WHETHER for workouts or everyday wear, the best black leggings are a staple you can always rely on. So we put an assortment of brands to the test to find out which ones are worth a spot in your wardrobe.
Versatile, timeless and ridiculously comfortable, it's no wonder black leggings are considered a hero garment.
However, finding the perfect pair can be a challenge due to variations in fit, fabric, and performance (yes, we're looking at you, see-through leggings).
While there are plenty of brands that offer fun designs, bright colours and bold prints, you can never go wrong with a few pairs of classic black leggings.
Think; a supportive pair for high-intensity workouts, a super stretchy style for when you want total comfort and a cropped pair for warmer weather.
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We tried various brands and designs from Lululemon, SPANX, TALA and more to uncover the ultimate contenders.
Read on for our review of the best black leggings available to shop now.
Best black leggings at a glance:
- Best overall: Tala Sculpt Seamless Scrunch Legging
- Best gym leggings: GoodmoveGo Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings
- Best value: M&S Collection Zip Detail High Waisted Leggings
- Best mid-range: Gymshark Legacy Regular Leggings
- Best premium: SPANX Booty Boost Active 7/8 Stretch-Jersey Leggings
GoodmoveGo Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings
GoodmoveGo Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings, £27.50
Pros: Various pockets, hidden waist tie, quick-drying, perfect for exercise
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
Back pocket for keys: check. Side pocket for phone: check. Hidden waist tie: check.
These leggings really do tick all the boxes for what you could want from activewear – plus they're pleasantly smoothing and flattering once on.
The fabric is quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which combined with the 7/8 leg length, means I'll be wearing them on my outdoor runs as the weather continues to warm up.
While they do have that centre crotch seam that I'm not a fan of, I don't feel like these cut me in half visually, as much as other pairs from Lululemon or Tala have.
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Overall, I was really impressed with this pair: I wouldn't hesitate to wear them again for exercise as they're super flattering, comfortable and practical thanks to the pockets.
Leg length: 7/8, Size range: 6-24, Other colours available? Yes, lavender grey and taupe, Fabric: 73% polyester, 27% elastane
Tala Sculpt Seamless Scrunch Legging
Tala Sculpt Seamless Scrunch Legging, £54
Pros: Sculpting and smoothing, high waistband, stylish appearance, no front seam, really comfortable
Cons: Waistband needs occasional adjusting
Rating: 5/5
True to their name, these Sculpt leggings definitely have a sculpting effect that still feels really comfortable and not restrictive.
They smooth lumps and bumps and yet I don't feel like I'm wearing an intensely compressed pair of leggings: how do they do that?!
I found them to be perfect for running. The waistband sits high above the belly button, so your tummy feels nice and smooth. The waistband is comfortable, although, after a while of wearing, it can roll down slightly and need adjusting.
The lined detailing adds a nice bit of interest, while the small TALA logo on the back of the ankle is subtle and sporty.
I'd say these are my favourites, in terms of leggings that combine a smoothing effect while still being really comfortable to wear: the ultimate combo.
For a more supportive fit, TALA recommends sizing down, so I'd definitely consider getting a second pair.
Leg length: Full or 7/8, Size range: 2XS-4XL, Other colours available? 8 other shades, Fabric: 76% recycled nylon and 24% lycra sport
READ MORE:
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Gymshark Legacy Regular Leggings
Gymshark Legacy Regular Leggings, £40
Pros: Lightweight, very comfortable, sleek appearance
Cons: Don't have much support if that's what you're looking for
Rating: 4/5
Gymshark's Legacy Regular Leggings are really thin and extra lightweight: like a super comfy pair of tights!
The matte finish is incredibly smooth, which I love.
They don't really have any hold, so if you're someone who wants to feel a bit more supported in leggings, they might not be for you. But you'll definitely be able to wear them and comfortably do any activity without them getting in your way or being constrictive.
I love the sleek appearance, with simple seams running down the side of the legs. The crotch area is very comfortable and flattering too. I'd wear these at home or to an exercise class, but personally wouldn't choose them as my everyday pair as I prefer a bit more support.
The logo at the back will probably come off in a few washes as it already had some cracks in it after just light wear.
I wasn't sure about the scrunchy design on the bum, but the arched design pays a nod to Gymshark's lifting roots so these would definitely look the part for your next session with weights.
Leg length: Short or regular, Size range: XXS-XXL, Other colours available? Unit Green or Deep Olive Green, Fabric: 78% Nylon, 22% Elastane
Gymshark Elevate Leggings
Gymshark Elevate Leggings, £60
Pros: Sweat-wicking, second-skin feel, no front seam
Cons: Cheaper Gymshark leggings available
Rating: 4/5
At £20 more than Gymshark's Legacy Regular Leggings, I was keen to see if I'd be able to tell the difference with this pair of Elevate leggings from the brand – and the truth is, I didn't think there was much in it.
One difference is that they're made from Gymshark's premium RLSE fabric which promises to be 'buttery soft' (I concur), has four-way stretch and is sweat-wicking and breathable.
They feel ever so slightly more supportive than the Regular Logo leggings and have the same sleek and matt appearance that I love.
They're a definite win for working out, cycling and just general day-to-day activity as they're ultra lightweight and comfortable to wear.
The waistband sits nice and high but isn't restrictive at all. It does tend to roll down slightly when sitting or stretching but not to the point where it's annoying.
I prefer the design to the logo and scrunch design of the Legacy Regular Leggings, so for me, I'd say they're worth the extra £20.
Leg length: Full-length, Size range: XXS-XXL, Other colours available? 7 other shades and prints, Fabric: 75% Recycled Nylon, 25% Elastane
Tala SkinLuxe High Waisted Legging - Shadow Black
Tala SkinLuxe High Waisted Legging - Shadow Black, £59
Pros: Comfortable, ultra-stretchy, back zip pocket for keys/phone, sustainably made
Cons: Front seam
Rating: 4/5
Tala's SkinLuxe High Waisted Leggings feel like a really comfortable and stretchy pair of tights; similar to my first impressions of the Gymshark Legacy Regular Leggings.
Just like the Lululemon Align™ High-Rise Pant 25", the crotch/gusset has a verticle seam going down: am I the only one who doesn't like this?
The hold and support are great, the high waist is firm without being too uncomfortable and I absolutely love the pocket at the back - it's the perfect size for popping in your front door key when you go for a run or even your phone.
They're also 'designed to stay up whether you’re running, stretching or squatting' which I can back up – they don't ride down like some leggings have a habit of doing.
Leg length: Full or 7/8, Size range: 2XS-4XL, Other colours available? Yes, 8 other shades including green, pink and brown, Fabric: 76% recycled nylon and 24% LYCRA® SPORT
M&S Collection Zip Detail High-Waisted Leggings
M&S Collection Zip Detail High Waisted Leggings, £22.50
Pros: Look like smart trousers with the comfort of leggings, thick fabric, good value
Cons: The feel of the non-functional zips might be annoying
Rating: 4/5
After a pair of leggings that cheat the look of trousers? Look no further than this M&S pair.
Anyone who's ever sat at a desk for seven hours knows that tailoring gets rather uncomfortable on the waist, so I think this pair would be perfect if you want to feel smart at work or WFH – while secretly basking in the comforts that only a pair of leggings can bring.
The thicker fabric makes these super flattering, with centre seams on the legs that mimic the look of darting, along with zips (non-functional) that make them look even more like trousers.
I'm obsessed and think every wardrobe needs a pair: they're so easy for those days when you can't be bothered to get dressed 'properly' but still want to look groomed and put together.
Comfort-wise, I'd only mark them down slightly for the zips which, although aren't uncomfortable per se – you'll be somewhat aware of.
Leg length: Short/Petite, Regular or Long, Size range: 6-20, Other colours available? No, Fabric: 68% viscose, 28% polyamide and 4% elastane
Spanx Ecocare Seamless Leggings
Spanx Ecocare Seamless Leggings, £58
Pros: Truly blackout, really supportive, slimming on thighs
Cons: Textured finish creates a 'swish' sound if your thighs touch
Rating: 4/5
My first impression of Spanx's Ecocare Seamless Legging was that they looked tiny and definitely had the appearance of shapewear.
It takes a bit of effort to wriggle into these leggings but they're very stretchy so they're fairly easy to get on. They're probably the thickest fabric of all the leggings I tried, so they’re truly blackout.
They’re super high waist (just below the bra line) so they're perfect if you want full coverage – making them ideal for workouts where you just want to wear a sports bra. The waistband stays firmly in place which is a big win.
Because of the hold, they feel really supportive - I felt like I had a bit of a bounce to my walk, similar to when I’ve worn knee supports before.
The centre is seam-free – these give zero camel toe and I definitely noticed a slimming effect on my thighs.
They have a slightly textured finish rather than super smooth which I feel could get a bit itchy when you work up a sweat.
Also if you have thighs that touch, the textured finish means there's a 'swish' sound as you walk, which is annoying as these are otherwise the perfect leggings for feeling supported and held in.
Leg length: Full-length, Size range: XS-XL, Other colours available? Black camo, Fabric: 94% nylon, 6% elastane
BAM Women's Enduro 7/8 Cross Waist Leggings
BAM Women's Enduro 7/8 Cross Waist Leggings, £49
Pros: Sustainable fabric, very breathable, comfortable, stylish waist detail, no centre seam
Cons: Came up big so didn't feel as supportive as hoped
Rating: 3/5
BAM describes its Enduro leggings as 'super soft, stretchy and supportive' - and while I would absolutely agree with the first two claims, they didn't feel particularly supportive on me.
However, I think that's because I would have been better off sizing down in this style, which is one thing to bear in mind if you're thinking of purchasing. One area they came up too large was around the crotch - the whole area was very baggy which resulted in an unflattering look.
I'd still wear these leggings with a longer top though, as they're very comfortable. The cross-over waist adds a nice bit of design detailing that elevates this pair.
The bamboo fabric mix is lovely and soft - I've worn BAM leggings before and adore the breathable feel (perfect if you tend to overheat) and it's a more sustainable fabric.
As for BAM's promise that the leggings 'stay opaque no matter how much you bend and stretch,' I do feel they could do with being a bit thicker to give me more confidence for squats.
But again, that could be a sizing issue, as I'm imagining a tighter fit would have more compression to the fabric. Lesson learned: I'll order a size down next time I shop at BAM.
Leg length: 7/8, Size range: 8-16, Other colours available? Pewter and Reverie Print, Fabric: 64% Bamboo Viscose, 24% Organic Cotton, 12% Elastane
SPANX Booty Boost Active 7/8 Stretch-Jersey Leggings
Booty Boost Active 7/8 Stretch-Jersey Leggings, £88
Pros: Help lift your bum, very supportive, comfy amount of stretch, super high waist
Cons: Seams can dig in a bit
Rating: 3/5
These leggings promise 'your best butt ever' so hopes were high, as I'm not exactly blessed in that department. I would say I definitely noticed a bit of lift - my bum felt firm and supported in these leggings, so that was a big tick.
For activewear, they definitely do the job - I felt instantly supported but not in an overly constrictive way. The stretch is nice and comfy, with a super high waist.
But I'd mark them down on the maze of seams around the top of the leg/crotch area, which can dig in a bit if you don't hoist the leggings up.
The seam runs down the whole inner leg and up and around the crotch, meaning if you've got bigger thighs like me, it might dig in at the corner of the thigh.
Because of that, I probably wouldn't wear these for long exercise sessions, myself. But out and about for a power walk? I'm there.
Leg length: 7/8, Size range: XS-XXXL, Other colours available? No, Fabric: 60% nylon, 40% elastane; gusset 100% cotton
lululemon Align™ High-Rise Pant 25"
lululemon Align™ High-Rise Pant 25", £88
Pros: Ridiculously comfortable, flattering waistband, ideal for yoga, hidden waistband pocket
Cons: Front seam
Rating: 3/5
If you're wondering how they compare, Lululemon's Align leggings are a lot more stretchy and lightweight than the TALA's leggings.
They're really easy to get into, so I'd say don’t expect any hold. Instead, they're ridiculously comfortable and feel like a second skin; perfect for yoga and stretches.
The high waistband is really comfy and flattering. However the crotch has a front seam, so it sort of creates the visual of camel toe in the way that it, er, 'divides' the area.
I personally prefer a tighter fit if I’m wearing leggings out and about, but for a yoga session or wearing with a long top or sweatshirt, they're perfect.
I actually found them quite similar to Gymshark's Legacy Regular Leggings and would say they come a close second, as I prefer the seam-free front of the Gymshark ones (which are also cheaper).
Leg length: 23", 25", 28" or 31", Size range: 4-24, Other colours available? 11 other shades, Fabric: 80% Nylon, 20% Lycra Elastane
How we tested the best black leggings
In my quest to find the ultimate black leggings, I wore each pair for at least a day to get a feel for the general fit and comfort.
Lots of leggings can look great at first but then start to feel saggy a few hours in, so it was important to me that I gave every pair a good amount of time. That way, I could see how they reacted whether worn for workouts, lounging or general daily activities.
For testing, I took into account factors like fabric quality, breathability and flexibility, as well as the overall durability of seams. I also paid attention to waistbands to see if they stayed in place without rolling or slipping.
Where to buy the best black leggings?
You can find black leggings from a wide range of reputable retailers and brands, all offering a blend of style, quality, and affordability.
Which ones are 'best' all comes down to personal preference, so have a think about your needs: for example, what leg length you're after, whether you want a supportive pair for exercise, a more stretchy pair for comfort, or something with added design details that you can wear out.
In this review, TALA and M&S came out on top, with Gymshark and SPANX closely following in joint second place.
For quick reference, check out some of these:
- BAM
- Gymshark
- Selfridges
- lululemon
- Tala
- M&S
- John Lewis
How much do the best black leggings cost?
Prices can vary by quite a lot: especially when you consider how many premium activewear brands there are these days as well as budget brands. It all depends on how much you want to spend, of course, but you can definitely find a good pair in the £20 to £30 range.
To give you an idea – in this review, the most expensive leggings were the SPANX Booty Boost Active 7/8 Stretch-Jersey Leggings at £88, while the cheapest were the M&S Collection Zip Detail High Waisted Leggings at £22.50.
