I'm 5'3", and These Are the Workout Leggings That Actually Fit Me
Listen. I don't mind being a little bit on the short side. But at 5'3", I find there are some instances where I wonder why I didn't get my dad's tall genes and got my mom's petite ones instead. One: when I have to reach something on a high shelf. And two: when I'm trying to find pants.
Oh, pants—what a love-hate relationship I've had with you. When I was a preteen and teen, I found it tough to find jeans that didn't need to be hemmed. Some had shorter inseams, but for some options, I was out of luck. Anything "ankle" length fit me like full-length pants. While there are a lot more inseam options out there now, trying to find my new favorite jeans or pants can still be a long search, even to this day.
The same predicament applies to workout leggings. Most brands don't even have inseam options. And while you want your bottoms to fit all the time, it's especially important for your activewear to fit so that you can feel comfortable during workouts and so that the extra fabric doesn't really get in the way.
If you're reading this and nodding and saying "same," I got your back. As a wellness editor who has recently upped her workout game, I've tried out quite a few workout leggings lately, and I'm happy to say that there are some gems out there that will fit short people perfectly. No bunching up, just a sleek look—all without having to pull them up to your chest in order for the hem to hit correctly.
Take a look at some of my favorite options and others I've found through scouring online reviews below.
1. Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tight
2. Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging
With Girlfriend Collective's leggings, you get three inseam options—28 inches, 23 3/4 inches, and 19 1/2 inches. It's one of my favorite brands. The leggings are buttery soft yet supportive, and it's really cool that they're made from recycled water bottles.
3. Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging
Alo is another activewear brand I love. It has so many interesting colors and silhouettes; it definitely makes working out really fun. I find its 7/8 Leggings are the perfect length for me—they hit right at my ankles. The Airlift Leggings are super supportive, lifting, and sculpting. I've worn them for all kinds of workouts, from yoga to indoor cycling.
4. Zella High Waist Studio Lite Pocket 7/8 Leggings
5. Outdoor Voices Core 7/8 Legging
6. FP Movement High-Rise 7/8 You're a Peach Leggings
7. Avamo Yoga Pants
8. Nike One Lux 7/8 Tights
9. Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging
10. Lululemon Align Pant
11. Sweaty Betty Power Pocket Workout 7/8 Leggings
12. Athleta Elation Crossover Rib 7/8 Tight
13. Old Navy High-Waisted PowerPress 7/8-Length Compression Leggings
14. Under Armour Meridian Leggings
15. Port de Bras Arrow Leggings
Next up: The Workout Tops You'll Actually Want to Wear Outside of the Gym, Too
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work at Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.
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