Athletic Build? Here Are 25 Jeans That Flatter Muscular Thighs
Photo by Duran Ekiz
Finding jeans when you have an athletic build can feel like a constant struggle. Often, jeans that are roomy enough for muscular thighs end up being too big around the waist, creating that frustrating gap at the back. To make matters worse, the extra fabric can bunch up awkwardly around the crotch or hips, leaving you feeling less than your best. For many athletic figures, it’s all about balance: finding a pair of jeans that can comfortably fit your muscular legs without leaving the waist sagging or causing discomfort.
But don’t worry—it’s not impossible. The key is in choosing the right cut, rise, and fabric. High-rise jeans help smooth out the waist, while stretch fabrics ensure that there’s enough give for your thighs without sacrificing the overall fit. Whether you prefer straight-leg, bootcut, or skinny jeans, this guide will help you find jeans that flatter your shape, provide a comfortable fit, and keep you feeling stylish all day long.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Let’s take the stress out of jean shopping and discover the best options for your athletic build.
Top 25 Jeans for Athletic Figures
Shopping for jeans when you have an athletic build—muscular thighs, a well-defined waist, and strong legs—can be tricky. Whether you’re trying to find a pair that doesn’t gape at the waist or offers a comfortable fit through the thighs, this curated list of 25 jeans has you covered. These jeans are designed to flatter athletic figures, with various styles like high-rise, bootcut, and relaxed fits that work for your body type.
Best High-Rise Skinny Jeans
Oh, these Madewell 90s Straight Crop Jeans in Washed Black are just perfect for those with an athletic frame! The straight-leg cut gives you plenty of room to move comfortably, while still highlighting your toned legs without clinging too tightly. Plus, the cropped length is super versatile, making these jeans easy to style with sneakers or heels. They're a great pick for a laid-back look that feels put-together yet effortless. Perfect for anyone who wants to show off the results of their hard work at the gym without sacrificing comfort or style!
Madewell The '90s Straight Crop Jean
$128
Best Relaxed Fit
The high-rise fit helps define your waist, while the skinny cut flatters your legs without feeling too tight. With just the right amount of stretch, they move with you, making them ideal for those with more muscular thighs and calves. Plus, the classic wash makes them versatile enough to dress up or down, so you'll reach for them time and time again.
10" High-Rise Skinny Jeans
$138
Best Bootcut for Balance
The slight flare in these bootcut jeans balances out your strong legs, creating a smooth silhouette. Plus, the high-rise waist helps to prevent waist gapping and ensures a snug, comfortable fit.
Levi’s 725 High-Rise Bootcut Jeans
$69
Best Boyfriend Jeans
Relaxed yet chic, these boyfriend jeans are perfect for an athletic build. They’re cut looser through the hips and thighs, making them a great casual option for women who need more room in the legs.
GOOD ’90s RELAXED JEANS
$159
Best Stretch Skinny Jeans
For a comfortable, stretch skinny jean that moves with you, these are a fantastic choice. The high-rise waist and stretch fabric provide a smooth, flattering fit that accommodates muscular thighs.
Paige Transcend Hoxton Skinny Jeans
Price: $199
Best Bootcut for Curves
These bootcut jeans offer just enough flare to balance out your legs. The mid-rise waist ensures comfort, while the stretch fabric hugs your curves in all the right places.
Hudson Drew Mid-Rise Bootcut Jeans
$175
Best High-Waist Relaxed Fit
Perfect for athletic bodies, these straight-leg jeans provide extra room in the thighs while the high waist helps to create a more defined silhouette. Ideal for a classic, relaxed look.
AG Mari High-Waist Straight-Leg Jeans
$215
Best High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
These Everlane jeans are a great pick for anyone with a rectangular figure because they help create the look of curves. The high-rise waist gives your waist more definition, and the straight-leg cut adds some shape to your silhouette. They’re designed to fit well without being too tight, making them comfy for everyday wear. Plus, the longer length makes your legs look longer, giving you a flattering look. You can easily dress them up or down, so they’re a versatile option for any wardrobe!
Everlane Way-High Wide-Leg Jeans
$118
Best Curvy Fit Jeans
Designed to provide a flattering, curve-hugging fit, these shaping jeans smooth out your waist and hips while giving you plenty of room in the thighs. Great for athletic builds that need extra give.
Levi’s 311 Shaping Skinny Jeans
$69
Best Affordable High-Rise Skinny Jeans
A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on fit. These high-waisted skinny jeans offer a flattering silhouette with just enough stretch to accommodate athletic legs.
Old Navy High-Waisted Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans
$44
Best for Tummy Control
If you’re looking for jeans that provide a little extra support, these Gap disstressed jeans are perfect. They offer tummy control with a high-rise waist while still allowing for movement and stretch in the thighs.
Distressed Straight Leg Jeans
$128
Best for Casual Days
With a straight-leg fit and extra room in the thighs, these vintage-inspired jeans are perfect for a casual, everyday look. The high-rise waist ensures a snug fit without the waist gap.
Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High-Rise 90s Straight Jeans
$90
Best for Athletic Curves
These cropped jeans are great for athletic women who want to showcase their legs. The snug fit hugs your curves without being restrictive, making them both comfortable and stylish.
SOFT-TECH GOOD LEGS CROPPED MINI BOOT JEANS
$159
Best Straight-Leg for Athletes
A straight-leg jean that works well for those with muscular thighs, these J.Crew Toothpick jeans offer just the right amount of stretch and structure to balance comfort with style.
J.Crew 9" High-Rise Toothpick Jeans
$128
Best Mid-Rise Relaxed Jeans
These boyfriend jeans are great for athletic figures thanks to the extra room through the hips and thighs. The relaxed, slim cut ensures you stay stylish without feeling restricted.
AG Ex-Boyfriend Relaxed Slim Jeans
$245
Best Bootcut for Everyday Wear
Perfect for day-to-day wear, these bootcut jeans offer extra room in the thighs while still keeping a tailored fit. The mid-rise waist ensures comfort while the slight flare balances your figure.
Hudson Beth Mid-Rise Bootcut Jeans
$195
Best Classic Straight-Leg
Levi’s Ribcage jeans sit high on the waist, offering a clean, classic look that’s perfect for athletic bodies. The straight-leg cut ensures a flattering fit without being too tight.
Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans
$98
Best Sustainable Option
Made with organic cotton, these jeans offer a high-rise fit that’s perfect for those with muscular thighs. They’re eco-friendly without sacrificing style or comfort.
Everlane The Cheeky Straight Jean
$98
Best Athletic Fit for Tall Women
Designed specifically for taller women with athletic builds, these jeans offer a flattering slim fit with plenty of room in the thighs. The extra-long inseam makes them ideal for tall women.
Long Tall Sally Slim Leg Jeans
$79
Best for Athletic Figures Over 5'10"
If you’re tall and athletic, the Paige Hoxton Ultra Skinny jeans are a perfect choice. They offer a high-rise fit and a snug feel that flatters your waist and thighs without being too tight.
Paige Hoxton Ultra Skinny Jeans
$219
Best for Wide-Leg Comfort
Mango’s wide-leg jeans are perfect for athletic builds. The high-rise waist provides a snug fit, while the wide leg adds balance to your figure and offers plenty of room for comfort.
Mango Tall Wide-Leg Jeans
$59
Best Athletic Fit Jeggings
For days when you want the comfort of leggings with the look of jeans, these jeggings are perfect for athletic builds. They offer stretch where you need it most while still hugging your waist.
American Eagle Ne(x)t Level Jeggings
Price: $59
Best Bootcut for Tall Frames
DL1961's bootcut jeans offer a snug waist and just enough flare to balance out muscular thighs, making them perfect for tall, athletic builds.
DL1961 Bridget Boot High-Rise Jeans
$209
Best Budget-Friendly Tall Skinny Jeans
These high-rise skinnies are both affordable and stylish, with a long inseam that ensures a comfortable, flattering fit for taller, athletic women.
Topshop Tall Joni Jeans
$55
Best High-Waist Slim Fit
These Abercrombie high-rise mom jeans are a great fit for someone with a rectangular figure because they help add shape and balance. The high-rise waist defines your midsection, while the relaxed, tapered leg creates a bit of volume around the hips, giving the illusion of curves. The slightly looser fit in the legs is not only super comfortable but also adds to the overall flattering effect, making your silhouette appear more balanced and proportionate. Plus, the vintage-inspired style is easy to pair with anything, making these jeans a versatile wardrobe staple!
Abercrombie High Rise Mom Jeans
$100
Common Struggles for Athletic Figures When Finding Jeans
Shopping for jeans as someone with an athletic body type comes with its own set of challenges. Here are a few common issues:
1. Jeans that Fit the Thighs but Are Too Loose in the Waist
For many women with muscular thighs and muscular legs, finding jeans that fit comfortably through the thighs often means dealing with a waistband that’s too loose. This leads to waist gapping at the back, which not only affects the look but also the comfort of the jeans. Many standard cuts fail to provide the balance between a snug fit at the waist and enough room in the thighs to accommodate your athletic build.
2. Low-Rise Jeans Causing Discomfort
While low-rise jeans can be trendy, they are often a source of frustration for athletic figures. For women with strong, defined legs and a more muscular lower body, low-rise jeans tend to slip down or create discomfort, especially when sitting or bending. They don’t provide enough coverage around the hips and waist, leading to constant adjustments and discomfort.
3. Lack of Stretch for Muscular Thighs
Another issue many athletic women face is the lack of stretch in some denim fabrics. Without the flexibility of materials like elastane or spandex, jeans can feel restrictive around the muscular thighs, making it difficult to move freely. A snug fit that is too tight around the legs can feel uncomfortable and limit your mobility.
4. Balancing Comfort and Style
Achieving a balance between comfort and style is key for anyone with an athletic body type. While you want a pair of jeans that flatters your figure, it’s just as important that they feel comfortable throughout the day. Finding jeans that offer a snug fit in all the right places, without sacrificing your ability to move or stretch, can often feel like a difficult task. But with the right fabrics and cuts, it’s definitely possible to find that balance.
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Jeans with stretch fabrics and a relaxed or straight fit are best for muscular legs, offering room in the thighs without losing shape.
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Athletic fit jeans are specifically designed for people with muscular builds, featuring extra room in the thighs and hips while tapering at the waist for a more tailored fit.
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Straight-leg, bootcut, and relaxed-fit jeans offer a balanced look and highlight the natural shape of big thighs, while providing enough room for comfort.
Disclaimer: This blogpost was originally published August 29, 2023 and was updated October 3, 2024
