Carter's is the default choice for a reason, affordable, widely available, and durable enough for the chaos of toddlerhood. The 4-pack means you're covered for a full week.
What holds up
4-pack value offers excellent cost-per-pair ratio
Carter's is a widely trusted brand for children's basics
Soft, comfortable fabric suitable for everyday wear
Easy pull-on style for quick diaper changes
What to know
Basic styling with limited fashion-forward options
May not be as soft as premium organic options
Sizing can run small for some babies
Expert verdict
Simple Joys by Carter's Baby Girls' 4-Pack of Pants, a top pick for best bottoms for girls
Old Navy is the community's unanimous answer for kids' leggings that don't break the bank, the PowerSoft fabric genuinely rivals pricier brands, and the tall sizing is a lifesaver for long-legged kids.
What holds up
PowerSoft ribbed fabric is exceptionally soft and durable
Available in tall/long lengths for fast-growing kids, rare at this price
Inclusive sizing from toddler through teen
Frequent sales make these even more affordable
What to know
Tall sizes are online-only, not available in stores
Some parents report snags after multiple washes
Limited waistband adjustability for younger kids
Expert verdict
These High-Waisted PowerSoft leggings are the kind you continuously brush your hands against, the ribbed PowerSoft fabric is über-smooth.
If your kid is serious about sports or just destroys clothes faster than you can replace them, Athleta Girl is worth the splurge, the fabric genuinely lasts, and secondhand Athleta is easy to find.
What holds up
Powervita fabric is buttery soft yet supportive, same as adult line
Designed for active movement: gymnastics, dance, sports
Durable enough to survive years of heavy use
UPF protection available in select styles
What to know
Significantly more expensive than Carter's or Old Navy
Limited availability in physical stores for kids' sizes
Parents recommend buying secondhand for fast-growing kids
From the community
Also Athleta, although those are expensive and you might be happier getting them second hand for a growing kid. Athleta's long is actually too long for me but the regular is too short so I get the long and hem.
For newborns especially, you want the softest, most chemical-free fabric possible, Burt's Bees Baby delivers that without the premium price of some organic brands.
What holds up
GOTS-certified organic cotton, free from harsh chemicals and dyes
Lightweight knit fabric is breathable and gentle on newborn skin
Trusted Burt's Bees brand with strong safety reputation
Affordable price point for an organic product
What to know
Lightweight fabric may not be warm enough for colder climates
Limited to infant sizing
Fewer style/color options than non-organic alternatives
Expert verdict
Burt's Bees Baby Lightweight Knit Infant Bottoms, a top pick for best bottoms for girls
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