I Tested the Leggings Favored by Pilates Enthusiasts—Is It Worth the Hype?

      A lot has been said about what constitutes the perfect leggings for workouts. No matter the intensity or type of training, the leggings you choose should allow for movement, manage sweat, and stay in place during squats, lunges, or running. While less critical, it’s still important that they are not see-through, stylish enough to look polished when grabbing a coffee post-class, and comfy enough for hours of lounging at home. These are indeed essential criteria, but they are not impossible to meet, especially with options like Adanola leggings available. Founded in 2015 by Hyrum Cook, this British athleisure brand has quickly made a name for itself in the crowded activewear market, particularly in the UK. Focusing on simplicity, the brand features streamlined designs in neutral colors without excessive details like zips or extra straps, which has garnered a loyal following and allowed them to earn significant revenue.

      Beyond the data, it’s their aesthetic that makes them a staple in fashionable wardrobes, with celebrities such as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Kaia Gerber often seen in the brand’s Ultimate Leggings. Kendall Jenner is also an ambassador for Adanola, and these high-profile endorsements, paired with a strong social media presence, help promote the brand among stylish women. Just a quick scroll through their social media and I found myself adding multiple items from their latest collection to my cart. The brand resonates with women who take Pilates classes on Chelsea's King’s Road and enjoy matcha at Marylebone's Abeulo café. This reputation raises the question: Are Adanola’s leggings truly deserving of the hype? As a diligent fashion writer, I grapple with this when recommending stylish workout gear. Having lived in Australia—home to brands like Nagnata and Pinky & Kamal, which excel in this area—I believe I have some insight.

      However, I should note that I am not an athlete. I have no interest in running marathons, avoid intense CrossFit sessions, and certainly won't film myself sweating while trying the Tracy Anderson Method. For me, the true test of whether Adanola leggings live up to the hype lies in whether they remain opaque during a Reformer class, keep their shape post-wash, don’t gather around my ankles, and don’t cause heat rashes after a workout. Therefore, to provide an honest review of Adanola leggings, I set out to test them thoroughly. After logging over 50,000 steps in them, I tried the brand’s most popular styles to discover the reason behind their acclaim. Did they win me over? Read on to see my thoughts.

      A Fashion Editor's Review of Adanola Leggings

      With nearly a million followers on Instagram and close to 10,000 positive reviews on their signature design, I was intrigued by what sets Adanola apart. I ordered two of their top-selling leggings: the Ultimate Leggings and the Ultimate Wrap-Over Leggings. Shipped in a simple black plastic bag, my first impression was the soft texture of the material. According to the website, it consists of “four-way stretch fabric,” which is actually a blend of 70% recycled polyamide and 30% elastane. This synthetic blend is common for high-quality leggings; however, it may irritate some sensitive skin types. Still, the touch and feel had an appealing uniqueness.

      After just a few wears, I discovered that the lower half of my body felt both supported and secure without being restrictive. Designed to be high-waisted, the front band hugged my stomach firmly, giving the impression of wearing a cutting-edge performance garment. Given how well they sculpt to your body, I worried they might pinch or slide down easily, but fortunately, that wasn’t the case. The Adanola leggings stayed up nearly all the time, slipping only a few inches during intense movements like mountain climbers or sit-ups. They have a modest rise, sitting right on my hips without exposing too much skin when wearing a sports bra or creating bulges while seated.

      But I should clarify, they’re very comfortable. Surprisingly, I leaned towards the wrap-over style over the other. Instead of a thick waistband, this style features a gentle front curve. Initially, I thought the design included a V-shape, but it turned out to be two overlapping pieces. This construction allowed for better stability during oblique exercises or side stretches compared to the other pair. Maybe it’s just me, but in these true compression tights, I felt like I exerted more energy and had more toned muscles simply because of how snug they felt. Note to self: Opt for seamless underwear next time!

      Shop the Adanola Leggings

      Adanola

      Ultimate Leggings

      Available in 19 colors, including 10 classics and 9 seasonal shades.

      Pros: They fit smoothly and remain in place.

      Cons: The price might be a barrier for some.

      Adanola

      Ultimate Wrap-Over Leggings