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Like every good millennial, I grew up on Old Navy. The younger, more affordable sibling of GAP, which still maintained a good level of quality. When Athleta came onto the scene, it felt like they were targeting that same generation of kids who grew up on Old Navy and were now looking for something more premium to match their lifestyle.
Athleta has felt like Old Navy’s boujee sister ever since. They share the same down-to-earth roots, but with a higher price tag. I’ve always trusted Old Navy’s quality. Naturally, I was curious.
Does Athleta’s Lululemon-level pricing come with the same level of quality? Do they actually perform where it matters, or are we paying for a fancy logo?
I picked up the Elation Legging with the Sport Stripe in a ⅞ length to find out for myself. I put them through workouts and long travel days. After weeks of testing, it’s obvious that you get what you pay for.
Athleta Elation High Rise Legging
$99
Pros
- Buttery soft feel
- Good for everything
- Nice style options
Cons
- Waistband gap can be hit or miss
Best For
- Strength Training
- Travel and Leisure
- Yoga and Pilates
- Light to Moderate Class Workouts
Specs
| Breathability | Good |
| Compression/Support | Moderate |
| Sweat-Wicking | Good |
| True to Size | Yes |
| Times Washed | 15+ (they've been great!) |
Who Should Buy Athleta’s Elation Legging?
- You Like Medium Compression: If you prefer a medium compression legging, these are perfect for you.
- You Want Gym/Daily Crossover: If you’re looking for that elevated athleisure aesthetic that can transition from the gym to the office, these fill that niche.
- You Want Something That Lasts: If you want a pair of leggings that are durable and versatile, these will hold up to anything you put them through.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Athleta’s Elation Legging?
- You Need High Compression: If you prefer a higher compression legging, especially for running and lifting, you’ll want to skip these. For this ask, look into leggings like the Alo Airlift or the Lululemon Fast and Free.
- You Want Premium On a “Budget”: If you’re shopping on a budget, the $89-99 price point puts them firmly in the premium category. If you’re wanting to spend considerably less, I can vouch for the CRZ Yoga Leggings which cost about ~$50.
Sizing & Fit
About Me: I am 5’3” 122 lbs. For form fitting clothes/athletic wear I am typically a size small. In Abercrombie Jeans I wear a 24/26 Regular depending on the style.
I ordered the “Regular” length with a 25-inch inseam and, honestly, regret it. They’re a smidge too short for comfort. I have longer legs for my height and the 25-inch inseam falls a few inches above my ankle. It’s not terrible if I’m wearing taller socks but crew socks leave a gap that drives me crazy.
They are a near perfect fit through my hips and waist. The waist is a bit higher than I was expecting, though. It’s not too big or too loose, it fits snugly. It creates a bit of a “back gap” sometimes. Definitely not a dealbreaker, but more something to be aware of.
I’d say for most ladies, stay true to size and match the length to what you wear from Lulu. I should have, and I’m kicking myself for getting too adventurous.
Performance Assessment
Lifting: 8/10
I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable and how well these performed in the gym. The medium-level compression gave me just the right amount of support and lift without being too suffocating or restrictive. I typically prefer something with higher compression, especially for lower-body days and higher intensity workouts.
I didn’t have any issues with them sliding or moving around during any of my F45 classes or workouts. It’s always annoying having to pull leggings back up or adjust them between sets or mid-workout.
The only frustration, admittedly a mild frustration, is the ultra high rise waist. It’s not too loose or too big, but it does create a back gap during hinging movements, like RDLs. It’s a small price to pay for the high waist fit.
Running: 8/10
Similar to lifting, I prefer a higher compression for running. I like that locked-in and supported feel. The medium compression on these, despite being soft and comfortable, falls short of that high compression I look for. It does hold up well enough for shorter treadmill runs and interval circuits.
They’re also not super breathable, a downside of the triple-layer waistband and side stripe detailing. It’s not ideal for longer runs. That said, they do a great job of wicking away sweat and drying quickly which helps offset the lack of breathability a bit.
The triple-layer waistband has another perk to it, it stays in place. There’s no rolling or shifting during running that’s common with thinner waistbands. It also has a hidden pocket in the back of the waistband that’s big enough to stash my phone and key in. You know how much I love running hands-free. This is a big deal.
Yoga & Pilates: 9/10
This is where they really shine. All of the reasons that made Athleta’s Elation Legging not the best for running and lifting are the exact things that help them excel in low-impact classes. The ultra high waist and medium compression are made for yoga and Pilates. There was no digging or rolling with the waistband during any of the folding movements. I also never had to adjust them while on the reformer in Pilates.
Did I mention how soft these are? In classes where mobility and comfort matter more than anything, these were absolutely perfect. They moved and stretched with me without losing their shape or form.
Daily Wear: 9/10
I love these leggings for everyday use. The design elevates them, giving them a little something extra over the usual plain black leggings. They bring something more to the casual, athleisure outfit that others don’t. I really love the double- and triple-layer contrast trend, and these nail it.
The medium compression is the right balance of flattering and supportive without feeling too tight or restricting. They’re such an easy go-to for travel days or running errands when you want to feel comfortable, and look put together.
Construction & Materials
These are made with Athleta’s Powervita fabric that promises a buttery-soft feel that maintains support, and that’s spot on.
The triple-layer waistband features a back pocket that’s big enough to hold your phone without worrying about it falling out.
They come in three different lengths (Petite – 23-inch, Regular – 25-inch, and Tall – 28-inch). And yes, it does have a front seam.
Final Thoughts: Would I Get Again?
I really enjoyed these leggings from Athleta. They struck a balance between comfort and style that’s incredibly rare, while still performing when it mattered.
They haven’t worn out or deteriorated after multiple washes. They’re still as soft, durable, and supportive as they were out of the package.
The medium-level compression shines in low-impact settings like yoga, Pilates, and long travel days.
They do come at a higher price point than a lot of the other options in the Gap/Old Navy family. For what they offer, though, they’re worth the investment.
If you’re looking for a versatile legging that can transition seamlessly (except for that front seam) from the gym to errands to long road trips, a legging that transcends athleisure and brings an elevated, chic aesthetic, these are a solid choice.
The soft fabric, flattering waistband, and contrast stripe design make them a go-to for anyone who values comfort, style and support.
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