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The 15 Best Leggings That Stay Up No Matter How Much Walking Or Squatting You Do

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by Maria Cassano
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Best Leggings That Stay Up
Amazon

Whether you're working out, running errands, or lounging around the house, you probably don't want to have to constantly readjust your pants. Luckily, the best leggings that stay up feature wider waistbands and are made of thick, stretchy fabrics. That said, since online shopping means you can't try them on first, buyer reviews are going to be the most telling as to which ones will be comfortable, breathable, and require minimal modifications.

If leggings are going to slip, they're likely going to do so from the waist, so a higher waistband can be incredibly helpful. This ensures that your pants stay above your hips, so no matter how much walking, running, or bending you do, they won't budge. A wider waistband also usually prevents the leggings from rolling, which may also prevent unwanted movement further down the leg.

The fabric is another important factor. Most best-selling leggings are made from a mix of polyester, nylon, or cotton, with a bit of spandex thrown in for stretch. While the spandex allows for a secure fit (which will minimize falling or rolling), too much stretch might mean that the leggings no longer pass the squat-proof test. In short, look for thick, opaque, stretchy materials, and your leggings should stand up to plenty of activity.

These leggings have high, thick waistbands and are made of quality fabric. They also come highly recommended by reviewers who are sick of their pants falling down throughout the day.

1. The Overall Best Leggings That Stay Up

These PHISOCKAT leggings have more than 7,000 reviews and over 5,500 of those are perfect five stars. Of course, the high, thick waistband and four-way stretch fabric prevent them from rolling down while you're sitting, standing, or moving — but this pick also features deep side pockets, moisture-wicking material that's breathable, and a wide range of colors. Last but not least, at around $20 a pair, they won't break the bank. These also come in capri lengths.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: "I LOVE these leggings. I wore them all day today and I have to say these are the most comfortable and practical leggings I’ve ever owned. First, they stayed in place. I didn’t have to pull up the waist a band once! Second, they have THREE pockets. The side ones are even lined with a mesh materiel also so everything slides in without getting stuck. Lastly, they are so soft and comfortable and not at all see-through.”

2. The Best Value Pack

Many high-quality leggings cost at least $30 for a single pair, but SYRINX gives you three for less than that price. All these leggings are made from a polyester and spandex blend and have a high-rise silhouette, a wide elastic waistband, and tons of color combinations to choose from. The compromise: There are fewer size options and reviewers say the lighter colors are less opaque.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: Small-Medium — XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: "I just got these and I was SO thrilled when I put them on. First of all they’re super soft, inside and outside. They also have stayed up all day and I’ve been running errands. Haven’t had to pull them up once. They’re great and such a good value for the cost.”

3. A Cotton & Rayon Legging That's Great For Lounging

While most workout leggings are made with polyester, these HUE Ultra leggings use a combination of cotton and rayon instead. As a result, they're soft, breathable, and comfortable for use as loungewear or for incorporating into your outfits. Thanks to the added spandex and wide waistband, they won't roll or fall down. According to reviewers, they're also easy to care for and durable long-term.

  • Material: cotton/rayon/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small - 3X

One reviewer wrote: "Something comfortable to get me through my work day without pinching, twisting or binding. These leggings deliver! I love the waistband! It is smooth and wide and stays in place. I don't have to hitch it up a dozen times a day because it won't stay in place.”

4. The Fan-Favorite Workout Legging With 10,000+ Reviews

With over 10,000 reviews, 90 Degree By Reflex's leggings are widely considered on Amazon some of the best for working out. That's because the nylon-spandex fabric has a four-way stretch and stays opaque even during squats, while the silhouette is designed to resist chafing. Last but not least, they're breathable and quick-drying and there's a hidden pocket in the waistband where you can keep your phone or keys.

  • Material: nylon/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small - X-Large

One reviewer wrote: "Literally the best leggings I’ve ever worn, super comfortable, the material is high quality. They fit perfectly. Not too [thick] but definitely not too thin, they stay in place. Blows my mind people pay over $100 for [Lululemon] leggings when for less than $30 you could have the same if not better quality.”

5. The Pair With The Most Pattern & Design Choices

If you're looking for a pair that stands out, look no further than these ODODOS high-rise leggings with a wide waistband. They have a hidden pocket, four-way stretch, and flat stitching, but the real selling point is the dozens of varying lengths and eye-catching patterns. Options like chevron, camouflage, artistic lines, and florals ensure that you have fun and unique pants, and you can get each of them in full-length or capris — and with or without pockets.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small - XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: "The waist band is right above my belly button, where I like it to fit. They are very comfortable. Do not slip down the body. They are snug but not tight. I am going to see what other patterns they have.”

6. The Most Popular Scrunched Booty Leggings

This style of scrunched-booty leggings is all over social media, and this pair is the most popular option on Amazon. (They’ve earned over 15,000 reviews and 70% of them are a perfect five stars.) They’re designed to emphasize your bottom with their center seam and textured material, but according to reviewers, they’re never sheer — even while squatting and even in lighter color options. Since they have a super thick waistband that reaches to your ribs, they also don’t fall down.

  • Material: polyester/elastane
  • Available sizes: X-Small — 4X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “These are so comfortable. I get so many compliments on them. The waist band is extra comfortable and they stay up great! I’m definitely getting another pair!”

7. The Best Jean Leggings

Jeggings (also known as jean leggings) offer the best of both worlds: They’re stretchy, comfortable, and pull right on like leggings — but their denim material makes it look like you’re wearing a pair of jeans. These No Nonsense Classic Indigo denim leggings have over 15,000 reviews and an overall rating of 4.3 stars. They’re offered in seven washes and have functional back pockets, but their no-roll waistband and high silhouette are where they really shine.

  • Material: cotton/polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: Small — 3X

One reviewer wrote: “These pants are SO comfortable! I work in a restaurant, so there's A LOT of movement. They don't slip down or roll over at the waist. They're thick enough to not be see-thru, but not so thick that they're heavy & constantly pulling at your waist.”

8. The Best Faux Leather Leggings

It’s difficult to find a pair of faux-leather leggings with the right stretch-to-compression ratio, but according to reviewers, these deliver. On the outside, there’s a shiny pleather material, and on the inside, they’re lined with thin fleece for warmth. Most importantly, they’re designed with four-way stretch and a high, thick waistband, so they won’t budge all night. Get them in black, brown, or red.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small — 4X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I like these pants. They’re soft, VERY comfortable, and they 100% stay put while walking around in them. There’s no pulling anywhere or readjusting the waist.”

9. The Best Leggings For Running

There are multiple reasons why these running leggings are so great for both jogs and marathons: For one, the four-way stretch material moves with you and wicks away sweat. For another, the reflective striping keeps you safe even when you’re running on dark streets. Finally, the criss-cross waistband is designed to stay put while the side pocket is big enough for your phone.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “Buy these! So comfy, great for lifting and running. Slim fit, they don’t ride up or fall down.”

10. These Super Comfortable Everyday Leggings

Since they’re made from a blend of cotton and spandex and woven into a heavier Jersey texture, reviewers have called these Hanes Jersey leggings “super soft” and “really comfortable.” However, thanks to the adaptive stretch and thicker waistband, they “don’t sag” like so many other everyday leggings. They’re also opaque so you can wear them outside of the house, too.

  • Material: cotton/spandex
  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: “Absolutely love these leggings. They are comfortable. They stay in place. I never had to pull them up at all. Definitely buying more.”

11. The Best Flare Leggings

Flare pants (also called palazzo pants) are back in style; if you’re looking to mix up your collection of skinny leggings, these flare leggings have earned an overall 4.4-star rating from more than 18,000 reviewers. They have a stretchy, soft fabric that moves with you, and their high-waisted silhouette and thick waistband keep these pants up despite the looser fit.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: “Most of my pants claim a ‘No Roll Waistband’ but these are the first pair that are really no roll. I've had them on all day. Walking, sitting, bending, getting in and out of the car, and the waistband has stayed in place! [...] By the way, I love the flare bottom!”

12. These Fashion Leggings That Are Great For Work

Pair these paper bag fashion leggings with a bodysuit or tank when you’re going out, or with a blazer or blouse for the office. Either way, they elevate your outfit way more than the average pair due to their tapered fit, plaid patterning, and ruffled waist — and, unlike certain slacks, they actually stay put thanks to their 5% spandex and adjustable tie. (You can also get this pair in over 40 other solid colors and patterns.)

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

One reviewer wrote: “The fabric is very comfortable - it's form-fitting but doesn't look ‘painted on.’ They have the look of a typical work trouser, but are comfortable like leggings or sweatpants. Well worth the money and I will definitely repurchase in other patterns/colors.”

13. The Warmest Thermal Leggings

Like most of the other options on this list, this pair has a high, thick waistband, multiple pockets, and a buttery-soft texture. Unlike the other options on this list, these winter leggings are lined with thermal fleece to keep you extra warm in cold weather. As a result, they’re great for hiking, running errands on a chilly day, retaining warmth while you lounge in a drafty room, or shoveling the driveway when it snows.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: Medium — X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “I really like these leggings for outdoor exercise in the winter (hiking, skiing, etc.). They are warm, soft, supportive, they stay up, and the pocket is a great idea that's well-executed.”

14. A Cult-Favorite Pair With Roomy Pockets

If pockets are one of your biggest priorities, the dual side pockets on these THE GYM PEOPLE yoga pants deliver: For one, they’re made from extra-thick, sturdy fabric (like the rest of the leggings) to ensure that your stuff is secure. For another, they’re big enough to carry everything from your phone to your water bottle. More than 30,000 reviewers have given these leggings an overall rating of 4.5 stars because they're comfortable, soft, allow for freedom of movement, and they stay put.

  • Material: polyester/spandex
  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

One reviewer wrote: “NOT see-through, stays put at the high waist, no sagging even after a workout [...] I am a regular shopper who just wanted a good pair of leggings and I am seriously overjoyed to have found these! The pockets are deep and they easily and securely fit my keys and mask on one side and smartphone on the other, even while working out.”

15. The Quality Splurge

Lululemon leggings are an investment, but according to enthusiastic reviewers, they’re “worth the money” due to their quality and durability. The Luon material and second-skin fit already make them a no-budge option for any activity, but the brand also added an extra high waistband to these Wunder Under yoga pants to improve coverage and staying power. Get them in black, heathered black, or navy.

  • Material: polyester/nylon/lycra elastane
  • Available sizes: 2 — 12

One reviewer wrote: “Love love love these! This is my first purchasing lululemon apparel and now I understand why women always rave about their clothing.”

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