24 Best Black Leggings for Women, According to Glamour Editors & Reviewers
Of all the hero pieces you rely on, the best black leggings for women are the true MVPs. The infinitely versatile wardrobe essentials go with everything, from cozy sweatshirts to office blazers. And these staples are functional year-round, whether it's with a breezy workout top or warm winter leggings. So yes, you could always use another pair (or 10).
Our top picks
- Best Overall: Athleta Ultra-High-Rise Elation Tights, $89
- Best on Amazon: Colorfulkoala Buttery-Soft High-Waist Yoga Pants, $23
- Best for Lifting: Seasum High-Waist Yoga Pants, $27
- Best for Yoga: Zella Live In High-Waist Leggings, $59
- Best Everyday: Nike Zenvy Gentle-Support High-Waist Full-Length Leggings, $100
To no one’s surprise, black leggings remain an everyday-wear favorite for celebs like Jennifer Lopez and Gigi Hadid; even A-listers love comfy clothing as much as we do, especially paired with basics like a plain T-shirt and white sneakers. The only issue? There are too many black 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. (And yes, there are plenty of Amazon leggings to choose from too.) From moisture-wicking workout pants to nostalgic flared leggings, these are the best black leggings we’ve worn, tested, and loved—and always keep nearby.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
- 1/24
Best Overall Leggings: Athleta Ultra-High-Rise Elation Tights
Even in the pantheon of great Athleta leggings, this size-inclusive pair stands out. 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. Better yet, the moisture-wicking fabric keeps sweat at bay during workouts and runs—and it comes in a wide size range in regular, petite, and tall inseams. What more could you want?
- Pros: Hidden pocket, inclusive sizing, sweat-wicking material
- Cons: Pricey
- Sizes: XXS–3XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, elastane
- Why our testers love them: 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
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Athleta promo codes.
- 2/24
Best Leggings on Amazon: Colorfulkoala Buttery-Soft High-Waist Yoga Pants
If you’ve even glanced at Amazon’s assortment of tights, you’re probably familiar with these beloved Colorfulkoala leggings. They’re affordable but not cheap, with a soft, supportive nylon-spandex blend that’s great for the gym or the couch. There’s also a hidden pocket in the waistband, plus 20 colors other than black if you like to switch things up.
- Pros: Pill-resistant fabric, budget-friendly price, hidden pocket
- Cons: Might show wear quickly.
- Sizes: XS–XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, spandex
- Why our testers love them: I’ve tried a ridiculous amount of leggings throughout my life, and these are hands down the best leggings on Amazon. This top-rated pair (more than 31,000 five-star reviews!) lives up to its “buttery-soft” name, with ample stretch for workouts, so I can move without feeling restricted. I love that they hold up after a ton of wash cycles, with no pilling in sight. —Andrea Navarro, Glamour commerce writer
- 3/24
Best Leggings With Pockets: CRZ Yoga Naked Feeling High-Waist Yoga Pants
What's better than buttery-soft leggings? Buttery-soft leggings with pockets, of course. These high-waist leggings are a hit among Amazon shoppers and the Glamour team since they're a great dupe for more expensive pairs thanks to their quality and fit. They're made with four-way stretch and feature a nonslip waistline, so you'll never have to worry about feeling anything but comfortable in these. If you don't want to buy them now, keep your eyes peeled since they frequently go on sale on Amazon.
- Pros: Large pockets, compressive fabric, seamless finish
- Cons: Might pill easily.
- Sizes: XXS–XL
- Fabrics: Polyamide, spandex
- Why our testers love them: I have a few CRZ Yoga leggings because they're so affordable and every style comes in a ton of colors. For classic black workout leggings, I like these. They really do feel like you're wearing next to nothing and I like that I can just stick my cardholder in the pocket for a quick trip to Starbucks in the morning. —A.N.
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Amazon promo codes.
- 4/24
Best Leggings for Yoga: Zella Live In High-Waist Leggings
These top-rated tights from Nordstrom’s in-house line are a great investment if you’re into yoga or Pilates. 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.
- Pros: Hidden pocket, soft material,
- Cons: Long inseam
- Sizes: XXS–2XL
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- 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
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Nordstrom promo codes.
- 5/24
Best High-Waist Leggings: Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings
A celeb-approved activewear brand, Alo makes leggings that are the stuff of legend. This best-selling pair of full-length leggings demonstrates why: They offer four-way stretch, sculpting compression, and supreme comfort. (Just size up if you prefer a roomier fit!)
- Pros: Smoothing, extra-soft material
- Cons: Expensive; should be hand-washed.
- Sizes: XXS–XL
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- 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
- 6/24
Softest Leggings: Alo High-Waist Alosoft Lounge Leggings
On your chill days, these soft leggings are exactly what you’ll want to live in. The high-quality, lounge-ready material basically feels like your best sweatpants but with the polished look of black tights—and unlike sweats, these things won’t become loose or stretched out over time. A ribbed waistband and ankle cuffs offer even more security.
- Pros: Extra-soft fabric, front smoothing panel
- Cons: Not ideal for high-intensity days
- Sizes: XXS–XL
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- Why our testers love them: If I had to choose one pair of leggings to wear for the rest of my life, it would be these. Alo got me—hook, line, and sinker—with the AloSoft fabric, which has the lived-in feel of a beloved pair of sweatpants. While I wouldn’t wear them on a run (they’re not very sweat-wicking), I consider them fair game for vinyasa yoga, red-eye flights, and sitting on my couch. And while the solid colors are great, I can’t get enough of the heather patterns, which add visual interest without being over-the-top. —Deanna Pai, Glamour contributor
- 7/24
Best for Lifting: Seasum High-Waist Yoga Pants
Some of the most popular leggings on Amazon, these textured, booty-lifting bestsellers are everywhere. The material doesn’t show anything, even during squats or deadlifts, meaning they’re a good pair for the lifting crowd.
- Pros: Sculpting material, comfortable feel
- Cons: Might not hold up over time.
- Sizes: XS–4XL
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- Why our testers love them: Coming in hot with more than 80,000 reviews and a rating of 4.1 out of 5, these textured “butt-sculpting tights” might as well be the best leggings on Amazon if you’re searching for something that’s both sculpting and squat-proof. When I’m heading to the gym to lift, I grab these because I know nothing will show. —Rebecca Brown, Glamour contributor
- 8/24
Best Faux-Leather Leggings: Spanx Faux-Leather Leggings
Leather-effect leggings have a timeless appeal, and this pair from Spanx is the best of the best. On top of fitting like a glove and offering sculpting compression, they’re also shockingly breathable. There’s no awkward center seam, and they’re even machine-washable. Style them with a sweatshirt and boots and boom—you’ll look like an off-duty model.
- Pros: Sculpting material; machine-washable
- Cons: Pricey
- Sizes: XS–XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, spandex with polyurethane coating
- Why our testers love them: Spanx’s faux-leather leggings are compressive, but nothing more than you would expect from a typical high-intensity workout legging. They feature a thick, high-waist band (the shapewear brand describes it as a “contoured power waistband”) that holds you in without rolling down or restricting you the least bit. Oh, and there’s no center seam—ahem, camel-toe effect—to deal with. They’re great for going out and leveling up my ’fits. —A.N.
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Nordstrom promo codes.
- 9/24
Best Sustainable Leggings: Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings
Girlfriend Collective’s number one seller, these leggings offer enough compression and coverage for pretty much everyone—and they come in sizes XXS through 6X, plus three inseams. Most impressively, though, each pair is made from 25 recycled water bottles, keeping trash out of landfills in the process.
- Pros: Wide range of sizes, three inseam lengths, recycled materials
- Cons: Material might slip during workouts.
- Sizes: XXS–6X
- Fabrics: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex
- Why our testers love them: I love Girlfriend Collective’s sustainably made high-rise leggings so much that I have several pairs of them, and I’m considering getting more. They are without a doubt my comfiest workout leggings—they suck everything in without ever feeling constraining, are super flattering, and never roll down. I’ve often found myself wearing these all day. They make me feel great. —Caitlin Brody, Glamour global entertainment director
- 10/24
Best Leggings for Winter: Yogipace Fleece-Lined Thermal Tights
Fleece-lined leggings are nonnegotiables for cold weather. This pair features a whopping five inseam options and a midrise waistband that won’t cover half of your abdomen. The details are perfect too: a drawstring waistband, two hidden pockets, and fleece lining that’ll keep frigid temperatures at bay.
- Pros: Five inseam lengths, warm material, two hidden pockets
- Cons: Might pill quickly.
- Sizes: XS–2XL (multiple inseam options)
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- 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. —Brie Schwartz, Glamour commerce director
- 11/24
Best Casual Leggings: Old Navy High-Waist Flare Leggings
When you’re hunting down a pair of leggings that don’t look too sporty, you need this pair on your radar. 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 boots of your choice.
- Pros: Two inseam options, opaque material, inclusive sizing
- Cons: No pockets
- Sizes: XS–4X
- Fabrics: Cotton, spandex
- Why our testers love them: The internet has not let me rest when it comes to the flared leggings versus yoga pants naming 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
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Old Navy promo codes.
- 12/24
Most Viral Leggings: Aerie Real Me Offline Crossover Leggings
These leggings almost broke the internet in 2021. They became a WFH staple, and have now become a go-to workout legging for our team and beyond. What is it about them that shoppers and our testers love the most? The ultra-flattering waistband that cinches you in and provides tummy control, for starters. The cut and fit also work for both long and short torsos, which is very hard to find. Bonus: They're squat-proof and don't pill easily, so you can wear them frequently.
- Pros: Crossover waistband, tummy control, opaque fabric
- Cons: Often sold out in some sizes
- Sizes: XXS–2XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, elastane
- Why our reviewers love them: I've had these since they first went viral on TikTok about two years ago. There's some magic in this waistband, because it accentuates the shape of my torso unlike any other leggings I've tried. I usually wear these with just a sports bra or crop top because they make me feel that confident. —A.N.
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Aerie promo codes.
- 13/24
Best Ultra High-Rise Leggings: Satina High-Waist Leggings
These black leggings are quite the steal. For $18 you get a pair that are squat-proof, stretchy as can be, and just as flattering as high-end designs. It's important to note that these only comes in two sizes: one size and one size plus. However, Amazon reviewers and our tester had zero issues slipping into these and loving them.
- Pros: Ultra-high-rise waistband, soft breathable fabric; affordable
- Cons: Prone to pilling; minimal size options
- Sizes: One size regular, one size plus
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- Why our testers love them: I never really like to try anything that comes as one-size-fits-all, but these pleasantly surprised me. I'm really tall, so leggings often cut off at a weird spot above my ankle, but these fit me perfectly, and the waistband even stretches as high as its intended to. They're great everyday leggings, but I don't see why I couldn't wear them to the gym if I wanted to. —Alexandra Simmons, Glamour tester
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Amazon promo codes.
- 14/24
Best Tummy-Control Leggings: The Gym People High-Waist Pocket Leggings
Another super-popular brand on Amazon is The Gym People. Loved by TikTok, Glamour staffers, and Amazon loyalists alike, the brand offers affordable high-quality fitness gear and leggings, like this tummy-control pair with pockets. Each side pocket was made big enough for a standard smartphone, and you can also keep your keys and credit card in the other one. As for the material, the spandex is super stretchy and keeps you looking snatched whether you're at the gym or out running errands.
- Pros: Nonslip waistband, hidden pockets, four-way stretch
- Cons: Reviewers say they attract a lot of lint.
- Sizes: XS–3XL
- Fabrics: Polyamide, spandex
- Why our reviewers love them: As an avid Amazon shopper (I'm on there every day), I pay attention to reviews, and these leggings have so many positive ones. Since they weren't super pricey, I bought two pairs because I hadn't owned any leggings with pockets yet. These are super compressive and flattering all around. I also liked that the waistband stayed in place and I didn't have to keep pulling them up all day. —A.S.
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Amazon promo codes.
- 15/24
Best Leggings for Running: Lululemon Align High-Rise Pants 25"
No matter your workout of choice—yoga, HIIT, squatting while staring at your phone—these Lululemon leggings will move with you every step of the way. They’re especially great for running, thanks to nylon-elastane fabric that’s lightweight and breathable. You might think you’re wearing nothing at all.
- Pros: Four inseam options, inclusive sizing, hidden waistband pocket
- Cons: Expensive
- Sizes: 0–20
- Fabrics: Nylon, Lycra elastane
- 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
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Lululemon promo codes.
- 16/24
Best Flared Leggings: Offline by Aerie Real Me High-Waist Crossover Flare Leggings
Want a pair of black leggings that isn’t afraid to stand out? Go with Aerie’s popular pair. The crossover waist, long length, and flared bottoms all work in Gen Z–approved harmony; clearly, more is more. Better yet, they’re designed to fit a variety of body types with regular, tall, and short inseams.
- Pros: Three inseam options, on-trend silhouette
- Cons: Seams might split.
- Sizes: XXS–2XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, elastane
- Why our testers love them: I gravitate toward loose attire, so these flared leggings are a perfect addition to my closet. They’re creamy-soft, and the high-waist holds me gently on my tummy area (versus constricting me). I style it with an oversized sweater, my tan New Balances, and a giant headband (Emma Chamberlain style). It’s easily become my favorite pair of everyday leggings. —Jennifer Calle, Glamour senior commerce editor
Save on the best black leggings for women with these Aerie promo codes.
- 17/24
Best Loungewear Leggings: Skims Cotton Rib Leggings
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. Consider these comfy enough for a Netflix binge yet acceptable for a coffee run.
- 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
- 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. —A.N.
- 18/24
Best Everyday Leggings: Nike Zenvy Gentle-Support High-Waist Full-Length Leggings
Nike's Zenvy leggings are are great for wearing all day, every day. While less compressive than other Nike styles, they're still squat-proof and ideal for low to mid-impact workouts. Thinking about picking up yoga this year? These will be your go-to. There's also a hidden pocket in the back to keep your phone safe no matter what you're doing. Plus, you can get these with a high or midrise waistband.
- Pros: Squat-proof, made with sustainable fabrics (50% recycled nylon fibers); gentle support, high or midrise waistband
- Cons: Some reviewers have reported issues with stitching coming loose.
- Sizes: XXS–XXL
- Fabrics: Nylon, spandex
- Why our testers love them: Okay, so these Nike Zenvy leggings? Absolutely amazing. They're super comfy but still give that nice bit of support, especially with the high waist. Perfect for both my gym sessions and just lounging around. Plus, they look good with practically anything. Seriously, I'm wearing them all the time. —Rosi Norton, Glamour tester
- 19/24
Best Breathable Leggings: FP Movement High-Rise 7/8 Length Good Karma Leggings
These leggings are breathable to keep you cool during your workouts and beyond. 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, these leggings provide the ideal balance of support and comfort, ideal for light-to-medium-intensity training. Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a jog, or simply running errands, these leggings have earned their status as a customer fave—they're versatile, sculpting, and lightweight.
- 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
- 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. —R.N.
- 20/24
Best Butt-Lifting Leggings: Aurola Dream Collection Leggings
These leggings have a cool trick up their sleeve. Well, actually, it's in the back: a subtle scrunch that gives your booty a little lift, making you look and feel amazing. They're made from supersoft stretchy fabric, so you'll be comfy all day long, whether you're hitting the Pilates reformer or lifting weights. Plus, they won't break the bank.
- Pros: Often on sale; soft and stretchy fabric, butt-scrunch in the back for a lifted appearance
- Cons: Some reviewers report pilling after a few washes.
- Sizes: XS–XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, spandex
- Why our testers love them: These leggings are a total confidence booster! They fit like a dream, and, no kidding, they make my butt look amazing. It's like they've got this magic power to flatter in all the right places. Super comfy for workouts or just hanging out, they have this great quality feel to them. Every time I wear them, I get so many compliments or people asking where I got them. —A.N.
- 21/24
Best Seamless Leggings: Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings
Consider these Gymshark leggings total winners for even the sweatiest of workouts. With their breathable mesh dots throughout the entire design, you'll stay cool and comfortable as you break a sweat and beyond. And this seamless design feels like a dream—there's no chafing or poking at the skin, just pure comfort and a second skin feeling.
- Pros: Sweat-wicking, sculpting; breathable mesh dots
- Cons: Sell out quickly.
- Sizes: XS–XXL
- Fabrics: Nylon, elastane
- Why our testers love them: The fit is incredible, and it's like they’re tailored just for me. And the seamless design? So comfy it’s like I’m not wearing anything. They're perfect for any kind of workout, although I mostly wear these for strength training and heavy lifting. I’m definitely getting more of these! —A.N.
- 22/24
Best for High-Intensity Workouts: Adanola Ultimate Leggings
Adanola's leggings have that snug fit that hugs your curves just right, but no worries, they're all about comfort too. The high-rise waistband is there to support you and stay put during workouts, walks, and other movement. Plus, they're equipped with moisture-wicking magic to keep you cool and dry, even during those sweaty workouts. But what reviewers love the most is that there's no front seam to give the effect of a “camel toe.”
- Pros: Four-way stretch fabric, no front seam to prevent camel toe; sculpting, squat-proof, available in both regular and tall lengths
- Cons: Too compressive for everyday wearing
- Sizes: XXS–3XL
- Fabrics: Nylon, elastane
- Why our testers love them: The Adanola Ultimate Leggings are just what I’ve been looking for. They’re supersoft, comfy, and great for both my gym workouts and just chilling, and the simple design makes them wearable with so many different things. I can literally throw on any top with them and it works. —A.N.
- 23/24
Best Shapewear Leggings: Spanx Booty Boost Perfect Pocket Active 7/8 Leggings
First things first: These leggings are designed to make your butt look amazing. But they're not just about looks; they're comfy too. The high-rise design gives you that extra support, and the pockets are super convenient for your essentials. 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 24/24
Best for Low-Impact Workouts: Terez TLC Leggings
With a fit that feels like a warm hug, Terez TLC Leggings offer all-day comfort. Whether you're doing your hot-girl walk of the day, need a base layer for those extra cold days, or stepping out to dinner, they've got you covered. These are timeless black leggings to pair with anything in your wardrobe, whether that be new workout kicks, Ugg slippers, or your favorite winter boots—they look great with them all.
- Pros: High and elastic-free waistband; nonpilling
- Cons: Not ideal for all exercise; some reviewers report inconsistent sizing.
- Sizes: XXS–3XL
- Fabrics: Polyester, spandex
- Why our testers love them: If you're looking for something that feels ultra lightweight, almost like a second skin, I love the comfy feel of these (and especially like the brand for all the whimsical patterns). Note they aren't lined in the nether region and not as sweat-wicking as other workout leggings, so definitely keep that in mind if you're planning to wear them to the gym, but they'll get you a weights day or a walk when it's warm out (the air does go through them, so they're perfect if you run hot). —B.S.