Level Up Your Vancouver Uniform: 8 Pairs of Very Nice Black Leggings

When was the last time you bought a pair of black leggings? I’m willing to bet it’s been awhile—because same. Black leggings have become a staple, and once you find a pair that fits well, it’s hard to say goodbye.

But it’s a new year, and that means it’s time for a new beginning and a new pair of smooth, soft and super-comfy pants (maybe even two pairs, you crazy thing!). Whether you want to be more active or take more rest days in 2024, these leggings can help you achieve your goals in style.

Tri Stripe Kit Leggings from Kit and Ace

Black leggings may be a wardrobe basic, but that doesn’t mean they have to be basic—and this pair from Kit and Ace proves it. These will quickly become your go-to leggings for pretty much every activity. The no-dig waistband, hidden cell phone pocket and flat seams provide the fit and function, while the side stripes provide the flair. $99, kitandace.com

Bamboo High Rise Leggings 2.0 from Public Myth

If buying more ethically made and environmentally kind clothing is on your list of New Year’s resolutions, these leggings are for you. All of Public Myth’s garments are made in Vancouver with sustainable materials (bamboo, in this case) and shipped in eco-friendly packaging. $89, shop.publicmyth.ca

TnAction SnoForm Polar Atmosphere Hi-Rise Legging from Aritiza

We may have had a mild December, but it’s likely the snow will come soon—and when it does, you’re going to want a pair of these fleece-lined leggings. They’re breathable, stretchy and cozy, making them a perfect base-layer for skiing and snowboarding (or navigating a city that never seems to learn from its past winter mistakes). $88, aritiza.com

Sports and Rec Tight from Left on Friday

I don’t own a pair of these tights, but I can confidently say that they are made with the most comfortable and most flattering material—because I do own four Left on Friday bathing suits and a Plunge Playsuit, and can therefore personally vouch for the brand’s proprietary Super Moves Fabric. It’s compressive, fast-wicking and beyond soft. Trust me: you may buy these locally designed leggings for your morning yoga class, but you’ll be wearing them long, long after. $130, ca.leftonfriday.com

Go with the Flow High Rise Leakproof Legging from Knix

It’s been four years since Knix opened its first store in Kitsilano, and you know what? We’re still so excited about it. Whether you already own some of the brand’s sleepwear, swimwear or underwear, or are simply looking for a pair of tights that you can feel confident moving in during your period, these Go with the Flow leggings deserve a spot in your drawer—the built-in liner makes these tights leak-proof and sweat-proof. $110, knix.ca

Align High-Rise Ribbed Mini-Flared Pant from Lululemon

I’m not sure what’s more difficult: swapping skinny jeans for wide-leg denim or trading skin-tight tights for flared leggings. Luckily, Lululemon is making it easy for me and my fellow millennials to embrace the trend with these leggings, which have a barely-there flare and a ribbed texture. We shouldn’t have expected anything less from the athleisure juggernaut. $138, shop.lululemon.com

InMotion 7/8 Pocket Legging from Tentree

Here’s another pair for all you environmentally conscious shoppers. Tentree’s InMotion leggings are made from recycled post-consumer waste, but you’d never know it from the feel of them—the four-way stretch knit fabric is buttery soft. The pockets (including two hidden in the waistband!) are really just the cherry on top. $78, tentree.ca

Booty Boost Active Leggings from Spanx

Spanx’s Faux Patent Leather Leggings may have captured the hearts of influencers, but there’s something to be said for this pair. Of all the black leggings in my closet, these ones are the most immune to pet hair; my duck tolling retriever sheds a lot, but I rarely have to use a lint roller on these pants. If that’s not enough to convince you to buy ’em, I don’t know what is. $128, spanx.ca