From my perspective, there’s no better feeling than finding the perfect pair of gym leggings. A comfortable fit with the ideal material weight and texture, the placing of the seams and the provision of a well-placed pocket – these things make all the difference to me, because I’m rarely out of activewear.
The perfect pair of leggings can also make a difference, not just to your performance, but to your mood too. Feeling comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing can affect how you show up on the gym floor or in a class. Plus, with so many of us working from home these days, it’s helpful having a few pairs of fail-safe leggings that you’re happy to go from the couch to a class to coffee in.
Different workout styles call for different constructions and features, explains personal trainer and former professional gymnast Lucy Miller. “For most workouts, a high-waisted design is the go-to,” she says.
“Not only does a high-waisted style provide a supportive, held-in feel around the waist and tummy, but it also ensures your leggings stay in place during squats, stretches and sprints. If you’re training for high-impact activities such as HIIT or running, look for sweat-wicking fabrics that keep you dry and compression materials that support muscles, improve blood flow and deliver a locked-in feel.”
Miller also explains that materials matter. Personally, I like to mix up my wardrobe and opt for buttery-soft leggings with thicker natural fibres. Both have their benefits and if you suffer from skin irritation, how you sweat in different fabrics can make a huge difference to your workout.
“The best gym leggings wick away sweat and dry quickly to keep you comfortable. Nylon-elastane blends are lightweight and breathable, while polyester-based fabrics tend to be more durable and colourfast – ideal for daily washing. If sustainability matters to you, look for brands using recycled fibres that don’t compromise on stretch or performance,” says Miller.
From seamless and stretchy styles to compression and squat-proof designs, I’ve tested the best women’s gym leggings to invest in for 2025 and beyond. My top pick are the Vuori all the form leggings, but there are equally stylish options from Lovall, Sweaty Betty and more.
How I tested
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I worked up a sweat in every pair of leggings to test the limits of each style. I wore them to run and hike in, to use machines in the gym, lift weights, do yoga and attend reformer Pilates and spin classes. I assessed each pair according to my framework of quality, design and the following checklist:
- Fit and comfort: I judged each pair of leggings on whether they fit true to size, leg length and whether they felt comfortable and easy to move in at rest and during different exercise styles.
- Sizes and colours: I also took into account the diversity of sizes and colourways, judging stylish prints and colours available.
- Wash well: Each pair of leggings also had to wash and dry well, so I put every pair to the test. There’s no point splashing out on expensive leggings if they only last a few washes before bobbling or fading.
- Value for money: I also assessed each pair based on the quality and cost per wear versus the price tag. Some leggings can be expensive so it’s worth knowing if a pair from a well-known brand is worth the investment.
- Versatility: I also checked in on whether I was happy to wear each pair of leggings out for coffee or a dog walk after the gym.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
Emilie Lavinia has been testing activewear for more than a decade and knows the difference between a squat-proof pair of leggings and a let-down pair. As The Independent’s Fitness and wellbeing editor, her knowledge of fabrics and features – and the workout styles they perform best – with is unmatched. She’s tried almost every legging brand on the market for yoga, running, weightlifting, hiking and Pilates and can also provide the low-down on whether a hyped-up brand is overpriced or worth the spend.
The best gym leggings for 2025 are:
- Best overall – Vuori all the form leggings: £110, Vuoriclothing.co.uk
- Best budget buy – Lovall seamless sculpt leggings: £45, Lovall.com
- Best for running – Dare2B influential II leggings: £50, Dare2b.com
- Best non synthetic option – BAM enduro crossover leggings: £49, Bambooclothing.co.uk
- Best for stretching – Sweaty Betty ultimate studio leggings: £80, Sweatybetty.com
