Last Updated: June 14, 2022
Lightweight, stretchy, and super comfortable – leggings are certainly having their moment. But can men wear them? And if so, what leggings are the best option for you and how do you wear them?
First of all, yes – men can wear leggings. To feel your most confident in these gym-favorites be sure to choose a pair with enough room in the front, a good fit and length.
And if you’re not wanting to have everything on display then consider a pair of shorts or long T-shirt to cover yourself up.
We get it, as a man you’re unlikely to go out of your way to wear clothing that clings to you in all the wrong places, but with leggings on the rise it’s time to work out how to make this gym staple work for you.
Is it Okay for a Man to Wear Leggings?
Yes, it is perfectly fine for men to wear leggings. Leggings (or something like it) have been around for a long time and were first designed specifically for men to wear. As fashions changed, they fell out of favor amongst men, but it seems that the style tables are turning once again and men’s leggings are making their way back in.
You’re most likely to see them being worn at the gym, but they are increasingly finding their way out into the wider world of men’s fashion. For most men, the problem isn’t so much the leggings themselves – it’s how much they reveal. It’s no secret that having your clothing wrapped tightly around your most private areas can make for some pretty uncomfortable situations.
But if you want to bring them out, then go right ahead! They’re not for everyone, but those who’ve converted to leggings swear by them.
Can Guys Wear Women’s Leggings?
When it comes to leggings, stick with what makes you feel comfortable. If that means wearing women’s leggings, then go ahead.
One thing to bear in mind is that men’s leggings are typically made with a larger triangular insert in the crotch to allow for better comfort and aesthetics for obvious reasons. Not only will this feel more comfortable, but it will also help direct eyes away from your private business leaving you to go about your day with confidence.
Recommended Read: Can Men Wear Bras and Get Away With it?
These male-specific leggings often include padding in the crotch area to further protect your junk and keep you feeling more covered up.
If what you’re really asking here is “can I wear funky colored leggings?” then my answer again is yes! Men’s leggings still have some catching up to do with the bright patterns and fun design of women’s leggings.
If this is the vibe you’re going for, and you can’t find any men’s leggings that tick your box, then why not try a pair of women’s leggings on for size?
What are Leggings for Guys Called?
Although a lot of men’s leggings are simply called ‘leggings’ or ‘tights’ (which are thinner than leggings), you may come across them being sold specifically under the name meggings. Yep, that’s right – men plus leggings equals meggings.
One plus of looking out for meggings instead of leggings is that these have been specifically designed for men, right down to their name.
Meggins usually have the wider crotch area, triangular insert across the front to house your junk more securely, and better fitting around the hip and waist area.
How to Wear Leggings if You’re a Guy
Listen, I get it. Wearing leggings can feel daunting and can take a bit of confidence to fully commit to.
As with any new clothes, all you need is a bit of conviction and swagger to your step and you’ll be ready to take yourself and your leggings out into the big bad world.
Here are some tips to help you feel secure in your new leggings:
1. Wear the Right Underwear
A surefire way to make sure you’re not battling with underwear riding up is to just go without. Be careful to choose thicker leggings with full coverage to make sure you won’t be flashing everyone who happens to glance your way.
If going commando isn’t for you then invest in some seam-free and tight underwear or even a gym thong (yes, they exist) (and yes, men wear thongs too).
2. Add a Pair of Shorts
If you’re loving the feel and practicality of leggings but aren’t yet ready to bear the bulge, then throw on some shorts. You’ll still get to enjoy all the benefits that leggings have to offer but without feeling overly exposed.
3. Wear a Long T-shirt or Tie Something Around Your Waist
A T-shirt that falls just below your hips will give you an extra layer of coverage and keep things feeling slightly more modest. If you haven’t got a long T-shirt at hand, then try just tying a shirt around your waist so the sleeves hang down the front.
It’s not quite the same amount of coverup, but it will distract the eye and give you an added boost of confidence.
4. Speaking of Which – Be Confident!
Believe me when I say that the only person bothered about seeing you in leggings is yourself. As leggings are becoming more popular both inside and outside of the gym, you’ll find that most people don’t pay you the slightest bit of leggings-themed attention.
Even if people do stare, that’s on them. Wear your leggings with pride and feel smug that you’ve made the best choice for performance and comfort.
Why Do Guys Wear Leggings (Tights) Under Shorts?
Leggings under shorts are becoming increasingly popular amongst both professional and recreational athletes. For the most part this short-leggings combination is because people want all the benefits of leggings without the sense of exposure or glaringly obvious penis outline, that can come from wearing leggings on their own.
Leggings themselves provide plenty of benefits:
- They support your penis and balls, perfect for heavy gym workouts or a busy day of running errands.
- They add a layer of warmth for cold days spent training outside.
- They also don’t ride up or get in the way when you need to have your head completely in the game, without worrying about your clothes.
Another, less well known, bonus of leggings is that they can actually enhance your performance. Compression leggings apply pressure to the veins in the legs, which causes the blood to be pushed from the muscles back up to the heart before being sent back to the muscles again all loaded up with fresh oxygen.
Research has found that compression leggings can significantly improve athletic performance. So, it’s hardly a surprise they’re becoming increasingly popular both on and off the pitch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the fence about whether or not to add a pair of leggings, or meggings, to your gym attire then maybe now is the time to take the leap.
Leggings offer a superior level of comfort compared to other workout clothes, plus a performance enhancing edge and extra layer of warmth should you need it.
If you’re not too keen on the level of exposure that comes with wearing leggings then consider adding a long T-shirt, tied shirt, or pair of shorts to keep you feeling comfortable and confident.