I own Girlfriend Collective leggings in nearly every color — here's what makes each pair worth it

These are the Black Compressive Pocket Leggings. The length is perfect, hitting just at my ankle. I'm five-foot-one and normally wear a size 20, so I wear a 3XL in the 23 ¾ length. As the leggings are compressive, you can play around with the sizing a bit to get the fit you want. I've also ordered XXLs in the past and while the waist fits fine, they're just a little too compressive to be comfortable for all day wear.

The compressive leggings come in six styles: the regular Compressive Legging in Mid-Rise and High-Rise (both $78), the Pocket ($88), the Drawstring ($82), the Flare ($78), and the Stirrup ($78). The regular Compressive Leggings have a hidden back pocket near the tag for small items like a credit card and ID or a set of keys.

Each pair of their leggings is created with 25 recycled water bottles (79% RPET), out of material made at Girlfriend Collective's Fair Trade facility in Taiwan.

Some "recycled" fabric production has been exploiting the loopholes by buying unused water bottles to churn a higher profit, but Girlfriend Collective's center is carefully monitored by the Taiwanese government recycling authority to make sure that's not the case for this company. Since you always have a choice of where you spend your money, even though some of us conveniently forget uncomfortable truths, Girlfriend Collective's factory uses no forced or child labor, mandates fair working hours and safe conditions, pays living wages, and allows workers to unionize.

I would love the fit of the leggings no matter what, but it's a huge bonus knowing that my money is being spent at a company that is helping make the world a more hospitable place for all of us. Recycling is always a choice, just like being nice to your neighbor — and it's still a choice in clothing. The ReGirlfriend program provides you with a $15 credit towards a future purchase upon receipt of the recycled clothing. It's a no-compromise option on the best leggings through supporting a company that puts humane working conditions and sustainability first. — Mara Leighton, former Insider Reviews Digital Culture reporter

I'm a big fan of these leggings. They have a great compressive fit that performs well during multiple forms of exercise; I love wearing these to barre class. However, I wear a size medium, and they feel quite tight to the body, so perhaps try a larger size for a more comfortable, every day fit. The pockets are extremely convenient for any post-workout errands I'm running, and the high rise rarely rides down on me. I normally go for black leggings, but I adore this bright blue, and they have multiple fun colors to choose from. — Maiya Pascouche, Insider Reviews Style & Beauty editor

I love the versatility of the leggings when it comes to styling. They're great for working out, but I've also worn them out at night.

Girlfriend Collective's High Rise Compressive leggings are nearly always available in six core colors: black, ivory, midnight (navy), moss, plum, and earth (brown). The company releases seasonal collections every few months, with four to six new limited edition colors that tend to sell out quickly after their debut. The colorways compliment each other well so you can create mix-matched sets with Girlfriend Collective's sports bras.

Despite the price tag, they're well made and have lasted despite many wears and washes. If you're looking for sustainable fashion, these leggings are better for the planet and incredibly comfortable.