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14 Best Black Leggings, According to Glamour Editors & Reviewers

They’re comfy enough to live in.
Best black leggings collage
Courtesy of brand / Original image by Glamour contributor / Gabrielle Langdon

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Of all the hero pieces you rely on, having a few of the best black leggings you can find is always useful. This year-round wardrobe essential goes with everything, from cozy sweatshirts to office blazers. So yes, you could always use another pair (or 10). The only issue? There are so many leggings at every price point to comb through, especially if you’re shopping online and can’t do a squat test for yourself. That's where we come in. Glamour staffers are passionate about the ones they never take off. Whether you prioritize material (buttery-soft and not see-through) or coverage (cropped, 7/8, or full-length), we have thoughts on exactly which pairs are worth your coin. From moisture-wicking workout leggings to nostalgic flared yoga pants, these are the best black leggings we’ve worn, tested, and loved.

The best black leggings, at a glance

  • Best Overall Leggings: Athleta Ultra-High-Rise Elation Tights

    Courtesy of brand
    1/14

    Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight

    $89

    Athleta

    • When to wear them: Wear these Athleta leggings to workouts, sweaty runs, or simply to lounge around the house. The buttery-soft material offers medium compression that’s neither too loose nor too constricting, and there’s a pocket in the back that’s big enough for a phone.
    • What our testers say: These babies define second skin. They have just the right amount of support to make me feel secure during a yoga class or running errands on the weekend but are also soft enough to make me never want to take them off. Frankly, it’s a problem. Given how much I wear these, I was worried how they’d hold up in the wash, but after a few months, there’s still no sign of pilling, fading, or sagging.—Macaela Mackenzie, Glamour contributor
    • Pros: Hidden pocket, inclusive sizing, sweat-wicking material
    • Cons: Pricey
    • Sizes: XXS–3XL
    • Fabrics: Nylon, elastane
    OUR RATING: 5/10

  • Best Leggings on Amazon: Colorfulkoala Buttery-Soft High-Waist Yoga Pants

    • Original image by Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz
    • Original image by Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz
    • Courtesy of brand
    2/14

    Colorfulkoala Buttery-Soft High-Waist Yoga Pants

    $27 $22

    Amazon

    • When to wear them: If you’ve even glanced at Amazon’s assortment of tights, you’re probably familiar with these beloved Colorfulkoala leggings. Wear these affordable—but not cheap!— black leggings to the gym or the couch. They have a soft, supportive nylon-spandex blend that’s great for working out or stretching. There’s also a hidden pocket in the waistband, plus 20 colors other than black if you want to switch things up.
    • What our testers say: “While I’m loyal to Lululemon these are a pretty darned good dupe. They’re extremely comfortable, and since I don’t like super high-rise leggings or anything too tight across the belly, I appreciate that they’re more of a mid-rise. The fabric is so soft it’s almost slippery, and it’s loose across the waist, but that said, they do slip down (and will pull your undies down in the process), so I don’t recommend them for running for intense workouts. They’re better for lounging or chest days at the gym. Also, despite being true to size, there’s some sagging in the crotch area, which I don’t mind comfort-wise, but again, not ideal for workouts.”—Brie Schwartz, Glamour commerce director
    • Pros: Pill-resistant fabric, budget-friendly price, hidden pocket
    • Cons: Might show wear quickly.
    • Sizes: XS–XL
    • Fabrics: Nylon, spandex

  • Best Leggings With Pockets: Nike Go Firm-Support High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings

    • Original image by Glamour tester Kristine Thomason
    • Courtesy of brand
    3/14

    Nike Go Firm-Support High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings with Pockets

    $120 $73

    Nike

    • When to wear them: Lifting weights at the gym? Going for a run? Hitting a Pilates class? These leggings can do it all. They’re wildly squat-proof, with smooth, moisture-wicking fabric that feels comfortable even during high-intensity workouts. The best part, though? They have six (yes, six!) pockets, including: two deep seamless side pockets that are large enough to fit an iPhone; three pockets at the back waist, and a smaller zippered pocket at the thigh, to safely stash essentials.
    • What our testers say: “I’m a huge fan of these leggings. The moment I put them on, I was immediately struck by how comfortable they feel, with the perfect high-rise cut that’s supportive but not restrictive. I’ve worn them during strength workouts, high-intensity sessions, and for outdoor runs — they’ve always stood up to the challenge.”—Kristine Thomason, Glamour contributor
    • Pros: Pockets, extra-wide waistband
    • Cons: Waist-band may not suit people with short torsos
    • Sizes: XXS–4XL
    • Fabrics: Nylon, spandex

  • Best High-Waist Leggings: Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings

    • Original image by Glamour commerce producer Leilani McQuay
    • Courtesy of brand
    4/14

    Alo High-Waist Airlift Legging

    $128

    Alo

    • When to wear them: These celeb-approved leggings are definitely an investment pair but we think the quality is worth it. You can wear them in the fall with a cropped puffer jacket. It's full-length, offers four-way stretch, and just enough sculpting compression. They're a tad snug but you can size up if you prefer a roomier fit.
    • Why our testers love them: These are my favorite leggings to work out in! Alo’s breathable, cool-to-the-touch Airlift fabric hugs and smooths you perfectly. I have a hard time finding leggings long enough to cover my ankles, but these do the job. They are the perfect high-rise and don’t roll down while working out. Trust me, you need.—Leilani McQuay, Glamour commerce producer
    • Pros: Smoothing, extra-soft material
    • Cons: Expensive; should be hand-washed.
    • Sizes: XXS–XL
    • Fabrics: Polyester, spandex

  • Best Leggings for Yoga: Zella Live In High-Waist Leggings

    Courtesy of brand
    5/14

    Zella Live In High-Waist Leggings

    $59

    Nordstrom

    • When to wear them: If you’re into yoga or Pilates we recommend these top-rated tights from Zella, Nordstrom’s in-house. They’re not quite seamless leggings, but the flat seams are barely noticeable—ideal for when you’re twisted up like a pretzel. Plus, there’s a pocket to keep your phone and credit card secure.
    • Why our testers love them: I consider myself a very discerning black-leggings aficionado. I’ve been doing research on the topic for, well, ever—but especially since I started working from home full-time about three years ago. Name a brand, a style, a cut, and I’ve tried them on for size. What I’m looking for most often is something that I can comfortably wear at my desk (or on my couch, because let’s be real, I do a lot of work from there) that also looks socially acceptable for running errands or a casual dinner when I throw a sweater over them. Zella’s high-waist style checks all of these boxes, and if I want to wear them to Pilates, they totally work for that too.—Abby Gardner, Glamour contributor
    • Pros: Hidden pocket, soft material,
    • Cons: Long inseam
    • Sizes: XXS–2XL
    • Fabrics: Polyester, spandex

  • Best Leggings for Cold Weather: Yogipace Fleece-Lined Thermal Tights

    Courtesy of brand
    6/14

    Yogipace Thermal Tights

    $42

    Amazon

    • When to wear them: Once the temperature starts to drop, you're going to want a pair of fleece-lined leggings. This pair has five inseam options and a midrise waistband. The details are perfect too: a drawstring waistband, two hidden pockets, and fleece lining that’ll keep frigid temperatures at bay.
    • Why our testers love them: Though I had never heard of this brand before a cursory Amazon search ahead of an Iceland trip, they’re now my go-to winter pair. The water-resistant, fleece-lined leggings kept me dry and warm on a glacier hike, and yet they’re thin enough for layering under (stretchy) jeans. The best part? In an era of high-waist everything, these come in a comfy midrise that sits at the hip. —B.S.
    • Pros: Five inseam lengths, warm material, two hidden pockets
    • Cons: Might pill quickly.
    • Sizes: XS–2XL (multiple inseam options)
    • Fabrics: Polyester, spandex

  • Best Budget Leggings: Old Navy High-Waist Flare Leggings

    Courtesy of brand
    7/14

    Old Navy High-Waisted Flare Leggings

    $20

    Old Navy

    • When to wear them: If you don't want to look too sporty, you need this pair on your radar. Wear these flared leggings on a chill weekend. They’re made from a cotton-spandex blend, lending them a slightly more casual appearance than polyester or nylon. Plus, the flared legs pair perfectly with any sneakers or high-platform boots of your choice.
    • Why our testers love them: The internet has not let me rest when it comes to the flared leggings versus yoga pants debate. I’m firmly Team Flared Legging, mostly because Gen Z queen Emma Chamberlain refers to the style as such. When the trend picked up in late 2020, I picked up a pair of these boot-cut-style leggings from Old Navy and I’ve stuck with them ever since. It’s embarrassing to write, but at the peak of my flared-legging addiction, I bought two pairs every month. The cotton fabric is thick enough to hold everything together without making me feel like I’m on my way to a strenuous gym session. I mostly wear my pairs to run errands or lounge around—although I will admit I wore them to my local college bar once or twice paired with a crop top. Truly, you can’t go wrong with these bad boys. —Ana Escalante, Glamour contributor
    • Pros: Two inseam options, opaque material, inclusive sizing
    • Cons: No pockets
    • Sizes: XS–4X
    • Fabrics: Cotton, spandex

  • Best Leggings for Running: Lululemon Fast and Free Leggings

    Courtesy of brand
    8/14

    Lululemon Fast and Free Leggings

    $128

    Lululemon

    • When to wear them: These running tights are excellent for sprinting or jogging but also for any other workout of choice—yoga, HIIT, cycling. The nylon-elastane fabric is so lightweight and breathable, you might think you’re wearing nothing at all.
    • Why our testers love them: At this point, it’s probably kind of expected that Lululemon makes this list, but…they deserve to be here. Their Align leggings are the ones I wear to yoga, around the house, or to bed. They’re extremely soft, but just supportive enough that they don’t ride down (and their hidden pocket keeps my phone safe without pulling the fabric). I love to shuffle around the house in them with some Ugg boots on my feet. —Malia Griggs, Glamour commerce editor
    • Pros: Four inseam options, inclusive sizing, hidden waistband pocket
    • Cons: Expensive
    • Sizes: 0–20
    • Fabrics: Nylon, Lycra elastane

  • Best Loungewear Leggings: Skims Cotton Rib Leggings

    9/14

    Skims Cotton Rib Legging

    $56

    Skims

    • When to wear them: Wear these comfy leggings for a Netflix binge yet or a coffee run. The Skims Cotton Rib Leggings are like a cozy hug for your legs. Their ribbed texture and boxer-style silhouette makes them stand out from the rest of the regular black leggings in your collection.
    • Why our testers love them: This collection from Skims was my favorite to wear during the earlier days of WFH. Now, four years later, these leggings are still a staple in my wardrobe for a chill day at home. They have this soft sweater-like fabric and boxer-inspired seams. I love pairing them with the matching tank top and some slouchy crew socks for the days I don't feel like lounging in oversized sweats.—Andrea Navarro, Glamour contributor
    • Pros: Comfortable and soft fabric, unique boxer-inspired design; made for lounging and sleep
    • Cons: Not made for exercise
    • Sizes: XXS–4X
    • Fabrics: Cotton, spandex

  • Best Travel Leggings: Vuori All The Feels Leggings

    Courtesy of brand
    10/14

    Vuori All The Feels Leggings

    $98

    Vuori

    • When to wear them: Wear these Vuori leggings to the airport for your next flight. It features the brand’s signature “BlissBlend” performance knit fabric, and offer a surprising amount of support considering how lightweight and breathable they are.
    • Why our testers love them: I am completely obsessed with these leggings. I own them in multiple colors, but I constantly reach for my black pair. I wear these when I’m traveling, during tough workouts, and while I’m running errands. They are unbelievably comfortable, with buttery-soft fabric I genuinely wish I could wear every day of my life. I also love the drawstring for a more customized fit, and the cuffs on the ankles give them a little extra tailored touch.”— K.T.
    • Pros: Lightweight, breathable
    • Cons: Pricey
    • Sizes: XXS–2XL
    • Fabrics: Recycled polyamide, elastane

  • Best Compression Leggings: 2XU Core Compression Tight

    Courtesy of brand
    11/14

    2XU Core Compression Tight

    $90

    Amazon

    • When to wear them: A compressive classic, these 2XU leggings will carry you through high-intensity workouts and long runs with ease. They feature graduated compression to support the abductor, glute, quad, hamstring, and calf muscles—which helps promote blood flow and improve recovery after a tough sweat sesh.
    • Why our testers love them: “I’ve owned my 2XU leggings for years, and they’re still in perfect condition. These are the leggings I reach for whenever I’m going on a long run, and I’ve worn them for multiple races (the longest being a half marathon last January). When I wear them, I feel like I have extra support that allows me to keep pushing through the miles. While they have awesome compression, they’re also not suffocating like compressive leggings sometimes can be. I also own a pair that’s insulated for chillier winter runs, and I couldn’t recommend them more.” —K.T.
    • Pros: Compression fabric, moisture-wicking
    • Cons: Less comfortable for low-intensity workouts
    • Sizes: XXS–4XL
    • Fabrics: Nylon, lycra

  • Best Shapewear Leggings: Spanx Booty Boost Perfect Pocket Active 7/8 Leggings

    Courtesy of brand
    12/14

    Spanx Booty Boost Perfect Pocket Active 7/8 Leggings

    $118

    Spanx

    • When to wear them: Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a jog, or having a chill day, these leggings are up for the task. They're a favorite among fitness enthusiasts because they blend style and all their needs seamlessly.
    • Why our testers love them: When I need a legging that’s basically pants, I reach for these from Spanx. They’re super supportive (as opposed to softer, loungier leggings) and have a sly little pocket I can hide my phone in. I paired them with a sequined blazer for New Year’s for a look that was dressy but so comfy. Plus, they really do keep my butt snug and lifted—always a plus. —M.G.
    • Pros: Built-in booty-lifting design, convenient pockets for storage; suitable for both workouts and everyday wear
    • Cons: Pricey
    • Sizes: XS–3X
    • Fabrics: Nylon, spandex

  • Best for Pilates: FP Movement High-Rise 7/8 Length Good Karma Leggings

    13/14

    FP Movement High-Rise 7/8 Length Good Karma Leggings

    $78

    Free People

    • When to wear them: These leggings are breathable to keep you cool during your Pilates or barre workout class. As part of the Good Karma Collection, they feature the brand's ribbed details and a comfortable fabric that reviewers rave about. Designed for medium-impact workouts.
    • Why our testers love them: I'm obsessed with these FP Movement leggings! The high-rise cut is so flattering, and they don’t budge, no matter what workout I'm doing. The length is just right too—not too long, not too short. Super comfy for yoga but also cute enough for grabbing a coffee afterward. —Glamour reviewer
    • Pros: High-rise design, moisture-wicking fabric, SPF 30 UV protection; made for medium-impact workouts
    • Cons: Limited sizing
    • Sizes: XS–XL
    • Fabrics: Nylon, spandex

  • Best Walking Leggings: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging

    Courtesy of brand
    14/14

    Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging

    $97

    Amazon

    • When to wear them: With a fit that feels like a warm hug, Beyond Yoga Spacedye leggings are, well, beyond comfortable. Whether you're doing your hot-girl walk of the day, need a base layer for those extra cold days, or simply staying in for a movie night, they've got you covered.
    • Why our testers love them: “These may be the softest leggings to ever exist. I’ve owned multiple pairs over the years, and they’re always my go-to when I want to feel extra comfy and cozy. I’ve also gifted these leggings to friends (including a maternity pair) and everyone has been instantly hooked on the buttery-soft fabrication.” — K.T.
    • Pros: Ultra-soft, size-inclusive
    • Cons: Can start to pill over time
    • Sizes: XXS–4XL
    • Fabrics: Polyester, elastane
Kristine Thomason is a lifestyle writer and editor based in Southern California. Previously, she was the health and fitness director at mindbodygreen, and the fitness and wellness editor at Women’s Health. Kristine's work has also appeared in Travel + Leisure, Men's Health, Health, and Refinery29, among others. She holds a... Read more
Topicsleggingsshoppinglululemonnikeamazonsportswearsize inclusivepromo codesactivewear
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