Black leggings, divisive as they are, have undeniably become a wardrobe staple. But with the range of legging styles out there — cropped, long, flared, high-rise, mid-rise, pockets (!!!), supersoft, performance, etc. — choosing which ones are right for you takes some thought.
Turning to the internet is your best bet when you need to comb through the infinite options available — luckily, we’ve done most of the legwork(!) for you. We've curated a roundup of the best black leggings across the world wide web, and added options based on an explosion of suggestions in the comments sections. With the best black leggings for everyday wear, workouts, and dressing up, this list is bound to help you find your ride-or-die leggings. Click through to see which highly rated black leggings come out on top.
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Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 17,826 reviews
Girlfriend Collective may have only launched in 2017, but thanks to the brand’s comfortable leggings made from recycled plastic bottles and inclusive size range that goes up to 6XL, the activewear imprint has already gained a cult following.
"I saw the reviews too. I was skeptical too. I thought: ‘They’re just a pair of leggings, why are people so obsessed?’ too. But they are. They really are just the best leggings. They have the perfect amount of compression — enough to keep you together but not a battle to get into. They’re the perfect rise. They don’t go sheer. They don’t pill. They just work so well. I don’t even notice I’ve sweat in these. I love," writes one reviewer.
Shop Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Athleta Ultra High Rise Ribbed Elation Tight
The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 4,162 reviews
With a classic high waist and several fabrics and inseam lengths, these super-compressing Athleta leggings will lengthen and strengthen just as effectively as your daily downward-facing dog."Great multi-purpose tights. I am 5’9”, 145 lbs., and ordered size medium, tall. The fit is excellent and I appreciate the somewhat longer length and comfortable high waist on these tights," writes one reviewer.
"I [bought] a different brand, which I thought was the best, but decided to shop here for leggings [because I received a gift certificate]. The price here is a tad bit cheaper and the quality is even better than my other leggings. My new [favorite] store for leggings," another reviewer shares.
Shop Athleta
Athleta Ultra High Rise Ribbed Elation Tight, $, available at Athleta
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight 25"
The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 7,150 reviews
At the moment, Lululemon's Wunder line in all of its iterations comes in on top for the best-reviewed black leggings on site. But these 25-inch inseam ones are the best of the best, according to reviews. The fast-drying and breathable tights were built to withstand your sweatiest workouts, and have "medium" support for comfortable movement. "I love these leggings! I was used to having the fast and free style, but these work so well! They stayed up my whole run super well," one customer wrote, as another said, "Love the slightly compressive fit, the high waist, and inside string to tighten if wanted. Would highly recommend."
However, some customers have noted that they run small and that the color is more like a dark charcoal than a true black.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight 25", $, available at Lululemon
Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 2,923 reviews
Made from a high-compression signature Airlift performance fabric, these smooth-sculpting ankle-length leggings will have you feeling cool and confident. Loved by thousands of customers, this style is also fitness instructor-approved. "I use these leggings for all of my workouts. As an instructor, I find them the most comfortable and flattering," writes a customer.
Shop Alo
Alo Yoga 7/8 High-Waist Airlift Legging, $, available at Alo Yoga
Quince Ultra-Soft High-Rise Legging
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 2,026 reviews
Designed for low-impact exercises like yoga, this style features quick-drying and moisture-wicking fabric with four-way stretch. Quince also shows a competitor chart, suggesting that the quality is as good as Lululemon, Vuori, and Beyond Yoga leggings but with a much lower price tag.
"The fabric is super soft and stretchy, with a flattering fit. I’m used to leggings with more compression to them — but I love these for yoga or lounging on the weekends," one customer wrote. But another said, "Despite not being a 'compression' legging or running tight, I have been able to go for runs in these without needing a single adjustment for drooping/sagging."
Shop Quince
Quince Ultra-Soft High-Rise Legging, $, available at Quince
Free People Never Better Leggings
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 75 reviews
Free People's Never Better Collection features the brand's essential leggings in soft, sweat-wicking fabric. Many customers praise the leggings' stretch and fit around their curvy bodies. One had high praise, writing, "Not only can you not see underwear through these with a squat test, they actually fit everywhere. Not too tight on thighs or butt and don’t slide off my waist either! Finally, leggings that fit my hourglass shape!"
Shop Free People
Free People Never Better Leggings, $, available at Free People
Zella Live In High Waist Leggings
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 7,539 reviews
Few legging brands see as much public praise as Zella. These high-waisted leggings tout moisture-wicking technology great for running at the gym or running errands."These leggings really live up to their 'live in' name. They are so comfortable, I didn't want to take them off! (I actually wore them two days in a row.) The material is super buttery soft and thicker so you don't have to worry about underwear showing through," writes one reviewer.
"I’ve had these for almost a year now and I cannot say enough good things!" another reviewer shares. "They’re never too hot, they truly do wick sweat away. And NEVER ride down [during] 12-mile hikes and I don’t have to pull them up once."
Shop Nordstrom
Zella Live In High Waist Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 2,074 reviews
Beyond Yoga's best-selling legging has sold over 3 million pairs, which is a feat of its own. The versatile leggings made from ethically-made Spacedye fabric are stretchy, moisture-wicking, and buttery soft. "I love these pants and have them in several colors. The quality is good and won't wear out easily," one customer writes, and another adds, "I LOVE this legging. Soft, buttery, and they STAY UP !! Best legging ever and they last !! They are the only legging I will buy."
Shop Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging, $, available at Beyond Yoga
Pact Purefit Full Length Bootcut Legging
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 80 reviews
Our very own Sex & Wellness Writer Charlotte Lewis approves of these Pact leggings, previously writing, "As I am a tall girl (5’8”), the full-length version was just right, skimming the top of my sneakers. Not only do they look absolutely adorbs, but I adore how versatile they are." Other customers have likewise commented that they are "a great everyday legging" or "my go-to legging," and that they don't slide down.
But if you're a short queen, consider buying the cropped bootcut option instead.
Shop Pact
PACT Purefit Full Length Bootcut Legging, $, available at PACT
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 3,902 reviews
Available in short, standard, and tall lengths and with a thick V-cut waistband, these leggings can be ultra-flattering for all body types and heights.
"I love these leggings so much! They are so soft and I personally find them very flattering. The crossover waist is also a really nice touch!" one customer writes. The buttery lightweight fabric is also a definite pro. "These leggings are so comfy and so soft! Def my new fave legging!" No one seems to be able to deny their extreme comfort; however, some have noted pilling.
Shop Aerie
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging, $, available at Aerie
Spanx Faux Leather Leggings
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 6,848 reviews
These No. 1 best-selling Spanx leggings are a sleek solution for nights out. Available in petite, regular, and tall inseams (and a wide size range), anyone can pull off this style, though many customers note that they run small. They feature a power waistband for core compression and a contoured rear for a booty lift (as we've reviewed and proven in the past).
Customers have written rave reviews about the leggings and their ability to be dressed up or down. One reviewer wrote, "These hold the shape of your legs snuggly and were so much better than I anticipated." Another said, "These fit perfectly and add a little cool-girl vibe to sweaters and jackets."
Shop Spanx
SPANX Faux Leather Leggings, $, available at SPANX
Gap Basic Leggings
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 1,605 reviews
Gap's basic leggings are versatile, sleek, affordable, and an all-around great basic. The jersey knit leggings have gained high praise, with one customer writing, "Why did I wait so long to purchase these leggings! Extremely comfortable." Another happy reviewer notes, "Fits great, very soft. Best leggings out there. Dress them up or dress them down, very versatile."
Shop Gap
Gap Basic Leggings, $, available at Gap
Outdoor Voices FrostKnit 7/8 Legging
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 145 reviews
Perfect for your cold-weather cardio sessions, these mid-rise leggings will keep you warm thanks to the brushed interior. They also feature reflective details for those dark winter nights and pockets to store your phone or earbuds. Customers are overall pleased with the reflective details for winter runs and say they immediately feel warm, but not overheated in them. One reviewer wrote, "I can feel the warmth immediately as I put on. They are tight/snug but it’s a comfortable fit able to move w/out limitations," and another similarly said, "I use them to go for runs in temps as low as 20 degrees F and I'm always shocked at how comfortable they keep me in the cold."
Many customers do not that this style runs small, and recommend sizing up in some cases.
Shop Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices FrostKnit 7/8 Legging, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Vuori Daily Pocket Legging
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 561 reviews
These breathable but supportive leggings are made with the brand's BreatheInterlock technology to wick away sweat, a high-rise waistband, and side pockets big enough for your phone.
"These are so great! Even better than the daily legging that I got a few years ago [...] The high rise is just right, doesn't fall down, and the tie is flattering. The pocket is such a welcome feature, although I do wish it was just slightly bigger. I don't want any non-pocket leggings now!" writes one reviewer. "I love the way these leggings fit, they hug my body perfectly and stay exactly where they should. So happy to have pockets too and the drawstring adds the perfect accent."
Shop Vuori
Vuori Daily Pocket Legging, $, available at Vuori
Superfit Hero Pocket Ankle Leggings
The Hype: 4.86 out of 5 stars and 283 reviews
If you're looking for a pair of plus-size leggings that will do it all, try out Superfit Hero's selection. This style features SuperHold compression fabric that offers a curve-hugging fit (as well as two full-size pockets). "I ordered the black Pocket Ankle Leggings because I needed to replace black leggings from another maker. I already own a pair in cobalt and I was not disappointed. Superhold does everything I need it to do: hold me in, support my legs, deliver all-around comfort and fit," one customer confirms of the fabric's promise.
Shop Superfit Hero
Superfit Hero Pocket Ankle Leggings, $, available at Superfit Hero
Skims Cotton Rib Legging
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 1,617 reviews
You can count on Skims, maker of super-luxe intimates, lounge, and sleepwear, to offer incredibly soft ribbed cotton leggings that you'll wear straight to bed (and never want to take off).
"I will be ordering more sets like tomorrow because these are the best leggings I’ve ever had on I’ve put them in the dryer and they don’t get lint balls and I can wear them for hours without feeling itchy on my thighs," writes a reviewer, while others cite declare them the best leggings to lounge around the house in.
Shop Skims
Skims Cotton Rib Legging, $, available at Skims
Abercrombie & Fitch YPB SculptLUX Flare Legging
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 87 reviews
Using the brand's sculptLUX fabric with four-way stretch, these Abercrombie leggings are compressive, supportive, smoothing, and sculpting. "I'm really picky with leggings and these are thick and have the right support," one customer wrote. The double-layered waistband features a hidden pocket and a flattering V-shaped back seam.
Despite the regular and short inseam options, they tend to run long, but one happy (tall) customer joked, "For the first time in forever, my ankles aren't showing when I sit lol."
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch YPB SculptLUX Flare Legging, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch
Everlane The Perform 24/7 Legging
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 142 reviews
If you're in need of a no-nonsense legging that you can wear for various activities time and time again, then Everlane leggings are for you. The OG Perform Legging was on our list before, but now we've added in the new and equally popular 24/7 leggings with an ankle inseam. They're ultra-soft, have lightweight compression, and feature sweat-wicking properties all perfect for hot girl walking, running errands, and going out. One customer echoed this, writing, "Can't simply live without them. I love these, They are thick enough that I can dress them up or dress them down."
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Perform 24/7 Legging, $, available at Everlane
Hue Ultra Leggings with Wide Waistband
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 81 reviews
The wide waistband on these popular leggings is the real highlight of this style. Intended to provide all-day comfort and not to roll down, customers have verified the waistband's quality. One reviewer wrote, "Great fit...I like the fabric... not too heavy or too thin. Wide waistband keeps them in place. Wonderful product." The 29-inch inseam also makes them great for taller people in search of versatile full-length leggings.
Shop Hue
HUE Ultra Leggings with Wide Waistband, $, available at HUE
Universal Standard Roya Cropped Leggings 23 Inch
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 96 reviews
Although Universal Standard offers a super-wide size range, the brand specializes in plus-size clothing, so you can be confident in the fit and function of these cropped leggings. The Pima cotton blend also ensures a supersoft feel and breathability while preventing pilling. Many customers pointed out that they aren't super compressive, with one writing, "I love the style and fit. Not as snug as typical leggings but sleek and flattering," so if you're in need of more of a loungewear legging rather than an activewear style, these are the ones for you.
Shop Universal Standard
Universal Standard Roya Cropped Leggings 23 Inch, $, available at Universal Standard
L.L. Bean PrimaLoft ThermaStretch Fleece Tights
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 1,102 reviews
The secret weapon to winter outfits? A pair of fleece-lined leggings that can be worn solo (in lieu of tights or stockings) or under roomier pants for double-layer warmth. These winter leggings are a solid choice. Reviewers also rave that these don't ride down. One customer even likened them to "form-fitted sweatpants." (Comfort at its finest.) "Just what I needed for early morning dog walks and mountain hiking. It keeps me warm in single-digit temps but I don't overheat as I warm up during the walk. Another reviewer shares, "I own four pairs. I can move, bike, clean, and sit comfortably in these. Bought my first pair, and came back for more. A great versatile pant for active women. Wash beautifully and still look like new."
Shop L.L. Bean
L.L. Bean Primaloft ThermaStretch Fleece Tights, $, available at L.L. Bean
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant with Pockets 28"
The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 562 reviews
The Lululemon Align leggings (in all of its many iterations) are fan favorites — and R29 reader and editor favorites. But this particular high-rise style and 28" inseam have gotten the best rating of them all. "Love them! Fit is great, fabric is great, colour is perfect for this time of year. Love the pockets too! Already one of my go to comfy mom leggings," one recent reviewer wrote. Another commented on the length, explaining, "I am pretty tall and have really long legs and these are actually long enough on me while I do yoga!"
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant with Pockets 28", $, available at Lululemon
Pact Purefit Legging
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 439 reviews
Some of us have recently reviewed new Pact bootcut leggings and can attest to their quality. The OG organic cotton Purefit legging still reigns supreme in the eyes of customers, though, with one writing, "They fit well and feel great! I love that they’re cotton! I’m a long-time customer of PACT and know their quality is top notch and these pants will last for a long time."
Shop Pact
PACT Purefit Legging, $, available at PACT
Everlane The Perform Legging
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 2,169 reviews
If you're in need of a no-nonsense legging that you can wear for various activities time and time again, then Everlane leggings are for you. With lightweight compression good for moderate activity (like hot girl walking, running errands, or just lounging) and composed of 58% recycled nylon, you can feel good about what you're putting on your body. One customer writes, "Love these leggings for lounging, working out, layering, etc. They are a great basic staple in my closet!"
Another notes, "I've purchased 2 pairs of these leggings — 2+ years apart. The fit is exactly as advertised. Even better, the color remains fast even after repeated washings."
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Perform Legging, $, available at Everlane
Hue Ultra Leggings with Wide Waistband
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 196 reviews on Zappos.com
Reviewers on Zappos seem to believe that they’ve found the legging gold standard in this classic pair from Hue. "Pretty much the gold standard in 'basic' leggings. These are TOTALLY opaque (nobody's gonna see your underwear or anything else, even if you're bending down), extremely comfortable (you might as well be wearing pajama pants, they're truly that comfy), and the wide waistband is a godsend to all of us, let's be honest," one reviewer raves. "I feel like the waistband needs to be talked about, because I've worn other brands with wide waistbands that don't work well for me [...] You put that waistband right where you want it and it's gonna stay there and hold you in and it will not ride up or down!"
Shop Zappos
HUE Ultra Leggings With Wide Waistband, $, available at Zappos
Outdoor Voices FreeForm 7/8 Legging
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 303 reviews
Outdoor Voices' popular FreeForm fabric makes this style "peachy soft." These leggings were specifically designed for low-sweat activities like yoga, Pilates, stretching, and rest days. But customers say they're even more versatile than that, depending on sizing. One customer writes, "I have them in Medium for comfort and a Small for more compression for higher intensity stuff and they stay PUT while still being hella comfy." Another similarly says, "I have these in Small and Medium depending on whether I'm working out hard (S) or lounging or running errands (M)."
Shop Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices FreeForm 7/8 Legging, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Universal Standard Roya Leggings 27 Inch
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 158 reviews
Pilling seems to be a common con when it comes to low-quality leggings out there, but lucky for us, Universal Standard made their leggings in Pima cotton to help prevent this from happening. "I love these and wear them in many situations and always feel comfortable and covered. I don’t have to pull at them and they don’t make me feel sweaty. [...] There has also been minimal pilling on the inner thighs of these leggings which is a big plus!"
Shop Universal Standard
Universal Standard Roya Leggings 27 Inch, $, available at Universal Standard
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