Whatever gets you on the mat is the best clothing to do yoga in, but the best yoga leggings will allow for greater freedom of movement, as well as keeping you cool and comfy.
We’ve been putting as many pairs as possible to the test, as well as using our experience to assess the qualities of ones we haven’t yet tried, to enable us to recommend the best yoga leggings out there so you can breathe easy and focus on your flow. Once your leggings are sorted, you may like to browse our recommendations for the best yoga mats and the best yoga apps.
The Best Yoga Leggings
A combination of comfort, support and freedom of movement means the Align leggings are widely regarded as the ultimate yoga pants. The delightfully soft, lightweight Nulu fabric has a muted matt finish, and although they feel “barely there”, they pass the squat test easily. The very high, wide waistband doesn’t roll down, and has a secret pocket on the inside for a card or a key. The Align comes in various lengths, from 17in to 28in, and sizing is inclusive (UK 4 to 24). Yes, they are expensive, but are you even a yogi until you’ve complained about the price of Lululemon leggings?
We’ve been on the lookout for eco-friendly leggings that are comfy and stretchy rather than restrictively tight, and have a high waist that doesn’t roll down or slide slowly southwards – a combination that’s rarer than hen’s teeth. Made from breathable and naturally sweat-wicking bamboo viscose, these seamless, non-see-through leggings are incredibly comfortable, and crucially, the waistband stayed put for us. This all-too-uncommon feature makes these our top choice.
These super-high-rise waist-sculpting leggings score high on the stay-put scale. The breathable, sweat-wicking fabric is squat-proof and non-shiny, with mild compression. At less than half the price of Lululemons these leggings are excellent value, and they’re made with recycled ECONYL yarn – a win for both your bank balance and the environment.
Forgive us the inclusion of pants when you’re expecting leggings, but these are great for those days when you’re not in the mood to be squeezed. The super-soft bamboo blend is moisture-wicking, stretchy and antibacterial, while clever tailoring makes the waistband stay flat on your waist without gripping you like a python. Roomy, with deep pockets and a flattering drape, they may be designed for yoga but they’re also eminently suitable for lounging on the sofa.
If you prefer the feel of compression leggings, try these bum-sculpting beauties. Squat-proof, with a high, flat waistband and a side pocket, they’re available in several bold prints. Plus they’re sustainably made – 17 plastic bottles become one pair of leggings.
LA brand Alo Yoga has a cult following that includes the likes of Gigi Hadid and Taylor Swift – both have been papped in the “studio-to-street” yoga wear. Although pricier than the Lululemon Align, Alo Yoga’s Airlift Leggings are proving popular since they’re bang on trend with a high waist and minimal seams, and are made with soft, fine fabric with a slight sheen to it. Although the luxe fabrics aren’t recycled, Alo calls itself “eco aware”, uses low-water dyes and has earned a WRAP certification (opens in new tab) for its ethically run factories. The Insta-ready Airlifts – available in full length and 7/8 styles – come in a core collection of earthy tones, with limited-edition runs in more unusual colours.
In contrast to the primarily polyester fabrics used for leggings, these are made with a blend of bamboo, organic cotton and elastane. As well as having sustainability street cred, the fabric is certified as hypoallergenic – great for those who are sensitive to certain synthetic materials. The leggings are fairly thick, but feel soft to the touch and are supportive rather than compressive.
The Seattle-based luxe sportswear brand is serious about sustainability and transparency with information on the production process on its website (opens in new tab). Who knew you could turn waste products from dyes into paving stones? So of course, this pair is made from recycled plastic, and the fabric is lightweight, extra soft, matt and squat-proof. As well as being super-high-waisted, they have a small back pocket and come in a range of earthy tones.
The original Good Karma leggings with their wide, ribbed waistband are just as popular as ever, and they’re now available with two slip-in pockets. Perfect for stashing your essentials and heading off for the sunrise mountaintop yoga sesh of your dreams… or just for brunch with friends after yoga.
If you break into a cold sweat at the sight of shiny spandex, try these soft cotton-rich yoga leggings. The lightweight fabric is breathable and quick-drying, and there’s a high, wide waistband. The stripe down the side of the leg adds a stylish touch.
A steal at £16.99, these leggings from Decathlon tick all the right boxes. Seamless, stretchy and comfortable, they have a high waistband and a subtle pattern. Some reviewers say the lighter-coloured leggings can be see-through, so give them the squat test before you rip the labels off.
More Of Our Favourite Leggings
- Make sure the workhorses of your running wardrobe are thoroughbreds with our picks of the best running leggings
- Our pick of the best gym leggings for women who won’t sacrifice support for style
