All In Motion Leggings

A comprehensive deep dive into Target’s athletic powerhouse that proves quality doesn’t always come with a luxury price tag

When Target launched their All In Motion brand, they weren’t just adding another line to their athletic wear section – they were making a bold statement that high-quality activewear doesn’t need to break the bank. In a market dominated by premium brands with triple-digit price tags, All In Motion Leggings have emerged as the democratizing force that’s bringing professional-grade athletic wear to the masses.

But can a pair of leggings that costs less than a fancy dinner really compete with the Lululemon Aligns and Nike Pro series of the world? After months of rigorous testing, countless workouts, and extensive research into what makes these leggings tick, I’m here to give you the complete, unfiltered truth about All In Motion Leggings.

The Material Science Behind the Magic

Let’s start with the foundation – literally. All In Motion Leggings are crafted from a carefully engineered blend of polyester and elastane (spandex), typically featuring an 87% polyester and 13% elastane composition. This isn’t just a random combination thrown together in a factory; it’s a deliberate formula designed to deliver performance where it matters most.

The polyester component provides the structural integrity and moisture-wicking properties that make these leggings suitable for intense workouts. Unlike cotton, which absorbs and holds moisture, polyester actively pulls sweat away from your skin and disperses it across the fabric’s surface for rapid evaporation. This means you stay drier, more comfortable, and less prone to the dreaded workout chafing that can turn a great session into an uncomfortable ordeal.

The elastane brings the stretch factor that transforms these from simple pants into performance gear. At 13%, this percentage hits the sweet spot – enough stretch for full range of motion during deep squats, high kicks, and downward dogs, but not so much that the fabric loses its shape or becomes see-through under pressure.

What sets All In Motion Leggings apart in the material game is their fabric weight. At approximately 280-300 GSM (grams per square meter), they strike a perfect balance between substantial coverage and breathable comfort. This weight classification puts them squarely in the premium athletic wear category, despite their accessible price point.

The Squat Test: A Make-or-Break Moment

Here’s where things get real. The squat test has become the unofficial gold standard for legging quality, and All In Motion Leggings face this challenge head-on with impressive results. The key to their squat-proof performance lies in both material composition and construction technique.

During deep squats, the fabric maintains its opacity thanks to the strategic fabric weight and weave pattern. The 13% elastane content provides enough stretch to accommodate the movement without thinning the material to transparency levels. However, it’s worth noting that like any leggings, choosing the correct size is crucial for optimal squat-proof performance.

The four-way stretch construction means the fabric moves with your body in all directions – forward, backward, and side to side. This isn’t just about preventing see-through moments; it’s about ensuring the leggings enhance rather than restrict your natural movement patterns. Whether you’re dropping into a deep squat, lunging to the side, or flowing through a yoga sequence, the fabric responds intuitively to your body’s demands.

Shopping Strategy: Where and How to Buy

All In Motion Leggings are exclusively available through Target, both in-store and online. This exclusivity is both a blessing and a potential limitation, depending on your perspective. The blessing is consistency – you know exactly where to find them, and Target’s extensive distribution network means accessibility for most shoppers across the United States.

Target’s online platform offers the complete range of styles, colors, and sizes, often with better inventory than individual stores. The website frequently features exclusive colorways and seasonal collections that might not make it to every physical location. Plus, Target’s return policy is refreshingly straightforward – you have 90 days to return items with receipt, and their customer service team is generally accommodating about fit issues.

For the savvy shopper, timing your purchase can lead to significant savings. Target regularly runs promotions on their athletic wear, particularly during back-to-school season, New Year fitness motivation periods, and end-of-season clearances. The Target Circle app often features exclusive discounts and early access to sales, making it worth downloading if you’re planning to invest in multiple pairs.

The Pocket Situation: Function Meets Form

Let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the phone in your pocket. All In Motion Leggings come in several variations when it comes to pocket configurations, and understanding these options is crucial for making the right choice for your lifestyle.

The standard high-waisted version features side pockets that can accommodate most smartphones, including larger models like the iPhone Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy Ultra series. These pockets are positioned strategically to prevent the phone from bouncing during movement while remaining easily accessible. The pocket depth is generous enough that you don’t have to worry about your phone making an unexpected exit during inverted yoga poses.

Some styles also feature a smaller waistband pocket – perfect for keys, cards, or earbuds. This pocket sits flat against your lower back and is virtually unnoticeable when empty, but provides that extra storage option that can be a game-changer for minimalist workouts.

The pocket construction uses the same high-quality materials as the rest of the leggings, ensuring they won’t stretch out or become loose over time. The seaming around pocket edges is reinforced to handle the weight and movement of stored items without compromising the overall fit or appearance of the leggings.

Workout Performance: From Gym to Studio

All In Motion Leggings truly shine when put through their paces in real workout scenarios. Their moisture-wicking properties become apparent within the first few minutes of elevated heart rate activity. Unlike cheaper alternatives that can become clingy and uncomfortable when wet, these leggings maintain their comfortable feel even during high-intensity interval training or heated yoga sessions.

The compression level is moderate – enough to provide muscle support and a flattering silhouette without feeling restrictive or cutting off circulation. This makes them versatile enough for everything from gentle stretching routines to high-impact plyometric workouts. The waistband sits securely without rolling down during movement, a common complaint with lesser-quality leggings.

For strength training enthusiasts, the fabric’s durability becomes particularly important. The reinforced seaming holds up well against gym equipment, weight benches, and the general wear and tear of regular lifting sessions. The fabric doesn’t pill or snag easily, maintaining its smooth appearance even after months of regular use.

Runners will appreciate the leggings’ ability to prevent chafing, even during longer distances. The smooth internal seaming and moisture-wicking properties work together to create a friction-free experience. The compression also provides gentle muscle support that can help reduce fatigue during extended cardio sessions.

Fit Comparison: How They Stack Up

When comparing All In Motion Leggings to other popular brands, the fit profile is surprisingly sophisticated. They run true to size in most cases, but understanding their specific fit characteristics will help you make the best choice.

Compared to Lululemon Align pants, All In Motion Leggings offer more compression and structure. While Aligns are known for their buttery-soft, barely-there feel, All In Motion provides more support and coverage. This makes them better suited for high-intensity workouts but perhaps less ideal for lounging or gentle yoga practices where maximum softness is prioritized.

Against Nike Pro leggings, the fit is remarkably similar in terms of compression level and overall silhouette. The main differences lie in the waistband construction and fabric texture. Nike Pros tend to have a slightly wider waistband, while All In Motion Leggings feature a more streamlined waistband that some find more flattering.

Athleta and Old Navy activewear comparisons reveal where All In Motion Leggings really excel in the value proposition. They offer build quality and performance features typically found in the mid-to-premium price range while maintaining an accessible price point.

Size Inclusivity and True-to-Size Fitting

All In Motion Leggings are available in sizes XS through 4X, demonstrating Target’s commitment to size inclusivity in athletic wear. This extended size range ensures that more bodies can access quality athletic wear without having to compromise on fit or performance.

The sizing tends to run true to Target’s standard size chart, but there are some nuances worth noting. The high-waisted styles may feel snugger in the waist area than expected, particularly for those who carry weight in their midsection. If you’re between sizes and prefer a more relaxed fit around the waist, sizing up might be the better choice.

The length is designed to be full-length on average height individuals (around 5’4″ to 5’7″), hitting right at the ankle. Taller individuals might find them hitting slightly above the ankle, while shorter individuals might experience some bunching at the ankle area. However, the fabric drapes well even when slightly long, minimizing the need for hemming in most cases.

Price Point: Value That Makes Sense

At approximately $15-25 per pair, All In Motion Leggings occupy a sweet spot in the activewear market that’s often overlooked by other brands. This price point makes them accessible to budget-conscious consumers while still delivering features and quality typically associated with much more expensive options.

To put this in perspective, you could purchase three to four pairs of All In Motion Leggings for the price of a single pair of premium brand leggings. This affordability factor allows for building a more diverse athletic wardrobe, with different colors and styles for various activities and preferences.

The value proposition becomes even more compelling when you factor in the durability and performance. Cost per wear calculations often favor these leggings over more expensive alternatives, especially for individuals who work out regularly and need multiple pairs in their rotation.

Color Palette and Pattern Variety

All In Motion Leggings don’t sacrifice style for substance. The color range spans from classic blacks and grays to seasonal trends and bold patterns. The basic black remains a staple for good reason – it’s versatile, slimming, and pairs well with any workout top or casual outfit.

Seasonal collections often introduce trending colors and patterns that keep the line fresh and current. From subtle heathered textures to bold geometric prints, there’s typically something for every style preference. The color saturation is generally excellent, with dyes that maintain their vibrancy even after multiple washes.

Limited edition collections and collaborations occasionally introduce unique colorways and patterns that can add personality to your workout wardrobe. These special releases often feature enhanced details or slightly different fabric treatments while maintaining the core performance characteristics of the main line.

High-Waisted Design: Fashion Meets Function

The high-waisted design of All In Motion Leggings serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. From a style standpoint, the higher waistline creates a flattering silhouette that elongates the legs and provides a smooth line under fitted tops. The waistband width is optimized to lay flat against the torso without creating bulges or uncomfortable pressure points.

Functionally, the high waistband provides additional core support during workouts. This extra coverage and gentle compression can help with posture and provide psychological confidence during challenging exercises. The waistband stays put during movement, eliminating the constant adjustment that can interrupt workout flow.

The waistband construction features a no-dig design that prevents the elastic from cutting into the skin or creating uncomfortable pressure lines. Even during extended wear periods, the waistband maintains its comfort level without becoming restrictive or leaving marks.

Durability Testing: The Long Game

Real-world durability testing reveals where All In Motion Leggings truly prove their worth. After months of regular use including multiple weekly workouts, frequent washing, and general wear, these leggings maintain their shape, color, and performance characteristics remarkably well.

The fabric shows minimal signs of wear even in high-friction areas like the inner thighs and seat. Pilling is minimal and typically limited to areas of extreme friction. The seaming remains intact and shows no signs of pulling or stress, even after exposure to various types of physical activity.

Color retention is particularly impressive, with darker colors maintaining their depth and lighter colors resisting fading. This durability extends the cost-per-wear value significantly, as the leggings continue to look and perform like new long after their initial purchase.

Yoga Studio Ready: Flexibility and Flow

For yoga practitioners, All In Motion Leggings offer the flexibility and coverage needed for a full range of poses. The four-way stretch accommodates deep stretches, inversions, and complex transitions without restriction. The fabric’s opacity provides confidence during poses where coverage is crucial.

The compression level is ideal for yoga – supportive enough to provide gentle muscle engagement without being so tight as to restrict breathing or circulation during long holds. The waistband stays in place during downward dogs and inversions, eliminating the need for constant adjustment.

The fabric’s moisture-wicking properties are beneficial even in non-heated yoga classes, as they help regulate body temperature during more active sequences. In heated yoga environments, the moisture management becomes even more crucial for comfort and focus.

Casual Wear Versatility: Beyond the Gym

The athleisure trend has made leggings acceptable in many casual settings, and All In Motion Leggings translate well from gym to street. Their polished appearance and comfortable fit make them suitable for errands, casual social activities, and work-from-home situations.

The fabric has enough structure to maintain a put-together appearance while providing the comfort needed for all-day wear. Unlike some athletic leggings that can look overly sporty in casual settings, these maintain a refined aesthetic that works well with both athletic and casual tops.

The variety of colors and patterns available means you can choose options that align with your personal style and the specific casual situations where you plan to wear them. Darker colors and subtle patterns tend to be most versatile for non-athletic wear.

Moisture Management: Staying Dry and Comfortable

The moisture-wicking capabilities of All In Motion Leggings rely on the polyester content and fabric construction to move sweat away from the skin. This technology works through capillary action, where the fabric draws moisture from areas of high concentration (against your skin) to areas of lower concentration (the fabric surface) where it can evaporate.

This system becomes particularly important during high-intensity workouts or in warm environments where traditional cotton fabrics would become saturated and uncomfortable. The quick-dry properties mean you’re not sitting in damp clothing during post-workout activities or commutes.

The moisture management also contributes to odor control, as wet fabric is more prone to bacterial growth that causes unpleasant smells. By keeping you drier, the leggings help maintain freshness even during extended wear periods.

Care and Maintenance: Preserving Your Investment

Proper care of All In Motion Leggings will maximize their lifespan and maintain their performance characteristics. Machine washing in cold water with like colors is recommended to prevent color bleeding and fabric degradation. The polyester-elastane blend responds well to standard detergents, but fabric softeners should be avoided as they can interfere with moisture-wicking properties.

Air drying or low heat tumble drying preserves the elastane fibers that provide stretch and recovery. High heat can break down these fibers over time, leading to loss of shape and reduced performance. The fabric dries relatively quickly, making air drying a practical option even in humid conditions.

Washing inside out can help preserve color and reduce pilling from friction with other garments. Separating athletic wear from items with zippers, velcro, or rough textures prevents snags and pulls that can damage the smooth fabric surface.

Online Reviews and Community Feedback

The online review landscape for All In Motion Leggings is overwhelmingly positive, with customers consistently praising their value proposition and performance. Common themes in positive reviews include appreciation for the squat-proof construction, comfortable fit, and affordable price point.

Negative reviews, while less common, typically focus on sizing issues or comparisons to premium brands. Some reviewers note that while the leggings are excellent for their price point, they don’t quite match the premium feel of much more expensive alternatives – which is generally acknowledged as a fair trade-off given the price difference.

Target’s website reviews provide real-world insights from verified purchasers, making them particularly valuable for sizing and performance information. The photo reviews often show the leggings on various body types, providing helpful visualization for potential buyers.

Lululemon Comparison: David Meets Goliath

The comparison between All In Motion Leggings and Lululemon products reveals interesting insights about value and performance in the activewear market. While Lululemon Align pants are often considered the gold standard for comfort and feel, All In Motion Leggings offer superior value for high-intensity activities.

Lululemon’s premium pricing reflects their brand positioning, extensive research and development, and premium retail experience. However, for many consumers, the performance gap doesn’t justify the price difference, especially when building a varied athletic wardrobe.

All In Motion Leggings excel in areas where they can compete directly – moisture-wicking, durability, and squat-proof construction. The main differences lie in fabric hand feel and brand prestige rather than functional performance for most athletic activities.

Environmental Considerations and Sustainability

While All In Motion Leggings aren’t positioned as an eco-friendly option, Target has made commitments to sustainability across their brand portfolio. The polyester used in the leggings is typically conventional rather than recycled, which represents an opportunity for future improvement in environmental impact.

The durability factor does contribute positively to sustainability by extending the useful life of each garment and reducing the frequency of replacement purchases. Longer-lasting clothing means less waste and fewer resources consumed over time.

Target’s size and influence in the retail market position them well to implement more sustainable practices as consumer demand and technology continue to evolve. Future iterations of the All In Motion line may incorporate recycled materials or other eco-friendly innovations.

Stretch and Recovery: Maintaining Shape Over Time

One of the most impressive aspects of All In Motion Leggings is their ability to maintain shape and stretch properties over extended use. The elastane content and fabric construction work together to provide what textile engineers call “elastic recovery” – the fabric’s ability to return to its original shape after stretching.

This recovery property is crucial for maintaining fit and appearance over time. Leggings that lose their stretch become baggy and unflattering, while those that stretch out permanently become see-through and uncomfortable. All In Motion Leggings strike a balance that preserves their original fit characteristics through many wear and wash cycles.

The waistband, often the first area to lose elasticity in lower-quality leggings, maintains its grip and shape particularly well. This durability means you can invest in All In Motion Leggings with confidence that they’ll continue to perform as expected throughout their useful life.

Final Verdict: Democratizing Quality Activewear

All In Motion Leggings represent something significant in the activewear market – proof that quality, performance, and style don’t have to come with premium price tags. They’ve successfully democratized access to athletic wear that performs at a level previously reserved for much more expensive options.

For the budget-conscious fitness enthusiast, the busy parent juggling workouts with daily life, or anyone building their first serious athletic wardrobe, these leggings offer an entry point that doesn’t require compromise on the features that matter most. They squat-proof, they wick moisture, they fit well, and they last.

Are they identical to premium brands? No, and they don’t pretend to be. But they’re remarkably close in performance while being dramatically different in price. In a market where athletic wear costs continue to climb, All In Motion Leggings provide a refreshing alternative that proves value and quality can coexist.

The true test of any athletic wear is whether you reach for it consistently, whether it makes you feel confident during workouts, and whether it holds up to your lifestyle demands. All In Motion Leggings pass all these tests while leaving room in your budget for other fitness investments – whether that’s a gym membership, home equipment, or simply the ability to own multiple pairs without financial stress.

Target’s All In Motion brand has created something special with these leggings – a product that challenges the notion that you need to spend a fortune to get quality athletic wear. They’ve proven that smart design, quality materials, and efficient production can deliver performance that rivals the premium market leaders.

For anyone on the fence about trying All In Motion Leggings, the risk is minimal and the potential reward is significant. At their price point, they represent one of the best values in the current activewear market, making quality fitness apparel accessible to a much broader audience than ever before.

The activewear industry has been put on notice – quality and performance at accessible prices isn’t just possible, it’s here, and it’s changing expectations across the entire market. All In Motion Leggings aren’t just a great budget option; they’re a great option, period.