Athleta Salutation vs. Salutation II: What's the difference?

The original Athleta Salutation Legging and its successor, the Salutation II, are both fan-favorites made from the brand’s signature ultra-soft Powervita fabric. The core differences are subtle but important: the Salutation II is an updated version that often features a modified waistband design and slight adjustments to the fabric blend for enhanced comfort or durability, while the beloved original sticks to its classic, second-skin fit and feel.

Here’s everything you need to know about these iconic styles from Athleta to find your perfect match.

Athleta Salutation Leggings

The Salutation legging is the original style that built a loyal following for its buttery-soft feel and incredible versatility. Known for its perfect balance of stretch and gentle compression, it's designed to move with you seamlessly from a yoga class to running errands, offering a comfortable, second-skin fit that wearers love.

• What it is: A high-performance, high-rise legging praised for its classic, minimalist design and proven comfort and durability.
• Key features: Crafted from super-soft Powervita fabric, moisture-wicking properties, high-rise waistband for supportive coverage, and flatlock seams that prevent chafing.
• Price: Typically ranges from $80 to $100.
• Materials/Construction: A blend of nylon and Lycra/spandex known for its excellent stretch, softness, and shape retention over time.
• Sizing/Fit: A snug, second-skin fit that runs true to size. It sculpts the body without feeling restrictive. Available in multiple lengths, including 7/8 and full-length.
• Pros: A tried-and-true classic design, excellent longevity, holds its shape well, vast color selection, versatile for low- to high-impact workouts and casual wear.
• Cons: As the original model, it may lack refined features found in newer styles. Fabric might feel slightly less compressive compared to the updated Salutation II.

This legging is perfect for those who want a reliable, soft, and stretchy staple for virtually any activity and prefer a proven, classic design.

Shop this product: athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=591742

Athleta Salutation II Leggings

The Salutation II represents the evolution of a classic, incorporating customer feedback and material innovations. It preserves the signature softness of the original while introducing smart updates to the fabric and waistband design for what many find to be an improved fit, a hint of extra support, and elevated comfort.

• What it is: The modernized version of the popular Salutation legging, with refined design elements and potentially improved fabric performance.
• Key features: An updated Powervita fabric blend for enhanced breathability or compression, a redesigned waistband for a more comfortable or secure fit, and sometimes additional features like different pocket styles.
• Price: Around $80 - $110, sometimes with a small premium over the original.
• Materials/Construction: An updated version of the nylon/Lycra Powervita fabric that maintains softness while offering potential durability and performance benefits.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size, similar to the original, but the updated waistband or fabric may provide a slightly different feel - some find it more supportive or forgiving.
• Pros: Leverages the latest fabric technology, modernized design and fit refinements, potentially better comfort and durability, updated aesthetic choices.
• Cons: Subtle changes might not be a significant upgrade for everyone. The fit could feel different to loyal fans of the original. Often has a slightly higher price point.

This is the ideal choice for shoppers seeking the absolute latest in design and fabric technology who want an already-great legging with modern refinements.

Shop this product: athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=198671

Salutation vs. Salutation II Comparison

Fabric & Feel

Both leggings are famously buttery-soft thanks to Athleta’s exclusive Powervita fabric. The original Salutation has the feel that started it all - a second-skin sensation that’s both stretchy and durable. The Salutation II uses an evolved version of this fabric. While it maintains the signature softness, the updated blend may offer a little more compression, enhanced moisture-wicking, or simply a slightly different texture aimed at improving overall performance and longevity.

Fit & Sizing

Both the Salutation and Salutation II generally run true to size, offering a huggable, high-rise silhouette. The main difference in fit often comes down to the waistband. The original style has a classic, smooth band that offers comfortable support. The II often features a modified or refined waistband that some wearers find holds in place better during high-intensity movement or provides a more comfortable fit around the midsection without pinching or rolling.

Design & Aesthetics

Aesthetically, the two are very similar from a distance. The original Salutation legging boasts a minimalist, clean look with smooth seams. The Salutation II might include subtle updates like slightly different seam placements to enhance the silhouette, redesigned pocket options on certain styles, or minor visual tweaks that give it a more modern and technical appearance.

Price & Value

The pricing for both leggings is very close, positioning them in the mid-range performance activewear market. The Salutation II occasionally comes with a slight premium of about $10-$20, reflecting its updated materials and design. However, both offer fantastic value. They are known for their durability and wash-and-wear longevity, making either pair a solid investment for anyone looking for versatile, high-quality leggings.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both leggings are excellent choices, but they serve slightly different preferences.

Choose the Salutation if:

• You already own and love the original’s second-skin feel and don't want to change.
• You prefer a simple, streamlined, and proven design without extra bells and whistles.
• You want a massive selection of colors, as this style has been around longer.
• You're looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option and find a great color on sale.

Choose the Salutation II if:

• You're interested in the latest fabric innovations for potentially enhanced comfort and performance.
• A more refined waistband that sits perfectly and stays put is a top priority for you.
• You appreciate subtle design updates that give activewear a fresh, modern look.
• You're new to the Salutation line and want to start with the most current version.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between the Athleta Salutation and Salutation II leggings?

The main difference lies in the refinements. The Salutation II is an updated version with a potentially improved Powervita fabric blend and a redesigned waistband for a better fit, while the original Salutation offers the classic fit and feel that made the style famous.

Are both Salutation leggings true to size?

Yes, both styles are known to run true to size. They are designed for a snug fit, so if you're in between sizes, you might consider sticking to your usual size for comfortable compression.

Is Salutation II more compressive than the original Salutation?

It can be slightly more compressive. While an official compression rating isn't always provided, updates to the fabric blend in the Salutation II can result in a more held-in, supportive feel compared to the original's gentle, second-skin hug.

Which style is better for yoga?

Both are absolutely fantastic for yoga. The buttery-soft Powervita fabric, four-way stretch, and supportive high waist in both styles make them ideal for moving through any pose without restriction. The choice comes down to your personal fit preference.

Is the Powervita fabric see-through?

No, Athleta's Powervita fabric used in both the Salutation and Salutation II leggings is designed to be opaque, a quality the brand calls "squat-proof." You can confidently bend and stretch without worrying about sheerness.

Which waistband is more comfortable?

Comfort is subjective and depends on body type. Many people love the original flat waistband. However, the modified waistband on the Salutation II was specifically designed to enhance comfort and prevent rolling, which many wearers find to be a significant improvement.

Is there a big price difference between them?

The price difference is minimal. The Salutation II may cost $10-$20 more than the original at full price, but both are often included in Athleta sales and promotions.

How should I wash my Salutation leggings?

To preserve the fabric's softness and elasticity, it's best to machine wash them in cold water with like colors and tumble dry on a low setting. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can degrade the moisture-wicking properties of the performance fabric.