I’m a leggings lover and these are the best black leggings of 2025

And they start from just 8...

best-black-leggings

by Aimee Jakes |
Updated on

The best black leggings are the true staple of our wardrobe. They’re great for weekend chores, school runs and lounging at home. If you’re not yet converted, you might be wondering how to wear leggings. But the answer is: you can wear them with EVERYTHING. They're versatile and never, ever need to be ironed. Need we say more?

There are endless styles to suit you best, from low-rise to high-waisted leggings, everyday favourites to polished leggings, and across all shapes and sizes, whether you're looking for regular, petite, tall, plus-size or maternity leggings, - yep, there's a pair of black leggings for every wardrobe.

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Closer's best black leggings at a glance

For warmer seasons? One of the most popular ways to wear leggings is with a sports bra if you're heading to the gym or with a loose-fitting crop top if you're lounging around the house. But, you can wear them all season round, with thermal leggings for colder months when you want to layer them under a cosy coat.

Wondering if leggings are still in style? The answer is ALWAYS. So, ready to shop the best black leggings? We've rounded up the best you can buy that come tried, tested and recommended by us at Closer.

How we chose the best black leggings

We've checked out these black leggings based on strict criteria - overall reviews, quality, comfort, fit, material, price and any additional features. That means you'll know if they're totally squat-proof - which is a must when looking for gym leggings.

Overall, 16 leggings made the list, seven of which we've tried and tested ourselves. We took into account the testing criteria above, and where we couldn't test, we browsed the most highly rated leggings on the internet to see what real reviewers had to say.

We ranked all of the leggings on our list on a 5-star rating system. When rating them, we judged them based on quality, comfort, fit, material and any additional features. Many of the leggings we've selected are rated 4 stars or higher across various sites, so you know you're getting the VERY best.

SHOP: 16 best black leggings 2025

With that in mind, and to save you the trouble of trawling the internet to look for the best black leggings, we've rounded up the best pairs you can buy on the high street, starting from just 8...

1.

Adanola Ultimate Leggings

Best black leggings overall

Expert rating:
4.5
Adanola Ultimate LeggingsAdanola
Price: $40

adanola.com

View offer

Our former Shopping Editor, Aimee Jakes, had this to say about the Adanola leggings: "I'm crowning the Adanola Ultimate Leggings as our favourite leggings of the year. Yes, really. Made from super stretchy, super comfy material, we could practically live in these. They have no front seam, meaning no camel toe (thank the lord), and the compressive materials sculpt your body perfectly.

They are high-waisted and don't fall down, hurrah! They are great for brutal leg days, pilates, walking, sleeping and meeting friends for coffee. At 40 a pop, the Adanola leggings aren't exactly cheap, but my gosh, are they versatile. The best part? They come in a range of seasonal and core colours so that you can get fully kitted out. Molly-Mae Hague is even a fan of these leggings."

Pros

  • I loved that there is no front seam placement, and the seamless construction is really flattering
  • They effortlessly saw me through work outs and everyday wear, I'm obsessed with how versatile they are
  • They're made out of compressive fabrics for some serious sculpting and shape

Cons

  • I know they're not the cheapest on the list, but they're by far one of the most versatile

2.

CRZ YOGA Women's Butterluxe Yoga Leggings

Best quality black leggings

Expert rating:
4.5
CRZ YOGA Women's Butterluxe Yoga Leggingsamazon
Price: $31
View offer

Aimee Jakes also commented, "The CRZ YOGA Leggings have quickly become a much-loved favourite of mine. They have buttery soft fabric for that second skin feel that would rival any expensive high street brand any day. They feel really stretchy, comfortable and figure-sculpting. I ordered them a month ago, and I have worn them most days since. If you want the full low-down, read our review on the CRZ Yoga Leggings."

Customer reviews also point out that there's a cleverly placed seam that highlights your assets while super-gentle compression provides a bit of control around the midsection. Everything we could ever want and more, they're a highly flattering pair of leggings. No wonder they're a bestseller and have gone viral time and time again.

Pros

  • I found that they feel buttery soft against the skin and are comfortable to wear for long durations
  • I'd say they're comparable to higher end brands for a cheaper price tag, rivalling my favourite high-end pairs
  • They also offer great sculpting and shape around the bum with a cleverly placed seam

Cons

  • The only downside I can think of is that they probably wouldn't fair well for sweaty cardio

3.

SINOPHANT High-Waisted Leggings

Best comfortable black leggings

Expert rating:
4.0
SINOPHANT High-Waisted LeggingsAmazon
Price: $9.99
View offer

These ultra-soft leggings from Amazon have over 70,000 reviews - the best-rated leggings on the list by a mile - and for good reason. Stretchy and practically squat-proof, they don't change shape after washing and drying, remain a lovely solid black colour and are great for running errands, chilling on the couch or engaging in low-intensity exercise.

Closer's Senior Content Writer, Samantha Price, put the SINOPHANT leggings to the test and had to say this about the highly-rated leggings: "When they arrived, I knew these black leggings were the ones. I bought the size S-M. When I first tried them on, I was pleasantly surprised by the fabric. They feel buttery soft yet thick and durable; thankfully, they're completely opaque and not see-through in the slightest. The standout for me is the waistband. I hate anything that digs in, and these are honestly so comfortable to wear. I never have a problem with them rolling down throughout the day, and I could wear this pair for hours."

Pros

  • I found the thickness of the material perfect, they're completely opaque while not being too hot to wear
  • They're ridiculously comfortable for long wear - I've even worn them for sleeping!
  • They have a super comfortable waistband that never digs in and never rolls down

Cons

  • Not sweat-wicking so I wouldn't personally wear them for high-intensity exercises

4.

Gymshark Vital Seamless Leggings

Best black leggings for the gym

Expert rating:
4.5
Gymshark Vital Seamless LeggingsGymshark
Price: $45

uk.gymshark.com

View offer

It's no surprise that Gymshark's leggings come highly rated, given that they're fairly affordable and great quality. Made from seamless construction with breathable, sweat-wicking fabric, they're a no-brainer for the gym and high-intensity exercise. Reviewers say they're thick, compressive and never roll down. We'd have to agree.

Just ask our Commercial Content Writer, Christina Geggus. She says, "As someone who regularly does HIIT classes and runs once a week, I'm forever needing more high-waisted black leggings that are not going to fall down or feel ridiculously tight. I can hand-on-heart say the seamless Gymshark leggings are my go-to and have been for many years now. Designed with sweat-wicking tech and a seamless finish, I couldn't live without these leggings. Plus, I can confirm they're 100% not see-through!"

Pros

  • I found that these leggings carried me through high-intensity exercise with sweat-wicking fabric and squat-proof abilities
  • They're the perfect balance between supportive and compressive yet comfortable, and the waistband doesn't roll down
  • I've had them for years and they've lasted ages, so I can say they're a high-quality pair

Cons

  • The only thing I can say is that they're a bit of a workout to get on, but once they're on they're so comfy

5.

Chelsea Peers SoftSculpt Rib Flared Leggings

Best flared black leggings

Expert rating:
4.5
Chelsea Peers SoftSculpt Rib Flared LeggingsChelsea Peers
Price: $50

chelseapeers.com

View offer

New in from Chelsea Peers, we can always count on flared leggings to kick it up a notch and add a touch of style to our everyday wardrobe. The SoftSculpt Rib Flared Leggings come with a four-way stretch and moisture-wicking fabric that will seamlessly see you through any workouts or yoga sessions, as well as your day-to-day. The nylon and elastane blend offers some serious sculpting ability, and the thick, supportive multi-way waistband can be folded for a high-rise or low-rise fit.

Senior Commercial Content Writer, Samantha Price, says: "Oh my gosh. When I say these leggings have sculpting power, my, do they have sculpting power. If you prefer a supportive fit, this style of legging is definitely for you. The fabric is thick, compressive and totally opaque, offering support around the tummy and shaping your waist, which I absolutely love. Despite being thick, they're also breathable due to the moisture-wicking fabric and could easily see you through a workout. At first, they were a bit of a challenge to get on, but once they were on, they fit like a glove. Being petite, length is always a struggle. With a platform trainer and pulling them up high, I didn't have trouble tripping on them, but I might reserve these for my everyday as opposed to running purely because of the length. I just wish I had longer legs!"

Pros

  • I loved the brilliant sculpting compression material that felt secure and pulled me in at the waist
  • Despite being difficult to get on to begin with, they have some serious stretch and are so comfortable when they're on
  • The flared leg is extremely flattering and not too exaggerated, a great everyday pair

Cons

  • The only downside that I experienced was the waistband rolling down slightly when I bent over, being a tad tight but not overly uncomfortable

6.

TALA DayFlex Wrap High Waisted Leggings

Best plus size black leggings

Expert rating:
4.5
TALA DayFlex Wrap High Waisted LeggingsTALA
Price: $59

www.wearetala.com

View offer

Closer's Commercial Content Editor, Eleanor Weaver, had this to say about this pair of black leggings: "As a plus-sizer, I've been through the wringer over the years trying to find the best leggings that are non-see-through, feel good and give my body and tummy the support it needs without fabric shifting. Enter TALA."

"In sizes 2XS-4XL, they're a little more spenny but in my eyes, completely worth it. The size guide is really intuitive, but I'd recommend sizing down if you prefer a more supportive fit. The high-waisted fabric is supportive without feeling constrictive, and it's buttery soft - making it perfect for days out, relaxing at home and a trip to the gym. They've washed well over time, and I love the fact they come in so many stylish colours - I definitely own more than one now. I'd also recommend TALA's SkinLuxe High Waisted Leggings, but they are often out of stock."

Pros

  • I found that the high-waisted fit isn't uncomfortable in the slightest but offers plenty of support
  • I loved the inclusive range of sizes that runs from 2XS to 4XL
  • They're a relatively affordable pair, but still super high quality and construced from recycled fibres

Cons

  • Personally, I'd recommend sizing down if you prefer more support

7.

Fabletics Seamless Scrunch Bum High-Waisted Leggings

Best popular black leggings

Expert rating:
5.0
Fabletics Seamless Scrunch Bum High-Waisted LeggingsFabletics
Price: $84

www.fabletics.co.uk

View offer

Our Life and Style Writer, Lucy Brown, swears by these leggings and had this to say on the nearly sold-out pair at Fabletics, "At 5’8 with most of my height in my legs, I often struggle to find leggings that are long enough. These new FableticsSeamless Scrunch Bum High-Waisted Leggings come in three different length options, which is ideal. There is regular (5’4" to 5’6"), short (up to 5’3”) and long (over 5’7”). I went for the long length in a size small, which is a UK size 10. There is a great sizing range from UK size 4-32, making them really accessible."

"When I initially unpacked the leggings, they looked tiny and almost child-size, which caught me off guard momentarily, however, they have SO much stretch! They are easy to get on, and the bum scrunch seam is really flattering and gives your bum a nice lift. The waistband is thick and supportive, which is something I really look for in leggings, and there is no seam down the front of the leggings, so you don’t have to worry about them bunching up weirdly at the front. They aren’t see-through at all and are completely squat-proof. Ideal for everything from the gym to running errands. At 84, I know that they aren’t cheap, but they are definitely worth the investment if you’re looking for a good quality pair of black leggings."

Pros

  • I loved the inclusive size range which incorporates short, regular and tall fits in sizes UK4 - UK32
  • I found that the scrunch bum seam gives you a lifted shape, and I loved there was no front-placement seam
  • They're completely squat-proof, so will see you through a workout as equally as running errands

Cons

  • They're extremely low in stock, with most sizes sold out - we're hoping for a restock!

8.

H&M High-Waisted Leggings

Best budget black leggings

Expert rating:
4.0
H&M High-Waisted LeggingsH&M
Price: $9.99

www2.hm.com

View offer

If you're not willing to spend an arm and a leg on a pair of leggings, we can relate. Luckily, H&M's simple high-waisted leggings have garnered some rave reviews on the website - and they're only 9.99. They're comfy, high-waisted and zero per cent see-through.

Not only are they a brilliant budget pair, but their comfort is unparalleled, with an elasticated waistband and a breathable cotton material which make them perfect for everyday wear. Reviewers agree, saying that they're soft and stretchy enough to fit comfortably without rolling down. What more could a girl want?

Pros

  • Reviews praise them as a fab budget option
  • Totally opaque, so no more see-through moments
  • Have an elasticated waistband for comfort

Cons

  • Some reviews state the fabric may lose its shape over time

9.

M&S High Waisted Leggings

Best everyday black leggings

Expert rating:
4.0
M&S High Waisted LeggingsM&S
Price: $12.50

www.marksandspencer.com

View offer

Incredibly comfortable and perfect for the every day - we love this pair of black high-waisted leggings from M&S. After all, they're a classic. They come in regular, petite and long, with sizes running from a UK6 to a UK24, so there's a fit for everyone.

Reviewers say that they're great value for money with a comfortable amount of stretch. Most customers commented that these leggings wash well, which is no surprise given the StayNEW technology from M&S, designed to keep your leggings looking in top-tier condition for longer.

Pros

  • Has an inclusive size range running from UK6 to UK24 in regular, petite and long
  • Reviewers praise the comfortable elasticated waist
  • Made with StayNEW™ technology for a fresher, longer lasting finish

Cons

  • Some reviewers said they wished for thicker material

10.

Occffy Yoga Pants for Women

Best black leggings with pockets

Expert rating:
4.5
Occffy Yoga Pants for Womenamazon
Price: $14.99
View offer

Comfortable, buttery soft and ideal for exercise, reviewers note these 4.5-star leggings are an amazing alternative for Fabletics. These are made from moisture-wicking material which will ensure you remain dry and comfortable during your workouts. And not only that, but they come with pockets. Yes, pockets(!) to store all of your essentials.

While they're clearly a standout pair for exercising, they're also incredible to wear during the day-to-day. However, the pockets are definitely a major bonus for storing your phone while you're out jogging instead of stressing about where to keep things.

Pros

  • Made from super stretchy material that make them comfortable to wear
  • Reviews love the two outer pockets for carrying essentials
  • Breathable moisture-wicking fabric make them great for exercise

Cons

  • Reviews say they may need readjusting as could roll down often

11.

Shapermint Essentials High Waisted Shaping Leggings

Best tummy-control black leggings

Expert rating:
4.5
Shapermint Essentials High Waisted Shaping LeggingsShapermint
Price: $29.99 (was 60)

shapermint.com

View offer

Looking for a little bit more support around the midriff? Shapermint has you covered. With some of the best shapewear in the biz, this brand knows how to do shapewear leggings like no other. A new holy grail pair? We think so.

The Essentials High Waisted Shaping Leggings have amassed an impressive amount of reviews, with fans raving about the added support, the thickness, how comfortable they are and how they don't roll down. Nailed it.

Pros

  • Has an inclusive size range running from S to 4XL
  • Reviews state it lifts in all the right places for shape
  • Thousands of reviews on site say they offer plenty of support

Cons

  • Some reviews said that the fabric was thicker and heavier than expected, others said the fabric was too thin so a few inconsistencies across reviews - coud be down to personal preference

12.

M&S High-Waisted Jeggings

Best black jean leggings

Expert rating:
4.5
M&S High-Waisted JeggingsM&S
Price: $19.50

www.marksandspencer.com

View offer

Not quite a jean, not quite a legging. Ah, the humble jegging. This particular pair of skin-tight M&S jeggings has a unique bum lift technology and cotton-rich fabric designed to keep your derriere looking perky, all while remaining highly comfortable.

There are currently over 11,000 reviews raving about this pair, so we'll take seven. Mostly, fans of this pair love that the size range is so inclusive, but other customers have also commented that they're comfortable, versatile and wash well. Bonus points all around.

Pros

  • Has an inclusive size range running from UK6 to UK24 in regular, petite and long
  • Features Sculpt & Lift™ super-stretchy fabric that pulls you in
  • Comes with cotton-rich fabric is highly breathable

Cons

  • Reviewers mention that the material is more stiff than expected

13.

Bo+Tee Petite High Waist Define Luxe Leggings

Best petite black leggings

Expert rating:
5.0
Bo+Tee Petite High Waist Define Luxe LeggingsBo+Tee
Price: $45

boandtee.com

View offer

For those on the petite side, these Bo+Tee leggings come rated 5 stars by reviewers, and we can't argue with that, can we? Crafted from a lightweight, seamless fabric for ultimate all-day comfort, this pair of leggings features ruching and panelling to subtly accentuate your assets.

From the reviews, we've seen 'best leggings ever', 'perfect' and 'squat-proof' over and over again. One reviewer claimed that these leggings make their waist look snatched and lifted their bum. It's not just the flattering fit either; others praised the soft, comfortable material and said they're worth the purchase.

Pros

  • Reviews praise the flattering fit and perfect length for petite sizes
  • Has a ruched seam at the back to accentuate the bum
  • We love that there is no front seam placement

Cons

  • One reviewer suggested sizing down if you're between sizes

14.

Foucome Maternity Leggings

Best maternity black leggings

Expert rating:
4.0
Foucome Maternity Leggingsamazon
Price: $25.99
View offer

Foucome leggings are made from a comfortable and stretchy fabric material, offering you comfort and confidence throughout your pregnancy. Plus, they can even be worn postpartum. We imagine that you'll probably be wearing these a lot. Like, a lot, a lot.

In fact, reviews say they wore them for the majority of their trimesters, with one reviewer claiming they lived in these for their entire pregnancy. If one thing is a must for your maternity wardrobe, let it be a pair of comfy black leggings.

Pros

  • Can be worn postpartum as well as during pregnancy
  • Hidden tummy panel provides space and support
  • Made from stretch, sweat-absorbent fabric for comfort

Cons

  • Reviews note it could provide more comfort for chafing

15.

M&S Heatgen Medium Thermal Brushed Leggings

Best thermal black leggings

Expert rating:
4.5
M&S Heatgen Medium Thermal Brushed LeggingsM&S
Price: $16

www.marksandspencer.com

View offer

For those who absolutely can't go without their leggings even on the coldest of days, consider: the thermal legging. Designed with Heatgen technology, the soft, fleece-lined fabric keeps you warm during cooler temperatures.

Usually worn as a base layer under jeans or trousers, (but you do you, hun), you could always wear them as-is under a statement coat. Plus, reviewers have said they're a fabulous winter staple that really do keep you warm on those colder days.

Pros

  • Made from thick material, but has added stretch for comfort
  • Features Heatgen™ technology to provide insulation in colder weather
  • Reviewers loved how effective they were at keeping them warm

Cons

  • Reviewers comment they may bobble after a while of wear and tear

FAQs

How do I choose the best leggings?

Some leggings on the cheaper side can risk being see-through, not as durable or being poor in fit due to lower quality. Ever had those leggings that are too tight and too loose at the same time? Leggings should feel like second skin, so avoid saggy crotches and bunched-up fabric at the knees. The waistband should be comfortable yet supportive, so, if they're falling down every five minutes, ditch them.

The leggings included on our list have been chosen with care and consideration, featuring a variety from different retailers and accounting for all budgets. The main thing? All of the ones we've chosen come recommended by us or are highly rated by customers. No see-through leggings for us, hun.

When choosing the best leggings, take a look at the reviews to make sure they offer a comfortable, supportive fit and that they're not transparent. After that, consider the different types of leggings to make sure that they're fit for purpose.

What types of black leggings are there?

Firstly, there are your average, everyday black leggings. Usually made from breathable material such as cotton or polyester, they're a staple pair that you can wear during transitional seasons. However, they might not keep you as warm as a pair of thermal leggings, or keep you dry during workouts like a pair of gym leggings.

Gym leggings usually feature sweat-wicking fabric to keep you dry as you move during workout sessions. They tend to be made from material such as elastane to allow plenty of movement. Take a look at the fabric beforehand to make sure they're suitable for proper gym wear.

Shapewear leggings are a great choice if you're going for a sculpted, figure-hugging look with plenty of support. However, you may need to size up or down depending on the brand, so always read the reviews before purchasing. Spanx and SKIMS are some of the brands currently offering the best shapewear leggings on the market.

Thermal leggings are your best bet when it comes to winter seasons. They're usually lined with a soft, fleecy material to keep your legs warm as you wear them. They can be layered under jeans or worn as-is to complete your look in colder months.

How do I prevent leggings from becoming see-through?

To prevent your leggings from becoming see-through, choose high-quality leggings, ensure proper sizing, and consider the fabric before you purchase. Look for leggings that specify whether they're squat-proof or opaque. Gym retailers tend to be good with this, for obvious reasons. Think Lululemon, Gymshark, Sweaty Betty and more. These leggings will withstand more wear and tear and are generally of higher quality.

Are high-waisted leggings better than mid-rise or low-rise?

That all depends on what you're going for. High-waisted leggings are typically regarded as the most universally flattering, but that's not to say that mid-rise or low-rise fits aren't great, either. In fact, in recent years, low-rise styles have even started to trend again.

It totally depends on what suits you best. After all, everyone's body shapes are totally different, and we all look good in different things. Try a few different styles on for size and see what you feel most comfortable in - that will quickly determine which style is best for you.

Can black leggings be worn for formal or office settings?

We'd probably avoid wearing leggings for any event with a formal dress code, tbh. But, for some workplaces adopting a more casual attitude, leggings or a pair of jeggings might just be allowed for an office setting. But, always check your dress code beforehand, obviously - we don't want to get you in trouble!

When you're wearing a casual style on the bottom half, balance it out with smarter, more structured pieces on the top. For the office, you could wear a pair of black leggings with a blazer, blouse and a pair of heels or loafers for a smart, put-together look.

Yes, leggings were once seen as a total no-go for the office, but they're starting to become more accepted in the workplace, which we're absolutely delighted about. Comfortable and chic? Yes, please.

What to wear with black leggings?

The beauty of black leggings is they can be worn pretty much with anything (hurrah!) but here are a few key looks to bookmark, which will quickly become your uniform...

Oversized sweatshirt and trainers: Play with proportions by pairing a big sweatshirt with skin-tight leggings and a pair of trainers. This look is super flattering and very cosy for transitional months.

Blazer, shirt and heels: A fail-safe evening or office look. Black leggings will help elongate your silhouette and the blazer will ensure you look smart and sophisticated.

A coat and cosy shoe: In winter, style underneath a polished camel coat or teddy coat, and set your black leggings off with a statement pair of cosy UGGs.

Aimee Jakeswas the shopping editor across heat and Closer. As well as mainly writing about skincare launches, high-street fashion and gym bag essentials, she also regularly chats to celebs about their wellness routines for heat's Self-Care Sunday.

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