Athleta Pacesetter vs. Interval: Which one should you buy?

The Athleta Pacesetter and Athleta Interval leggings both offer the quality the brand is known for, but they cater to very different needs. The Pacesetter is a high-performance legging designed with compressive, moisture-wicking fabric ideal for intense workouts like running and HIIT. The Interval focuses on comfort and versatility, featuring a softer, more flexible fabric perfect for moderate workouts like yoga or all-day casual wear.

Here's a detailed comparison to help you choose the right Athleta leggings for your activity level and style.

Athleta Pacesetter Leggings

The Pacesetter legging is engineered for high-impact activities. It's built for serious sweat sessions, providing a sleek, secure fit with technical details that support you through every stride, jump, and rep. If you want a legging that feels like a second skin and stays locked in place, this is it.

• What it is: A high-performance legging with a compressive fit, designed for running and high-intensity training.
• Key features: High waistband for support, minimal seams for a smooth look, advanced moisture-wicking properties, and a 'held-in' compressive feel.
• Price: $90 - $100
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from Athleta’s Power Lyte or similar performance fabrics that are smooth, durable, and highly moisture-wicking to keep you dry.
• Sizing/Fit: A snug, compressive fit that hugs the body. It runs true to size, but the compression makes it feel tighter than a casual legging.
• Pros: Excellent support for intense workouts. Stays in place without rolling or slipping. Durable material holds its shape and color. Highly effective at wicking away sweat.
• Cons: Compression can feel restrictive for casual wear or lounging. The technical fabric is less soft compared to lifestyle leggings. Higher price point.

This legging is the go-to choice for runners, HIIT enthusiasts, and anyone who needs maximum support and performance from their activewear.

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Athleta Interval Leggings

The Interval legging is designed for comfort and mobility above all else. Crafted from a softer, more breathable fabric, it moves with your body, making it an excellent choice for studio workouts, errands, or simply relaxing. It's the versatile piece that transitions seamlessly from a light workout to your daily routine.

• What it is: A comfortable, super-soft legging designed for moderate workouts, yoga, and everyday casual wear.
• Key features: Mid-rise waistband, soft and flexible fabric, relaxed feel that prioritizes comfort and ease of movement.
• Price: $80 - $90
• Materials/Construction: Made with Athleta's softer fabrics like Dreamknit, which focuses on breathability, flexibility, and a buttery-soft feel against the skin.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a more relaxed fit that is true to size but provides more flexibility and give compared to the Pacesetter.
• Pros: Exceptionally comfortable for all-day wear. Highly versatile for different activities. Breathable fabric is great for comfort. Slightly more affordable.
• Cons: Less supportive for high-impact exercises. Fabric may not be as durable under intense, repetitive friction. Less of a compressive, "sculpted" feel.

Perfect for yoga, pilates, weight training, or anyone seeking a comfortable legging that can handle both a workout and a coffee run.

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Pacesetter vs. Interval Comparison

Fit & Feel

The most immediate difference between the Pacesetter and Interval is how they feel on your body. The Pacesetter offers a distinct compression fit. It’s snug, secure, and gives you a "held-in" sensation that supports your muscles during high-impact movement. This can feel slightly restrictive if you're not used to it, but it’s ideal for preventing jiggling and ensuring the leggings stay put.

In contrast, the Interval legging prioritizes softness and flexibility. The fabric has more give and a much softer hand-feel, making it feel less like performance gear and more like a comfortable daily essential. The fit is more relaxed and forgiving, allowing for a complete range of motion without any constricting pressure.

Materials & Durability

The Pacesetter features technical, high-performance fabrics like Power Lyte. This material is smooth, sleek, and engineered to wick sweat away from your skin rapidly. It's built for durability, resisting pilling and holding its shape through countless intense workouts and washes. These characteristics make it a long-term investment for a serious fitness routine.

The Interval uses cozier materials like Dreamknit, designed for breathability and comfort. While durable enough for moderate activities and regular wear, the softer knit isn't designed to withstand the same level of abrasive, high-intensity activity as the Pacesetter. Over time, it might show wear faster if consistently used for activities like long-distance running.

Performance & Versatility

When it comes to pure athletic performance, the Pacesetter is the clear winner. Its compression keeps muscles stable, the high waist doesn't budge during burpees or sprints, and its moisture-wicking capabilities are top-notch. It's built for one primary purpose: to help you perform your best during tough workouts.

The Interval shines in versatility. It’s comfortable enough to wear all day long, from a morning yoga session to afternoon errands and evening relaxation. While it can handle light jogging or weight training, its real strength is its ability to adapt to a varied, less intense lifestyle. It's the legging you reach for when you're not sure what the day will bring but want to be comfortable and ready for anything.

Price & Value

With just a $10 difference, both leggings are priced in the premium activewear tier. The Pacesetter, typically around $90-$100, offers value through its specialized performance features and long-term durability for demanding fitness routines. If you are an avid runner or frequently do high-impact training, the investment is justified.

The Interval, usually priced between $80-$90, provides excellent value through its versatility. Because it serves well for both moderate exercise and daily casual wear, you may get more overall use out of a single pair. For those looking for one legging that serves multiple purposes, the Interval is a great value.

Which One Should You Choose?

Each legging excels in its own way, so your choice depends entirely on your lifestyle and priorities.

Choose the Pacesetter if:

• You're a runner, do HIIT, or engage in other high-impact workouts.
• You value a compressive, supportive fit that stays securely in place.
• Moisture-wicking and durability are your top priorities.
• You want a sleek, athletic look specifically for your workouts.

Choose the Interval if:

• Your activities include yoga, pilates, weight training, or walking.
• You prioritize all-day comfort and a soft, flexible feel.
• You want a versatile legging that works for both fitness and casual wear.
• You prefer a more relaxed fit over tight compression.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Athleta Pacesetter and Interval leggings?

The main difference is their purpose and feel. The Pacesetter is a high-performance legging with a tight, compressive fit designed for activities like running. The Interval is a lifestyle-focused legging with a soft, relaxed fit made for comfort, moderate workouts, and all-day wear.

Which is better for running?

The Pacesetter is better for running. Its compressive fabric provides muscle support, and the high waistband ensures it stays in place during high-impact movement. Its moisture-wicking technology is also designed to handle intense sweat.

Which is more comfortable for lounging?

The Interval is far more comfortable for lounging. Its soft, breathable material and relaxed fit make it feel less like workout gear and more like a cozy everyday bottom.

Do Athleta Pacesetter leggings stretch out?

No, the Pacesetter legging is made from high-performance fabric designed for excellent shape retention. It will not stretch out or lose its compressive quality with normal use and proper care.

Are Athleta Interval leggings see-through?

Like most Athleta leggings, the Interval is made from high-quality, opaque fabric and is not see-through when you purchase the correct size. It is designed to be fully squat-proof for activities like yoga and weight training.

How should I wash my Athleta leggings?

To prolong the life of both styles, wash them in cold water with similar fabrics and tumble dry on a low setting. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can degrade the performance fibers and moisture-wicking properties.

Are these leggings true to size?

Yes, both are considered true to size. However, the Pacesetter will feel much tighter due to its compression fit. If you are between sizes, you might prefer sizing up in the Pacesetter for a little more room, while sticking to your usual size in the Interval for its intended relaxed fit.

Does Athleta have a warranty on their leggings?

Yes, Athleta offers a lifetime guarantee on their products. If your leggings don't perform as expected due to a manufacturing defect, you can return them.