Leggings

Which style to choose

The most important thing is that they are not see-through. Heavier knits perform best, as do styles with a double panel at the gusset and the seat. The second thing is the waistband: a wide, high waistband with elastane will not roll when you bend over, whereas a narrow elastic almost always does.

Thermal and fleece-lined leggings have a brushed inner face that traps heat - a practical alternative to heavy tights in winter. Microfibre and polyamide styles are finer, dry faster and are better suited to training.

Choose your size by hip measurement and inside leg length. Wash inside out at 30 degrees without fabric softener, and do not tumble dry - elastane loses its spring and the leggings start to bag at the knees. Free delivery over PLN 199, 14-day returns.

Fabric and comfort

The leggings we stock fall into three groups: fine styles in lingerie knit worn instead of tights, cotton versions for everyday wear, and heavier fleece-lined ones for winter. There are currently 22 of them here, including the Sielei, Legs and Key lines.

The key specification is fabric weight, not size. Fine knit shows through when stretched across the thigh - if you plan to wear leggings instead of trousers, check the fabric weight in the description or choose a style with a higher cotton content. The second thing is the waistband: a wide, flat waistband does not roll or press on the stomach, while a narrow elastic can be comfortable under a dress but rolls sooner.

For leggings worn to train in, skip the fabric softener. It settles on the fibres and reduces moisture wicking, which is the whole reason technical knit beats cotton. Washing at a low temperature is enough, as long as you do it after every session.

What to look out for

Look at the seams too. Flat overlocked seams do not print through under close-fitting trousers, and the seam along the inner thigh is the one most exposed to wear.

How to choose your size

Leggings pair well with leg warmers on colder days and with sports bras for training. Choose your size by hip measurement, comparing it with the size chart, because knit with elastane stretches differently from trouser fabric.