Our Good Housekeeping Institute experts recruited a panel of yogis, runners and 24/7 legging wearers to test a range of designs from leading brands including Sweaty Betty, Lululemon and Nike.
They wore them for a range of workouts before feeding back on their design, comfort and performance. You’ll find more information on how we test leggings, along with what to consider before you shop, below our reviews.
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Score: 93/100
From HIIT to hot yoga, these luxe Lululemon leggings will make a super comfortable exercise companion. They were a big hit with our panellists, who couldn’t get enough of the buttery-soft fabric and loved the drawcord around the waist to help you achieve the perfect fit. “They felt so smooth against my skin, it barely felt like I was wearing anything,” said one tester.
The high-waisted design was extremely flattering and hit just the right level of compression. In fact, many of our panel said they felt more confident when they had these leggings on.
Comfort and good looks aside, they put in a solid performance during even the toughest of workouts. They proved brilliantly squat-proof and scored full marks in our sweat-wicking lab tests. What’s more, they washed well, dried in an instant and there were no signs of shrinkage after numerous goes in the washing machine.
A few panellists found the hidden pocket in the waistband too small but that’s a minor niggle for an otherwise exceptional pair of leggings.
Read our fitness editor’s full Lululemon Wunder Train Leggings review.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Sweaty workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4 – 24 |
| Fabric | Nylon, Lycra elastane, polyester |
| Yes |
Score: 93/100
Drumroll, please, for our (joint) top-rated pair of leggings. Offering the perfect combination of style and comfort, they’re sure to become a mainstay in your workout wardrobe. Easily the softest pair of leggings on test, our seriously impressed panellists couldn’t get enough of their weightless material, with many recommending them to friends and family. “They’re so soft and comfortable, I’d wear them to bed!” raved one enthusiastic tester.
Despite their loungewear credentials, these leggings stayed in place during exercise and there was no gaping or bunching. Better still, our testers found the high-waisted fit flattering on all body types. Though too cosy for avid CrossFitters, they’d be ideal for Pilates, barre, yoga, walking or just everyday wear.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Low impact workouts or as loungewear |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS to XXL |
| Fabric | 87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 92/100
Another Lululemon pair in our winners list, but are you really surprised? Our testers liked the seamless design of these yoga leggings, with one saying it was the comfiest pair of they’d ever worn! Everyone loved their soft, premium feel, too.
Available in a wide range of colours, testers said the lighter shades showed sweat more, but overall they’re a high-quality pair that will see you through plenty of sun salutations.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Low impact workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 0 to 20 (US sizes) |
| Fabric | 40% nylon, 39% polyester, 21% Lycra® elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 86/100
Gymshark’s popular Vital Seamless Leggings claim to keep you cool and comfy throughout your training with the help of moisture-wicking technology and breathable mesh dots, and they didn’t let us down. They scored full marks for sweat wicking in our lab tests, and our panellists said they kept them dry and comfy, without any unwanted sweat patches.
Testers liked the thick, compressive fabric; it doesn’t budge and holds you in in all the right places while still feeling soft and comfortable. They also rated the muscle contouring lines along the legs and bottom, which created a flattering silhouette.
With no pockets, our panel missed having somewhere to store their valuables during workouts; however, this wouldn’t put them off wearing them time and time again. “I’d definitely recommend them. I want to buy them in more colours now!” said one satisfied tester.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Moderate to high intensity workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS – XXL |
| Fabric | Nylon, elastane |
| No |
Score: 85/100
Been lusting after a pair of gym flares? Call of the search, we’ve found your perfect match. These budget-friendly beauties are made from supremely soft, weightless fabric and allow total freedom of movement, whether you’re pulsing it out in reformer Pilates or performing squats in the gym.
Our testers raved about the high waistband, which stayed put and didn’t need constant rearranging during their workouts, and loved that the material remained cool and breathable throughout. The leggings performed well for vigorous yoga classes, strength training and even light running. Plus the simple, stylish design means you could easily dress them up and wear them to lunch or the office.
They were too long for the shorter testers among our panel, and everyone would have appreciated side pockets for practicality, but those were our only niggles. For under £25, they offer excellent value for money.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Medium-impact workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS – XXL |
| Fabric | Nylon, elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 85/100
Activewear doesn’t get much more fashionable than Adanola, so if you’re looking to splash out on a stylish new pair of leggings, these more than deliver. Testers praised the flattering wrap waist design and appreciated the seam-free panel at the front, which prevents unwanted camel toe.
According to our panel, the ultra-soft, stretchy material is so comfortable, you won’t want to take the leggings off. The best part? You don’t have to – they look good enough to wear all day long, whether you’re at the gym, running errands or having brunch with the girls.
While they don’t claim to wick away moisture, we found they did a decent job of keeping our testers cool, calm and collected as they worked up a sweat. Still, we’d save them for more gentle workouts such as yoga, Pilates, stretching and hiking. Note that they come up small, so size up to ensure maximum comfort.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Low impact workouts and lounging around |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS – XXXL |
| Fabric | Nylon, elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 85/100
Spanx is renowned for its compressive, sculpting shapewear and its Booty Boost leggings don’t disappoint. They were a firm favourite among our testers, with one describing them as “honestly the best pair of leggings I’ve ever had”. One of the more stylish pairs on our list, they’re chic enough to wear outside the gym, too.
According to our panel, they’re incredibly flattering and you’ll feel constantly supported when wearing them thanks to the compressive, form-fitting material. What’s more, they proved easy to slip on and off and never needed hoicking up mid-workout.
They’re great for all kinds of vigorous workouts as they passed our squat test and scored an impressive 4.5/5 for sweat wicking in the lab. The only activity we wouldn’t recommend them for is cycling – we found them a little too restrictive to allow comfortable movement on the bike.
Key specifications
| Wear for | High-intensity workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS to XXXL |
| Fabric | 60% nylon, 40% elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 85/100
Everyone needs a trusty pair of cropped leggings in their activewear arsenal and this classic style from Nike is a strong contender. Made with ‘Dri-Fit’ technology, they’re designed to wick away sweat. Sure enough, they kept our testers pleasantly dry and scored 4/5 in our sweat-wicking lab test.
The stretchy, breathable material and simple yet flattering design were a big hit with our testers, with one saying, “they were the perfect fit” and “I looked forward to wearing them.” The waistband stays in place and they’re squat proof, making them a great all-round choice for everything from yoga through to strength training and cardio.
Oh, and did we mention that at least 50% of the fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles? So they get a thumbs up for their sustainability credentials, too.
Key specifications
| Wear for | High-intensity workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS to XXXL |
| Fabric | Nylon, elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 83/100
Clock up the miles in comfort and style with these “faultless” Sweaty Betty leggings. Our testers thought they were a dream to run in thanks to the secure waistband and nifty drawcord – they didn’t budge once when they were on the move. The compressive fabric, complete with built-in UV40+ protection, felt extremely supportive and looked great, yet it still ticked the box in terms of comfort. What’s more, the lightweight, breathable material kept everyone cool and the leggings scored highly in our sweat-wicking lab test, too.
They boast two secure side pockets along with a zipped one at the back that’s large enough to fit your keys. They’re stretchy enough to peel off easily after a sweat-soaked run and they have reflective detailing to keep you safe when exercising in low light.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Moderate to high intensity workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XXS – XXL |
| Fabric | Polyamide, elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 80/100
The second Spanx entry in our list, the brand has brought its sculpting tech and comfortable feel to its gym wear. The idea of wearing Spanx leggings did make some of our testers apprehensive, as they thought they’d be extremely tight and restrictive, but, as one told us, “I couldn’t have been more wrong.” They didn’t dig in around the waistband; instead, they held our panellists in.
The stretchy material caters to a range of body types – one tall tester loved how well they fitted without riding up. One of our shorter testers with skinny ankles said they didn’t experience any gaping, which “rarely happens.” With no centre seams the dreaded camel toe is avoided too.
They maintained their quality through multiple washes and a “ridiculous” amount of wear in the case of one tester, so consider them a long-term investment.
Key specifications
| Wear for: | High / low intensity workouts, or lounging |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | XS-3XL |
| Fabric: | 80% Nylon, 20% elastane |
| Pockets: | None |
Score: 80/100
The best gym leggings can be pricey, but this wallet-friendly pair from M&S proves you don’t have to pay over the odds for performance.
Not only did they score top marks in our sweat-wicking tests, but our panel also raved about the lightweight, breathable fabric for heavier gym sessions and running. They appreciated the secure back pocket for storing valuables and the internal drawstring at the waistband for adjusting the fit.
These leggings earned a thumbs-up for support, compression and sizing; both our petite and tall testers liked the length. Some testers found them a touch tight around the hips and ankles, but these great value leggings should be firmly on your radar.
Key specifications
| Wear for | High-impact workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6 – 24 |
| Fabric | Polyester, elastane |
| Yes |
Score: 79/100
These technical tights have been engineered to adapt to the way a woman’s body moves and changes throughout the day. They feature the brand’s unique ZonalAdapt technology, with a bloat-friendly waistband that responds to gut fluctuations, a lumbar support panel on the lower back and targeted compression zones to ease muscle fatigue and reduce leg swelling.
They proved popular with panellists, who appreciated the adjustable waistband and liked how comfortable the leggings were to move around in. “They really supported me in the right places and helped pull my legs forward during runs,” commented one tester. Plus, they come with deep side pockets for stashing your phone, card and keys.
The bold design and prominent logos divided our panel, and some thought the material was a little too thin. Still, if you struggle with bloating and comfort is key, these are seriously worth considering.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Medium-high impact workouts |
|---|---|
| Sizes | XS – 2XL |
| Fabric | Polyamide, elastane (LYCRA® ADAPTIV) |
| Yes |
Score: 73/100
Gymshark’s combination of fashion and function is what makes it a first choice for many fitness lovers. The Whitney leggings are another great example of the brand’s commitment to creating flattering and comfortable workout gear that looks good in and out of the gym.
The stretchy material pulls you in nicely at the waist, without being too tight. They’re also cuffed at the bottom of the leg to make sure there’s no bagginess. Plus, there’s a seam sewn into the bum area to give the derrière a little lift. “These are so flattering on my bottom!” agreed one peachy keen tester.
Key specifications
| Wear for: | Low or high impact workouts, or as loungewear |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | XXS-XXL |
| Fabric: | 78% Nylon, 22% Elastane |
| Pockets: | None |
Score: 74/100
The sweat-wicking capabilities were a standout feature of these leggings. They’re the perfect pair for facing intense HIIT sessions, with one tester telling us they still felt extremely comfortable, even after a sweaty workout. The four-way stretch means that they’re squat-proof too, so you don’t need to worry about potentially baring all to the gym.
In true Lululemon fashion, there are nine bright colours to choose from, including a summery Lavender Lux, or Crater Blue. But there’s also a more subtle shades like navy and black if that’s more your style. The snug-fit means that the brand recommends sizing up, which was true for a few of our testers who had to give them an extra wiggle to pull them up. All a part of the warm-up, we suppose?
Key specifications
| Wear for: | Low / high impact exercises |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4-18 |
| Fabric | Body: 76% Nylon, 24% Lycra® Elastane Gusset: 90% Recycled Polyester, 10% Lycra® Elastane |
| Pockets | None |
Score: 74/100
These leggings are made from a bamboo viscose material, which the brand claims is naturally sourced, renewable and biodegradable, making them a more eco-friendly choice. They feel great against the skin too, with many testers praising the soft finish. They were “very comfortable with no digging or chafing,” said one pleased panellist.
They were slightly see-through on test, making them more suited to lower-impact exercises such as Pilates, or just for lounging in. They have a practical back pocket, though, which is great for storing keys and a phone if you’re out for longer hikes, or don’t fancy taking a bag to the gym.
Key specifications
| Wear for | Gym sessions, running and cycling |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 8-18 |
| Fabric | 64% bamboo viscose, 24% organic cotton, 12% elastane |
| Pockets | 1 |
How we test gym leggings
We’ve tested over 75 pairs of leggings to find the best for both high- and low-impact workouts. We recruited a panel of testers – made up of fitness enthusiasts and experts – to wear one pair of leggings for at least three different workouts before sharing their verdict on design, fit, comfort and overall performance.
They considered a variety of factors, including how easy the leggings were to get on and off, how well the material moved with the body and how comfortable they were to wear while sweating.
Up to eight people tested each pair of leggings. They tailored their workouts to the product’s claims, wearing sweat-wicking leggings for high-impact exercise and those designed for yoga for gentler activities.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute lab, our experts carried out wash tests to see if the leggings remained the same in terms of colour, fit and size after multiple machine washes. We used a digital imaging system to compare any changes. We also used an Omni stretch machine to evaluate the translucency of fabrics when they were at full stretch.
More expert-approved fitness buys
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
Here at the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test thousands of products a year, including a wide range of health and wellness buys. As well as leggings, we’ve tested the best under-desk treadmills, the best walking boots and the best blood pressure monitors.
We combine lab tests and panel feedback to find the best gym leggings, so we can assess each design effectively and see how they perform across a range of workouts.
Kim Hawley is the senior sleep and wellness tester for the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees all our apparel reviews, including sports leggings. She has over 30 years’ experience in the fitness industry, with a level 4 personal training qualification and over two decades spent working in leading health clubs across the UK.
Our sleep and wellness editor, Priyankaa Joshi, is also an expert in her field. She is currently undertaking her level 2 personal training qualification and is an avid gym-goer, so knows what to look for in a pair of leggings. Priyankaa regularly attends industry events and is always on the lookout for the latest launches.
For this test, we also sent each pair of leggings with sweat-wicking claims to a specialist lab to see how they performed.
What type of gym leggings are right for me?
The right leggings for you will depend on your activities of choice.
If you’re a runner or do high-impact workouts in the gym, sweat-wicking fabric is a must. It will stop you from feeling damp and uncomfortable as your heart rate rises.
For ultimate comfort, however – whether that be for lounging around at home or for low-impact activities – try the best yoga leggings. They’re softer and have less compression than those designed for high-impact activities, allowing for more free-flowing movement.
High-waisted styles will offer more support around your waist and can help you leggings stay in place, whatever you throw their way. Consider length, too; 7/8 leggings will sit just above the ankle and are ideal for petite people, while full length designs are better suited to those with taller frames.
Lastly, consider pockets. They tend to be positioned on the side of your thigh or at the back of your waistband. They’ll come in handy for storing keys if you like to head outdoors for runs or hikes.
The verdict on gym leggings
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London’s best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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