As much as I love my traditional leggings, I get bored with them from time to time and crave an elevated look without sacrificing comfort and function. Luckily, I’ve been seeing women here and there wearing cargo leggings. I knew that cargo pants were making a comeback from the 90s so it only makes sense that I’d begin to see the cargo style make its way to leggings as well. Since cargo leggings are fairly new to the athleisure world I had to do some research to find out which ones to buy. I am also on a tight budget lately so need a pair that is affordable. So, what are the best cargo leggings to rock this winter? In this article, we will discuss our top picks for under $100.
What are the Benefits of Cargo Leggings vs Traditional Leggings?
Traditional leggings are one of the main staples in most women’s wardrobes. They are comfy, versatile, and functional. However, they often lack two key elements: pockets and shape. Cargo leggings provide both.
Cargo leggings are not only comfortable but they take versatility and functionality to the next level by:
- Providing More Functionality: with several pockets to store your essentials.
- Providing More Versatility: You can dress them up more easily than traditional leggings.
- Giving Your Shape More Definition: The pockets are what give your legs and booty more definition.
What to Look for in a Quality Pair of Cargo Leggings?
Material: The fabric and construction used to make the cargo leggings are everything. It’s important to look for a combination of materials that will give you the perfect amount of softness, stretch, and support. Our favorite combination of materials to achieve this is nylon and spandex/elastane or a cotton/polyester/spandex blend.
Compression: There is a fine line between too much compression (where you feel restricted) and not enough (where you feel unsupported). Be sure to check the fabric composition and how the product is woven to better judge the compression. In general, an interlock, flat weave is ideal.
Quality of Pockets: Be sure to check the detail of the pockets. Pockets that lay flat against the pants and/or have a closure (like a button or zipper) are ideal.
Waistband: The waistband is everything when it comes to any kind of leggings. Seamless, wide waistbands will provide the most comfort and support. There is nothing worse than a waistband that isn’t high enough or, even worse, digs into your waist!
How to Style Cargo Leggings
Cropped Hoodie | White Sneakers
Beige Knit Sweater | Buckle Booties
Sherpa Jacket | Cinched Cropped Top | Black Booties
Yellow Cardigan | Scarf | Brown Boots
Long Sleeve Cropped Top | Metallic Stilletos
What are the Best Cargo Leggings Under $100?
FEATURES:
- 78% Polyester / 22% Spandex
- Provide Stretch & Support
- High-Waisted
- 2 Pockets - Back / 2 Pockets - Sides
- Flattering on All Body Types
- Available in 1 Color
FEATURES:
- 78% Nylon / 22% Spandex
- Butt Lifting Design
- Bum Scrunch
- Supportive Waistband
- 2 Pockets - Back / 2 Pockets - Sides
- Available in 4 Colors
FEATURES:
- 85% Polyester / 15% Spandex
- Sizes XS-4X
- Available in Petite, Regular, and Tall
- High-Waisted
- 2 Cargo Pockets on Side
- 2 Traditional Pockets in Front
- Available in 3 Colors
FEATURES:
- 79% Polyester / 21% Elastane
- Sizes XS-4X
- 4-Way Stretch for Comfort & Support
- The Smile-Shaped Seam Makes Waist Look Slimmer
- V-Shaped Seam Above Booty
- 2 Flap Pockets - Back / 2 Flap Pockets - Sides
- Available in 10 Colors
FEATURES:
- 75% Polyester / 25% Spandex
- Sizes S-XXL
- Interlock Fabric Provides Stretch and Support
- High-Waisted Tummy Control
- 2 Pockets - on Side / 2 Pockets - in Back
- Available in 9 Colors
FEATURES:
- 71% Polyamide / 29% Elastane
- Sizes XXS-XL
- 4-Way Stretch
- Buttery Soft Fabric (Naked Feeling)
- 2 Side Pockets / 2 Back Pockets (With Button Closure)
- High Waistband Stays in Place
- Available in 4 Colors
FEATURES:
- 87% Nylon / 13% Spandex
- Sizes XXS-L
- Color Blocking Detail on Pockets and Knee
- Buttery Soft Fabric
- 4 Slip-in Pockets (2 in Front, 2 on Side)
- Available in 3 Colors
FEATURES:
- 75% Nylon / 25% Spandex
- Sizes XS-XL
- Buttery Soft Fabric
- 4 Pockets with Button Closure (2 on Side / 2 in Back)
- Available in 6 Colors
FEATURES:
- 75% Polyester / 25% Spandex
- Sizes S-XL
- 4-Way Stretch; Buttery Soft Fabric
- V-Shaped Seam Above Booty (has a lifting effect)
- 4 Cargo Pockets (2 in Back, 2 on Sides)
- Available in 7 Colors
FEATURES:
- Sizes S-L
- Drawstring in Waistband
- Ribbed Detail on Waistband
- Ribbed Cuff Ankle Detail
- 4 Pockets (2 front slip-in and 2 side-zippered)
- Available in 2 Colors
FEATURES:
- 100% Nylon
- Sizes S-XL
- Tummy Control High Waistband
- Squat Proof
- 4 Flap Pockets (2 in back, 2 on side)
- Available in 4 Colors
FEATURES:
- 70% Nylon / 30% Spandex
- Sizes XXS-3X
- Squat-Proof; Stay in Place
- Drawstring in Waistband
- 4-Way Stretch; Buttery Soft
- 2 Side Slip-in Pockets
- Available in 2 Colors
- Note: These Leggings Run Small
FEATURES:
- 73% Nylon
- Sizes XS-L
- Squat-Proof
- 4-Way Stretch
- Double-Faced Fabric
- 4 Buckle Closure Pockets (2 - back / 2 - sides)
- V-Shaped Seam Above Booty
- Available in 1 Color
What are the Best Cargo Leggings to Splurge on?
FEATURES:
- 55% Cotton / 29% Rayon / 13% Polyester / 3% Elastane
- Sizes XS-3X (available in petite, regular, and tall)
- 4-Way Stretch Fabric for Ultimate Comfort and Support
- 6 Pockets (2 side slip-in, 2 back flap pockets, 2 side flap pockets)
- Available in 5 Colors
FEATURES:
- Nylon/Spandex
- Sizes 0-16
- High-Rise Waistband Sits at Natural Waist
- Durable and Abrasion Resistant Fabric
- UPF 50+
- Internal Drawcord
- 6 Secure Zip Pockets (front, sides, back)
- Available in 4 Colors
Final Thoughts: What are the Best Cargo Leggings
If you are a leggings lover like me but get bored with them from time to time and are looking to switch it up then we suggest adding a pair (or two) of cargo leggings to your wardrobe this winter. Cargo leggings not only provide the same level of comfort but also take function and style to the next level.