The most comfy skinning leg jeans have a lot of stretch to them, you really need to try them on though because they are all cut differently and the fit is the most important part.

You can get leggings that are printed to look like jeans and you can also get 'jeggings' that are a cross between the two. So thicker than leggings but still no where near as thick jeans.

Personally which ones I would go for really depends on what I plan to wear on top, I have a huge pet peeve when it comes to leggings/jeggings and visible crotch! I hate it and really think it looks gross no matter the size or shape of the girl. So for me leggings/jeggings tucked into boots when I'm wearing something looser and longer up top and skinny jeans when the top is shorter, but hey thats just my opinion.

I also think that its worth hitting the chain stores, yes theres some crap but if you look through it all you do find the gems! I have jeans that have cost $20 and are still looking as good as $200 pairs I own.