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 classic to petite leggings, everyday favourites to maternity leggings, and even the very best pairs of high-waisted leggings - yep, there's a pair of black leggings for every wardrobe (and every occasion).
Wondering if leggings are still in style? The answer is ALWAYS. You can wear them all season round, with thermal leggings for colder months when you want to layer them under a cosy teddy coat or camel coat, styled to perfection with a pair of UGG Tasman dupes. We're already beaming at the fashion potential.
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. A look we love at the moment is matching leggings and a top for a two-piece combo. So put-together.
Closer's best black leggings at a glance
How we chose the best black leggings
We've checked out these black leggings based on strict criteria - overall reviews, comfort, fit, quality and price. That means you'll know if they're see-through but are still worth investing in, or if they're totally squat-proof - which is a must when looking for gym leggings.
Overall, 16 leggings made the list, three 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 used the product rating itself to determine the final result. All 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: The best black leggings 2024
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 from just £9.99.
Best black leggings overall
adanola.com
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 £39.99 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.
Pros
- Made out of compressive fabrics for serious sculpting
- Reviews note its four-way stretch for ultimate comfort
- We love that there is no front seam placement
Cons
- No petite length options
Best rated black leggings
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 gym or relaxing.
Closer's commercial content editor, Jade Moscrop, put the SINOPHANT leggings to the test and had to say this on the highly-rated leggings, "These are the only leggings I buy religiously. They're SO soft, never lose their shape, hold everything in nicely and are regularly on offer. There's also a three-pack which is great value for money. Make sure to check the sizing before you order. I'm a 14 and the S-M fits me perfectly."
Pros
- Completely opaque for squats
- Washes well without losing colour
- There is a three-pack option available
Cons
- Some reviewers said they wished for thicker material
Best budget black leggings
www2.hm.com
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-waist 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
- 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
Best bestselling black leggings
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.
Pros
- Reviews state it feels buttery soft against the skin
- Offer lift around the bum
- Compressive fabrics for gentle sculpting
Cons
- May need readjusting as could roll down
Best black leggings for everyday
www.marksandspencer.com
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
- Have a comfortable elasticated waist
- Made with StayNEW™ technology for a longer lasting finish
- Come in loads of inclusive sizes
Cons
- Some reviewers said they wished for thicker material
Best black leggings with pockets
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
- Reviews love the two outer pockets
- Made from breathable moisture-wicking fabric
Cons
- May need readjusting as could roll down
Best black leggings for the gym
There's nothing worse than see-through leggings, but you'll be pleased to know that these ACTINPUT Black Leggings from Amazon are completely squat-proof according to loads of reviewers. These affordable leggings are quickly becoming a go-to for gym wear given their squat-proof status.
Totally versatile, these figure-hugging leggings are soft, comfy and moisture-wicking. Meaning, you can wear them to the gym - AND when you're having a day off lounging on the couch. We love a legging that can do both.
Pros
- Reviews love that they feel buttery soft against the skin
- Completely opaque for squats
- Made from breathable moisture-wicking fabric
Cons
- Some reviewers said they wished for thicker material
Best tummy-control black leggings
shapermint.com
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
- Runs to a size 4XL
- Reviews state it lifts in all the right places for shape
- Made from breathable moisture-wicking fabric
Cons
- You may need readjusting as it could roll down
Best recommended black leggings
lovall.com
Lovall's Black Classic High-Waisted Leggings are designed to be your go-to pair for every day and even Louise Pentland is a fan. They come highly recommended not just by celebs, but reviewers too. It's what we like to hear!
Thousands of reviews rave about its tummy-support waistband and the fact that they are not even a teeny bit see-through. Despite being slightly more than some of the options on our list, one reviewer noted that they're 'worth the extra money', and have quickly become their new favourite leggings.
Pros
- Made from a thick material
- Also have a cropped variation available
- Reviews love that it comes in loads of inclusive sizes
Cons
- May need readjusting as could roll down
Best flared black leggings
Kick it up a notch with these black flared leggings. Seeing you through your yoga sessions to running everyday errands, they're a versatile pair you'll want to wear everywhere. Incredibly comfortable while still being stylish, these flattering leggings also come highly rated on Amazon.
Over 25,000 reviewers can't get enough of these flared leggings, commenting that they're soft, comfortable and look super good on. Customers have mostly said that they wear them around the house for lounging, owing it to their stretchy fit and buttery soft material.
Pros
- Seamless waistband for comfort
- Has a stylish versatile look that's super trendy
- Made from soft peach skin fabric
Cons
- Could include moisture-wicking fabric for workouts
Best black jean leggings
www.marksandspencer.com
Not quite a jean, not quite a legging. Ah, the humble jegging. This particular pair of skin-tight M&S jeggings have 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
- The leggings offer lift around the bum
- Cotton-rich fabric is highly breathable
- Reviews love that it comes in loads of inclusive sizes
Cons
- Some reviewers said they wished for thicker material
Best popular black leggings
skims.com
Obviously, we couldn't help but include SKIMS for their sculpting and shaping abilities. A buttery soft feel with ultimate stretch, support and breathability, SKIMS' polyamide and elastane blend is irresistibly soft, ideal for dressing up or down depending on the occasion.
Fans of the leggings say they love the feel of the material, that they're comfortable to wear and create a flattering fit. Also, see-through leggings, who? You won't have that problem with this high-quality pair, which reviewers love to layer and wear as a standalone pair. The versatility is unmatched.
Pros
- Runs to a size 4XL
- Reviews love the soft second-skin feel of the material
- Has plenty of stretch due to the elastane blend
Cons
- May be too figure-hugging for some
Best thermal black leggings
www.marksandspencer.com
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 winter weather. Perfect for this time of year, anyway.
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 winter 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
- Features Heatgen™ technology to provide insulation
- Reviewers loved how effective they were at keeping them warm
Cons
- May bobble after a while of wear and tear
Best plus size black leggings
www.newlook.com
Designed for New Look's Curve collection, these black high-waist leggings come recommended by shoppers online. They're made from breathable cotton with a hint of stretchy elastane for total comfort. A must-have in your wardrobe, these black leggings are an everyday staple.
Reviewers absolutely love the fit of these leggings, claiming they're not at all see-through, they don't roll down and fit properly in all the right places. Everything you could ever need, right? Not to mention, they're currently retailing at a very respectable £10.99. What a bargain.
Pros
- Reviewers say they love that the waistband doesn't roll down
- We love that they're affordable and high quality
- Made with a blend of breathable cotton and stretch elastane
Cons
- Some said they wished the material was a little thicker
Best petite black leggings
boandtee.com
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
- We love that there is no front seam placement
- Has a ruched seam at the back to accentuate the bum
Cons
- One reviewer suggested sizing down if you're between sizes
Best maternity black leggings
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 a 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
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.
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.
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.
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 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...
Winter coat and cosy shoe: Style underneath a polished camel coat or teddy coat, and set your black leggings off with a statement pair of cosy UGGs. Fluffy bucket hat with your teddy coat is optional.
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.
Aimee Jakes is 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.