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.
Latest insights
Week of Sep 21–27 · Since Jul 5
Gymshark Gap between platforms: Gymshark's platform gap in Women's Activewear and Workout Gear widened: Google AI Mode 26.8%, ChatGPT Search 15.2%
Gymshark Slipping: Gymshark dropped 13 places to rank #24 of 79 in Women's Activewear and Workout Gear
Spanx Slipping: Spanx dropped 6 places to rank #21 of 79 in Women's Activewear and Workout Gear
Ten Thousand Slipping: Ten ThousandPatagonia moved ahead of Ten Thousand in Women's Activewear and Workout Gear
Patagonia Gaining: Patagonia moved ahead of Ten Thousand in Women's Activewear and Workout Gear
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.[]()
I'm looking for top-rated athleisure brands to check out. Which ones are currently considered the best?
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.
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.
The top-rated workout shorts currently on the market excel across categories like running, heavy lifting, and versatile cross-training. Reviewers and fitness communities consistently praise the following top performers for men and women:
Top-Rated Men's Workout Shorts
Men's Ten Thousand Shorts Ten Thousand Interval Shorts | Ten Thousand& more | 4.4(1.1K)
Ten Thousand Interval Short : Widely regarded as the best overall gym and CrossFit short. They feature ultra-durable, anti-odor fabric available in multiple inseam lengths (5", 7", or 9") with optional, highly supportive anti-chafing liners.
Vuori Men's Shorts Vuori Kore Unlined Short | Vuori Clothing& more | 4.6(626)
Vuori Kore Short : A favorite for everyday comfort and running, featuring a soft, premium boxer-brief liner and a casual aesthetic that transitions easily outside the gym.
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 -…
The best shorts with zipper pockets depend on how you plan to use them, but I’d prioritize secure zippered pockets, comfortable fabric, and a fit that works for everyday wear or exercise. If you want one versatile pair, lightweight athletic shorts with zippered hand pockets are a great place to start.
Here are the main options worth comparing: running shorts for workouts, hybrid shorts for everyday wear, and hiking shorts for durability and extra storage.
Best shorts with zipper pockets
(Best overall)
Vuori Sunday Performance Shorts
$84
4.8/5 · 46 reviews
Lightweight, stretchy, quick-drying shorts with multiple zip pockets. My pick for comfortable everyday wear, travel, and workouts.
The "best" shorts with zipper pockets depend heavily on what you plan to do in them—whether that's trail running, hiking, traveling, or hitting the gym.
Top-performing options categorized by their best use cases:
Best for Trail Running & Active Sports: Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts
Why they stand out: They feature deeply appreciated, secure zippered hand pockets that easily hold a phone or essentials without bouncing around, plus a lightweight 4-way stretch fabric and a comfortable, low-profile waistband. You can view details or purchase them via Public Lands.
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.
Vuori: The master of effortless, California-cool comfort. Famous for their dreamy Performance Joggers and incredibly soft tech tees, Vuori leans a bit more casual/lounge-forward and is an absolute favorite for travel and everyday ease.
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.[](https://www.vogue.com/article/best-activewear)
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?
lululemon Pace Breaker Shorts Men's | lululemon | 4.8(620)
Lululemon Pace Breaker Short : Exceptionally lightweight with a spacious cut, making them ideal for high-mobility training, running, or athletes with larger thighs who want zero restriction.
Baggies Shorts Patagonia Men's | Patagonia& more | 4.8(1.1K)
Patagonia Baggies Shorts : A classic, rugged choice available in 5" or 7" inseams. Made from quick-drying recycled nylon, they double seamlessly as swimwear and trail shorts.
lululemon Align High-Rise Short : The gold standard for yoga, Pilates, and low-impact lounging due to their buttery-soft, weightless Nulu fabric that feels like a second skin.
lululemon Wunder Train Shorts Women's High-Rise Short 6 | lululemon& more | 4.5(349)
lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Short : Engineered with fast-drying Everlux fabric [bodyandsoul.com.au/shop/best-bike-shorts/news-story/89ac3f0b5a2727a2a31247a1fb940a4c], these are the top choice for intense, high-sweat gym sessions and spin classes because they stay cool and compressive.
CRZ Yoga Butterluxe / 2-in-1 Shorts : The ultimate budget-friendly alternative that mimics high-end brands with incredible softness, squat-proof coverage, and secure waistbands at a fraction of the cost.
If you'd like to narrow down the choices, tell me:
Are you shopping for men's or women's shorts?
What is your primary activity (e.g., running, CrossFit, yoga, heavy lifting)?
As of October 2026, the strongest workout shorts depend on whether you're lifting weights, running, doing HIIT, or looking for something comfortable enough to wear all day. Recent expert testing highlights brands like Vuori, Ten Thousand, Nike, and Lululemon, while customer ratings help identify highly regarded alternatives.
Here are my top picks based on a combination of expert recommendations, available customer ratings, performance features, and value.
Top workout shorts worth considering
1. Vuori Kore Short
(Best overall)
Typical price: around $68
A great all-around option for gym sessions, travel, and everyday wear. Soft, stretchy fabric and a versatile design make it a standout choice. Men's Journal named it its best overall workout short for 2026.
Designed for lifting, sprints, and high-intensity workouts. It offers four-way stretch, quick-drying fabric, and lined or unlined versions. Men's Health and Men's Journal both highlight Ten Thousand's training shorts.
A strong choice if you prefer lightweight, unlined shorts with freedom of movement. Particularly appealing for people who dislike a built-in liner. Men's Health's testing coverage highlights the Pace Breaker linerless version for comfort.
A practical, lightweight option for running and general fitness. The brief liner provides support, and the current listing shows 4.6/5 from 444 reviews.
A good lower-cost option for general athletic training, with a 4.8/5 rating from 59 reviews in the available listing. Worth considering if you want functional gym shorts without paying premium-brand prices.
For women's workout shorts, Women's Health's September 2026 editor-tested roundup is another useful starting point, particularly for high-waisted options suited to Pilates, HIIT, and gym workouts.
One question so I can narrow this down: Are you shopping for men's or women's shorts, and what's your main workout?
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)
One important detail: check that the specific model has zippered pockets in the locations you want, since some shorts have only one zip pocket.
Quick question: What kind of shorts are you looking for?
1. Men's or women's?
Men's
Women's
Unisex
2. Main use?
Everyday wear / walking
Gym and running
Hiking / outdoor activities
Swimming / beach
3. Budget per pair?
Under $30
Under $50
$50–$80
$80+
[Find my best pair]
Best for Serious Hiking & Trekking: Fjallraven Abisko Shorts
Why they stand out: Built with a hybrid construction of ultra-tough G-1000 fabric and stretchy panels, these feature zippered hand pockets and a dedicated zippered leg/phone security pocket. They are rugged enough for rough terrain while maintaining a clean, comfortable fit under a pack.
Best Lightweight Performance/Fast Packing: Janji AFO Middle Shorts
Why they stand out: Known for a feather-light feel, these running/training shorts feature a moisture-wicking shell and a secure rear zip pocket designed specifically to keep valuables and phones locked down while you move.
Best Casual/Everyday Outdoor: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts
Why they stand out: Made from the beloved, highly breathable, and stretchy Ferrosi fabric, these pull-on style shorts include a handy zippered thigh pocket that keeps smaller items safe during climbing, hiking, or walking the dog.
If you can tell me what specific activity you'll be doing (running, hiking, casual wear, or traveling) and preferred inseam length , I can narrow this down to the exact model that fits your routine.
