Lululemon holds a clear lead across activewear questions, regularly recommended for versatile performance staples, workout shorts, and squat-proof black leggings. When shoppers look specifically for shapewear bodysuits, however, SKIMS becomes the usual answer.
Since July, IUGArising and Pcheebumrising have become regular recommendations for scrunch butt leggings, while Honeyloverising has grown into a regular name for shapewear bodysuits.
19% of citations point at the ranked brands’ own sites. reddit.com, glamour.com, verywellfit.com are the most-cited sites outside the ranked brands’ own domains.
If you're looking for scrunch butt (booty-lifting ruching) leggings online, several popular activewear brands offer high-waisted, contouring, and squat-proof options.
Here are top options where you can shop for them right now:
CRZ YOGA : Known for budget-friendly performance wear, you can find options like the Butterlift High Rise Scrunch Butt Legging starting around $32 on the CRZ Yoga Store.
Ryderwear US : Offers targeted seamless styles featuring invisible scrunch technology and V-back waistbands designed to sculpt curves. Check out options like the Stonewash Seamless V Back Leggings on the Ryderwear US Store.
: Features performance pieces like the equipped with glute-isolation seams and contouring ruching, available on the .
Fabletics : Offers ultra-soft, seamless high-waisted options with built-in booty-scrunch tech designed to compress and lift. Explore styles on the Fabletics Store.
Bombshell Sportswear : Famous for high-performance, dramatic contour shading and specialized scrunch designs. Browse selections directly on the Bombshell Sportswear Site.
You can buy scrunch butt leggings online from a range of activewear brands and marketplaces. Here are some options with different price points and styles:
Budget-friendly / everyday options
entity["brand","Pcheebum"] — specializes in scrunch butt leggings, including shaping, seamless, V-back, and acid-wash styles. Many options are around $40–$45.
entity["brand","IUGA"] — offers high-waisted scrunch leggings, including no-front-seam and pocket styles, often around the $25–$30 range.
entity["brand","Yeoreo"] — has seamless scrunch leggings with hidden scrunch details and V-shaped waistbands.
Gym-focused / higher-end options
entity["brand","Ryderwear"] — known for scrunch bum leggings designed for training, with seamless and “invisible scrunch” options.
entity["brand","WRE Apparel"] — sells push-up scrunch leggings and flared versions with contouring designs.
Marketplace options
TikTok Shop — has many scrunch leggings from brands such as YEOREO, Gymreapers, AUROLA, and others at a wide range of prices.
Nordstrom — carries some premium scrunch/butt-lift leggings from brands like Bombshell Sportswear.
Quick buying tips
For a stronger “lift” look: look for “scrunch bum,” “push-up,” “glute contour,” or “V-back.”
For comfort: seamless, four-way stretch fabrics usually feel softer for all-day wear.
For workouts: check for squat-proof fabric, high waistbands, and moisture-wicking materials.
For fewer sizing issues: check the brand’s size chart because scrunch seams and compression fits can run differently.
If you want, I can also narrow these down to the best-rated scrunch butt leggings under $50, Amazon options, or leggings that look like the viral TikTok styles.
Here are some popular online activewear stores and brands known for their scrunch butt and booty-lifting leggings:
Gymshark – Famous for their seamless collections (like the Lift or Adapt lines) that frequently feature contour shading and scrunch-detail stitching designed to enhance and lift.
Bombshell Sportswear – Renowned specifically for their high-performance Bombshell Scrunch Booty Leggings engineered for contouring and shape.
Ryderwear US – Offers options like their Ryderwear Extreme Scrunch Leggings and Ryderwear Stonewash Seamless V Back Leggings which feature signature invisible scrunch and tapered waistbands.[1]
ALO Yoga – Carries sleeker, premium styles like the ALO Softsculpt 7/8 Define Legging which features a subtle, invisible interior scrunch and no front seam.[1]
Fabletics – Frequently drops trendy collaborative and standard seamless collections featuring high-waisted scrunch designs.
TLF Apparel – Offers a variety of gym and athleisure wear, including their Cosmic Seamless Scrunch Butt Leggings.
If squat-proof is the priority, my top pick is the lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight. Multiple 2026 testing sources found them completely opaque during squats, lunges, and deadlifts, while also praising their compression, sweat-wicking, and stay-put waistband.
lululemon Unrestricted Power Leggings - $118.00 (lululemon)
My shortlist
Best overall for lifting:lululemon Wunder Train — medium compression, excellent opacity, and a hidden drawcord to keep the waistband in place.
Best if you want maximum compression:Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise — explicitly designed to be squat-proof, with a substantial, sweat-wicking fabric and sizes XXS–6XL.
Best with pockets:Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket — same compressive/squat-proof construction plus two deep side pockets.
Best budget option:RBX Tech Flex — around $45–47, with opaque squat-proof fabric and side pockets.
Girlfriend Collective Black Compressive High-Rise Legging - $108.00 (Girlfriend Collective)
RBX Active Tech Flex Squat-Proof 7/8 Leggings - $44.99 (Target)
If you want just one pair: I'd go with Wunder Train in black, particularly for weightlifting/squats. If you tell me your budget (e.g. under $50/$100) and whether you want pockets + a buttery-soft or compressive feel, I can narrow it to the exact pair.
When it comes to the absolute best black leggings that remain completely squat-proof , a few gold-standard options rise to the top depending on your preferred feel (compression vs. buttery soft) and budget:
The Vibe: Fast-drying, cool-to-the-touch, and supportive.
Why they’re squat-proof: Made from Lululemon's Everlux fabric, which is specifically engineered to feel breathable and weightless while remaining high-density and completely opaque during heavy lifts and deep squats.
Where to find: Shop them directly via Lululemon.
The Vibe: Ultra-supportive, inclusive sizing, and a secure held-in feel.
Why they’re squat-proof: Highlighted heavily by expert testing for their dense, thick, high-performance fabric that stretches without ever turning sheer. They offer fantastic compression without rolling down.
Where to find: Explore sizing and options on Superfit Hero.
The Vibe: Sculpting, sleek matte finish with a firm, smoothing hold.
If I had to pick the best athleisure brand right now, I'd start with Lululemon for its combination of performance, comfort, fit, and versatility. But the best brand really depends on whether you want a polished, minimalist look, trendy matching sets, luxury basics, or workout gear that doubles as everyday clothing.
Here’s how I’d narrow it down:
The top athleisure brands in 2026
1. Alo Yoga
(Best for style)
The choice for sleek matching sets, sculpted leggings, neutral colors, and that polished, off-duty-model aesthetic. It’s my pick if looking chic is as important as working out.
Excellent for yoga, Pilates, gym sessions, and everyday basics. Its Align leggings are known for their soft, lightweight feel, while the Wunder Train line suits more intense workouts.
Great for buttery-soft joggers, relaxed sweatshirts, travel outfits, and elevated everyday basics. A strong choice if you prioritize comfort over a super-compressive fit.
Best for practical, versatile activewear with options for different activities and body types. Worth considering if you want workout functionality alongside everyday wear.
Right now, there isn't just one undisputed champion—the "best" athleisure brand really depends on what vibe, fit, or price point you’re chasing. The market is split among a few heavy hitters that dominate street style, workouts, and lounging:
Lululemon: The reigning classic and performance giant. Known for buttery-soft staples like the Align leggings and Scuba hoodies, it remains the gold standard for durability and technical fabrics that actually survive both a heavy sweat session and a coffee run.
Alo Yoga: The undisputed king of celebrity-backed, high-fashion street style. If you want sleek, architectural silhouettes, tennis skirts, and statement jackets that look like they stepped right off a Los Angeles runway into an upscale brunch, Alo is the go-to.
Vuori: The master of effortless, California-cool comfort. Famous for their dreamy Performance Joggers and incredibly soft tech tees, leans a bit more casual/lounge-forward and is an absolute favorite for travel and everyday ease.
I'm looking for top-rated athleisure brands to check out. Which ones are currently considered the best?
Finding the "best" workout shorts depends heavily on your specific activity (lifting, running, or general cross-training) and personal preference for liners and lengths. Reviewers and testers consistently highlight several standout options across different categories:
Praised on OutdoorGearLab as an ultralight option featuring a comprehensive pocket system capable of carrying a phone, gels, and small essentials without needing a vest.
Highlighted by OutdoorGearLab as a pocket-rich, highly versatile choice featuring a supportive biker-style liner that works seamlessly across various running and gym distances.
Widely loved for casual training, yoga, and lifting, featuring a breathable anti-odor boxer-brief liner and buttery-soft 4-way stretch fabric.
Ten Thousand Interval / Session Shorts (Best for Heavy Training)Opinions on Reddit are mixed regarding recent quality consistency on glued seams, but many dedicated lifters still swear by their rugged durability, specialized anti-roll waistbands, and utilitarian build.
A cost-effective favorite noted by OutdoorGearLab that packs in zippered pockets and UV protection without the steep price tag of premium brands.
To narrow down the absolute best match for you, tell me:
What is your primary workout style (e.g., running, heavy weightlifting, CrossFit, or yoga)?
Do you prefer a liner (brief or boxer-brief) or no liner?
The best pair of workout shorts depends on how you train — running, lifting weights, HIIT, or everyday gym sessions all benefit from slightly different designs.
For an excellent all-around pair, I'd prioritize four things: lightweight, breathable fabric, a waistband that stays put, enough stretch for squats and lunges, and pockets that don't get in the way.
My top workout-short picks
1. Vuori Kore Short
(Best overall)
Premium pick · about $78
Comfortable, versatile shorts for gym sessions, light running, and everyday wear. A great choice if you want one pair that does almost everything.
Here are some of the top-rated workout shorts widely praised for performance, comfort, and durability across various training styles:
LSKD Men's Challenger 6" Performance Short | us.lskd.co | 4.8(1.2K)
A favorite for general training and gym workouts, featuring a 4-way stretch, ultra-soft compressive waistband, and handy dual-zip pockets. Available on the LSKD Online Store.
On Men's 7" Performance Shorts | On& more | 4.8(26)
Engineered for runners and high-intensity sessions with an ultralight technical fabric blend, inner brief, and secure zipped back pocket for distraction-free movement. Check details and offers via On Running.
I searched current workout-short recommendations and online options. My advice is to prioritize comfort, sweat-wicking fabric, a good fit, and pockets that actually work rather than paying extra just for a big brand name. For most people, the best choice depends on whether you're lifting weights, running, or doing general gym workouts.
Here are the options I'd shortlist, from affordable everyday shorts to premium training gear.
My top picks to buy online
BEST VALUE FOR TRAINING
Men's PaceLite Shorts W/ Zipper Pockets 5"
$34.99
MIER · 4.8/5 (357 reviews)
Lightweight, quick-drying 5-inch shorts with stretch and zippered pockets. A good all-rounder for running and gym sessions.
Shop at MIER
BEST BUDGET PICK
Old Navy Men's Stretchtech Workout Shorts -- 7-Inch Inseam -…
Finding the "best" pair of shorts with zipper pockets depends heavily on what you plan to do in them—whether it is running, gym training, hiking, or casual everyday wear.
Top-rated options tailored to different use cases include:
Best for Premium Athletic & Training: lululemon Spacer Track Short 7" features clean, zippered hand pockets equipped with hidden internal phone and coin sleeves. They offer a roomy athletic fit, premium breathable fabric, and a sleek look that transitions easily from the gym to casual errands.[1]
Best Value / Budget Performance: MIER Men's Quick Dry Running Shorts with Zipper Pockets are widely praised for offering deep front zippered pockets plus a rear zip pocket. Made with a lightweight, 4-way stretch quick-dry material, they provide high-end security for phones and keys at a fraction of the cost.[1]
Best Versatile Everyday / Hybrid: Alpine Swiss Andres Athletic/Casual Shorts balance a tailored lifestyle look with high-performance nylon-spandex stretch. They feature deep front pockets and a secure back zipper pocket, making them ideal if you want technical comfort that still passes for casual daily wear.[1]
Best for Running (Women): lululemon Track That High-Rise Lined Short features a discreet, secure side zippered pocket for your running essentials, a comfortable flat waistband, and a supportive built-in liner.[1]
To help narrow down the ideal choice, tell me:
What primary activity will you use them for (running, hiking, casual wear, gym)?
Gymshark — has a dedicated scrunch-butt collection with high-rise, seamless, and glute-sculpting styles, including the Intense Bum Scrunch Leggings.
Buffbunny — their Aggressive Scrunch Legging has a high rise and elasticized back seam specifically designed to separate/contour the glutes.
Alphalete — offers hidden-scrunch styles; one current Tenacity legging is listed at $64.
Ryderwear — has several scrunch styles, including NKD, Stonewash, Honeycomb and Staples, with some current listings around $13–$73 depending on style/color.
IUGA — offers butter-soft, high-waisted scrunch leggings with a no-front-seam design.
CRZ YOGA — has hidden-scrunch and no-front-seam options, including flared styles.
WRE Apparel — carries both standard and push-up scrunch designs.
V3 Apparel — has seamless, sweat-wicking scrunch leggings in several styles.
If you want the most pronounced scrunch, I'd look specifically for terms like “aggressive scrunch,” “V-back scrunch,” “butt-lifting,” or “push-up scrunch.” For a subtler look, search for “hidden scrunch” or “invisible scrunch.”
If you'd like, I can also narrow these down to the best 10 under $40, Amazon options, or leggings with a very pronounced scrunch and no front seam.
Pcheebum — lots of scrunch styles, including V-back and seamless options. Their current scrunch leggings start around $41.99–$44.99.
Aeon Athletics — specializes in hidden-scrunch and V-back styles; current options are around $50.50.
IUGA — has buttery-soft, high-waisted scrunch leggings with a no-front-seam design, around $29.99.
WRE Apparel — seamless scrunch leggings around $38.93, with a large number of customer reviews.
Target — carries the All In Motion Super Flex Scrunch Leggings, currently around $35.
Ryderwear — has several seamless scrunch styles, including its Stonewash Scrunch Seamless Leggings; current listings range from about $51–$89.
Women's Best — their Define 2.0 leggings have a low-back scrunch and are currently listed around $31.99.
Walmart — has a very large selection of inexpensive scrunch leggings, with some options starting under $20.
Rogiani — offers a more premium Bambola Scrunch Back style with ruching directly beneath the waistband, available in regular, 7/8, and tall lengths.
If you mean the specific style where there's a small gathered/ruched seam vertically between the butt cheeks, rather than just a V-shaped waistband, I can narrow this down to 10–15 stores with that exact seam, including cheaper options under $30.
Why they’re squat-proof: Crafted from a mid-weight Peach Perfect polyamide/elastane blend that is engineered to be 100% opaque, making them a powerhouse for heavy strength training and intense workouts.
Where to find: Check availability on LNDR or REI.
The Vibe: Budget-friendly, buttery-soft, and flattering.
Why they’re squat-proof: They feature a medium-weight, interlock knit fabric that prevents transparency while keeping you comfortable during yoga or general gym sessions.
Where to find: Available via budget retailers or Amazon.[3]
To help narrow down the ideal pick for you, let me know:
What is your primary activity (heavy lifting/crossfit, running, or casual wear/yoga)?
Do you prefer a high-compression feel or a naked-sensation buttery soft feel?
Free People Movement: Best for bohemian-inspired, trend-forward pieces. They excel at playful matching sets, fun textures, and unique colorways that feel a little more youthful and creative than traditional athletic gear.
Athleta: A top contender for inclusive sizing, travel-friendly performance pants (like the Endless Pant), and functional everyday wear that transitions seamlessly into a smart-casual workplace.
If you want to narrow it down, tell me:
Are you looking for super soft loungewear, trend-driven streetwear , or performance gear for actual workouts?
Alo Yoga Match Point Short (Women's) | ALO& more | 5.0(1)
A high-cut, flowy performance staple featuring lightweight woven fabric, a built-in brief, and a relaxed fit ideal for studio practice or running. Available directly on the Alo Yoga Store.
Rogue Black Ops Shorts 2.0 | Rogue Fitness | 4.4(33)
Known for toughness and flexibility during cross-training and heavy lifting, built from a 4-way stretch material with strategic mesh venting. View sizing and specs at Rogue Fitness.
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Keep Pace 7" Short (Women's) | Beyond Yoga& more | 4.6(58)
Widely loved for its buttery-soft feel, moisture-wicking properties, and comfortable high-waisted fit that stays put during yoga, pilates, or lounging.[1][2][3][4]
If you'd like to narrow down the options, tell me:
The best workout shorts depend on whether you’re lifting weights, running, doing HIIT, or looking for a comfortable pair for everyday wear. Based on current product ratings and recent expert testing, these are the options I’d put at the top of your shopping list.
For all-around training, Ten Thousand Interval is a standout; for a more affordable option, Nike Pro shorts offer excellent value. For women’s training, high-waisted compression shorts and lightweight 2-in-1 shorts are both worth considering.
Top picks at a glance
1. Vuori Kore Short
(Best overall)
Typical price: $68
A versatile, lightweight short for lifting, cardio, and everyday wear. Four-way stretch and several inseam lengths make it a strong all-rounder. Men's Journal highlights its large base of positive customer reviews.
A fitted, stretchy option with sweat-wicking fabric. Great for lifting, spin classes, and high-intensity workouts when you prefer shorts that stay close to your body.
A durable training option designed for demanding gym sessions. The six-inch length is a good middle ground for squats, lunges, and other strength exercises.
A high-waisted, layered design combining a loose outer short with a fitted inner layer. A good choice for running, HIIT, and people who want extra coverage.
These are editorial recommendations, not a strict ranking by customer rating: review counts and prices vary by retailer, style, and size. Check the linked listings for current availability and your preferred fit.
To pick the best workout shorts online, it helps to match the style and fabric to your specific routine (running, weightlifting, or lounging). Here are top-rated options categorized by performance and value:
Lululemon Pace Breaker (Men's) | lululemon | 4.8(855)
Widely considered the gold standard for versatility. You can browse options on the Lululemon Pace Breaker Short Page . They feature a lightweight 4-way stretch, secure zip pockets, and choices of liner or linerless configurations.
Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 (Women's) | Gymshark& more
Excellent for gym workouts and weight training. Check out styles directly on the Gymshark Vital Seamless Shorts Page . They offer a supportive high waist, flattering contour shading, and sweat-wicking material.
Old Navy StretchTech / Powersoft (Budget-Friendly) | oldnavy.gap.com& more | 4.8(3.7K)
If you want the best shorts with zipper pockets, my top recommendation depends on whether you're wearing them for running, working out, hiking, or everyday use. I compared current product options and gear reviews, prioritizing secure pockets, comfort, durability, and value.
Best shorts with zipper pockets
(Best overall)
Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts
About $69–$79
A great all-around option for running, hiking, and casual wear. Lightweight stretch fabric, two zippered hand pockets, and a rear snap pocket make these especially versatile.
Breathable, quick-drying fabric with four-way stretch and secure storage. A strong budget-friendly choice for gym sessions, walks, and everyday workouts.
Best for serious runners who want multiple storage options without carrying a belt. The design has five pockets, including a rear zippered phone pocket, and is exceptionally lightweight.
Vuori Sunday Performance Shorts in Black at Nordstrom, Size …
$84.00 · Vuori
Best for casual wear, travel, and workouts if you prefer a softer, more polished athletic look. Stretchy, quick-drying fabric and multiple zip pockets make it a versatile everyday option.
