Fitness Gear Apparel The 15 Best Black Leggings of 2023 Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High Rise Legging is our top pick By Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD Sarah Anzolar, MS, RD is a private practice dietitian who works as a freelance writer, recipe developer, food photographer, and brand consultant. Learn about our editorial process Updated on February 28, 2023 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Kristin McGee, CPT Reviewed by Kristin McGee, CPT Kristin McGee is a certified personal trainer and currently teaches yoga and meditation for Peloton. She is also certified in Pilates by the National Association of Sports Medicine. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr LinkedIn Twitter Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Verywell Fit / Brian Kopinski Black leggings are an activewear staple. Whether you’re adding to your collection or replacing a few worn out pairs, while shopping for new black leggings, you’ll want to consider material, opacity, compression, fit, sweat-wicking capabilities, and how well they stay up as you move (or “hold”). The best black leggings should be comfortable, flattering, durable, and stretchy, to match your daily routine. Most importantly, think about how you’ll wear them: A high-quality legging for yoga or lounging is quite different from one you might run in. For low-impact activities, you’ll want to look for a soft material that stretches while maintaining its opacity. During high-impact activities, you’ll benefit from wearing compressive leggings made from sweat-wicking materials. With endless options to choose from, we asked several experts and researched dozens of products to find the best pairs of black leggings on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Legging at Girlfriend.com Jump to Review Best Budget: Offline By Aerie OG High Waisted Legging at Ae.com Jump to Review Best Lululemon: Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28 inches at Lululemon Jump to Review Best With Pockets: Prana Legging at Prana.com Jump to Review Best on Amazon: Colorfulkoala Women's Buttery Soft High Waisted Yoga Pants 7/8 Length Leggings at Amazon Jump to Review Best High-Waisted: Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Flare: Sweaty Betty Bootcut Workout Trousers at REI Jump to Review Best Gymshark: Gymshark Seamless Leggings at Gymshark.com Jump to Review Best Plus-Size: Old Navy Hidden-Pocket Leggings at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Petite: Under Armour HeatGear Pocketed Leggings at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging 5 Girlfriend Collective View On Girlfriend.com View On Net-a-Porter View On Shopbop.com Pros Wide range of sizes and inseams Opaque Made with recycled materials Cons Only one pocket Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High-Rise Legging is our top overall pick for style, versatility, quality, and durability. The breathable, sweat-wicking fabric moves with you, and they’re fully opaque, so you can rest assured you’ll have full coverage, even in Downward Facing Dog. “They’re incredibly flattering—thanks to a heavier fabric, a high waist, and a bit of compression. I also love that they stay put, whether you’re doing heavy deadlifts, climbing ropes, running, jumping, or squatting,” says Kim Yawitz, RD, a registered dietitian and CrossFit gym owner in St. Louis, Missouri. Like most Girlfriend Collective leggings, this pair comes in sizes from XXS to a 6XL. They’re also available in three inseam lengths, making them a great option for a wide range of body types and heights. However, these leggings only have one small hidden pocket in the waistband. It’s large enough for your keys or a credit card, but there aren’t side pockets to hold your phone or other items. Girlfriend Collective is also known for its eco-friendly products, and these are no exception—each pair is made from 79% recycled plastic bottles. They can be recycled through Girlfriend Collective’s Regirlfriend program, and you’ll get credit to put toward a new pair. Price at time of publication: $78 Key Specs: Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Materials: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Inseam: 19.5, 23.75, 28.5 inches | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry Best Budget Offline By Aerie OG High Waisted Legging Aerie View On Ae.com Pros Machine washable Wide range of inseams Waistband won’t bunch or pinch Cons No pockets Might not be as durable These high-waisted leggings from Aerie’s Offline collection are our pick for a pair that’s both comfortable and budget-friendly. “They’re perfect for yoga, lifting, and lounging around the house. They are comfortable and move well with your body. They also hold well at the waist without pinching or bunching, and I’ve never had an issue with them falling down,” says Jen Haefele, RDN, a registered dietitian and CEDS-S, ACSM CPT, AFAA Group Exercise, AEA Aquatic Fitness, RYT 200. They’re made from soft cotton mixed with elastane and spandex, so they can be washed along with all of your other dark clothes. They come in three inseam lengths—short, regular, and long—in sizes from XXS to XXL. Haefele does note that the inseam on her pair has worn a little after regular use for over two years, but for the price, we think that’s a reasonable level of durability. A flared version is also available. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Sizes: XXS to XXL | Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Inseam: 25.5, 27.5, 29.9 inches | Care: Machine wash Best Lululemon Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28 inches Lululemon View On Lululemon Pros Buttery-soft material Durable Four-way stretch Cons Expensive Only one pocket The Align leggings aren’t just one of our top picks—plenty of Lululemon customers rave about them, too. These ultra soft leggings with four-way stretch feel like a second skin, and they are versatile, flattering, and incredibly durable. “They even lasted me through a pregnancy with a growing belly and still fit like a glove without any added stretch,” says Jamie Adams, MS, RDN, RYT200, RPYT, a women's health nutrition expert, registered prenatal yoga teacher, and owner of Mamaste Nutrition. We like that they’re available in sizes from 0 to 20 and come in three inseam lengths. While the Align leggings are an investment, we agree with the experts that their quality materials and thoughtful design are worth the higher price tag. “They are a bit of a cost up front but so worth it,” Haefele says, noting that her Aligns have lasted her between six and 10 years per pair. Adams adds that she’s seen very minimal pilling or fading after wearing her leggings almost daily for over five years. The original Align leggings only have one small pocket in the back of the waistband, but Lululemon now makes another version of the Align Pant with side pockets, too. Try the Align Mini Flared Pant, the Align High-Rise Crop, or the Align Ribbed High-Rise Pant. Price at time of publication: $98 Key Specs: Sizes: 0 to 20 | Materials: Nylon, Lycra, elastane | Inseam: 25, 28, 31 inches | Care: Machine wash with like colors We Tested the 14 Best lululemon Leggings of 2023 Best With Pockets Prana Electa Legging II Prana View On Prana.com Pros Opaque UPF 50+ protection Moisture-wicking Cons Expensive Limited range of sizes and inseams If you tend to carry a lot with you to and from the studio or while running errands, pockets are non-negotiable. We recommend Prana’s Electa Legging II for opaque leggings with plenty of storage. With two phone-sized side pockets, plus an inner pocket for keys or cards, you can keep all of your essentials close by. They’re also made with materials that wick away sweat and dry quickly, so you can wear them from your workout straight to a coffee date. Emilie Rice, MS, RDN, LDN, CSCS, CPT, a registered dietitian and ultrarunning coach, says these are her go-to leggings because they have “thick, opaque material and great durability.” Known for its sustainability efforts, Prana makes leggings from recycled nylon blended with elastane that are made in a Fair Trade Certified factory. While they are an investment, we like that you’re getting high-quality leggings from a company that prioritizes the environment and its people. These leggings are also rated UPF 50+, meaning they block most of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. However, they’re available in fewer sizes than other leggings on our list, and they only come in one inseam. Price at time of publication: $99 Key Specs: Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Recycled nylon, elastane | Inseam: 26 inches | Care: Not listed Best on Amazon Colorfulkoala Women's Buttery Soft High Waisted Yoga Pants 7/8 Length Leggings Amazon View On Amazon Pros Budget-friendly Wide, seamless waistband Opaque Cons No pockets We recommend Colorfulkoala’s Leggings if you’re looking for comfortable, soft, flattering black leggings from Amazon at a budget-friendly price. With a wide, seamless waistband, they’ll stay in place while you move and won’t roll or pinch when you bend, squat, or stretch. The polyester and spandex blend has just enough compression to provide support, without feeling too restrictive. We like the V-shaped seam in the back that’s designed to subtly sculpt your figure. These leggings are available in 25-inch and 28-inch inseams in sizes XS through XL. While they don’t have any pockets, wearers love that they’re totally squat-proof and opaque. (Colorfulkoala also makes 7/8-inch leggings with pockets, in case you’re looking for a cropped option with better storage.) Price at time of publication: $22 Key Specs:Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Inseam: 25, 28 inches | Care: Machine wash After Testing Dozens of Pairs, These Are the 12 Best Leggings on Amazon Best High-Waisted Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight 4.8 Athleta View On Gap.com Pros Breathable Wide range of sizes and inseams UPF 50+ protection Cons Only one pocket If you like a wide, high-rise waistband that sculpts, supports, and smoothes, we recommend Athleta’s Ultra High Rise Elation Tight. They’re made with a blend of nylon and elastane that moves with you all day long. “Athleta's Ultra High Rise Elation Tight is by far my favorite high-waisted legging, mostly because they offer full support and have a certain buttery aspect to them that makes them extremely comfortable. They also are made with a wicking, breathable material, which is great for sweaty practices,” Caroline L. Young, MS, RD, LD, RYT, a registered dietitian, health journalist, and yoga teacher, says. The thick material is opaque, ensuring coverage in deep squats while you lift weights, and we like that it also provides UPF 50+ protection from the sun. They can be washed and dried on a regular cycle (which means fewer loads to do). The Elation Tight is available in sizes XXS through 3X in regular length, which has a 27-inch inseam, and in a slightly smaller size range in petite and tall lengths. Price at time of publication: $89 Key Specs: Sizes: XXS to 3XL | Material: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: 25, 27, 30 inches | Care: Machine wash and dry Best Flare Sweaty Betty Power Bootcut Workout Trousers Sweaty Betty View On REI View On Sweatybetty.com Pros Durable Sweat-wicking Internal drawstring Cons Expensive Inseam may be too long for some For a pair of flares that won’t get in the way of your workout, we recommend Sweaty Betty’s Power Bootcut Workout Trousers, which blend style and function. They’re made from polyamide and elastane that moves, stretches, and wicks away sweat. The high, wide waistband keeps them in place, and the internal drawstring helps you customize the fit. They’re quick drying, making them a good option for sweatier workouts. They feature Sweaty Betty’s signature sculpting design that both compresses and lifts. While they’re on the pricier side, we think the durable fabric paired with the flattering design makes them a worthy investment. To maintain their structure and quality, the brand recommends washing them on a gentle cycle. These leggings are available in two inseams (30 and 32 inches), which may be too long for some, but they are designed to fall over your sneaker. Price at time of publication: $118 Key Specs:Sizes: XXS to XXL | Material: Polyamide, elastane | Inseam: 30, 32 inches | Care: Machine wash on a gentle cycle Best Gymshark Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings View On Gymshark.com Pros Sweat-wicking Seamless Lightweight Cons No pockets May run big Gymshark’s Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings are our top pick from the brand, because their seamless design and muted mesh pattern take the classic workout legging silhouette to the next level. A wide, ribbed waistband keeps them in place throughout your workouts, while sweat-wicking nylon and elastane cool you down in warm weather (or hot yoga studios). While the material is on the lighter side, they still are squat-proof and durable. However, they don’t have pockets, unlike other leggings on our list. Available in sizes XS through XXL, Gymshark’s Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings may run large, and many wearers recommend sizing down. Price at time of publication: $54 Key Specs:Sizes: XS to XXL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: Not listed | Care: Not listed Best Plus-Size Old Navy Extra High-Waisted PowerChill Hidden-Pocket Leggings Old Navy View On Gap.com Pros Budget-friendly Seamless Reflective elements Cons Only one pocket Old Navy’s PowerChill Leggings are our best plus-size pick, because they’re comfortable and come in sizes up to 4X (or up to size 30). They’re a classic, budget-friendly basic with plenty of features we love. First, they’re made from a breathable cotton blend that also wicks away sweat, to keep you dry and comfortable as you move. These leggings also feature a hidden pocket in the waistband for your keys, cash, or credit card. (However, unlike other leggings with pockets on our list, it might not be large enough to stash your phone.) We also like that they’re seamless to prevent chafing. The reflective logo on the back keeps you visible to other walkers, runners, and motorists in low-light conditions. Price at time of publication: $27 Key Specs:Sizes: XS to 4X | Material: Cotton, polyester, TENCEL™ modal, spandex | Inseam: Not listed | Care: Machine wash cold Best Petite Under Armour HeatGear High Waisted Pocketed Leggings 4.5 View On Amazon View On Basspro.com View On Kohls.com Pros Four-way stretch Compressive Wide range of inseams Cons May be too thin for cold weather Under Armour’s HeatGear Leggings are our top pick for petite leggings you can wear on their own or as a base layer. They’re available in three inseams: short, tall, and regular, which Rice says is "a win for us shorter female fitness pros.” She particularly likes that the high-rise waistband stays in place and won’t budge, even while you sweat. We love the large side pocket, to keep your phone close by. And flatlock seams prevent irritation, so you’ll stay comfortable all day long. Four way stretch material moves with you, instead of tugging or pulling. These leggings also offer plenty of compression to support your high intensity workouts. The sweat-wicking material dries quickly, to help regulate your body temperature. Since they’re designed for warmer weather, they’re on the thinner side, meaning you may need to wear another layer on top when it’s cold out. Price at time of publication: $50 Key Specs:Sizes: XS to 4X | Material: Polyester, elastane | Inseam: Regular: 29 inches, Short and Tall not listed | Care: Machine wash Best With Compression Spanx Booty Boost Active Leggings Spanx View On Nordstrom View On Revolve View On Spanx Pros Breathable Sculpting design Opaque Cons Expensive Only one inseam length For the ultimate compression and support, we recommend Spanx’s Booty Boost Active Leggings. Sculpting fabric and contoured seams have plenty of lift and hold, for a flattering legging that will stay put through your workout. The nylon-elastane blend won’t sheer out while you squat, and it wicks away sweat, so you'll stay dry and comfortable. Inside the waistband, a hidden pocket is large enough to hold most smartphones. These black leggings are so comfortable and flattering, you’ll want to wear them beyond the gym, making them worth the higher price tag. The 25.75-inch inseam is meant to hit most wearers around the ankle, but unlike others on our list, these leggings don’t come in multiple lengths. Price at time of publication: $98 Key Specs:Sizes: XS to 3X | Material: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: 25.75 inches | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low Best for Everyday Alo Alosoft High-waist ⅞ Highlight Legging Alo View On Aloyoga.com Pros High, wide waistband Moisture-wicking Four-way stretch Cons Expensive Limited range of sizes Alo’s Alosoft ⅞ Highlight Legging is our pick for pants that can take you from yoga class to brunch without skipping a beat. They’re soft, flattering, and comfortable, and the four-way stretch material provides support while still moving with you throughout your flow. “These are my go-to for lounging around and gentle yoga classes. They’re a little thicker material, making them more opaque, and still buttery-soft,” Adams says. Since you’ll want to wear them regularly, we like that they can be washed and dried on a regular cycle. The size range is more limited than others on our list, with options from XXS to XL. And while they’re more expensive than many of our other top picks, we think the thoughtful design and ultra-soft material make them a solid buy. Price at time of publication: $98 Key Specs:Sizes: XXS to L | Material: Alosoft | Inseam: 24, 24.5 inches | Care: Not listed The 11 Best Alo Leggings for Every Activity Best Maternity Lorna Jane Maternity Ankle Biter Leggings View On Com.au View On Lornajane.com Pros Convertible waistband Eight-way stretch Sweat-wicking Cons No pockets Expensive Finding a comfortable, supportive maternity legging that grows with your belly can be a challenging task. Lorna Jane’s LJ Maternity Ankle Biter Leggings are our top pick, because they’re made with fabric that stretches eight ways, to move with you as your bump grows. The blend of nylon and elastane creates a soft, buttery material that still wicks away sweat and can go from lounging to the gym with ease. These leggings are durable enough to hold up through multiple pregnancies, even with almost-daily use. We used them for everything from teaching spin class to lounging around the house, and they stayed comfortable, compressive, and supportive. We also like the extra-wide waistband, which can be worn over your bump or folded down for additional support. These leggings are available in sizes XXS to XXL and are designed to hit just above the ankle—although that may vary, depending on your height. While they don’t have pockets and are pricier than others on our list, we think it’s worth spending more on a pair of leggings you’ll wear day in and day out. Price at time of publication: $116 Key Specs:Sizes: XXS to XXL | Material: Nylon, elastane | Inseam: Not listed | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry Best Seamless Outdoor Voices SeamlessRib ⅞ Legging Outdoor Voices View On Lyst.com View On Nordstrom View On Outdoorvoices.com Pros Compressive Made with recycled materials Opaque Cons Limited range of sizes No pockets Outdoor Voices’ SeamlessRib ⅞ Legging is our pick for seamless leggings that won’t slow you down. They’re soft, stretchy, and flattering—ideal for low impact activities like yoga, Pilates, walking, or hiking. A wide, supportive waistband helps keep them in place, while the compressive fabric offers light support. They’re made from a thick blend of recycled nylon, recycled polyester, and elastane that ensures that they aren’t see-through in any pose. And we like the slight pop of color that separates them from most other pairs on our list. These leggings don’t have any pockets, and that the size range is more limited than others on our list, but we think their durability and comfort are a fair trade-off. Price at time of publication: $78 Key Specs:Sizes: XS to XL | Material: Recycled nylon, nylon, recycled polyester, elastane | Inseam: 25 inches | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low 15 Best Seamless Leggings of 2023 That Feel Like Second Skin Best for Running Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 25” Lululemon View On Lululemon Pros Seven pockets Lightweight Internal drawstring Cons Expensive Runners know the value of cool, comfortable, sweat-wicking leggings that stay in place. Lululemon’s Fast and Free Tights hit all of these marks, and more. With two smartphone-sized side pockets plus five hidden waistband pockets, you’ll have a place for everything, from your keys to your gels (or other fuel). “My favorite leggings for higher-impact exercise are the Lululemon Fast & Free High Rise Tight. They are smooth, the waistband stays up, and they have pockets, which are great for going on runs,” says Celia Palmer, MS, RD, LDN, a certified yoga instructor. The Fast and Free Tight comes in two inseam lengths—25 and 28 inches—in sizes 0 to 20. We like that they’re lightweight, supportive, and quick-drying. An internal drawstring helps you tweak the fit, so they’ll stay up and in place. These pants are incredibly durable and retain their stretch and shape with regular wear. We’ve found that the Fast and Free Tight has lasted over five years for some runners. Even after we washed them countless times, they still looked like new. Although they’re expensive, we think their superior durability makes these leggings worth buying. Price at time of publication: $128- to $138 Key Specs:Sizes: 0 to 20 | Materials: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Inseam: 25, 28 inches | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low The 15 Best Running Leggings That a Running Coach Recommends How We Selected the Best Black Leggings With countless pairs of black leggings to choose from, it can be hard to find the one that’s best for you. To narrow our options down, we first asked these experts for their opinion on what sets a good pair of black leggings apart: Kim Yawitz, RD, a registered dietitian Jen Haefele, RDN, a registered dietitian Jamie Adams, MS, RDN, RYT200, RPYT, a women's health nutrition expert and registered prenatal yoga teacher Emilie Rice, MS, RDN, LDN, CSCS, CPT, a registered dietitian and ultrarunning coach Caroline L. Young, MS, RD, LD, RYT, a registered dietitian, health journalist, and yoga teacher Celia Palmer, MS, RD, LDN, a certified yoga instructor Then, we researched dozens of leggings from over 20 of the most popular and trusted brands. We considered materials, rise, inseam length, hold, price, durability, and more. We combined the guidance from our experts and our own findings to select the best black leggings on the market today. What to Look for in Black Leggings Materials Most leggings are made from a blend of multiple materials. When shopping for black leggings, think about when and where you plan to wear them. “For lower-impact exercise, lower compression cotton-based, breathable fabric is best. For higher impact exercise, look for a sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabric that contains polyester or nylon as well as elastane [also known as Lycra or spandex],” says Palmer. For high-impact activities, Yawitz also recommends “checking the inseam areas of the leggings, because this is an area of high friction, which can lead to wear and tear more easily. Look for strong stitching, more fabric in this area, and thicker, textured fabric.” Compression Some compression can help your leggings stay in place, but too much compression may be uncomfortable and restrict your movement. The amount of compression you’ll want depends on your personal preference and activity level. “In general, though, choose lower compression for lower-impact exercise that requires a lot of range of motion, like yoga, Pilates and barre,” Palmer says. You may prefer more compression for higher impact activities, like running or HIIT classes that involve jumping. Yawitz also notes that compression can help reduce friction and chafing during high-impact activities. Spanx’s Booty Boost Active Leggings are our pick for the best black leggings with the right amount of compression. Opacity Opacity is the most important when you’re bending and stretching in your leggings. For example, “if you’re planning to use them for yoga, you’ll want to ensure that the material isn’t see-through as it stretches,” Yawitz says. Many of our experts recommend trying the “squat test.” When you try on a new pair of leggings, do a few deep squats in front of a mirror, and check to see whether the fabric starts to become sheer. You can also try a Downward Facing Dog or bending over to touch your toes. “Another option is to have the waist opening face-down, held open by your hands, and lift it toward a light. This might show any areas that are weaker,” Haefele adds. Hold Hold refers to how well the waistband of your leggings stays up while you move. Your waistband shouldn’t slip or roll down, but it also shouldn’t pinch or dig into your skin. Wide, high-rise waistbands tend to have the best hold, especially while you work out. If you’ve had issues with waistbands rolling down in the past, we recommend trying a low-compression legging, like Alo’s Alosoft High-Waist ⅞ Highlight Legging. “For higher impact exercises (like running, spin, HIIT), thicker waistbands that have an optional drawstring can help pants stay in place. The hip seam placement also makes a difference, as lower seams tend to fall down more. Finding the right size is also really important,” Palmer says. Frequently Asked Questions How can you tell which leggings are high-quality? There are a few features that can help you tell which leggings are built to last. Palmer recommends looking for opacity, durable seams, a thick double-layered waistband, and the ability to stretch while still retaining their shape. “Trying on your leggings in a room with bright light can help you avoid the embarrassment of wearing see-through pants. Squatting, lunging, and moving around in the dressing room can also help weed out any leggings that ride up in the crotch or slip down at the waist,” Yawitz says. She also recommends looking for a gusset, or a reinforced panel in the crotch area. This helps prevent the leggings from riding up. How much do high-quality black leggings cost? You should expect to pay between $20 and $130 for a pair of high-quality black leggings. Less expensive pairs may not be as durable, and may not have added features like UPF 50+ protection or lots of pockets. More expensive pairs often have these features, but they are usually harder to stock up on. The cheapest pair of black leggings on our list, American Eagle’s Offline by Aerie OG High Waisted Legging, is often available for around $25. Our top overall pick, Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High-Rise Legging, was $78 when we published this list. How should leggings fit? In general, leggings should feel snug, but not restrictive. “Leggings should fit like a glove—almost as if they’re a second skin you didn’t notice you had on,” Adams says. When it comes to fit, you’ll want to consider length and how tight they are in different places. The waistband should be comfortably tight: “You don’t want to be bulging out over the waistline, but you also don’t want them too loose to the point you find yourself hiking them back up every five seconds,” Adams explains.Because sizing often varies among brands, you may need to order and try the same pair on in multiple sizes to find the best fit. If you’re between sizes, you may want to order a size up, because it’s most important that you’re comfortable and don’t feel like your leggings are pinching you or restricting your movement. Which leggings won’t roll down? High-waisted leggings that have a little compression (but not too much) tend to stay in place the best. A thick, double-layered waistband and an internal drawstring can also help, especially for high-impact activities. For a pair of leggings that are designed to stay put, we recommend Colorfulkoala’s Buttery Soft High Waisted Leggings. Why Trust Verywell Fit Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RDN, LDN, is a certified spin instructor and an avid runner who works from home and lives in her black leggings most days. She even has an entire dresser drawer dedicated to leggings (most of which are black). With such an active lifestyle, she knows how important the quality and durability of leggings are, and personally wears many of the leggings on this list when she’s lounging, running, spinning, lifting, going to yoga classes, or chasing after her two kids. The 16 Best Compression Leggings for 2023 1 Source Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Sun Protective Clothing. The Skin Cancer Foundation. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit