Which Women's New Balance Leggings Are Right for Your Workouts?

Finding the perfect pair of sports leggings is no easy task. Between the different materials, cuts, and technologies, it's easy to get lost. A good pair of women's New Balance leggings must do it all: combine comfort, performance, and style, whether for an intense fitness session, a morning jog, or a relaxing yoga class.

This guide is here to help you see things more clearly. As the Head of the Sports section at Joybuy, my mission is to break down the essential criteria to help you choose the leggings perfectly suited to your needs and activities.

Buyer's Guide: Key Criteria for Choosing Your Sports Leggings

Before diving into our selection, let's review the key points for making the right choice.

1. Material and Technology: The Core of Performance

The fabric composition is crucial. A high-performance pair of women's sports tights is typically made of synthetic materials like polyester and elastane (spandex).

• Sweat-Wicking: To stay dry and comfortable, opt for fabrics with specific technologies. For example, New Balance uses NB DRY technology, which quickly wicks moisture away from the skin. This is a non-negotiable feature for women's running leggings.
• Stretch and Support: A good percentage of elastane (usually between 15?% and 25?%) ensures great freedom of movement while providing a light compression effect that supports the muscles.
• Opacity: Nothing is more uncomfortable than leggings that become see-through when stretched. Make sure the fabric is dense enough to remain opaque under all circumstances, especially during squats or lunges.

2. Cut and Length: A Matter of Comfort and Style

The cut of your leggings affects both your comfort and your silhouette.

• High-Waisted: Favoured by many female athletes, it offers excellent support around the core and prevents the leggings from slipping down during exercise.
• Length:
  • Full-Length: Ideal for full coverage, especially for running outdoors in cool weather.
  • 7/8 Leggings: Stopping just above the ankle, this cut is very trendy and valued for its versatility. It prevents fabric from bunching up at the shoes and offers better ventilation.
  • Cropped (or Capri): Stopping at mid-calf, it's perfect for indoor workouts or in warm weather.

3. Intended Use: The Right Leggings for Every Activity

The ideal New Balance fitness leggings won't necessarily be the same as women's running tights.

• For Running: Opt for a model with good compression, flatlock seams to prevent chafing, and, if possible, reflective elements for visibility. A small zippered pocket for keys or a smartphone is a real bonus.
• For Fitness and Weight Training: Durability and opacity are the priority. A high waist is highly recommended here to ensure flawless support.
• For Yoga and Pilates: Choose a very soft and stretchy fabric that follows your movements without any restriction. Comfort takes precedence over compression.

Top New Balance Leggings Picks

We have selected three flagship models that stand out for their features and meet very specific needs.

NEW BALANCE NB Athletics Leggings Black

Why it stands out: This model is a timeless classic, the quintessential versatile women's black leggings. Its simple and effective design makes it a reliable ally, equally at home in the gym or for everyday wear. Its lightweight fabric makes it comfortable to wear all day long.

Key features:

• High-quality stretch fabric for optimal freedom of movement.
• Versatile design, suitable for fitness, yoga, or casual wear.
• Flattering cut designed for the female form.
• Lightweight (200?g) for lasting comfort.

Who is it for? For those looking for a timeless, durable, and easy-to-style basic. It's the cornerstone of any athletic and casual wardrobe.

NEW BALANCE Achiever 7/8 Leggings Black

Why it stands out: The Achiever leggings stand out with their modern 7/8 cut and quality polyester construction. They offer a sleek, athletic look while ensuring the comfort and durability expected from sports gear. Their lightweight nature makes them a top choice for workouts where agility is key.

Key features:

• Modern 7/8 cut that highlights the ankle.
• 100% polyester fabric, durable and easy to care for.
• Classic black design for maximum versatility.
• Feather-light at 0.2?kg.

Who is it for? For athletes who appreciate the 7/8 cut for its style and comfort, whether for fitness sessions, cross-training, or active daily wear.

NEW BALANCE Printed Impact Tights Nightsky

Why it stands out: This model is clearly performance-oriented, making it an excellent pair of women's running tights. It incorporates NB DRY technology for optimal moisture management and is made in part from recycled materials. The ankle zips are a highly appreciated technical detail, making them easy to put on and take off, even over shoes.

Key features:

• NB DRY technology for quick drying and effective sweat-wicking.
• Sustainable composition with 77% recycled polyester.
• Ankle zips for added convenience.
• Fitted silhouette for muscle support during exertion.

Who is it for? For demanding runners and athletes looking for advanced technical features to optimize their performance and comfort during intense workouts.

Looking for Other Options?

Can't find your ideal model in this selection? No worries. Every athlete has unique needs. If you want to explore other cuts, colours, or technologies, feel free to browse our full collection.

Discover our entire collection of Gym Wear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I care for my New Balance leggings?

To preserve the quality and elasticity of your leggings, we recommend machine washing them in cold water (30?°C) with similar colours. Avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can damage the technical fibres. Opt for air-drying rather than using a tumble dryer.

What is the difference between leggings and tights?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, "tights" (like women's running tights) generally refer to a more technical garment with more significant compression, designed for performance sports like running. "Leggings" are often more versatile, focusing on comfort and style, and can be used for lower-intensity activities or as everyday wear.

Why choose 7/8 leggings?

7/8 leggings are an excellent compromise. Their length, which stops just above the ankle, offers several advantages: it prevents the fabric from bunching up at the shoes, provides better ventilation, and is seen by many as a modern and flattering cut.

Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer