The best leggings have fast become an everyday staple, rooted in an athleisure wave that shows no sign of stopping.
The fanfare certainly comes with good reason. There's a pair for almost every activity and occasion, whether you're milling around, running errands, or dusting off your best running shoes for women for a sprint towards a new personal best. Couple this with the widespread allure of elasticated waists and stretchy fabrics, and it's a no-brainer to send even the best jeans into early retirement.
But as it goes with regulars in the wardrobe rotation, one pair of go-to leggings isn't quite enough to see us through our laundry cycles. And finding the perfect pair is no easy feat. The market is oversaturated, the styles are boundless, and many options sadly feature ill-fitting fabric and/or a high price tag.
We researched hundreds of pairs of leggings and tested dozens to pick the cream of the crop. We assessed quality, comfort, and design. Among the options we tried, the Proskins SLIM High Waisted Compression Leggings ultimately earned the top title of best leggings. They're buttery-soft, stretchy, opaque, and supportive as workout and fashion pants. The inclusive size range is a major bonus, too.
The best leggings as reviewed by our experts
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- View Proskins SLIM High Waisted Compression Leggings in the US
- View Proskins SLIM High Waisted Compression Leggings in the UK
Looking to replace your tired workout leggings with something a bit special? Proskins’ SLIM High Waisted Compression Leggings offer a supportive fit and flattering high waist. More notably, they’re crafted from the softest Lycra fabric we’ve ever tried on, naturally making them one of the best workout leggings for exercise.
Boasting a subtle sheen, they look far sleeker than their matte competitors. However, since they’re free from distracting logos and detailing, they work just as well for daytime wear as they do for sweaty gym sessions.
But back to that high waist. These are some of the best high-waisted leggings we've come across, with a double lining and a comfortable tightness. This pair compresses your stomach in the same way the best shapewear does for a smoother tum and smaller middle. Wear yours with short or longline tops safe in the knowledge these budge-proof leggings won’t inch down as you wear them.
See our full Proskins SLIM High Waisted Compression Leggings review
Faux-leather leggings are great in theory, but typical results comprise baggy knees, sweaty thighs, and a fit so tight you can barely sit down. Then we tried the Spanx Faux Leather Leggings: the best leather leggings worth owning.
Unlike most leather-dupe styles, this pair is not entirely made of faux leather. Rather, the leggings feature a shiny polyurethane coat, also known as a soft and stretchy elastane-blend fabric. This sweat-wicking blend stays cool against the skin and adapts as you move. Moreover, it helps these leggings retain shape, so they won't chafe or sag over time.
The leggings also include a 'power waistband,' which functions similarly to heavy-duty control pants. By construction, this feature hones and smooths the stomach area, hugging natural curves for a flattering fit.
Much like shapewear, this pair lacks a front center seam, eliminating the risk of camel toe. However, it has a seam at the back, which lifts and accentuates the bum.
See our full Spanx Faux Leather Leggings review
Designed to work like a second skin, somehow these clever leggings manage to enhance, instead of hinder, your performance. The super-soft fabric not only feels comfortable against your skin but is super lightweight, too—especially important during a sweaty Hot Yoga session.
The double-layered high waist creates a flattering smooth line across your stomach, as well as staying perfectly in place from warrior pose through to downward dog.
Great for traveling light, the hidden pocket on the inside of the waistband is big enough to store a key or even a small snack if yoga makes you peckish.
They are pricey, but we think they’re well worth the investment. Follow the washing instructions to the letter and these are leggings you’ll be enjoying for a very long time.
See our full Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant review
- View Fabletics High-Waisted PowerHold Leggings in the US
- View Fabletics High-Waisted PowerHold Leggings in the UK
Co-founded by actress Kate Hudson back in 2013, Fabletics has been making a name for itself in the activewear market ever since. The brand operates on a membership system, whereby you sign up for a monthly clothing delivery, instead of adding to basket as and when you choose. While this model isn't for everyone, it does have its perks in the form of VIP discounts, early access sales, and online workouts.
The Powerhold leggings are one of Fabletics most popular pairs, with the main draw being the compression fabric. From a purely aesthetic point of view, this does a brilliant job of sculpting your frame, as well as supporting your muscles to minimize those post-gym aches and pains. The fabric is of good quality and washes well with minimal bobbling. We did find the lighter colors and prints to be a little less forgiving, so if in doubt, go darker.
See our full Fabletics High-Waisted PowerHold Leggings review
The Falke Impulse Running Tights aren't your standard pair of running leggings. Instead of smooth fabric—a hallmark of many popular options—these tights are covered in knitted paneling, and the lining is peppered with tiny silicone nodules. As you run, the duo gently massages the muscles and tissues for a quicker, less painful recovery period.
This detailing is primarily focused around the hips and knees, supporting joints as you pound against high-impact, high-pressure pavements. Rest assured, your PB awaits. Pair this with one of the best sports bras and you'll be ready for your run.
See our full Falke Impulse Running Tights review
- View Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tights in the US
- View Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tights in the UK
Generally, workout leggings feature synthetic blends and sweat-wicking fabrics for a compressive fit. Conversely, lounge leggings are defined by their buttery-soft feel and the wiggle room offered. Allow us to introduce Athleta's Ultra High Rise Elation Tights, a cult-favorite pair that marries qualities of both, but primarily serves as a couch-potato's sartorial mainstay.
The Ultra High Rise Elation Tights are unapologetically good for all purposes, courtesy of the brand's Powervita™ fabric. Coined as "a new breed of yoga fabric," this unique material feels like a tender hug: light, comfortable, and breathable with just enough support and compression that give the pair shape and structure. Best of all, the fabric prevents these tights from pilling and sagging over time.
In terms of fit, these tights are high-waisted, sit comfortably at the waist, and cut right above the ankle. You can save yourself a trip to the seamstress, too—these leggings come in regular, tall, and petite sizes.
- View Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings in the US
- View Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings in the UK
It's not hard to see why the Girlfriend Collective's Compressive High-Rise Leggings is a resounding best-seller. The size range is ever-spanning, upwards of 6XL; and the color variety incorporates a mix of neutrals and brights (don't worry, they're all opaque!). In addition, each pair is available in full, 7.8, and Capri lengths, making the perfect fit well within your reach.
Then, of course, there's the premium quality. Thanks to its high-rise waist, these leggings hold you in and smooth the tummy area, much like our favorite shapewear pieces. Nevertheless, the material is undeniably soft and stretchy, crafted to be adjusted to your liking.
As the antithesis of fast fashion, this pair is made sustainably from 25 post-consumer water bottles. The bottles are pounded into tiny chips and spun into soft, recycled yarn weaved with spandex. The brand's supply chain isn't just great for the environment: It's exceptional for your wallet, too. These leggings are designed to last, meaning you won’t need to shuffle through replacements.
A name most recognizable for their shapewear, Commando’s departure into the world of activewear doesn’t disappoint.
The shapewear influence is still present in the smooth, matte fabric and neat, raw-cut edges, creating a tailored fit and streamlined silhouette. Instead of a visible waistband, Commando has hidden this double-layered band on the inside for extra smoothing and shaping around the tum.
Expertly designed for a compression fit, these leggings work in a similar way to flight socks to help aid circulation. Experts believe this can speed up recovery time after exercise, too, which is a welcome bonus.
‘Buy better, buy less’ is the fashion mantra of the moment, and what better to spend your money on than a pair of biodegradable leggings?
Putting a planet-friendly spin on the classic black legging, Pretty Polly managed to make a pair that is not only a soft, seam-free dream to wear, but won’t clog up landfill sites once you’ve worn them out.
Don’t worry, the biodegradable fabric won’t shorten the lifespan of your leggings. They only start to break down once they come into contact with the kind of micro-organisms typically found in landfills—and even then it still takes them three to five years to fully disintegrate. That might sound like a long time, but the average pair of tights can take up to 40 years to break down.
See our full Pretty Polly Eco-Wear Leggings review
As soon as you slip into a pair of Sweaty Betty leggings, it’s immediately clear why the athleisure trend has boomed. Soft, high-waisted, and light enough to keep your legs cool and comfy, it’s hard to see why you’d ever wear anything else.
Staying perfectly in place whether you’re working up a sweat with a set of burpees or flowing into a downward dog, they’ll give you the confidence you need to take your training to the next level.
Reimagined in new prints and colorways each season, these leggings cater for the bold gym-goer, thanks to bold patterns and look-at-me shades, and also come in muted, understated tones for the fashion-shy.
See our full Sweaty Betty Power Leggings review
- View New Balance Premium Printed Impact Run Tight in the US
- View New Balance Premium Printed Impact Run Tight in the UK
Let’s be honest, sometimes it takes more than a little persuasion to get ourselves off the sofa and into our running trainers. But when your kit looks as good as these New Balance leggings with pockets, suddenly it doesn’t feel like quite so much of a chore.
The sheer panels across the sides not only look chic but make space for two narrow pockets, letting you keep your phone close to your body without hiding the screen. The zipped pocket at the back is just big enough to house your keys and a glucose gel—everything you need for long runs.
And, because the bulk of the pattern is on the lower part of your legs, these leggings cleverly create the illusion of a slimmer bum, hips, and thighs. A more streamlined silhouette before we’ve even stepped outside? Consider us sold.
Whether you want to wear these on their own or underneath clothes for extra chilly days, Nike's thermal leggings are a go-to when it comes to keeping cozy. Perfect for fall walks or workouts that are outside during the cooler months, these luxe leggings are a winner.
With side pockets that can hold keys, bank cards and headphones, and a zip back pocket big enough to fit a phone—these are great for those on the go who want to be hands-free.
The fabric feels high-quality, and its heat-regulating properties have a slight compression feel, so they feel like they hug your body, without being too tight. The mid-rise waistband is adjustable with a drawstring so you can make sure they fit like a glove.
If you love wearing leggings with your everyday outfits, these are the ones for you. Created from a soft, smooth yarn, Wolford's 'perfect fit' leggings do exactly that. Fitting like a second-skin, the light pair with no gusset and seamless waist are perfect for wearing underneath tighter-fitting tops.
They're also made to be quick-drying so we were comfortably quickly after being caught out in the rain in them. And they are highly durable, after repeated wear they still look like new. Sure, they're on the expensive side for leggings but the great quality and fit are what make them worth the extra spend. You'll keep these in your closet for years to come.
If you just want a pair of leggings you can add to your loungewear collection, then Hush is a good go-to. Known for its fabulous, cozy edit of comfy clothes, these leggings will be worn on repeat. The best part is, they look sleek and stylish enough to be worn outside of the house, too.
The charcoal marl colorway will fit seamlessly into your everyday wardrobe. Made from sustainable materials (including wood pulp), these will look just as good with your best slippers as they will with your best white trainers. The drawstring waist also makes it easier to create the perfect, tailored fit.
How to choose the best leggings for you
As with any item of clothing, the first thing to consider is when you plan on wearing your new pair of leggings. With so many types of leggings to choose from, it's crucial to think about whether you're after a high-tech pair to exercise in, a fashion-forward pair for everyday wear, or a flat-seamed pair to keep you comfy:
- Fabric: It's important to examine the fabric when shopping for workout leggings or a lounge pair. You want something lightweight enough to keep you cool (mesh panels and perforated holes will help with this) but still suitably sturdy so as not to become see-through as you dip into a squat. Moisture-wicking fabrics are a godsend for sweaty sessions, not only minimizing pesky marks but also stopping your leggings from becoming damp and heavy.
- Softness: The technicality of the fabric might be less important if you’re wearing your leggings around the house, but softness is key. Look out for cotton blends and plenty of elastane for a style that moves with you, rather than against you. Thoughtful details like a gently ribbed waistband and cuffs will prevent your leggings from inching down as you wear them, while specially shaped gussets stop them riding up.
- Design: For every day, leggings are a comfortable starting point to build trend-led outfits on, as you can pretty much put together comfortable leggings outfits for any occasion. Opt for a pair that has borrowed design details from shapewear, like a high waist and contouring seams, to create a smoother, more streamlined silhouette. If you’re teaming yours with a shorter top or jumper, make sure your leggings pass the VPL test, too. You might feel a bit silly doing it, but squatting in front of a mirror in good lighting is the easiest way to see if they become see-through as you bend.
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