Ok, so a different angle from me...

I have my legs waxed actually, (at a salon). I do it once a month and it keeps me mostly hair-free during that time. The last week before an appointment is a bit feral, but I don't really mind. Waxing isn't painful, to me, i've gone through far worse things than having hair pulled (like most every woman).

I simply don't have the time, desire, or energy to sit in the shower and shave every few days - my leg hair is rather thick and dark (IMO anyway) - plus I like having perfectly smooth legs.

In-growns aren't a problem because I exfoliate regularly, that keeps everything in good order.

As far as letting it grow out, yes you have to, so that the hair is long enough to be removed. My hair though grows in much, much thinner and lighter than it used to when I shaved. Two weeks after shaving I have some hair on my legs but it is very hard to see as it is rather fine.

Anyway, just another option...