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The 14 Best Squat-Proof Leggings

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by Maria Cassano
Updated: 
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Amazon

There's no shortage of leggings and yoga pants on the internet. Virtually all online fitness shops and fashion retailers have their own selection — but just because a pair is stretchy, breathable, and comfortable doesn't mean it can stand up to your workout. The best squat-proof leggings offer all the aforementioned features and they remain opaque while you're bending down.

When you're looking for leggings that aren't see-through, the number-one thing to consider is the type and the quality of the material. Most workout pants will utilize spandex alongside another non-stretchy fabric (usually polyester). This combination keeps you cool and wicks sweat, but still allows you to move freely and without constriction. That said, the quality of the elastics and the percentage will determine whether the fabric gets see-through during a squat.

The majority of the leggings on this list will have 8% to 25% spandex, whereas cheaper options will use more affordable elastics — and more of it. As a result, when the fabric stretches, the elastic fibers catch the light and emphasize the fabric underneath (meaning your underwear). That said, even with the below options, darker fabrics are always significantly more squat-proof, because black absorbs light and white reflects it. When shopping, be sure to check out the material as well as what reviewers have to say about it, and when possible, opt for a darker color.

These leggings are thick and opaque, so you can work out to your heart's content.

1The Overall Best Yoga Pants With Pockets

Compression, flexibility, easily accessible pockets — and hundreds of reviewers say they stand up to squats. With well over 18,000 high reviews, these IUGA leggings are some of the most popular on Amazon, but reviewers especially love them because, in the words of one reviewer, "They are not seethrough, which is the best part." In addition to the squat-approved fabric, they also feature a high, comfortable waistband, four-way stretch material for flexibility and compression, and loads of color, size, and length options. There's even a third hidden key pocket in the waistband.

  • Available sizes: XS — 3XL

One reviewer wrote: “The material is surprisingly squat proof. Even with white undies, not a single bit was seen when I did a squat... and trust me I was looking for these to fail.”

2The Best Budget Leggings

Amazon Essentials is known for its elevated style and well-made products, all at an affordable price. These Amazon Essentials Performance leggings are no exception. Even though they cost less than the competition, they’re designed for activity thanks to their lightweight, active-stretch fabric that moves with you and wicks away sweat. They also have a wide waistband and a 19-inch inseam — and you won’t find any boring colors here; the available patterns consist of Black Watercolor, Blue Inky Dye, Bright Coral, and Green Camo Print, all of which are thick and opaque.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I was pleasantly [surprised. They] have a little shine, good fit, and work for squats. And you can't beat the price.”

3An Affordable 3-Park Of Yoga Pants

Most affordable leggings have a tendency to be pretty translucent, but according to thousands of past buyers, these FULLSOFT yoga pants are the exception. Because you get three pairs for less than $30, they break down to roughly $8 a pair — but they’re still thick, structured, stretchy, well-made, and durable. They also have a wide, high waistband with gentle, all-over compression. Get three black pairs in a standard or a criss-cross waist, or opt for over a dozen other multipacks with various color combinations.

  • Available sizes: Small - Medium — Large - X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “These are hands down the best and cheapest leggings I've ever bought. They feel like those expensive buttery soft ones, pass the squat test, and you get THREE for that price.”

4These Color-Block Capri Workout Leggings

A thick waistband and breathable fabric are just some of the reasons why reviewers love these plus-sized leggings. The polyester-spandex material wicks away moisture and allows your skin to breathe, all while offering comfortable, mild compression. The 20-inch inseam hits most buyers at their mid-calf, so they're well-suited for any season. Reviewers especially love that the fabric is tight-fitting, thick, and stretchy, so it moves with you and does not sag or become see-through. Last but not least, the thick waistband fits well and doesn’t roll. Get them in five designs, all with color-blocked panels.

  • Available sizes: 1X — 5X

One reviewer wrote: “Nice capris, I love the fit, and they are thick enough so they are not seethrough. Comfortable and they look great.”

5The Leggings Shoppers Swear Are Just Like Lululemon (For A Lot Less)

With over 38,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating overall, the best-selling Colorfulkoala yoga pants are a favorite for super-soft stretchiness. They come in just about any solid color you could want (not to mention a few prints, like camouflage and leopard print), and buyers love the roomy side pockets, flat seams, brushed compression fabric, and super-high waistband. More than a few have compared them to the Lululemon Align leggings and called it a “must buy.”

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I would say they are comparable to the lululemon aligns in softness, but the fabric is a little bit thicker. [...] They are not see-through, ever. Not when I’m squatting, or down dogging, or cleaning spilled cereal off the floor.”

6The Best Workout Capris

THE GYM PEOPLE’s leggings are a best-seller and feature a polyester-spandex material that is stretchy and breathable, but still thick, making these leggings one of the most durable pairs. They also feature a gusset crotch and interlock seams to maximize your range of movement while minimizing chafing — and they have both side pockets and an inner pocket so you can hold all of your essentials. Get them in two lengths and over 30 colors and patterns.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I bought these when I complained to a friend about having to pull my pants up when I run. She recommended these and they are by far my favorite running leggings I've owned. They are thin but warm, completely squat proof, so not see through at all.”

7The Best Squat-Proof Shorts

I wear these BALEAF high-waisted shorts underneath every dress I own; they offer coverage, prevent chafing, and ensure that I have two roomy, functional pockets with every outfit. Still, they’re definitely thick and opaque enough to be worn alone during your workout, and countless reviewers do. (In fact, these have earned more than 60,000 ratings, and the vast majority of them have been positive.) They’re moisture-wicking, stretchy, high-rise, and hit above the knee, plus they come in a massive range of colors, prints, and multi-packs.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “They are buttery soft, squat proof, don’t show sweat, and do not ride up [during] a vigorous workout!”

8The Best Value Pack Of Workout Shorts

For those looking for a great deal, YOLIX has you covered with this three-pack of shorts. No matter which of the eight color combinations you opt for, they’re all crafted from buttery-soft, polyester-spandex fabric, which gives you unrestricted movement and full coverage simultaneously. While they don’t have pockets, buyers do love the high waistbands and no-roll, mid-thigh fit. Best of all, they’re less than $10 a pair. Choose from a range of color combos or all black.

  • Available sizes: Small-Medium — Large-X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I was really worried about these being see-through but the fabric is thick enough that you are totally protected. Very soft and stretchy, best biker shorts I have purchased yet!”

9The Leggings With The Most Patterns

Looking for something that makes a statement? These ODODOS leggings come in loads of eye-catching colors and patterns — but even if you opt for a classic solid color (like black or gray), they set themselves apart from every other pair in your closet thanks to their chic criss-cross waist. The four-way-stretch fabric is moisture-wicking and breathable, while the seams are flat to reduce chafing while you move. These don’t have side pockets, they do have a hidden waistband pocket that’s large enough for your phone.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “The crossover is the front is so cute! Squat proof and can make it through anything you can throw at it! CrossFit or cardio.”

10A Pair Of Cropped Leggings With Cool Lattice Detail

Like most top-selling options, these Core 10 leggings have a high waist with a thick band, soft, moisture-wicking fabric made from polyester and spandex, and a hidden pocket in the back. Unlike other options, though, these feature lattice cut-outs on both legs that span from the ankle to the upper calf, and they’re actually squat-proof, even in the brighter colors. (According to reviewers, they do run small, so if you’re in between sizes, size up.)

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 2X

One reviewer wrote: “Core 10 has quickly become my go to for athletic pants. They are great quality and a great price. I got these in blue and I love them. They perfectly lift and compress where needed and are squat proof.”

11The Best Everyday Leggings

Instead of moisture-wicking synthetic materials, these Just My Size plus-size Jersey leggings use a breathable 90% cotton fabric with some added stretch. For that reason, they’re ideal if you’re looking for squat-proof pants that are skin-friendly, comfortable enough to sleep in, and opaque enough to confidently wear out of the house. The elastic waistband keeps them in place, and according to reviewers, they don’t roll, slip, ride up, or bunch. They also come in three colors.

  • Available sizes: 1X — 5X

One reviewer wrote: “These are not [see-through]. The fabric is lightweight enough for summer yet fully opaque. [...] For everyday wear, they're perfect.”

12A Pair With 4.6 Stars That Are Super Soft

If soft fabric is your top priority, consider these Sunzel workout leggings. (Reviewers wrote that they’re “truly buttery soft,” can only be described as “cloud-like,” and make you feel like you’re “not wearing pants.”) Despite the silky, comfortable, lightweight texture, though, they’ve passed the squat test for countless buyers. They’re also especially high-waisted and come in 23 options, both solid colors and unique prints. There’s also a pocket in the waistband.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “They are SO buttery smooth soft, squat proof, survive sweaty workouts, and don’t fall throughout the day. I’ve had so many gf’s order them now and also have multiple pairs.”

13These Moisture-Wicking Leggings In 2 Lengths

Even reviewers who “sweat very easily” report that these Ewedoos yoga pants “didn’t leave sweat marks” and their “legs stayed cool through the whole workout.” Needless to say, this is the best pick for people who need a pair of leggings that can handle heat and moisture while remaining completely opaque. Other noteworthy features include an extra-high waistband, three pockets (two huge ones on the side and one smaller one in the band), and almost 20 color options in two different lengths.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I used them for a cardio/weight lifting work out and they stayed up the entire time plus didn’t leave sweat marks, and I sweat very easily. They have such a soft feel plus thick enough so they are NOT see-through, and super comfortable for everyday wear.”

14These High-Waisted Capris That’re “Worth Every Penny”

For those willing to spend a little more on their leggings, reviewers agree that these Core 10 capris are “worth every penny.” They check all of the essential boxes, including squat-proof fabric, a high waistband, a soft feel, ample movement, compression stretch, and the ability to wick sweat. They also have a drop-in pocket in the back waistband, and they come in your choice of neutral colors, bright shades, and cool prints.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 2X

One reviewer wrote: “I will DEFINITELY be getting more. They fit so true to size, they're super high quality (hence the higher price tag - totally justified), and I instantly felt lifted, supported and ready to workout with confidence! I heard about these through following Jessamyn Stanley on Instagram and I'm SO glad I did! Seriously my new go-to workout brand from now on.”

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