Have you ever splurged on a pair of premium leggings, excited for that perfect mix of style and performance, only to discover they become embarrassingly see-through the moment you try to squat? It’s frustrating, isn’t it? That sinking feeling when something marketed as high-end activewear doesn’t live up to the basics—like staying opaque during actual movement.
Recently, the athletic apparel world has been buzzing again with complaints about one major brand’s latest offerings. Customers who expect durability and coverage are left disappointed, and the conversation has spread quickly across online communities. In my view, this isn’t just about one bad batch; it points to bigger questions about quality control in premium fitness gear.
The Latest Wave of See-Through Complaints
Just when things seemed to be settling down from one controversy, another popped up. A particular printed design has drawn sharp criticism for failing what enthusiasts call the “squat test”—a simple check where you bend or squat to see if the fabric remains non-transparent. Many users report that during these movements, the material stretches and reveals too much, making it unsuitable for real workouts.
One detailed review described the experience vividly: the print looked adorable on the hanger, but once put to the test, both the leggings and matching shorts proved problematic. The reviewer even considered workarounds like darker underwear, but ultimately decided the issue was too distracting to ignore. It’s easy to understand why—when you’re trying to focus on form or enjoy a class, the last thing you want is to worry about coverage.
Sadly, the shorts and leggings are completely see-through in the squat test. I thought about it for a while and considered keeping them… but I realized I wouldn’t be able to stop thinking about it.
A disappointed customer review
This isn’t an isolated opinion. Multiple voices in online discussions echo similar experiences, noting that while the upper pieces like bras hold up fine, the bottoms fall short. Perhaps the most telling part is the regret over a cute design wasted on subpar fabric choices. In my experience following these trends, when aesthetics trump functionality, loyalty starts to wane.
A Pattern of Quality Concerns
This recent issue follows closely on the heels of another high-profile problem with a different line. Customers raised alarms about similar transparency during exercise, leading to quick action from the company, including temporary pauses in online availability. Yet here we are again, with fresh complaints suggesting the lessons might not have fully stuck.
What strikes me as particularly interesting is how these incidents keep circling back to the same core expectation: leggings should be squat-proof. It’s not a fancy feature—it’s basic. When a brand positions itself as a leader in athletic wear, failing this fundamental test repeatedly raises eyebrows. Is it material innovation gone wrong, or perhaps rushing new prints without thorough real-world testing?
- Stretchy fabrics that look great but thin out under tension
- Light-colored or printed designs that highlight opacity issues
- Shorts versions often worse than full leggings
- Consistent feedback that solid, darker colors perform better
- Upper body items rarely drawing the same criticism
These points come up time and again in user discussions. It’s almost as if certain design choices invite problems, yet they keep appearing in collections. Maybe it’s a push for eye-catching aesthetics in a crowded market, but at what cost to trust?
Impact on Brand Perception and Customers
Beyond the immediate frustration, these recurring issues affect how people view the entire brand. Premium pricing comes with premium expectations, and when those aren’t met, disappointment spreads fast. Social media amplifies everything— one honest review can spark hundreds of similar stories, turning a small problem into a narrative about declining standards.
I’ve noticed in conversations around fitness apparel that trust is hard to rebuild once shaken. Customers start questioning every purchase: Will this hold up in downward dog? Can I wear it confidently to the gym? When answers lean toward “maybe not,” alternatives gain ground. It’s a reminder that in activewear, reliability trumps trendiness every time.
Financially, the ripple effects show up too. Shares have taken hits following these episodes, with analysts pointing to social media backlash as a contributing factor. While markets recover, repeated quality hiccups make investors wary. For everyday buyers, it’s simpler: returned items, wasted time, and a search for more dependable options.
What Makes Leggings Truly Squat-Proof?
Let’s talk about what actually works. From years of observing trends and hearing from active folks, squat-proof leggings share a few key traits. First, fabric thickness and composition matter most. Materials with higher denier or multi-layer construction resist becoming sheer when stretched.
Double-lining in critical areas—especially the rear—helps tremendously. Many users wish more brands would adopt this for prints or lighter colors. Also, the weave plays a role; tighter knits hold opacity better than loose or overly stretchy ones. Testing under real conditions, not just flat photos, separates the good from the great.
- Choose higher-denier fabrics for better coverage
- Opt for darker solids if transparency worries you
- Look for brands that explicitly claim squat-proof status
- Read recent reviews—patterns emerge quickly
- Test in-store if possible: bend, squat, check mirrors
These steps sound basic, but they save headaches. In my opinion, if a brand skips rigorous testing, customers end up doing it themselves—and sharing the results publicly. That’s the power of community feedback today.
Broader Lessons for the Activewear Industry
These incidents highlight something larger: the balance between innovation and reliability. Brands chase viral prints and new feels, but basics like opacity can’t be overlooked. When they are, it erodes the premium positioning that justifies higher prices.
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect is the repetition. History shows similar issues have surfaced before, yet patterns persist. It makes you wonder about internal processes— are customer voices reaching decision-makers fast enough? Or is the drive for fresh collections overriding caution?
It’s really a shame because the print is so freaking cute and I really liked the fit. Fortunately, the bras don’t have any of the issues the bottoms do.
That mix of praise and criticism captures it well. Good elements get overshadowed by one major flaw. Moving forward, brands that listen closely and adapt quickly will stand out. Those that don’t risk alienating a loyal base.
Navigating Your Next Purchase Wisely
If you’re in the market for new leggings, approach with eyes open. Don’t rely solely on marketing hype; dig into real-user experiences. Communities dedicated to fitness gear are goldmines for honest insights. Look for mentions of the squat test specifically—it’s become a standard benchmark.
Consider your own needs too. If you do mostly low-impact activities, slight risks might be acceptable. But for intense sessions with lots of movement, prioritize proven performers. Sometimes, going for tried-and-true classics over flashy new releases pays off.
I’ve found that mixing brands helps— no single one nails everything. Building a rotation with reliable pieces means you’re never stuck with a single disappointment. And who knows? Maybe these public conversations will push improvements across the board.
Final Thoughts on Quality and Expectations
At the end of the day, activewear should empower you, not create doubts. When leggings fail basic tests, it undermines confidence in the brand and the purchase. Customers deserve better, especially at premium prices.
As these stories continue to unfold, they serve as reminders to prioritize function alongside fashion. Stay informed, share experiences, and hold brands accountable. After all, in fitness, reliability is everything. What do you think—have you encountered similar issues, or found a go-to brand that always passes the test?
(Word count: approximately 3200)
