Opening a new, fresh pair of leggings, holding them against your face and soaking up their buttery softness might actually be one of life's greatest pleasures!

It’s probably the best thing about buying leggings to be honest. 

And when you combine it with that fresh-out-the-box smell, we’re talking about an off-the-chain sensual experience. Or maybe that’s just legging addicts like us : )

As you likely already know, one true test of a great pair of leggings lies in their softness. Imagine slipping on a pair that feels like a second skin, so soft and comfortable you forget you're even wearing them. 

But what exactly makes a legging feel so incredibly soft? And what material makes the softest leggings?

We're not just talking about personal preference here – there's serious science behind the feel of your favourite leggings. 

Let’s explore the fascinating world of fabric properties, construction techniques, and the materials that take comfort to a whole new level. 

First we’ll unveil the scientific secrets behind the softest leggings, and then compare materials to help you find your perfect pair.

The Science Behind the Softness

Ever wondered why some fabrics feel like a luxurious hug, while others feel rough and scratchy? It’s largely down to fibre properties and fabric construction. Here's how they play a starring role in the softness of your leggings.

Fabulous fibres:

• Fibre Diameter- Imagine running your fingers across a field of wheat versus a bed of silk. Thinner fibres, like those found in cashmere or micromodal, have a larger surface area that comes into contact with your skin, creating a smoother and softer feel compared to thicker wool or cotton fibres.
  
  

• Fibre Shape - Not all fibres are created equal! Smooth, rounded fibres, like those in synthetic fabrics such as nylon, tend to feel softer against the skin than rough or irregular ones, like wool with its scaly surface.
  
  

• The Air Factor - Have you ever noticed how a fluffy cotton wool feels much softer than a flat rock? It's all about trapped air. Fabrics with air pockets trapped between the fibres, like fleece or some knitted fabrics, create a cushioning effect that enhances softness.
  
  

Weaving the Magic: 

Beyond the individual fibres, the way they're woven together also plays a crucial role.

• Weave Tightness: Tightly woven fabrics, while strong and durable, can feel stiff and rough against the skin. Looser weaves, on the other hand, allow for more drape and flexibility, contributing to a softer feel.
  
  
  
• Finishing Touches: The final step often involves finishing techniques like brushing. This process gently raises the surface fibres, creating a softer texture and a more luxurious feel, like the "buttery soft" sensation you might experience with some leggings.

Material Breakdown - Soft Stars of the Legging World

Next, let's examine how different materials translate these principles into real-life comfort in leggings. We'll break down some common legging materials and analyse their softness potential.

Natural Fibres:

• Cotton -  A classic choice known for its breathability and comfort. However, cotton fibres can be relatively thick, leading to a less soft feel. Additionally, cotton can lose shape and pill over time.
  
  

• Merino Wool- Nature's answer to performance wear, merino wool offers exceptional softness due to its fine fibres. However, it may require special care and can be slightly itchy for some.
  
  

Synthetic Fibres:

• Brushed Polyester -Regular polyester can feel a bit stiff, but a brushing process transforms it. This technique raises the surface fibres, creating a soft, suede-like texture often referred to as "buttery soft." Brushed polyester offers good durability but might not be the most breathable option.
  
  

• Nylon-Spandex -This popular blend combines the stretch and recovery of spandex with the durability and moisture-wicking properties of nylon. While comfortable, the softness might not be on par with some natural fibres or specially treated synthetics.
  
  

Material Blends: 

Many legging manufacturers create natural/synthetic blends to try and combine the benefits of both: 

• Cotton-Modal Blends -These blends aim to balance the breathability of cotton with the softness of modal (a luxurious form of rayon).

• Merino Wool Blends -Mixing merino wool with other fibres can enhance its softness and make it less itchy for some wearers.
  
  

Mineral-treated cotton and combed-fibres - The softest and most skin friendly leggings 

Out of all the fabrics we covered above, merino wool stands out as the softest. It’s also a much better choice for your skin, as although synthetic fibres can be made soft, they contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals.

But there's now a new revolutionary, award-winning type of cotton fabric that smashes all other materials out the park for softness and comfort - DOJO leggings’mineral-treated cotton and combed-fibres.  

Our unique organic production process creates what are probably the softest leggings in the world! 

By ‘combing the fibres’ we achieve an ultra fine, softer finish than even merino wool or standard organic cotton. This gives our garments an exceptionally luxurious feel both inside and out. It also helps remove impurities to makeDOJO leggings super-skin friendly.

Plus with our 4-way stretch system they retain their shape and fit and delicate softness over time. As well as staying totally opaque and squat-proof.

Try them now bygrabbing your pair at our shop. But be warned, they’re so soft you might never want to take them off!