Summary
As an avid hiker, I have crossed many mountains off my bucket list over the years. The Austrian Alps? Check. Abel Tasman Track in New Zealand? Also check. And most recently, I got to cross off three milestone hikes in one week, and those were Utah treasures Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Arches national parks. In seven days, my friend and I ditched our city lives to indulge in the natural riches of America.
Here’s the thing, we’re both fashion enthusiasts — I spend nine hours a day writing fashion stories and finding the best clothes to buy each season. I’ve tested dozens of leggings in my career and am quite honestly flabbergasted that this seemingly simple item of clothing can differ so vastly from brand to brand. I’ve got my buttery soft lounge leggings, my spandex gym leggings, and my movement-friendly hiking leggings. But most recently, I came across what’s possibly my favorite legging of them all: the celeb-loved Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush Legging.
Hiking Experience in Utah National Parks
Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush Legging Overview
$98 at Aloyoga.com
With seven days of hiking, one carry-on, and no washing machine, I knew I would need to pack items that could work double duty. This meant I needed leggings that were comfortable enough to sleep in during the flight, yet supportive enough for mountain hikes. Additionally, I required something that would keep me warm under the unforgiving air conditioning of the plane and something that would be moisture-wicking and cooling under the desert sun. These Alo Yoga leggings achieved all of that.
These leggings are slightly compressive with that spandex feel, yet the nylon keeps them surprisingly comfortable — I basically forgot I was wearing them. There’s nothing poking, scratching, or constricting; it felt like walking on air. It’s no wonder celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber love these leggings for traveling as well.
Moreover, what truly impressed me was their odor resistance. Even after hiking through dust and sweat, one wouldn’t guess they had been worn at all. This feature allowed me to wear them across multiple hikes without concern for unpleasant smells. In the past, I would typically pack two to three pairs of black leggings, but these singular leggings meet all my requirements.
These leggings come in nine colors, ranging from classic neutrals like black, gray, and ecru to fun shades like green tea and deep plum. Alo ensured that they cater to diverse customer preferences and styles. The core colors come in sizes extra-extra small (size 00) to extra large (size 18), while seasonal colors are limited to large (14).
Features and Benefits of Alo Yoga Leggings
$98 at Aloyoga.com
For laundry, you can machine wash these leggings with similar colors on a cold setting. However, I can admit my tendency for laziness led me to wash them on a warm cycle mixed with other items, and they retained their shape and feel remarkably well. The only drawback is the absence of pockets, which would have elevated their functionality.
Did the leggings make me feel as fabulous as when Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wore them? Kind of, yes. However, if celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski or Kendall Jenner sporting them isn’t enough to convince you, then perhaps the everyday comments from fellow wearers like “they feel like a second skin, so breathable and comfortable” will be more persuasive. Another user review mentioned that they possess “the right thickness for sweaty classes” while maintaining support and comfort throughout wear.
Additional Leggings Options for Travel
The Gym People Thick High-Waist Yoga Pants: $30 $25 at Amazon
Baleaf Fleece-lined Leggings: $52 $28 at Amazon
Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings: $30 at Amazon
At the time of publishing, the price started at $98.