???? KNOWLEDGE / LEGGINGS – Complete Expert Guide

Opaque Leggings – What You Really Need to Know

Leggings are one of the most versatile clothing pieces – and one of the most common questions is: “Are these leggings truly opaque or do they become see-through?”

With our Go Wear women’s leggings you get dense, reliable fabric designed to stay opaque during training and daily wear.

This page explains all important factors – based on textile science, fabric density and practical testing.

What Does “Opaque” Mean in Leggings?

Opaque means the fabric does not reveal skin or underwear – whether you are standing, bending or moving.

Opacity is influenced by:

• Fabric thickness (DEN or gsm)
• Yarn quality
• Knit or weave structure
• Density of stitches
• Elastane percentage
• Fit & stretch

1. Fabric Knowledge: Which Materials Are Opaque?

You can find more details in our material guide .

➤ Nylon / Polyamide + 20–30% Spandex

This combination is the gold standard for high-quality sports and fitness leggings.

• high elasticity
• smooth, dense knit structure
• remains stable even when stretched
• durable and long-lasting
• quick-drying & shape-retaining

Opacity: Very high – especially at 250–350 gsm.

➤ Polyester + Spandex

Smoother, slightly lighter and often more affordable.

Opacity: Medium to high depending on fabric weight.

➤ Cotton Leggings

Soft and breathable, but:

Opacity: Low to medium – cotton becomes see-through when stretched.

2. The Four Main Reasons Leggings Become See-Through

1) Fabric too thin

Materials under 180–200 gsm easily become transparent.

2) Excessive stretching

Too small = the fabric thins out → transparency at thighs & glutes.

3) Wrong size

One size too small reduces opacity dramatically.

4) Strong light sources

Direct sunlight or studio lights can reveal thinner areas.

3. How to Identify High-Quality Opaque Leggings

• min. 20% spandex – stable stretch
• high-density knit – tight stitch structure
• 250–350 gsm – fitness-grade fabric
• 4-way stretch – prevents thinning
• high-waist fit – secure & supportive

Our Go Wear leggings meet all of these requirements.

4. How to Test if Leggings Are Truly Opaque

???? Stretch test: Pull fabric apart – if stitches appear → not opaque.

???? Squat test: Bend in front of a mirror → if visible → not opaque.

???? Light test: Hold fabric against a window → if light passes through → caution.

???? Flash test: Take a photo with flash – transparent fabrics shine through.

5. Which Leggings Fit Which Purpose?

????️ Fitness / Gym / Squats

• 250–350 gsm
• Nylon + 20–30% spandex
• high stretch without thinning

Recommended: Go Wear sports leggings .