Last updated on January 13, 2024 by Eve Dawes
Which is better Spanx or Commando? I put them both to the test!
The Spanx and Commando Faux Leather Leggings are known to be two of the best faux leather leggings, but which one is the best? I've had my Spanx motorcycle leggings for years, but I kept hearing about the Commando faux leather leggings, so I thought I'd put both of them to the test. They're one of those versatile pants that I count as pants, as they provide more coverage than most of leggings and can be styled in many ways. Both offer tummy control and are similarly priced, but one is better than the other. In this Spanx vs Commando review, I compare faux leather leggings from both brands and share my thoughts on the fit, quality, and features of these 2 best-selling products and which one comes first in my books.
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Spanx vs Commando test transport and review
What are the best faux leather leggings? I'm trying on and reviewing the Spanx and Commando faux leather leggings as they are both vegan options at a similar price and have different pros and cons.
How Spanx and Commando fit together
I wear an XS in both and am 5'2″, size US 0/UK 6.
Length
Both Spanx and Commando offer regular and petite sizes. The petite is recommended for people 5'4″ and under. I ordered the regular, but I might try the small next time so I don't have to fold up the bottom.
The inseam of the Commando Petite leggings is 25 1/2″ for size medium versus Spanx, which is 26″ for all sizes. The Commando regular inseam is 27-29″ depending on size, versus the Spanx regular inseam which is 28″.
Sizing
I think the Spanx leggings are true to size, but I wish I had a larger size in the Commando since I really have to move in them. They are fine once on, but the size I ordered is a nightmare, especially with press-on nails.
What colors do Spanx and Commando faux leather leggings come in?
Spanx faux leather leggings only come in black. Although they do make a fleece-lined version which I really want to try since my legs get cold in the fall and winter with their usual leggings.
The Commando Perfect Control Faux Leather Leggings are available in 7 colors:
- Black
- ox blood
- Cocoa
- White
- Navy
- Sand
- Platinum
Which looks more like real leather Spanx or Commando.
In my opinion, the Commando Perfect Control Faux Leather Leggings look more like real leather up close. Spanx tend to creak a little. From a distance they both look pretty good.
Who makes the best Spanx or Commando faux leather leggings?
They are both technically a little different, but both have equally good abdominal control. The Spanx Contoured Power Waistband offers tummy shaping versus the Commando Internal Smoothing Waistband, which does the same. However, since Commando's faux leather leggings are more shiny, I find them less flattering in the waist. Although to be fair, you usually can't see my waist in leggings as I usually pair them with longer tops.
Spanx does not have a center seam, meaning it does not have a camel toe, but it does have side seams. The lack of a center seam is a winning feature for me, as the Commando leggings have a center seam that I also find a little less comfortable. The Commando leggings do not have a side seam (except in 2XL and 3XL) but I don't really know what benefit that offers.
Another big difference is the finish on the hem of each legging. Commando has an unfinished hem and the Spanx one is finished. He personally prefers the proper hem of the Spanx leggings.
Best for comfort and flattering fit.
I find Spanx the most comfortable and true to size. The no center seam and less shiny material also makes them more flattering.
The best leggings to look like leather.
The Commando Faux Leather Leggings look more like real leather and are a little longer around the front seam. Making them a great option if you have a longer torso. Spanx Moto Faux Leather Leggings are made of 87% Nylon and 13% Spandex VS Commando 55% Polyurethane, 44% Viscose and 1% Spandex. The lower amount of spandex explains why they are harder to wear!
Tips for caring for faux leather leggings
Both brands of leggings have a stretch fit. I've had my Spanx leggings for years and they haven't fallen off, probably because of how I had them on. To prolong the life of the leather effect and elasticity, hand wash inside out or machine wash inside out in cold water. Always hang them to dry!
Shop the best faux leather leggings
The best-selling Commando and Spanx leggings, including the thermal style perfect for winter. I just received the oxblood Commando leggings so I'll be adding photos of them here this week as the rich burgundy tones are trending in 2024.