Three-quarter length leggings and when they are best
Short answer: Three quarter leggings end at the calf and are mostly worn in summer and for indoor training. They keep the ankle cooler, and there is no fabric slipping into your shoe or bunching around the foot.
The length
The style usually ends just below the knee or at mid calf. That makes it cooler than full length leggings, because the ankle and lower leg are free. The knee is still covered, so you can sit on the floor or kneel without your skin rubbing against the surface.
For indoor training
For yoga, pilates and training at home, the length is practical because no fabric gathers at the ankle when you stretch. You can see your feet and stand steadily on the mat. A dense fabric with stretch follows your movements without slipping. See bamboo activewear for women.
In summer
In the heat, three quarter leggings are worn under dresses and skirts as a cooler alternative to full length. They prevent chafing between the thighs and give a little extra coverage when you sit, without making your legs warm. Choose a thin quality for the hottest days. See bamboo leggings for women.
Coverage
As with all leggings, the density of the fabric decides whether they stay opaque when you bend over. Check this in front of a mirror in daylight before wearing them to train. Dark colours cover best, and a thicker fabric is safer than a very thin one, especially over the hips.
The waistband
A wide waistband rolls down the least when you bend or squat. It spreads pressure across the stomach and sits more steadily than a narrow elastic. Choose your size by hip and waist rather than length, since the length is short anyway. See the size guide.
In winter
In winter, three quarter leggings are too cold for outdoors, because the ankle and calf are bare. Under dresses and skirts, full length or tights are the better choice. Indoors, the shorter style can still be used for training all year. See bamboo tights for women.
With shoes and socks
Three quarter leggings look calmest with short socks or trainers, leaving a little bare skin between hem and shoe. With tall boots, the hem can press and look bulky. With sandals in summer they work well, because there is no fabric around the ankle.
Washing
Elastane loses its grip when exposed to heat. Wash leggings at 40 degrees inside out and skip the tumble dryer. Hang them from the waistband to dry so they keep their shape. Avoid fabric softener if you train in them. See the washing guide.
How many pairs make sense
Two pairs let you wash without running short, and both last longer because they are worn in turn. If you train several times a week, a third pair can be handy. Then you always have a dry pair ready, even while the laundry is still hanging. See bamboo activewear for women.
When they wear out
Leggings usually thin at the knees and seat first. Hold them up to the light now and then to see whether the fabric still covers. Once they turn see-through, they can still be worn at home or under a dress, but for training it is time for a new pair.
Frequently asked questions
Are three quarter leggings good for training?
Yes, especially for indoor training such as yoga and pilates. No fabric gathers at the ankle, and you can stand steadily on the mat in bare feet.
Can they be worn in winter?
Indoors for training, yes, but outside they are too cold because the ankle and calf are bare. In winter, full length or tights are a better choice under dresses.
How do I wash leggings?
At 40 degrees inside out, without fabric softener and without the tumble dryer. Heat makes the elastane lose its grip, so air drying keeps them firm for longer.
See our range of bamboo leggings.
