Black gym leggings are the 'squat-proof essential' in every spring workout wardrobe - here are 10 of our favourites

A pair of the best black gym leggings are a staple in any workout wardrobe. They go with everything, making them an easy choice for early morning workouts and grab-and-go gym bag packing, and they're suitable for most workouts given their unique ability to hide sweat and help you look great. 

Each pair of leggings tried and tested by the woman&home team and included in this round-up meets three essential criteria: durable (the colour doesn't fade after just a few washes), squat-proof (the material isn't see-through when you move init), and comfortable (the fit and material of the leggings make them enjoyable to wear). Only the best workout leggings that meet this criteria over several weeks have been included in the list, so you can be assured that your pick of the bunch is truly the very best. 

Over the years as woman&home's digital health editor, I must have worn close to a hundred pairs of gym leggings. I work out at least three days a week, whatever the weather, so I can confirm these are great choices for whatever you have planned. I've also asked other members of the woman&home team for their tried and tested favourites, covering all types of workouts from running to yoga. 

The quick list

Just want to find the very best black gym leggings and go? This quick list reveals the very best of the best, including picks from brands like Lululemon, Sweaty Betty, and Gymshark. 

Best black gym leggings - tried and tested

Best black gym leggings overall

The Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings tick all the boxes our three key boxes (durable, comfortable, and squat-proof) and they are available in various black colourways, including unique camouflage and leopard print designs, making them a must-buy for anyone looking to buy a pair of the best black gym leggings.

I've had my Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings in black for over two years and work out in them at least once a week, without any sign of the colour fading, and they've never let me down in the sweatiest of sessions. The polyamide elastane fabric feels soft and lightweight like a second skin, making them the perfect addition to your wardrobe for spring/summer, while also being thick enough for full coverage. 

They are not as high-waisted as other black gym leggings like the AYBL Balance V2 Seamless or Nike Go Women's Leggings with pockets, but they do come up to the belly button and feature a drawstring waistband, offering a flattering fit and additional support around the waist. 

One thing to be aware of with the Sweaty Betty Power Gym leggings on the first wear: sweat marks may show through the material around areas like the crotch and waistband. When I first wore these leggings, seeing this made me nervous - especially as these aren't exactly budget-friendly for most people. However, I've not noticed this problem since the first wash. 

Read our full Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings review here.

Best high waisted black gym leggings

Available in deep black and speckle designs, the black AYBL Balance V2 Seamless leggings are the best choice for anyone looking for a high-waisted pair with incredible support. 

The ribbed waistband stretches well above the belly button and sits just below the ribs. Trust me, there's no chance these are falling mid-workout. The thick material also offers additional compression, which feels like additional support during strength training workouts and offers an additional shaping construction without the need for a drawstring waist. 

I've had my AYBL Balance V2 Seamless Leggings for almost four years now and they are still in my regular rotation for the gym, running, hiking and Pilates workouts. 

The 93% Nylon construction makes them a perfect pick for chillier spring mornings - but you may find them a little too warm come the summer. These are also some of AYBL's most popular leggings and as a result, they sell out quickly, so you may be limited on sizes when it comes to check-out. Luckily, they have two black colourways available: Black, which is often only available in smaller sizes, and Black Speckle, which has hints of grey and is often available in all sizes.

Best from lululemon

Lululemon is one of the biggest names in the fitness industry for a reason. There are three main collections, but Align is one of the best and the lululemon Align High-Rise 28" Leggings are the best for anyone after durable, buttery-soft leggings for strength training, yoga, or Pilates.

The buttery soft material and four-way stretch are highlights of these leggings, offering a weightless and second-skin-like feel. The Align collection is designed for low-impact workouts like gym sessions, strength training, and classes like yoga and Pilates. However, over the years I've had my pair, I've worn them through pretty much every type of gym session. 

The Align High-Rise 28" Leggings are also a favourite of Kerrie Hughes, woman&home's acting digital editor. "These are my go-to everyday leggings. I wear these everywhere, from rowing and CrossFit workouts to casual Sunday mornings. Not just in the gym. They're so comfortable and supportive, and the quality means I never have to worry about them being see-through," she says. 

However, there is a difference between yoga leggings and running leggings. Although I have worn these Align leggings through HIIT and treadmill running workouts, I would say they are best suited to the low-impact workouts they are designed for. They don't have a drawstring waistband and the super soft, lightweight feel means they are more prone to slipping down than other black gym leggings like the Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings or Nike Go Women's Leggings. 

Best from Gymshark

Much like lululemon, Gymshark has made a name for itself in the fitness industry as one of the best British sportswear brands with collections of flattering, comfortable, and supportive leggings in various designs and colourways. The Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 leggings are a woman&home favourite for all occasions, from weightlifting for beginners and workout classes to treadmill running. 

I have two pairs of the black Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings and they're in my regular rotation for workouts, simply because they're so easy and practical to slip on, don't bunch up, and feel so lightweight I barely notice they are there. 

For Tamara Kelly, woman&home's Digital Lifestyle Editor, they're a winner for similar reasons. "They are a tight fit but with that, they offer a shaping element that makes you feel sculpted, which is a valuable asset when you feel somewhat exposed during exercise. The fabric is thick enough to hold you in and feel supported but lightweight enough to feel comfortable and not cause you to overheat."  

When it comes to the best black gym leggings, it lacks the variety of black colourways offered by brands like Sweaty Betty, Nike, and lululemon. Gymshark's Vital Seamless 2.0 collection, whether you're buying leggings or one of the best sports bras, is available in plenty of colours - but only one shade of black. Given the five different shades of green in this legging style, I'd love to see more variations on the black colourway in the future. However, as Tamara says, if you know how to wash gym clothes, these leggings will last a long time. "After a year of washing my leggings every week, the colour has stayed and they are still as good as new."

Best for yoga

When it comes to comfort and colour richness, the H&M SoftMove Seamless Sports Tights could almost rival the lululemon Align High-Rise 28" leggings. They might just be the smoothest, softest leggings I've ever worn. 

While I wouldn't wear these for high-intensity activities like running, spinning, or HIIT workouts as they tend to collect sweat marks, they are perfect for gym workouts like strength training, yoga for beginners, and a full-body Pilates workout. The high, wide waistband offers good support and the length stretches to the ankle, even if you're a little taller than average (like me). They are also lightweight and breathable, and they sit on the lower end of the price spectrum compared to other popular leggings from Sweaty Betty and lululemon, making them a great buy for those on a budget. 

I'm normally a size large in leggings and didn't find the need to size up in the H&M SoftMove Seamless Sports Tights. However, reviews from other verified buyers have noted this as a common problem, so it's worth checking out the size guide before buying.

Best budget friendly black gym leggings

The ASOS 4505 Icon Gym Leggings are a good, budget-friendly buy if you're looking for a pair to hit all the essentials. The high-waisted design is basic, but it offers support and coverage just above the belly button and stops the leggings falling down during cardio exercise. The soft material means these are comfortable to wear for at least a few hours at a time, and despite the price, the colour is rich and opaque, making the ASOS 4505 Icon Gym Leggings squat-proof. 

I'll always advocate for spending a little more and opting for a higher-quality material as, while these leggings are very affordable now, they won't stand the test of time like pairs from lululemon, Sweaty Betty, Gymshark, Adidas, or Under Armour will, unfortunately. If you're at a loose end and need a pair in a hurry or are not in a position to spend on leggings right now, these are a good option, but if you can afford to spend a little more, there are better ones. I had my pair of ASOS 4505 Icon Gym Leggings for just over a year before I had to turn them over to clothes recycling.

You also may need to size up in these leggings for a good fit from the first wear. I chose not to size up and on first wear, the waistband of the legging felt very tight. After they'd been worn and washed a few times though, they felt more comfortable around the middle. 

Best for sculpting

While all the best black gym leggings are going to have an effect that makes you look slimmer and taller, as darker colours draw attention away from the body and to the head, hands, and feet, the block panelling on the Adidas by Stella McCartney TrueStrength Seamless Training Leggings works to sculpt the thighs, hips, and glutes. So, if you're looking to create a sculpted silhouette with your pick of the best black gym leggings, these are the best choice. 

Above all else though, the Adidas by Stella McCartney TrueStrength Seamless Training Leggings made it onto my list as they are some of the most comfortable gym leggings I've ever worn. They have a four-way stretch and seamless design that has a second-skin-like feel when the leggings get sweaty, meaning they get more comfortable as you get uncomfortable. The high waistband is secure and supportive, with full coverage up to the base of the ribs. 

Like other leggings on the list, the Adidas by Stella McCartney range is produced with recycled materials, made from waste like cutting scraps and post-consumer household waste, making them a great option for those looking to be more sustainable in their activewear choices. They are, however, among the top two most expensive leggings on the list at £100, making them a premium option. If you have the budget, however, I think they are well worth the extra spend based on my cost per wear (I've had my pair for nearly two years and wear them regularly) and how great they look.

Best black gym leggings with pockets

When it comes to the best gym leggings with pockets, there's no pair quite like the Nike Go Women's Leggings with Pockets. What I love most about these are the six useful pockets, each made in a different style (zip closures, folding fabric, tight elastane openings) and all strategically stored within the legs and waistband of the leggings. When I'm at the gym, these are among my favourites as I can store my phone and locker key safely - I've even managed to get a pair of lifting straps in the side pockets. 

However, in their own right, these are excellent black gym leggings. Often, at the end of a sweaty workout, my other gym leggings with pockets will leave a residue on my phone. Only natural, considering the screen is either pressed against the legging material close to my thigh or the outside of the legging. That's not the case here though. I've always found the material to be thick enough to keep sweat residue away from whatever I've stored in there. However, the material still feels soft yet supportive, with moisture-wicking properties that prevent overheating.

A high waistband and drawstring cord fit into the design for additional support around the middle, making these a great option for outdoor runs, hikes, and walks as well. 

While I have no doubt these will stand the test of time in the years to come, with their squat-proof design, the price of the Nike Go Women's Leggings with Pockets must be considered at £99.99. They are also only available in one black colourway, although other dark shades are an option on the Nike website. 

Best shorter length black gym leggings

7/8 leggings crop just above the ankle, giving you an alternative style option as the weather gets warmer. Otherwise, they are more or less the same as full-length gym leggings - and M&S' Go Move range is an excellent choice for both types. I've had my M&S Go Move 7/8 leggings for several months and since the weather's turned, I've been wearing them every week. 

The Go Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings are great for all types of gym workouts, from doing Pilates every day to spinning a couple of times a week. They have a high-waisted fit that reaches just above the belly button and a drawstring waistband for additional support during cardio workouts, which I love to see. Although, the back pocket has a zip that I found digs slightly into the lower back when lying down on a mat if not positioned correctly, but this would happen with similar designs too. 

I've found them quick-drying and they wick away moisture just as well as some of the more premium options. They're also very breathable, so I don't feel myself overheating during sweaty workouts, which is a bonus. 

It's worth noting, however, that the M&S Go Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings do come up a little small. When buying leggings with a shorter leg, this is definitely something to be especially aware of - otherwise you could end up with capris. I noticed it with my pair, needing to size up from my regular 12 to a 14, and other verified buyers have said the same thing. 

Best black gym leggings on Amazon

While not available with Prime Delivery, the CRZ YOGA Women's Workout Leggings are for sale on Amazon almost exclusively. As well as a standard black colourway, much like lululemon and Sweaty Betty, CRZ YOGA offers unique black designs like tie-dye, marble, camouflage, and various shades of black in these leggings. So whether you want something to stand out in class or blend in, there's an option for you.

"I never thought I would say this about a brand from Amazon, but I love my CRZ Yoga leggings almost as much as my Lulus," says w&h Acting Digital Editor Kerrie Hughes. "They are unbelievably soft, comfortable and supportive. The black pair I own pass the squat test, but I would always opt for the quality of my Lulus on squat day, just to be on the safe side."

With sizes available between 6 and 16, there isn't a huge range of options available. There are also no longer or shorter length options. However, these leggings are just over £23 and one of the best lululemon alternatives you can buy, so they're a good option. CRZ Yoga Butterluxe leggings also come in a variety of colours, if you want to add a pop of colour to your workout wardrobe. 

How I tested the best black gym leggings

• Durability: Each of the leggings listed in this guide was worn over several weeks, with several washes between wears, which is how we know the rich black colour of these leggings doesn't fade quickly. Some pairs, like the Sweaty Betty Power leggings and Gymshark Vital Seamles 2.0 leggings have a colour wash that's stood up to many years of wear and washes.
• Squat-proof: You want to feel secure and covered in any pair of gym leggings you own, given that they are tighter to the body than regular trousers. I wore each pair of these leggings to the gym, squatting and deadlifting without an issue. I've also worn them on several longer-distance runs and stand by the squat-proof, sweat-proof status I've given them. 
• Comfort: Whether you're wearing your black gym leggings during a workout or on a recovery day, you want them to be supportive, while also being comfortable over at least two hours. I wore each pair of leggings for several hours at a time in different scenarios, from HIIT workouts to Sunday recovery brunches, to make sure the waistbands were comfortable, the seams scratchless, and the stretch was as good as the brand suggested.
• Availability: Every body is different, so it makes sense for brands to produce leggings in various sizes - including tall and petite ranges, with various leg lengths. When choosing my pick of the best black gym leggings, I ensured each had alternative options for different sizes where possible. Naturally, some leggings on the cheaper end of the price spectrum only offer one size. 
• Materials: I also assessed the materials of each pair of leggings. Were they sustainably produced with at least 30% recycled materials? Were they a little more polyester than elastane or not? In each case, I highlighted the makeup of the materials and what this means for comfort, stretch, and coverage. 
• Moisture-wicking: Needless to say, you'll be sweating in these leggings if you wear them to the gym. So, each pair needs to be lightweight where possible and made from breathable materials. I've also highlighted additional features that add to the moisture-wicking designs when I've spotted them. 
• Supporting features: These are 'nice to have' features, like drawstring waistbands (for additional support during high-energy cardio workouts) and pockets. Where I spotted them in my collection of the best black gym leggings, I noted them down. 

How to find the best black gym leggings for you 

• Size: If your fit is outside of standard, regular sizing, you may find you need alternative options. For example, I find the Nike Go leggings to be the perfect full-length option  but for those who shop petite sizes, Sweaty Betty or M&S Go Move may be better since the black leggings come in 7/8 lengths too, which are suitable for those 5'4" or under. 
• Brand: When considering which black gym leggings to buy, it's a good idea to think not just about the style but also the brand you're buying from. Consider Sweaty Betty vs Lululemon before making a purchase, for example, and don't just presume that because one brand is more popular than another, it will have the right pair of leggings for you. 
• Seams: Do seams on leggings tend to make you itch and scratch? The material and construction of the leggings you choose should be considered. Where possible, try on the pair you're planning to buy before purchasing to make sure they are comfortable for you - otherwise, make sure the brand has a good returns policy.
• Activity: It's important to consider the activity you'll be doing in your leggings. If you're a treadmill enthusiast, you'll likely prefer the Nike Go leggings over the lululemon Align, as they are made with more cardio-safe materials and have a drawstring waistband to prevent slipping. The Align collection is better suited to those doing strength training, yoga, and Pilates. 

What's the benefit of black gym leggings?

Black gym leggings won't show sweat marks as easily as lighter-coloured options, making them a fail-safe option for sweaty workouts and grab-and-go gym bag packing. This means they also tend to last longer per buy than others, since you can't see the wear and stain marks that tend to cling to gym leggings all of kinds, given their elastane and polyester-heavy materials. 

You'll find that you'll be more likely to wear black gym leggings outside of exercise too, more so than lighter-coloured options or pastel colourways, as they blend into the background and offer a flattering fit. 

What can I wear black gym leggings with?

The great thing about black gym leggings is that they go with almost anything, from your brightest pick of the best high-impact sports bras and t-shirts to low-key jackets and sweatshirts. 

They make for a great base for any outfit, allowing you to accessorise with brighter shades when you want to.