Whether they're headed to school, ballet class, or a play-date with friends, tween girls love donning a comfy pair of leggings. It's practically their uniform—a much more relaxed version of the denim that had previously been the standard. After all, leggings have been trying to replace jeans for years, and for tweens, they finally have. Because of their casual style and flexibility, they’re a no-brainer when it comes to comfort, and no matter the season, you can find women of all ages in a pair.
Investing in a few pairs of basic leggings is essential, especially when you're as on-the-go as the average middle schooler. These everyday staples are simple to style, available in tons of colors and patterns, and can stretch a mile away. Plus, they're just as great for wearing underneath dresses as they are for wearing alone. Between going to the mall with friends, playing sports, and relaxing at home, your tween needs a pair that's durable enough to withstand physical activities and comfortable enough for lazy days at home.
How We Found The Best Tween Leggings
With all of that in mind, we rounded up a list of the Top 10 styles out there. To complete this list, we turned to the help of our unique algorithm. This proprietary tool ranks and scores products by factoring in best-selling buzz, editor recommendations, rave reviews, and more. From classic cotton options fit for lounge days to sweat-wicking picks ideal for active ones, keep scrolling to shop the best leggings for tweens.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Kids Backpacks.
August 23, 2022
Written By:Rank & Style
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
City Threads Girls' Leggings
Overall Score
4.05
10
City Threads Girls' Leggings
4.5
3339 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHO IT'S FOR: For children with sensitive skin, these 100% cotton leggings are soft and suitable. They're made for playgrounds, school, parties, sports, and beyond, so she can wear them anywhere. And they're free of harsh dyes and chemicals, so your kiddo can play worry and discomfort-free.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These leggings come in five different striped colors and 21 solid colors—talk about variety.
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Athleta High Rise Chit Chat Tight
Overall Score
4.15
09
Athleta High Rise Chit Chat Tight
4.9
187 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: These leggings come in so many cool patterns, are made with Athleta's buttery-soft Powervita fabric, and most notably, have an adjustable drawcord that allows for room to grow. They can be worn year-round and last for a while, so they're perfect for growing kiddos.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These are made with quick-drying, sweat-wicking, breathable recycled materials.
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Nordstrom Kids' High Waist Leggings
Overall Score
4.15
08
Nordstrom Kids' High Waist Leggings
4
24 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
USER REVIEW: "These are by far the best leggings I have found for my daughter. They are the only ones I buy now! So soft and comfy, wash and wear well. Have had several in navy and black, but just added the grey—great color."
HELPFUL TIP: Reviewers report that these leggings are thinner, so they may be more suited for the warm weather than the winter months.
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Athleta Girl High Rise Stash Your Treasures Tight
Overall Score
4.15
07
Athleta Girl High Rise Stash Your Treasures Tight
4.9
337 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: These activewear leggings are buttery soft and have two side pockets for stashing treasures. Not only are they essential for the back-to-school season, but they also come in sizes from XS to XXL, so you can find something that works for every child.
WHERE TO WEAR: These quick-drying leggings are made for the active tween. She can wear them to school, practice, and playdates without suffering from sweat.
More Colors
H&M 2-Pack Leggings
Overall Score
4.2
06
H&M 2-Pack Leggings
4.5
78 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: The only thing better than a single pair of great leggings is a pack of two. These H&M leggings are guaranteed to give you some bang for your buck, and if your kiddo wears one out, there's another ready to go behind it.
STYLE WITH: Style with some patterned sneakers to add a little fun to these basic black leggings.
J.Crew Girls' Everyday Leggings
Overall Score
4.25
05
J.Crew Girls' Everyday Leggings
4
65 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
USER REVIEW: "We bought these as part of my daughter's school uniform, and I'm sure they will work great under her school jumper as the weather cools down. J.Crew leggings really are a standout among other brands in fit and quality. The navy is nice and dark. The material is thicker than other brands, and we especially like the thick elastic waistband that J.Crew/Crewcuts uses."
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: These durable leggings come in cute pastel and neutral colors as well as a bold bright called Neon Flame—a J.Crew fan favorite.
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Cat & Jack Girls' Leggings
Overall Score
4.3
04
Cat & Jack Girls' Leggings
4.6
1548 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
USER REVIEW: "These were so good for my active child—very durable and the material is comfortable, so she gave me two thumbs up. Size and fit is perfect and for the price!"
STYLE WITH: Add these under a school uniform dress for kiddos who like some additional coziness—especially in winter. They come in the standard uniform colors, so matching is sure to be a breeze.
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Gap Kids Organic Cotton Leggings
Overall Score
4.3
03
Gap Kids Organic Cotton Leggings
4.8
238 User Reviews
2.7
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHO IT'S FOR: These leggings are the definition of easy. The elastic pull-on waist combined with the relaxed fit makes them something your kid will want to wear every day. Plus, they come in eight different color and pattern options—so be sure to grab a few.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This pair's soft jersey fabric is made from 96% organically grown cotton, free of synthetic pesticides and fertilizer.
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Old Navy Solid Leggings
Overall Score
4.3
02
Old Navy Solid Leggings
4.7
9321 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Old Navy has many options on this list, and for good reason. These leggings were made with comfort and durability in mind, and they ring up at just $5 a pop—a great addition to your kiddo's everyday wardrobe. The retailer's jersey fabric brings added softness, so they can play all day.
USER REVIEW: “My daughter loves these leggings! Pair them up with a skirt or shorts. They are very versatile, very good quality, and an amazing price."
More Colors
Old Navy High-waisted Powersoft Side-pocket Leggings For Girls
Overall Score
4.5
01
Old Navy High-waisted Powersoft Side-pocket Leggings For Girls
4.8
989 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Not only do these leggings boast funky prints and comfy elastic, but they also come with deep side pockets. And it has four-way super stretch to aid movement along with moisture-wicking properties—perfect for any girl on the go.
STYLE WITH: Pair it with the matching longline sports bra to complete the set.
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