Having appropriate athletic gear is essential to successfully carryout any workout regimen. You cannot fully focus on your squat form or deadlift set when you feel your waistband is slipping and cannot reap the benefits of hot yoga if your leggings remain soaked throughout the session. Leggings have become an exceedingly popular wardrobe staple and have triggered a bridge between the fashion and fitness worlds. We are not only wearing leggings to the gym, but we are also pairing them with heels for a night out and as athleisure wear for a casual day of errands. The following is a list of twenty highly rated leggings across brands, style, and price ranges. All leggings on this list have a rating of minimum 4 out of 5 stars with most being closer to the higher end of the spectrum. Most of the leggings listed are high-waisted and have a 7/8 length, two features that add comfort to any workout.
1. Adidas by Stella McCartney: Yoga Warpknit Tights
These leggings are soft and flexible perfect for strength training or yoga. The added perforations allow for breathability and, of course, style.
2. Forever 21: Active Ribbed 7/8 Leggings
These have to be one of my favorite leggings from Forever 21 (or ever). The leggings feature a ribbed panel and stretchy fabric, as well as a 7/8 cut, which is ideal for petite women. These are true high-waisted leggings, adding comfort to any type of workout. Plus their price of below $20 is an added bonus.
3. Forever 21: Active Colorblock Leggings
These stretch-knit leggings have a colorblock design and mesh panels down the legs, which set them apart from your basic pair. With a high-waisted fit, these leggings are flattering and comfortable for any type of workout.
4. Carbon 38: Takara Leggings
These are listed as Carbon 38’s best selling leggings. The glossy finish that feels like liquid silk grants these leggings unbelievable style and versatility, making them easily transferable from the gym to the streets.
5. Zella: Live In High Waist Leggings
These high-waisted leggings are marketed as having a no-slip waistband, which is a common obstacle with activewear. Consumers rate these leggings as being flattering, yet supportive. Most importantly, the fabric has been rated as not being see-through and squat proof.
6. Aerie: Move High Waisted 7/8 Legging
These high-waisted leggings are 7/8 in length, hitting just above the ankle, while offering the right support for most workout sessions. Consumers rate this pair high overall with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Not to mention, the fabric is comfortable for everyday wear.
7. Athleta: Tie Dye Salutation 7/8 Tight In Powervita
These fitted leggings have an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars and have received numerous compliments, such as being comfortable, soft, and well-fitting. The tie-dye print offers a fun take on patterned leggings that are still sufficiently subtle for the less daring. Furthermore, the flatlock seams minimize chafe and the fabric has compression effects for added support. Consumers also highlight the lack of transparency on these (hence, squat proof). These high rise leggings come in regular, tall, petite, and plus sizes, accommodating everyone.
8. Victoria’s Secret: Knockout by Victoria Sport Pocket Tight
These leggings are listed as medium rise and lined with side pockets. Consumers rate it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. However, please note that consumers have reported these as not being squat proof, making them best fitted for running and lighter workouts.
9. Lululemon: Channel Your Energy Tight
Being one of Lululemon’s highest rated leggings, this pair had to be included on this list. These graphic, high-waisted leggings are designed to maintain the individual cool via its sweat wicking fabric. Although the leggings can be worn for different types of workouts, they were especially designed for yoga.
10. Gym Shark: Vital Seamless Leggings
These high-waisted leggings have eyelet detailing and a ribbed waistband. The brand has gained popularity across various media platforms and have received overall positive feedback. These leggings were rated by consumers as 5 out of 5 stars and are available in a variety of colors.
11. Lululemon: Wunder Under High-Rise Tight
The rich emerald color and the mesh design are the most alluring features of these high-waisted leggings. They are listed as having a smooth surface and wicking fabric, making it perfect for yoga, running, and everyday athleisure wear.
12. Nike: Sculpt Hyper Tight
Like its name suggests, these high-waisted leggings hug your body. Consumers report these leggings as not being see-through and flexible enough for stretching, lifting, and squatting.
13. Sweaty Betty: Contour Workout Leggings
Want a basic black legging that is comfortable and functional for all workouts? Sweaty Betty’s “Contour Workout Legging” checks all of those boxes. Pair these with bright tops and sports bras to add a pop of color.
14. Forever 21: Active Ribbed Leggings
These marled, high-waisted leggings have a ribbed panel on the sides, wicking fabric, high ratings, and are under $20. What more can you ask for?
15. Forever 21: Active Mesh-Paneled Leggings
These cotton-blend leggings are made of cotton, nylon, and spandex. The cotton provides softness and breathability, while the nylon and spandex provide durability and stretch, respectively. These all black leggings have an attractive mesh panel and are priced under $20.
16. Fabletics: High-Waisted Printed Powerhold® 7/8
These high-waisted, 7/8 length leggings in an unexpected animal print have a certain je ne sais quoi that make them the perfect fit for most workouts as they are squat-proof.
17. Target: C9 High-Waisted Leggings 28.5″
These high-waisted leggings are known for their compression. They are fitted and are especially designed for running and training.
18. Forever 21: Active High-Waisted Leggings
These seamless, high-waisted leggings have an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars and are under $15. They have a ribbed panel and are available in a variety of colors. Many consumers highlight the comfortability and functionality of these leggings.
19. Carbon 38: Alloy Ombre High Waisted Midi Legging
These high-waisted leggings with the ombre design and metallic accents are so aesthetically pleasing that it is almost irresistible not to take them to the streets.
20. Athleta: Contender Laser Cut 7/8 Tight
These are categorized as mid rise, sitting below the natural waist. There are laser-cut details on the sides for added breathability. Rated as a 4.7 out of 5 stars, these pants have been reported to have a flattering fit and high-quality fabric. Their quick dry fabric makes them ideal for any workout, including hot yoga. This style of leggings comes in regular, petite, plus, and tall sizes, as well as in 8 different colors.