Finally: The Definitive Guide to the Best Black Leggings

Bergdorf Goodman
Bergdorf Goodman
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As much as we love expressing ourselves in fun, brightly colored leggings or bold patterned leggings every once in awhile, we all know that the true MVP of fitness gear is a pair of simple black leggings. They're ultraflattering, endlessly versatile, and conveniently suitable, whether for the gym or the office.

But finding the right pair can prove to be tricky. How many times have you purchased leggings only to discover after a few wears that they're not quite what you're looking for? Luckily, our editors have done the testing for you. To help you narrow down your search, we asked them to share their holy grail, can't-live-without, 10-out-of-10-would-recommend black leggings. Whether you're on the hunt for one that won't stretch over time or one that features pockets, read their testimonials ahead to discover your perfect pair.

01
lululemon Wunder Under Hi-Rise Tight  Full-On Luon 28"

lululemon Wunder Under Hi-Rise Tight Full-On Luon 28"

lululemon Wunder Under Hi-Rise Tight Full-On Luon 28" ($98)

"I've had these pants for years, and I'm wearing them now! They're flattering, comfortable, and my favorite pair of black tights. I also love that I can mix them into my regular wardrobe. They're warm but don't make you feel like you're suffocating, and they're my go-to for yoga." — Dominique Astorino, staff writer, Fitness

02
Outdoor Voices Tech Sweat Legging

Outdoor Voices Tech Sweat Legging

Outdoor Voices Tech Sweat Legging ($95)

"I absolutely love these Outdoor Voices black leggings! I can't live without them. They're so versatile — perfect for everything from outdoor running to weight lifting to yoga." — Gina Florio, editor, Fitness

03
lululemon Wunder Under Hi-Rise Tight Full-On Luxtreme 28"​​

lululemon Wunder Under Hi-Rise Tight Full-On Luxtreme 28"​​

lululemon Wunder Under Hi-Rise Tight Full-On Luxtreme 28" ($98)

"When it comes to leggings, it really doesn't get much better than a pair of Wunder Unders. I'm practically a certified leggings addict, and though I love my colorful Outdoor Voices leggings and superfun Ultracors, I always come back to these. I personally can't stand working out in leggings that feel like they weren't made to sweat in, so the Full-On Luxtreme fabric is the cooling, moisture-wicking, and spandex-y athletic material of my dreams. Even better, they last forever and are totally versatile and flattering." — Carrie Carrollo, assistant editor, Native

04
Koral Lustrous Legging

Koral Lustrous Legging

Koral Lustrous Legging ($88)

"I love the Lustrous Legging in black from Koral. They are super lightweight and not too restrictive. I wear them with white or black APLs and my oversize fleece crew from Everlane to and from the gym." — Dana Avidan Cohn, executive style director

05
GapFit Blackout Technology gFast Leggings

GapFit Blackout Technology gFast Leggings

GapFit Blackout Technology gFast Leggings ($70)

"I am an avid purchaser of Gap's GapFit line. The leggings hold up to all classes and hiking. They never fade and never get too stretched out, and they also last for years." — Lauren Hendrickson, director, editorial product management

06
presented by Nordstrom
David Lerner Corset Tie Ankle Leggings

David Lerner Corset Tie Ankle Leggings

David Lerner Corset Tie Ankle Leggings ($168)

"More of a 'fashion' pair than a workout pair, these leggings are my favorite for the stylish lace-up waist and petite-friendly fit. As someone who is only 5'1" with a longer torso, it's hard to find high-waisted leggings that cover my belly button and don't need to be hemmed at the bottom. Not only do these sit truly high-waisted on me, but the cropped length also means they fit me like full-length leggings — no tailor necessary." — Stephanie Nguyen, editor, Shopping

07
lululemon Speed Up Tight DWR 28"

lululemon Speed Up Tight DWR 28"

lululemon Speed Up Tight DWR 28" ($108)

"I swear by my lululemon black leggings with pockets on the side so I can just slip my phone in when I'm running." — Sarah Wasilak, editor, Fashion

08
Nike Sculpt High-Rise Training Tights

Nike Sculpt High-Rise Training Tights

Nike Sculpt High-Rise Training Tights ($95)

"I've had this same pair of Nike leggings forever, and I am obsessed. They're super high-waisted, suck everything in, and are the perfect thickness and warmth to wear year round." — Lindsay Miller, director, News and Culture

09
Beyond Yoga High Waisted Midi Legging

Beyond Yoga High Waisted Midi Legging

Beyond Yoga High Waisted Midi Legging ($88)

"I cannot get enough of leggings from Beyond Yoga. The entire line is high-waisted, and the material feels like butter. So soft!" — Michele Foley, content director, Fitness

10
lululemon Fast & Free 7/8 Tight II Nulux 25"

lululemon Fast & Free 7/8 Tight II Nulux 25"

lululemon Fast & Free 7/8 Tight II Nulux 25" ($128)

"I am obsessed with the Fast & Free Nulux tights from lululemon. The fabric is insanely thin and comfortable, and the cut is really flattering and slimming. They stay in place and haven't pilled or stretched out after a zillion wears and washes. Another bonus: the concealed pockets along the legs and waistband. You will never want to take these pants off." — Joanna Douglas, senior native editorial director

11
Under Armour Coldgear Armour Leggings

Under Armour Coldgear Armour Leggings

Under Armour Coldgear Armour Leggings ($50)

"I love this pair of supersimple and soft (and always easy to get on) Under Armour leggings. Even though they have no pockets (a major con for me), they are still my favorite pair. The polyester and elastane composition is the best material." — Rebecca Brown, editor, Shopping

12
Prana Transform High Waist Legging

Prana Transform High Waist Legging

Prana Transform High Waist Legging ($75)

"I love these high-waisted leggings from Prana. The medium weight is the perfect coverage, the waist is really comfy, and these leggings stay in place. Perfect for yoga, Pilates, and strength training." — Susi May, senior content director