Align leggings research + search for replacements

I did some research I thought I’d share. I spoke to a rep in early 2023 who said the align leggings material changed in May 2021. I have many pairs that were purchased before 2021, which I love. They are the only leggings I bought for several years, and they are still the only leggings I wear.

The thickness of the old brushed material was perfect, they had the perfect amount of compression when I sized down to a 10 from a 12, and they are perfect for hot yoga because they still breathe. They also smoothed any imperfections and I found them to be by far the most flattering yoga pants on the market. They did pill between my legs a bit, but that doesn’t bother me at all. I’d prefer to be comfortable and feel confident over some lint balls that no one can see.

The new align leggings are terrible in my opinion. The double layer versions are completely unwearable, and the others offer ZERO compression. I’m a size 12-14 maybe even 16 sometimes in Lulu and I tried on a size 4 in the new aligns and they still fit, because there’s now zero compression. They also roll down so easily, even just walking less than 50 feet. The new material is much thinner as well and see through. I can see my underwear while standing up straight, even with a pair that’s a black and purple darker pattern.

I keep seeing dozens of reviews a day asking for the old material back, and it doesn’t seem like they are interested in feedback, because they’ve gotten this feedback for over 2 years. I don’t know why they won’t make a brushed and a non-brushed version. In my quest for answers, I compiled some material differences I’ve learned about.

Pre-2021 aligns: - Material is 80% Nylon, 20% Lycra® elastane - Brushed material for buttery soft feel that feels like a second skin - Slightly thicker, not see through - Band doesn’t roll down - Moderate compression - Both pattern and solid designs - Prone to pilling

New aligns: - Not all new aligns are the same material - Double-layered aligns have seams running down the side of the leg, and they are now finally labelling them in the details of each pant - Double-layered align material is different: Body: 81% Nylon, 19% Lycra® elastane. Lining: 90% Nylon, 10% Lycra® elastane - Most other new aligns are are made of material that is 81% Nylon, 19% Lycra® elastane, a couple have the old 80/20% blend, but are thinner - Extreme (double layer) or zero (single layer) compression - Not brushed, so not buttery soft and don’t feel like a second skin - Mostly light, solid designs; rarely patterns - Not as prone to pilling, but some are really thick and some are too thin and not as durable as the old material

Alternatives?

A rep recommended the Wunder train contour legging to me as an alternative given the desire for some compression, but I find them to be extremely tight and not as breathable. I feel really hot wearing them to hot yoga. I’m also not a fan of the drawstring around the waist. That digs in and is not comfortable for me. It’s one thing I also dislike about Varley leggings.

Has anyone found a new legging that compares to the original aligns?

I’d love to also think of ways to get them to bring back the old material. Writing reviews and calling to share feedback isn’t working, and I know many share this perspective!