THE right activewear has the ability to completely elevate a workout routine.
High-waisted gym leggings are a popular choice for both exercise and everyday wear, and we’ve put some of the top-rated pairs to the test.
The perfect leggings will be comfortable and flattering, with designs that will help to improve your performance during exercise.
Sweat-wicking fabrics, tummy control, and sculpting designs are just some of the features that come with the best high-waisted gym leggings.
The high-rise cut is comfortable for wearing over long periods, while the silhouette is flattering on all body types, so it’s no surprise that they’re one of the most popular styles.
Nothing inspires a good workout more than some stylish new activewear, so read on to discover our top picks.
Best high-waisted gym leggings at a glance:
- Best overall high-waisted gym leggings: Gymshark Flex High Waisted Leggings
- Best sculpting gym leggings: Sweaty Betty Power High-Waisted Gym Leggings
- Best high-street gym leggings: Marks & Spencer Good Move Go Balance High Waisted Yoga Leggings
- Best versatile gym leggings: H&M Move Sports Leggings
How we tested
We wore the high-waisted gym leggings for intense cardio sessions, lifting weight, pilates and even trips to the supermarket, to determine how they hold up in terms of performance, appearance, quality and value for money.
Most of the brands included are known for creating high-quality activewear, and we’ve selected leggings at a range of price points, starting from £25.
Best high-waisted gym leggings
Gymshark Flex High Waisted Leggings
Gymshark Flex High Waisted Leggings, £22.50 (was £45)
Pros: High-quality feel, affordable when on sale, flattering, seamless waistband
Cons: Thick material makes them better for lifting than cardio
Rating: 5/5
Gymshark has been my go-to activewear brand for years, and I have several pairs of the popular leggings in my collection.
The pair I always find myself reaching for is the Flex leggings, which really do live up to their name.
Firstly, the design is thick enough that I never need to worry about them being see-through, and the sweat-wicking design leaves me feeling comfortable even after intense workouts.
I’m not usually one for bold branding, so I like that the Flex leggings feature Gymshark’ signature logo but without being overbearing with its design.
The material feels soft on the skin and never feels like it’s clinging to me when I sweat, while also creating a flattering shape.
I bought the Flex leggings a few months ago and they’re so far not showing any signs of wear-and-tear, like the other pairs I own that have maintained their high quality for years.
Gymshark has some seriously good sales throughout the year (which is when I tend to make my purchases) and the brand is currently offering up to 50% off in its sitewide sale.
Review by Sophie Bates
Leg length: Full; Size range: XXS to XXL; Colours available: Four colours; Fabric: 91% Nylon, 9% Elastane
Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings
Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings, £88
Pros: Don’t fall down, supportive, super soft, handy phone pocket and zip pocket for keys, lots of colour options, different length options, available in lots of sizes, sweat-wicking
Cons: Expensive if not bought during the sale
Rating: 5/5
I bought my first pair of Sweaty Betty gym leggings during a sale about five years ago, and ever since, it’s been the only brand I trust for quality, comfort and support.
Their Power gym leggings come in a wide variety of colours, sizes and two lengths.
I opted for the full-length version in “rust”, a colour that is no longer available. However, there are currently 56 other colours available to choose from.
The leggings are made from a high-quality, really soft material, which makes them comfortable to wear for both lounging around the house, and for intense workouts.
The fabric is also quite thick, which is excellent for hiding sweat, but some may find them too warm to wear in the summer.
They offer good compression, making them supportive without digging into your waistline.
Practicality is a plus too, with two handy pockets: one for your phone on your thigh and one at the back with a zip for things like keys.
The only drawback is the price. They are £88 at full price, which makes them quite an investment.
However, if you’re patient enough to wait for a sale, and opt for one of the less popular colours, then you can snap up a pair for a lot less.
For instance, the Ultra Black Ditsy Star Print leggings are currently just £28.50 in the sale, which is a lot more palatable.
Review by Clara Wolsey
Leg length: Full; Size range: XXS to 4XL; Colours available: 42 colours; Fabric: 62% Polyamide, 38% Elastane
Read more activewear
Marks & Spencer Good Move Go Balance High Waisted Yoga Leggings
Marks & Spencer Good Move Go Balance High Waisted Yoga Leggings, £25
Pros: Flattering, comfortable, shaping/slimming, stretchy, soft, cool and breathable, V waist
Cons: Only available in black
Rating: 5/5
These leggings were one of my favourites for yoga and everyday use.
As soon as you take them out of the packaging, you’ll notice that they’re incredibly soft to the touch. They’re cosy when you wear them, but you won’t overheat during a workout.
The best thing though, is the flattering V-shaped waistband. It helps to make your stomach look flatter and your waist smaller, while the close-fitting fabric smooths over and supports any bumpy areas.
I’d wear these every day if I could, and they’re pretty affordable too.
Leg length: Full; Size range: 6-24; Colours available: 1, Fabric: Polyester and elastane
H&M Move Sports Leggings
H&M Move Sports Leggings, £27.99
Pros: Stretchy, soft on the skin, great for working out and everyday wear, affordable
Cons: Would love an internal pocket
Rating: 5/5
H&M’s Move range is perfect for those looking for high quality activewear that’s actually affordable.
I’ve practically lived in my Softmove Sports Leggings since I got them, I do love them for the gym but I also find myself reaching for them to run errands of lounge around the house.
They’re one of the softest pairs of leggings I own, and the full-length and high-waisted cut makes it easy to pair them with just about anything in my wardrobe.
The sweat-wicking design pulls the moisture away from the skin to prevent overheating, while the waist panel feels like in sucks me in for a flattering look on the stomach.
I have a black pair, but the 12 colours available include some gorgeous pastel shades, and I’m going to be adding the butter yellow version to my collection next.
Review by Sophie Bates
Leg length: Full; Size range: XXS-XXL; Colours available: 12 colours; Fabric: Polyester 76%, Elastane 24%
lululemon Align
High-Rise Pant
lululemon Align High-Rise Pant, £88
Pros: Lightweight and breathable, waistband doesn’t dig, but also stays put, super soft, easy to put on, comfortable, form-fitting and flattering, available in sizes UK 4 to 24, available in 18 colours
Cons: Will show VPL, if you’re wearing the wrong knickers
Rating: 5/5
lululemon has a reputation for producing high-quality, luxury activewear, and these leggings did not disappoint.
They’re silky smooth (or as lululemon puts it, buttery-soft) and feel amazing on the skin. Plus, of all of the leggings I tried, these were the easiest to slip into.
They’re form-fitting but very comfortable — I’d definitely wear these while chilling at home, as well as for hardcore workouts.
The waistband is perfect, too. It provides support and softly skims your curves without being so tight that you feel as if the skin around your ribcage is bulging over the top.
The size and colour range are also great. Just make sure you’re wearing the right underwear, as this fabric is so lightweight and soft that it will show VPL if your knickers aren’t seamless too.
Leg length: Full; Size range: UK 4 to 24; Colours available: 18 colours; Fabric: Nylon and lycra elastane
Nike Running Epic Fast Leggings
Nike Running Epic Fast Leggings, £49.99
Pros: Don’t roll down, soft on the skin, comfortable, internal and side pockets, reflective logo
Cons: Slight wear and tear after a while
Rating: 4.5/5
I’m often reaching for my Nike Epic leggings, whether it’s for trips to the gym or for running errands.
The lightweight material makes them great for everyday wear, and I love the internal and side pockets for storing away my keys when I don’t want to take a bag out.
The leggings have a snug fit, but they’re super stretchy and breathable, so they never run the risk of causing sweat patches.
I find my Nike leggings to be the most flattering pair I own, as the drawstring waistband sucks me in, while the soft Spandex material smooths out any lumps and bumps.
I’ve had the same pair for several years now and they’re still mostly intact, although I have noticed some subtle fading of the reflective Nike logo over time.
At £50, the leggings aren’t cheap, but they’re one of the more affordable options in terms of big brands.
Review by Sophie Bates
Leg length: Full; Size range: 4-22; Colours available: Black; Fabric: 80% Polyester, 20% Spandex
Where to buy high-waisted gym leggings?
There’s so much choice when it comes to high-waisted gym leggings, with online and in-store across activewear brands and the high-street.
These are some of the brands and retailers stocking the popular gym leggings:
- lululemon
- Gymshark
- Nike
- Adidas
- Adanola
- Fabletics
- Pour Moi
- Know The Origin
- Free People
- My Protein
- Sweaty Betty
- Amazon
- Wuka
How much do gym leggings cost?
There are so many different price points when it comes to high-waisted gym leggings.
Brands such as Lululemon and Sweaty Betty offer styles for almost £100, while places such as H&M and Pour Moi offer more affordable options.
If you’re looking to save on branded leggings, it’s worth checking the sales, as lots of popular leggings tend to get slashed in price at different points of the year.
Gymshark is currently running its summer sale, offering shoppers up to 50% off sitewide, plus a further 20% off for a limited time.
Are Sweaty Betty Power Leggings high waisted?
The Power Leggings are Sweaty’s Betty’s most popular product, ad the brand has previously revealed that one pair is sold every 60 seconds.
The leggings are high-waisted, with a compressive design and a bonded waistband.
Made with the brand’s signature Power fabrics, they’re sweat-wicking and quick-drying, with a supportive fit for workouts and everyday wear.
At £88, the Sweaty Betty leggings are far from cheap, but they are known to go on sale at certain points throughout the year, including Black Friday.
Is Adanola a good brand?
Adanola is a hugely popular activewear brand that’s a favourite with celebrities and influencers.
Kendall Jenner, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Maya Jama have all been spotted wearing Adanola in the past, and its celebrity following is part of the reason it became a viral favourite.
How to keep high-waisted leggings from falling down
There’s nothing worse than the feeling of your leggings rolling down as you’re working out, but there’s a few ways to prevent it from happening.
The main way starts before you’ve even bought the leggings, and that’s ensuring they have a snug fit.
While you don’t want to feel suffocated in your leggings, you do want them to be tight enough that they don’t need pulling up constantly.
Leggings with adjustable waistbands are useful for preventing any slipping, and other tight waistbands will also give a secure fit without the need to fiddle around with a drawstring.
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