There was much rejoicing at Coach once luxe gym wear became an acceptable part of street style, because it meant we could wear our favourite leggings outside of the gym. However, with more brands than ever jumping on the athleisure bandwagon, quality has suffered and you’ll find some leggings won’t be able to keep up with you – cue bumcrack flashing during plyo lunges, underwear reveals at the bottom of sumo squats, or some very awkward downward dog crotch sweat patches.
If you’re in the market for decent gym leggings that support you, shape you and help your performance while leaving you feeling sufficiently stylish to stop for a post-session coffee, you’ll find some great options below.
If you’re going to be spending some time wearing your kit before or after your workout, get a pair of these versatile leggings. They’re strong enough for strength sessions, but comfy enough to keep on while you’re working from home or grabbing a post-workout coffee. Not only is the fabric a see-through-free zone, it’s also made from recycled polyester and organic cotton for those who want a more eco-friendly option.
The ultimate fusion of style and function, Sweaty Betty’s iconic Power leggings offer a compressive and quick-drying fabric, bum-sculpting seams, plenty of pockets, and no fewer than 24 colour and print options. They’re designed for every type of workout and come in two leg lengths. We can see why they’ve become an SB fan-club cult buy.
You can’t go wrong with a pair of Lulus – if you can afford them the quality is appreciably better – and these tights tick all the boxes. Although they’re specifically created for yoga, we found them suitable for all exercise thanks to a seriously comfy fit, no annoying slippy waistbands, and the no-see-through fabric. They’re also incredibly soft, and continue to be so even after washing (which is often not the case with other leggings), plus they’re quick-drying, so you can hop to brunch after the gym without feeling damp.
Affordable, durable and comfortable, these knit leggings are also surprisingly warm, which makes them ideal for the winter months. While testing during a gym workout we found they didn’t slip at all, thanks in large part to the impressively secure waistband. They’re also nice and long so you won’t be left with chilly ankles. Don’t expect any frills or fancy bits with these but, for the price, you won’t be disappointed.
Everyone needs a solid pair of black gym leggings. And like a best friend, these Lorna Janes will never let you down. They’re made with Nothing 2 See Here fabric, so you can rest assured that there’ll be no accidental skin showings when you squat, lunge or deadlift, plus the high waistband helps you feel confident during your workout. There’s also an anti-chafe seam that comes into its own during high-intensity workouts, and a sneaky hidden pocket for storing your key, headphones or coins.
TALA prides itself on sustainability and its best-selling SkinLuxe collection – which could outfit you from head to toe – is made using 76% recycled nylon and 24% Lycra. These leggings have a second-skin fit and fabric that’s supportive enough for squats but comfy enough for Savasana.
You can’t beat a really great pair of black leggings, and this pair by Ghost is officially top of the pile. The high waist is flattering and comfortable, and the legs don’t slip down at all. The leggings suit different types of workouts from weightlifting (the material around your bum doesn’t go see-through when you’re squatting) to yoga and high-intensity workouts. Plus, they didn’t retain too much of a sweaty smell afterwards.
Under Armour has done it again with these leggings: they offer all the support you could need, and a waistband that doesn’t budge. The sweat-wicking material kept us cool during hot workouts, and the quick-drying fabric means a less stinky gym bag. We tested these during a sweaty HIIT session, and ran them through several squats to check their see-through status. The result? These ones keep you well covered! Oh, and if you don’t like to be too far from your phone, you’re in luck – these leggings come with a handy side pocket on the leg.
Double up on endorphins by exercising in mood-boosting leopard print. Designed and made sustainably in the UK from recycled materials, these leggings boast cooling mesh panels, a supportive, high-waisted fit and that all-important pocket. If you need a little extra workout motivation, look no further.
US brand Girlfriend Collective’s compressive leggings are made with recycled water bottles, while the trademark bold colours – everything from zingy lime to chic navy and deep purple – are achieved using eco-friendly dyes. Along with being easy on the eye, they’re functional, with two pockets to stash your phone, keys and bank card – making this pair extra covetable.
It’s the hottest athleisure label on Instagram (5.2 million followers and counting), and nothing gets fitness fans more excited than a new Gymshark launch. Boasting all of Gymshark’s signature details – high-waist fit, seamless design, made-for-Insta ombre dip-dye finish – the Adapt leggings are the brand’s latest smash. If you’re worried about style over substance, don’t be – these leggings deliver on both fronts.
If you thought you couldn’t get a decent pair of gym leggings for £20, think again. Purse-friendly doesn’t have to mean compromising on performance either: H&M’s best-selling leggings are made from a fast-drying functional fabric to keep you cool and dry, and some of the material used is recycled.
Another bargain option, these M&S Goodmove leggings look way more expensive than £25. They feel it too, with opaque coverage, second-skin fit, drawcord waist and breathable, quick-drying fabric. Throw in a phone pocket, statement print and inclusive sizing and it’s not hard to see why they’re swimming in five-star reviews.
If you want a more eco-friendly purchase, then opt for these super-soft leggings, made from recycled materials. They’re ideal for any workout from running to yoga. The high waist is flattering over the tummy without being overly tight and the waistband lining also has a tiny little pocket – just right for keeping a key safe as you exercise or pop out to the shops. We love this blue shade. Plus we can confirm that they wash well.
In our tests these leggings kept us noticeably cool, thanks to perforated ventilation strips. The rear strips are well placed, making your glutes look pert and pumped, and thanks to the high, sculpting waistband, these are extremely flattering – they’re also great for long-legged women because they really do come all the way down to the ankle. We tested them on a run and there was no slippage whatsoever.
These keep you cool and dry thanks to sweat-wicking VapoDri treatment, and you can chuck them in the washing machine after your gym sesh and they’ll be dry for tomorrow’s workout. It can be hard to find leggings that are comfortable yet stay put, but this pair is a winner, with a waistband that’s just snug enough to be highly supportive and a triangular gusset that allows for ease of movement.