrity skincare favorites. I’ve been a journalist covering style and travel for more than 15 years, and I’ve written about everything from the best international spas worth the long-haul flight to the art of French girl hair. My work has appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, Allure, NYMag, Teen Vogue, People, Afar and many more. Previously, I held senior editorial roles at Lucky magazine, NBC Universal and Cookie magazine. A California native, I majored in English and French Literature at Amherst College and attended Columbia Journalism School.