12 best black leggings for every occasion – from the squat rack to the high street
A classic white t-shirt, the ultimate winter coat and the perfect everyday trainer – there are some wardrobe staples that truly never go out of style. And whether you're a fitness fanatic or not, a pair of plain good-quality black leggings are non-negotiable.
The humble black legging is perhaps one of the most versatile wardrobe pieces. To the gym, around the house, while running errands, to the office, and even – with the right pair – out for the night.
There are some key characteristics you might be keeping an eye out for when it comes to shopping the perfect black legging: is it squat-proof if you're heading to the gym, is it within budget, does it sit flawlessly on your body, is it planet-friendly, and, of course, is it fashion-forward?
As a fashion editor, I consider it my sacred journey to help you on your mission to find the perfect pair, so I have trawled the pages of the internet to scout out the best leggings to suit every need. So consider this your definitive guide to the best black leggings for every occasion, budget and style.
You are most welcome.
The best black leggings for every occasion 2025
Ultimate Leggings
Adanola burst onto the scene in 2015 and the brand's Ultimate Leggings has made firm fans of everyone from Kendall Jenner to Rosie Huntington-Whitely and Nicole Kidman. In a classic high-waisted full-length silhouette, they have no front seam (major!) and sit flatteringly on the body. They also come in two different height options and an array of sizes which is another major win. The fabric is buttery to wear and they’re versatile enough to wear to the gym or just lounging around the house.
Power Gym leggings
Finding a good pair of squat-proof leggings is the bane of any gym girl's life. Sweaty Betty’s Power Gym Leggings are the ultimate style. Yes, they come in the classic black colourway but if we listed out all the other hues and patterns available, we’d be here all day. They’re bum-sculpting, sweat-wicking and actually squat-proof. No notes!
DayFlex High Waisted Legging
Fan favourite UK brand TALA has changed the game with its array of sustainable active and loungewear. Using 75% recycled nylon from pre-consumer waste, this pair of classic leggings doesn’t only look and feel good, they do good too. They feature flattering sweetheart contouring, no side seam and a secret inner pocket.
Find Your Way Leggings
Ultra high-waisted with a tie waist for extra security, these leggings from FP Movement have a stylish silhouette, are made from comfortable, breathable materials and are specifically designed for high-intensity workouts to keep up with you.
SoftMove™ Sports Leggings
H&M Move’s affordable range of activewear is no joke, they’re extremely good quality for the price and come in a buttery soft material and don’t budge while you workout.
Effortless Seamless Leggings
A pair of seamless leggings makes a world of difference. No unflattering cutting off thanks to too tight seams, no chance of camel toe and a nice silky feel, Oner’s Seamless style also provides a flattering sculpted look to the butt and thighs and hugging waistline. They’re a great pair for everyday wear or your daily 10k step walk. The brand does flag that due to knitted fabric, they’re not 100% squat-proof and recommend a nude thong or brief, we appreciate the transparency!
Pointelle Sweater High-Waist Be Mine Leggings
If you’re after the perfect lounge legging, something for wearing around the house in peak cosiness, then this knitted sweater-like pair from Alo is our top pick. They are intentionally sheer by design, so maybe not something to hit the gym in, but perfect for around the house.
Heatgen™ Maximum Thermal Fleece Leggings
A good pair of thermal leggings is essential in UK winter, this affordable pair from M&S is great for layering and offers maximum warmth tech and fleece lining for extreme cosiness and comfort.
Groove Pant Flare Nulu
A pair of subtle flare leggings (or yoga pants) are not only great for your next studio sesh but you can style them outside of workouts too. With your favourite chunky Ugg boots and an elegant trench coat to keep out the chill, it’s the perfect errand day ensemble.
Enduro Full Length Side Pocket Leggings
Not only are these leggings eco-friendly, made from bamboo viscose and organic cotton, they’re also super flattering and comfortable for workouts. But best of all they have discreet yet practical pockets for the essentials.
£49.00 at bambooclothing.co.uk
Curve Everyday High Waisted Leggings
Available in a range of height options and sizes up to a UK 28, Lovell’s Curve Leggings tick all of our boxes when it comes to a good pair of leggings.
x RHW Stirrup Leggings
Looking to splash out for a fancy pair of leggings that feel a little boujiee? Designed in collaboration with UK beauty and VS model Rosie Huntington-Whitley, these stretch-jersey leggings in a stirrup style from Wardrobe.NYC make for a worthy investment.
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