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Love ’em or hate ’em, leggings are a wardrobe staple that are here to stay.
Leggings, once just a workout essential, have been the subject of many an internet fight and trends galore since the dawn of time. Well, at least as long as I can remember since shoving my Victoria’s Secret yoga pants into my boots in middle school. (Related: Best leggings with pockets).
When entering “leggings” into Google, I was stunned by how many companies have been created to support this once niche, now ubiquitous need. There are so many options, styles and cuts, some bleeding into yoga pants territory, but that’s an article for another time.
Overwhelmed with the options, I decided to narrow my search. How about the best black leggings? Or the best leggings to wear as pants?
I wanted to see which leggings were out there for curvier girls like myself, but that didn’t compromise when it came to style and the fun patterns I see on fitness influencer accounts, which are now splashed all over my Instagram recommended page after writing this article.
How we tested
After hours of research — well actually, more like hours of online shopping — I pinpointed the brands I wanted to try that went up to at least a large, carried leggings specifically and had something special to set them apart. They also had to be less than $100 per pair, as not everyone can afford $400+ leggings from designers like Lucas Hugh and a $900 pair from Fendi.
Once all my leggings had come in the mail, I felt like a kid on Christmas (well, Hanukkah for me, and I got more than eight nights’ worth of packages!).
After trying them all on and putting each through a series of tests, here is my ranking of the best leggings for each category. Now, I’m taking a nap in a clean pair of leggings and not looking at my Peloton for a little while.
1. Best Cotton Leggings
Yummie Rachel Cotton Stretch Shaping Leggings
Pros:
- Passes the squat test, just wear seamless underwear if you care about panty lines
- Cotton is thick and feels high-quality
- The cotton waistband hugs curves and NO roll down at all on tummy when sitting
- Great shapewear that doesn’t LOOK like shapewear.
- Goes up to a 3XL in some styles
Cons:
- A bit long, should have gone with the Gloria ankle-length leggings for me
- No pockets
Size options: XS-XXXL
If you’re like me, then leggings are equally for working out and lounging around at home. For the latter, I like a good cotton pair, and these leggings from Yummie are perfect for just that.
I was thrilled to find a cotton option, as many companies go straight for the Spandex or nylon and skip over this comfy fabric. I got the Rachel Cotton Stretch Shaping leggings, and was at first a bit nervous, as they said they were shaping and I was going for more of a Netflix-and-chill sort of pant. However, I was super excited to see how comfortable they were and how great they made me look, the cotton felt nice and thick and they passed the squat test, even in the lighter gray color I got. I was also thrilled to see that when sitting down (and sprawled on the couch), the waistband stayed up and didn’t push into my stomach folds like some other leggings tend to do. These are perfect for those who like feeling supported and held in, but don’t want to feel like they are wearing shapewear.
Yummie offers an inclusive range of sizes that go all the way up to a 3X in some colors. For reference, I was wearing the Steel Grey color in a size large, and sizes go up to an XL on the site currently. They also come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so even though these are my new go-to for in-the-house lounging, I might pick up another pair in a different pattern for when I feel like venturing out.
2. Best Basic Black Leggings
lululemon Align Pant II 25”
Pros:
- So many options for sizes and lengths for any height or body type
- The amazingly soft fabric glides over curves; easy to wear all day
- Black matches everything
Cons:
- Didn’t 100% pass the squat test, but wearing a darker pair of underwear will solve this — or no-show panties
Size options: US 0 to 20
The Queen Bee of leggings of course makes the list, and they are for sure the best basic black leggings around. I had always wanted to try lululemon leggings, but something always stopped me from shelling out the cash for a pair. Now that I’ve tried them, I know I can never go back.
I got the Align Pant leggings in a great basic black. The 25-inch length was perfect on me and didn’t bunch up at the ankles or fold over at the top. Slipping them on was actually like slipping, as I didn’t have to tug or yank them up over my hips. The silky-smooth fabric glides over your body, even on curvy girls like myself. I ordered a size 12, and they fit like a glove with just a drop of room to grow (or eat), so I could have also sized down to a 10 and felt alright. The waistband is very forgiving while also holding you in, which is another point for an everyday-wear kind of legging.
The squat test on these was a bit less important to me, as I was planning to lounge in my pair all day after this. However, while doing a few squats, I did notice my underwear trying to peek out at me, so I would plan to wear darker colors or a thong-style pair if these are your new gym leggings. It wasn’t too noticeable though, just not a perfect passing score. They do get an A+ for not rolling down on my tummy when sitting down, which for me is a gold star and then some. The waistband won’t slip — not for sitting, jumping, bending, nothing.
3. Best Compression Leggings
SPANX Booty Boost Active 7/8 Legging
Pros:
- These are the perfect length with no bunching at the ankles
- The seam on the tummy gives the illusion of no bulge and the seam on the back does the opposite, making the booty pop
- The high waistband is seamless, so even if you are wearing a tight shirt, you can’t see any ridges. They can be pulled up super high, almost to right under your bra!
- Super slippery fabric that is smooth and great for layering under boots
Cons:
- Since super high-waisted, the tummy may roll when sitting if you don’t pull them up first
- Didn’t perfectly pass the squat test, so wear seamless or neutral-colored undies when wearing these
Size options: XS-XXXL
SPANX is the name of the game for all things shapewear, so it honestly comes as no surprise that these were my favorite for compression.
The word compression used to scare me: As a curvier girl, I was afraid it meant being sucked into corsets and uncomfortably tight Spandex contraptions. So SPANX, I need to thank you for helping me get over that fear, because the few pairs that I tried made me feel secure, but not like I was going to pass out from lack of circulation.
I tried the Booty Boost Active leggings in a 7/8 length due to my shorter stature. The first thing I loved was the length, so all you girls 5’5″ and under need this pair ASAP. There was no bunching at the ankle, which means no annoying lumps under socks or booties when wearing these out in the world.
The second thing I needed to look at was behind me — literally, as the booty boost feature was in the name itself. While checking myself out, I also found the best tiny mesh pocket in the back waistband, perfect for keys or a small credit card when out for a run since the pants have no other pockets.
Since this is the compression category, I turned my attention away from my backside and turned to face the mirror in the dreaded profile position. I was thrilled to see that the waistband, while boosting my butt, also sucked in my tummy perfectly, leaving little to no bulge in the front. Doing a little happy dance and turning to face the front, my stomach all but disappeared, again thanks to the seam’s illusion and the compression fabric working its magic.
4. Best Leggings to Work In
Carhartt Force Fitted Midweight Utility Leggings
Pros:
- Super durable and thick feeling without being too hot to work in
- Perfect for working outdoors or in a hands-on job, or for camping, as the fabric is easy to brush off when dirty and holds up to manual labor
- Great size range from an XS to a 3X with options for tall folks, too
- Passes the squat test and won’t show any lines or wrinkles from undergarments
- Four pockets!
Cons:
- A bit too long so it bunches at the ankles, since no option for petite
- Only comes in three colors: black, brown and navy
Size options: XS-XXXL
Get right to work in these leggings from the outdoor brand with a cult following.
Carhartt is so much more than just beanies. I was shocked at how heavy duty these leggings felt, both in weight and in construction. They are a midweight style, so they certainly don’t feel heavy or too hot, but they were much more durable feeling than some of the other fashion or workout leggings on this list, making them a perfect choice for an outdoor job or camping.
I ordered the black pair in a size large, going for the regular length as opposed to the other option which was tall. I do wish they offered a petite size, as I did have to stuff them into my boots, but I didn’t mind that too much in a utility legging. The size was perfect, so do order true-to-size, and I was greatly impressed with the range, from an XS to a 3X in the regular length and an XS to an XXL in the tall pair.
Since these leggings are thick like a pair of work pants, they obviously passed both the squat test and the line test, not showing anything underneath. The waistband is also just as durable as the rest of the pants, not budging when bending over, sitting or moving around — the gold standard for pants for the working woman.
Lastly, speaking of gold standards: these pants have pockets. Need I say more? I will, only to add that they have two front pockets that are actually deep enough for a phone, mask and keys AND two back pockets with the iconic Carhartt logo on one side. Genius.
5. Best Waistband
Wolven Zephyr Ruched Crossover Legging
Pros:
- The most flattering waistband in the world, and the V shape is slimming but also holds you in
- No tummy bulge even though the fabric is so soft and no tummy roll when sitting down or moving
- Adorable patterns and styles
- Sustainably made
Cons:
- Almost doesn’t pass the squat test in this color/pattern; make sure to wear nude undies
- A bit too long so it bunches at the ankles
- No pockets
Size options: XS-XL
I never want to take these off, and I’m pretty sure it’s due to the coolest waistband I’ve ever seen.
These patterned leggings are from Wolven, a sustainable legging brand to add to the eco-friendly list. However, before I get into that, I need to share why these leggings made me make a new category just for them.
When I first opened the packaging, I noticed just how soft these felt. I was almost nervous, as sometimes super soft materials can end up looking cheap. After putting them on, that fear totally left my mind, as I felt as high-class as ever. The pattern alone is super fun and cute with a black top or matching sports bra. But the most amazing part was the waistband, elongating your tummy and giving the illusion of a flatter mid-section.
After I got over how cute it all was, I did have to perform the normal tests and sadly, the squat test didn’t yield the best results — maybe a C+. The color and pattern do a good job of distracting from panty lines, but the soft fabric does give way a bit too much to colorful underwear, so make sure to pick out a skin-toned pair with these leggings. Luckily, the sitting test got an A+ as the magic waistband stayed put when bending, squatting and sitting down.
Wolven wants to “make sustainability sexy,” and they are off to a great start. They incorporate 27 recycled plastic bottles in each pair of leggings, which was shocking to me after feeling how soft and flattering they were. I then found out that the super soft fabric is actually because of their eco-friendly practices, using modal fabrics sustainably harvested from wood-pulp fibers and sewn in their downtown Los Angeles HQ. They also partner with Climate Neutral to measure their greenhouse gas emissions to ensure that my pair of Wolven leggings are carbon-neutral.
6. Best Faux-Leather Legging
SPANX Faux Leather Leggings
Pros:
- Passed the squat test
- Super cute fabric that feels like a soft legging on the inside but looks like expensive leather on the outside
- The shapewear holds you in
- Comes in tall and petite length, so minimal bunching at the ankle and great to tuck into booties
- Comfortable to wear, but cute enough to wear not just as loungewear
Cons:
- Belly roll when you sit, and slight waistband roll-over when squatting; should order a size up if you want a better waistband for fashion, and less compression
- They are super tight when putting them on (you’ll be doing the pants dance)
Size options: XS-XXXL
These SPANX leggings are different from the rest, as I wanted to dip my toe into fashion leggings as opposed to ones solely for function.
I ordered the best-selling faux leather leggings, and lucky for me, they came in a petite length, even in a size large. So many brands confuse waist size with height, so thank you Spanx for seeing all of us short and curvy girls out there. The first thing I noticed when holding the leggings up was that they didn’t have that shine of cheap fake leather. As a comparison, I grabbed an old faux leather wallet of mine, and, sure enough, it had the look (and smell) of cheap polyester. The leggings didn’t have either, and while the outside felt smooth and leather-like, the inside was even softer on my skin.
To get them on, I did have to do quite an extensive pants dance, which is expected for any leather pants, let alone tight faux leather leggings. Once on, they looked great, and the stretching I had to do to pull them up didn’t warp the finish of the pants in the slightest. The website even states that many say the pants fit on the smaller side, and in my normal size large, I did feel some compression. If these are ordered to be worn only as fashion pants, I’d advise to size up. But, if compression is what you’re looking for, order your normal size and squeeze into it.
Since mine did fit pretty tightly, my normal workout test was cut a bit short. Again, if you need pants for a workout, any of the options above are a better match. However, should you find yourself squatting down, they are not see-through and do pass the squat test. The waistband does want to roll down when bending over and sitting, but that may be due to the size that I ordered. Since I plan to wear these out and about and not for yoga or long periods of sitting, it’s okay, but do size up if these are part of your new work-from-home uniform.
7. Best Leggings to Work Out In
Gymshark Training Leggings
Pros:
- The price is amazing at less than $50
- Very stretchy and size inclusive, from an XS to an XXS
- Super soft material that moves with you while working out
Cons:
- They are so stretchy that they may feel thin and show tummy and panty lines
Size options: XXS-XXL
Forget being a gym rat when you could be a gym shark.
These leggings surprised me in more ways than one. I had seen them all over social media and worn by celebrities and so I assumed they were super expensive and not size-friendly. Both of those assumptions were wrong and these blew me out of the water.
The leggings are less than $50, which is incredible for a pair of workout pants. Moving on to the fit and comfort, I don’t think I own leggings with more stretch than these, making them perfect for yoga, Pilates, HIIT classes and anything else where you need to bend, kick and stretch with ease.
I ordered the black color in a size large, but since they do stretch super well, I could have sized down to a medium for more compression. One thing to note is because they are super stretchy, they aren’t as thick as some would like, so do wear seamless undergarments and if you care about a bit of a tummy bulge, these may not be for you.
8. Best Amazon Leggings
Amazon Essentials Women’s Active Sculpt High Rise Full Length Legging
Pros:
- Super affordable price point and come in a variety of colors to fully restock your legging collection
- Great range of sizes, coming in a XS through an XXL and a different matching style for plus-sized people up to a 6X
- Fabric holds up to the squat test, especially in darker colors
Cons:
- They run a bit large, so size down if you are between sizes or want a tighter fit
Size options: XS-XXXXXXL
Amazon really does have everything, but one of the best things about the brand is its own fashion line.
Amazon Essentials carries everything from men’s and women’s clothing to accessories, stuff for the kids and more, but one of the best categories is their athletic wear. The first thing to note is the amazing price, and at $23, these are the most affordable pair on the list. They don’t feel cheap though, as the olive green color I chose passed the squat test with flying colors. Be warned they are on the thinner side, so take care to wear seamless undergarments if you don’t like lines showing through.
Looking at the size and fit, these are a great option for both straight-sized people and mid-sized, with possibly some stretch to accommodate true plus-sized people. They range from XS to XXL, but when I ordered an XL they were actually far too large for me and bunched at the ankles and legs. If you are in-between sizes, size down.
9. Best TikTok-Viral Leggings
Cute Booty Lounge Nudey Booty Lifestyle Crossover Booty
Pros:
- Gives the illusion of a lifted backside without being obviously scrunched in the seam
- The waistband is a super cool detail you won’t find elsewhere
- Great range of inclusive sizing from a XXS to a 3X in this style
Cons:
- Many sizes and colors are sold out on the site, so act fast for your preferred style
- I found them to run a bit small, so size up if you are unsure or want a more comfortable fit
- In non-black pairs, wear nude, seamless undergarments as they may show through in other lighter colors and through the mesh waistband.
Size options: XXS-XXXL
If you’ve been on TikTok, nay, the internet in the last year, chances are you’ve seen the scrunch butt legging trend.
While the original leggings are the viral SEASUM scrunch butt pair, we wanted a more wearable and less honeycomb pair, and we found that and more with Cute Booty Lounge. I opted for one of their more basic styles, the Nudey Booty Lifestyle Crossover Booty leggings in a plain black color. They still stand out however, with an insanely cool and slimming mesh waistband and of course, the ruching in the back up the seam.
Since they are black, it’s hard to see the scrunch, but I actually preferred that to seeing obvious seems for a more natural lifting look. I also loved the waistband, as it looks like. a sexy strappy number when really the mesh does a great job of holding in the tummy and staying up on the hips. One note on the mesh though — beware underwear poking through, as the mesh is pretty low cut.
Our top brands reviewed, at a glance
| Brand: | Best for: | Why buy: | Price: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yummie | Cotton leggings | Passes the squat test, just wear seamless underwear if you care about panty lines; cotton is thick and feels high-qualityl the cotton waistband hugs curves and NO roll down at all on tummy when sitting; great shapewear that doesn’t LOOK like shapewear.; goes up to a 3XL in some styles | $$ |
| lululemon | Basic black leggings | So many options for sizes and lengths for any height or body type; the amazingly soft fabric glides over curves; easy to wear all day; black matches everything | $$$ |
| SPANX | Compression leggings | These are the perfect length with no bunching at the ankles; the seam on the tummy gives the illusion of no bulge and the seam on the back does the opposite, making the booty pop; the high waistband is seamless, so even if you are wearing a tight shirt, you can’t see any ridges; they can be pulled up super high, almost to right under your bra; super slippery fabric that is smooth and great for layering under boots | $$$ |
| Carhartt | Leggings to work in | Super durable and thick feeling without being too hot to work in; perfect for working outdoors or in a hands-on job, or for camping, as the fabric is easy to brush off when dirty and holds up to manual labor; great size range from an XS to a 3X with options for tall folks, too; passes the squat test and won’t show any lines or wrinkles from undergarments; four pockets! | $$ |
| Wolven | Best waistband | The most flattering waistband in the world, and the V shape is slimming but also holds you in; no tummy bulge even though the fabric is so soft and no tummy roll when sitting down or moving; adorable patterns and styles; sustainably made | $$$$ |
| SPANX | Best faux-leather legging | Passed the squat test; super cute fabric that feels like a soft legging on the inside but looks like expensive leather on the outside; the shapewear holds you in; comes in tall and petite length, so minimal bunching at the ankle and great to tuck into booties; comfortable to wear, but cute enough to wear not just as loungewear | $$$ |
| Gymshark | Workout leggings | The price is amazing at less than $50; very stretchy and size inclusive, from an XS to an XXS; super soft material that moves with you while working out | $$ |
| Amazon Essentials | Best Amazon leggings | Super affordable price point and come in a variety of colors to fully restock your legging collection; great range of sizes, coming in a XS through an XXL and a different matching style for plus-sized people up to a 6X; fabric holds up to the squat test, especially in darker colors | $ |
| Cute Booty | TikTok-viral leggings | Gives the illusion of a lifted backside without being obviously scrunched in the seam; the waistband is a super cool detail you won’t find elsewhere; great range of inclusive sizing from a XXS to a 3X in this style | $$$ |
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