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Gen Z’s Baggy Gym Look Eats Into Leggings’ Share as Brands Rethink Athleisure

Retail analysis shows leggings’ share of athleisure bottoms has fallen to 38.7% in 2025, reflecting a youth-driven turn toward oversized styles.

Gen Z Is Officially Retiring Gym Leggings And Getting Hooked On Oversized Sweatpants (Credits: Instagram)
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Overview

  • In Edited’s U.S. retail data, leggings’ share of athleisure bottoms dropped from 46.9% in 2022 to 38.7% in 2025.
  • Pinterest interest in loose workout outfits has surged, with Vogue citing a 400% rise in searches for “baggy gym outfits” and 18–24 year-olds accounting for most related queries.
  • Nike and Adidas have scaled back leggings investment this year, while Lululemon continues to back the category and is also selling looser options such as the Align Palazzo pant.
  • Coverage links Gen Z’s pivot to comfort and body-image concerns, with trending clips describing insecurity about tight fits, and cultural cues from stars like Billie Eilish and Zendaya favoring oversized looks.
  • Trainers and exercisers warn loose pants can be impractical or unsafe for activities like spin, yoga, running, and HIIT, underscoring that fit needs differ by workout.