So, you're after a pair of high waisted gym leggings but don't want to spend money on a pair that'll roll down mid-workout. No one likes workout kit that doesn't deliver what it promises, and the core tenant of a good pair of high waisted workout leggings is that they're just that: high waisted, supportive, and don't roll down at any given opportunity.
As with all our product reviews, like the best gym leggings, Marie Claire UK has tried and tested all of the leggings in this roundup. If you're after the best petite gym leggings, patterned leggings or leggings with pockets, we've tried all those, too.
A little about those of us who have tested, before we share our recommendations: I'm Ally Head, MC UK's Senior Health Editor, and I run marathons and strength train regularly. To thoroughly put these leggings to the test, I've enlisted the help of our Contributing Wellness Editor Hayley Hasselhoff (your go-to for all things self-care), alongside Junior Shopping Editors Valeza Bakolli and Amelia Yeomans, and Fashion Writer Sofia Piza. While Sofia loves a long-distance run to stay active, Valeza and Amelia prefer at-home HIIT, Pilates and yoga workouts (especially in this cold weather), so these leggings have been tested across multiple workout styles and intensity levels.
Best high waisted workout leggings: Quick shopping links
- Affordable high waisted leggings: CRZ YOGA, £23
- Seamless high waisted leggings: Adanola, £40
- High waisted leggings with pockets: lululemon, £88
- Everyday high waisted leggings: OUGES, £19.99
- Plus size high waisted leggings: Spanx, £88
Testing process for the best high waisted workout leggings
So, what do I look for in a good pair? Support, compression, and sweat-wicking comfort that last the test of time. I'll never include a pair of leggings that isn't squat-proof, leaves you with crotch sweat patches, or falls down mid-squat.
Keen to know how team MC test all of the products we include? Do read our guide, and know that all fit kit is tested by the team pre-inclusion (basically, if I wouldn't buy it myself, I won't feature it).
The leggings below were worn for at least four to five workouts before the reviews were written, and assessed to see how well they washed, how comfortable they were, how they functioned for each workout, and quality of the fabric.
What did I look for when deciding the best high waisted gym leggings?
Aka, what’s the success criteria? Good question.
- Supportive: First and foremostly: are the leggings actually high waisted and does the band stay put, supporting you through your session?
- Well fitting: Are the leggings well-fitting (no crinkly knees or baggy bums), and do they run true to size?
- Sweat wicking: Are they sweat-wicking and do they keep you the right temperature during your session?
- Coverage: Are they non-see-through, do they pass the squat test, and do they offer an adequate amount of coverage?
- Material: Was the material prone to bobbling or piling? Does the design offer compression?
- Longevity: How well did the leggings retain their structure over time, and did they wash well?
- Price: Is the product a reasonable price? (We know times are tough right now - don't miss our guides to free home workouts and how to exercise for free).
We test kit for a living: 15 best high waisted workout leggings to shop now
1. Affordable high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "I was pleasantly surprised with these Amazon leggings - sure, they won't last as long as the higher price point designs, but for £23, I found them to be both supportive and flattering. On the high waisted front - the design felt similar to more high-end alternatives, hugging my mid-section in a soft yet supportive way. They didn't roll down through either sweat session I tried them in and I liked that the leggings move with your body but don't end up around your lower tummy as a result. If you're a sweaty person like me, do note that you'll likely get sweat patches in lighter colours, though." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
2. Gymshark high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "A mid-price point option, I liked these leggings from Gymshark and found the high waisted design to be both sculpting and supportive - it didn't roll down but did nip me in at the waist more than other pairs I tried. I found them to be a good workout companion and flattering, too, but do note that they're a lot thicker than other options, so not ideal for summer sweat sessions. They are great for cold winter workouts, though, or wearing around the house as energy bills continue to rise. Short girls, do note: they run slightly long, and are extra high rise on the stomach, too." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
3. Seamless high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "Forever the go-to of the more fashion-forward gym goer, I was sceptical that Adanola leggings wouldn't genuinely perform well - all too often, kit that looks this good doesn't sweat wick or support. But I was wrong - I've worked out in my Ultimate Leggings at least 20 times now and they've never rolled down, crinkled around the tummy or waist, or left me feeling unsupported. They're great and an affordable price point, too." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
4. High waisted gym leggings with pockets
What we thought when testing? "As well as being the perfect mid-torso amount of high waisted, the lululemon Wunder Train leggings have not one, not two, but three pockets - one on your lower back and one on either thigh. Plus, this particular design has a drawcord around the waist which means you can make sure you've got the perfect fit. When testing, I loved how they hugged my waist and really didn't move during any workout. Plus, they stayed cool no matter how sweaty I got (and trust me, some sessions were sweaty)." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
5. Best black high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "Sweaty Betty knows how to design high waisted, supportive leggings. Carving the perfect mid-point between soft and sculpting, these All Day leggings really live up to the hype. I loved that they supported me through everything from Pilates to long distance runs to strength training, but are also quality enough material to wear to the office with an oversized jumper and boots, too. I'd size down for the most supportive fit as SB do come up a little large." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
6. High waisted gym leggings for everyday
What we thought when testing? "I was after a pair of high waisted leggings that I could use for walking, light runs and lounging around in when working from home - and these tick every box. They're affordable but can be trusted not to roll down or be see through, and they have spacious pockets for all the essentials. The material is soft and stretchy so ideal for relaxing in, and they fit well around the waist without being too tight. If you want a pair of cheap and cheerful high waisted leggings, you can't go wrong with these." - Amelia Yeomans, Junior Shopping Editor
7. Nike high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "These leggings call themselves a "second skin" - which, when I try, I agree isn't far off. They're great, rivalling the higher-end versions in their high waisted-ness, but also their comfort, support and sculpting abilities, too. They have an elasticated waistband and flat lock seams which means there's no cutting in here, and I love the sleek, minimalist design that makes them suitable for any activewear wardrobe. They're spectacularly lightweight and soft, making them really easy to wear. Plus, they won't break the bank." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
8. High waisted gym leggings 3/4 length
What we thought when testing? "You may not have heard of LNDR, but you won't forget their leggings once you've tried them. Cleverly, they offer hidden technology at the front of the waistband which makes you feel extra supported and gives you a streamlined silhouette. They have three length options - full length (8/8), ankle length (7/8), and calf-length (6/8). With a medium level of compression throughout they have just the right fit with a skin-smoothing effect, and they provide instant quick dry - perfect for sweaty workouts. Not to mention, they have pockets too. Well worth the price tag." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
9. Best plus size high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "As a curvier girl and someone who already loves to feel tucked in regardless of the occasion, I've mastered finding the right high-waisted leggings that are perfect for all workouts. Spanx has been a go-to for undergarments when it comes to their incredible smoothing technology (I can attest that they offer core sculpting magic). These leggings have the above and more, with additional performance fabric for unbeatable stretch and a breathable finish." - Hayley Hasselhoff, Contributing Wellness Editor
10. Best plus size high waisted running leggings
What we thought when testing? "When I think of running leggings, the first thing that comes to mind is support. To me, this means a high-rise fit, and lululemon are known for their designs (not to mention their incredible weightless soft-to-touch fabrics). However, being a curvier girl, I don’t just want soft fabric but also adequate support so I can go faster and achieve new goals without tugging at my waistline. While the lulu Align leggings are designed for yoga, they've always been my go-to for running. I particularly like the invisible pockets to hold your key and keep you feeling hands-free." - Hayley Hasselhoff, Contributing Wellness Editor
11. Best eco-friendly high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "GNGR Bees is my favourite eco-friendly athleisure brand, and I've worn their flattering and stylish workout clothing for years. They have an "everything unwasted" ethos, meaning they make high-performance workout gear without wasting tonnes of fabric in the process. I adore the flattering fit of the Terra leggings and find them great for HIIT classes as they don't roll down at all. They're squat-proof, sweat-wicking, and super comfy. They also feature two deep side pockets which securely hold my phone and keys while out and about." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
12. Best seamless high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "Okay, I lied. There are two eco-conscious activewear brands that hold my heart, and Conscious Citizen is the other. Made using 85% recycled nylon, these leggings are probably the most high waisted style I own, and they hold me in snugly without rolling down. These are my go-to leggings for Pilates and yoga as they're just so incredibly comfy. Paired with a form-fitting top, they create a sleek silhouette thanks to their seamless finish." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
13. Best high waisted yoga leggings
What we thought when testing? "I've been raving about these Alo Yoga leggings for a year now and still can't get enough of them. They hold a medium compression, meaning they offer enough support for medium to low intensity workouts and you don't constantly feel the need to pull them up as you go. The high-waisted cut is super comfortable and effortlessly contours the body, too."
"Even though these leggings stand on the pricier side, they've proven to be a great durable investment. Case in point: I've used these leggings at both the gym and pilates studios and can safely say they've stood the test of both heavy weights and aerobic movement. Like most of Alo Yoga's pieces, these leggings are designed for the studio and beyond - I was even wearing these leggings when I got engaged!" - Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer
14. Best flared high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "I live in flared leggings on my work from home days, and I love that this pair has all the comfort of regular high waisted leggings with some extra style points. Paired with a jumper and chic trainers, they're easy to transition from the gym to coffee dates. The material is just the right thickness and I love how the cross waist keeps me feeling secure without digging in at all. I will say they're best suited for workouts like Pilates or strength sessions in the gym, just so that the material doesn't get in the way." Amelia Yeomans, Junior Shopping Editor
15. Best petite high waisted gym leggings
What we thought when testing? "In my opinion, Gilly Hicks makes some of the most underrated activewear on the market. I've had my pair of high waisted leggings for years and not only do they wear and wash incredibly well, but they're unbeatably soft and comfortable. My pair still look brand new, and they haven't suffered from any bobbling or colour fading. I love how sleek the design is and the fact that the logo is subtle. Plus, it's a huge bonus that they come in three different leg lengths for the perfect fit. I really struggle to find leggings the right length for me at 5ft2, but these couldn't be better." Amelia Yeomans, Junior Shopping Editor
What is the point of high-waisted leggings?
Good question. As above, they're more supportive than their low-rise competitors, meaning if you like that held in feeling while you're working out, high waisted is probably your best bet.
One study published in the journal of Social Behaviour and Personality found that feeling confident in your clothes has a direct correlation on your emotions, sociability, and work productivity, with further research by Barbell Apparel finding that 69% of people say they push themselves more mid-workout if they feel confident in their fit kit.
Point being, if you feel more confident in what you wear when you head to the gym, you might just get more out of your session. You heard it here first..
