The Best Gym Leggings for Every Type of Workout
Looking for the perfect pair of gym leggings? We've got you covered! The right leggings can make a big difference in your workout performance. Whether you're running, squatting, or lifting, comfort is key. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose.
The best leggings for you will depend on the activity. Your favorite running leggings may not be suitable for yoga, and your go-to high-waisted pair may not be sweat-wicking enough for intense HIIT classes.
Most gym leggings are sweat-wicking, fast-drying, and machine washable. However, some offer extra features that are worth considering. For example, running tights with drop-in leg pockets can eliminate the need for a running belt or phone arm belt. Reflective details are also helpful for visibility during low-light runs. And of course, squat-proof leggings are a must for the gym, so you can move with confidence.
We've hand-picked the top leggings on the market, taking into account performance, comfort, and affordability. Whether you're on a budget or willing to splurge, we've got options for you. We've tested these leggings in various sweat sessions to ensure they meet our high standards.
So, don't settle for mediocre workout gear. Invest in the best gym leggings and take your workouts to the next level.
Best High-Waisted Gym Leggings
When it comes to high-waisted gym leggings, finding the perfect fit is essential. The best high-waisted leggings will sit comfortably above your waist, providing extra coverage and support during yoga classes or any workout. They should stay in place without bunching up or slipping down as you move.
In addition to a secure fit, these leggings should also be sweat-wicking and comfortable. Sweat-wicking properties ensure that moisture is quickly drawn away from your skin, keeping you dry and cool during intense workouts. Comfort is paramount, so look for leggings made from soft, stretchy materials that allow for freedom of movement without sacrificing support.
Investing in high-waisted leggings that offer both functionality and style will elevate your workout experience. Look for leggings with a combination of features like a wide waistband, compression, and breathable fabric to provide the ultimate comfort and support for your fitness activities.
Looking for high-waisted leggings for petite women? The Sweaty Betty Super Soft Yoga Leggings are an excellent choice. They are designed with petite sizes in mind, ranging from XXS to XXL. Available in 7/8 or full length, these leggings offer versatile options.
One of the standout features of these leggings is their extreme softness. They provide a luxurious feel against the skin, enhancing comfort during your yoga or Pilates sessions. The high waistband is designed to keep everything in place without rolling or bunching, ensuring a secure fit.
These leggings are sweat-wicking, effectively drawing moisture away from your body to keep you dry and comfortable. They also feature a convenient slip-in side pocket for your phone, making them suitable for gym workouts as well. While they may not have a drawcord waistband for running, they are great for activities like hikes.
With a 90% squat-proof rating, these leggings offer excellent coverage during your workouts. However, keep in mind that you may notice sweat patches after an intense session. Nevertheless, if this doesn't bother you, these leggings are an ideal choice for their comfort and performance.
BEST GYM LEGGINGS FOR RUNNING
If you're in search of running leggings, certain features are essential for optimal performance. Look for leggings with an adjustable drawcord around the waist. This feature allows you to customize the fit, ensuring a snug and secure feel while minimizing movement during your run.
In addition to the drawcord, reflective details are crucial for running leggings. They enhance visibility in low-light conditions, keeping you safe and seen during your runs. Whether it's reflective strips, logos, or patterns, these details make a significant difference in your visibility to others.
When selecting running leggings, prioritize functionality and performance. Look for sweat-wicking and breathable materials that help keep you dry and comfortable throughout your run. Consider leggings with additional features such as zippered pockets for storing small essentials like keys or cards.
By choosing running leggings with adjustable drawcords and reflective details, you can enjoy a secure fit and enhanced safety during your runs. Stay comfortable, visible, and focused on your running goals with the right pair of running leggings.
Product Overview
If you're searching for versatile running leggings that excel in various activities, the Sweaty Betty Power High Waisted Gym Leggings are an excellent choice. These leggings have earned their reputation as best-sellers due to their exceptional performance across different workouts.
The Power leggings from Sweaty Betty offer a winning combination of sweat-wicking and fast-drying properties. They keep you dry and comfortable during intense workouts, making them suitable for running, HIIT classes, or even casual activities like walking the dog. Available in a wide range of prints and colors, these leggings allow you to express your personal style.
Featuring Sweaty Betty's "bum-sculpting" technology, these leggings provide a flattering and streamlined look. The flattened seams enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. In terms of functionality, the Power leggings come with three pockets. There are two drop-in side pockets on the legs, along with a zipped pocket on the back for securely storing essentials like keys while running or in the gym.
The leggings are available in two leg lengths: 7/8, which is perfect for more petite women as they will essentially be full length, and full leg length. This ensures you can find the right fit for your height.
It's important to note that while the Power leggings offer numerous benefits, they may not be 100% squat-proof. Certain patterns and colors might be slightly see-through when squatting or stretching. Keep this in mind when making your color selection.
Elevate your running and workout experience with the Sweaty Betty Power High Waisted Gym Leggings. With their sweat-wicking properties, multiple pockets, and stylish designs, these leggings are a top choice for all-round performance.
Best Reflective Running Leggings for Safety and Visibility

The Brooks Carbonite Tight
The Brooks Carbonite Tight is a top choice for runners seeking the best reflective running leggings. These leggings are designed with safety in mind, featuring 3M Scotchlite Carbon Black Stretch reflectivity panels strategically placed in critical motion zones. With this innovative reflective technology, drivers can see you running from up to 600 feet away, enhancing your visibility and safety during low-light conditions.
In addition to their reflective features, the Brooks Carbonite Tight leggings offer sweat-wicking and fast-drying properties, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable during your runs. The thicker fabric used in these leggings provides additional insulation for colder temperatures, making them suitable for year-round use.
The Brooks leggings are available in both full-length and 7/8 leg length options. The 7/8 length is especially suitable for petite runners who prefer a fit that doesn't require folding up the leggings. While these leggings lack a drawstring waist for adjustable tightness, they are designed to stay in place without slipping or bunching up during your runs.
One notable feature of the Carbonite Tight is the pocket on the back, which is spacious enough to accommodate most smartphones. This allows you to conveniently carry your phone during your runs. However, it's important to note that these leggings do not have additional pockets for your phone elsewhere.
For runners who prioritize visibility and safety during evening or low-light training sessions, the Brooks Carbonite Tight leggings are an excellent choice. Enjoy the confidence of enhanced reflectivity and the comfort of sweat-wicking fabric as you tackle your runs with peace of mind.

BEST BLACK GYM LEGGINGS
You can't go wrong with a pair of black gym leggings — they go with just about everything and won't show sweat as obviously as colored prints. Here's the best black gym leggings around:
You can't go wrong with a pair of black gym leggings — they go with just about everything and won't show sweat as obviously as colored prints. Here's the best black gym leggings around:


How to choose the best gym leggings for you
You've outlined some essential factors to consider when choosing the best gym leggings for your needs. To recap:
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Fabric: Look for sweat-wicking properties to ensure the leggings keep you dry during intense workouts. Quick-drying fabrics are particularly beneficial.
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Fit: Find a pair of leggings that fit your body well. Consider factors like waistband height, leg length, and overall comfort. High waistbands provide support, while different leg lengths cater to individual preferences.
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Design: Consider your specific workout activities and requirements. If you're a runner, pockets for essentials might be crucial. For yoga, a soft and flexible fabric with a high waistband can enhance your practice.
By taking these factors into account, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect pair of gym leggings that meet your functional and stylistic preferences. Remember to refer to brand size guides for the best fit.
How we tested the best gym leggings
That sounds like a thorough and practical approach to testing gym leggings! By actually wearing and testing the leggings during various workouts, including sweating and squatting, you can evaluate their performance and comfort in real-life scenarios. Assessing features like pockets and drawcord waistbands helps determine their functionality and convenience for different activities.
By combining your hands-on testing with the information provided about the leggings' features and specifications, you can make a well-informed decision when selecting the best gym leggings for your fitness needs.
What makes leggings 'squat proof'?
Squat-proof leggings are designed to provide adequate coverage and opacity, ensuring that the fabric doesn't become see-through or stretched too thin when you perform exercises like squats or lunges.
When choosing gym leggings, particularly for activities that involve bending or stretching, it's important to consider the fabric's thickness, stretchiness, and quality to ensure they are squat-proof. This ensures your comfort and confidence during your workouts without worrying about transparency or fabric strain.
Should you size up or down in gym leggings?
Most of the time, you'll be able to buy your normal size. When purchasing gym leggings, it's advisable to choose your normal size or refer to the brand's sizing chart for guidance. However, it's important to note that sizing can vary between brands, so it's always a good idea to check their specific size recommendations.
Are lululemon leggings squat-proof?
In a word, yes! During testing, we found all of the best Lululemon leggings to be completely squat-proof.