12 of Our All-Time Favorite Black Leggings

Old Navy
Old Navy
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No workout wardrobe is complete without a great pair of leggings. No matter what activity you love doing, be it a run, a dance cardio class, or a yoga session, you belong in cute leggings. We don't ask for all that much when it comes to our leggings — we just want them to be flattering and functional. But, that can sometimes prove to be a more difficult ask than it should be, which is where we come in. We've scoured the internet to find the best black leggings on the market, and if we do say so ourselves, we did our job.

If the thought of color in your workout wardrobe is blasphemous, you've come to the right place. Black leggings are perhaps the foundation of our athleisure look, and it's easy to see why; they go with everything, and always look sleek and polished. With all the different iterations available, finding the right pair can feel like an impossible task. But no more — these are our 12 favorite black leggings. Whether you want high waisted leggings, yoga leggings, or leggings with pockets, you've come to the right place. Now, if you'll excuse us, we're going to work out.

Best Running Leggings: Lululemon Fast & Free Tight II
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Best Running Leggings: Lululemon Fast & Free Tight II

The lululemon Fast and Free Tight II ($98-$138) is made with Nulux, and gives the same second-skin sensation that you're used to from the lululemon Align leggings with the added bonus of being sweat-wicking and quick-drying. They're a must have for anyone who's obsessed with that buttery-soft feeling, but still wants a high performance legging. My best friend, a serious runner, counts these among her favorites, but they really are great for any activity because they're so versatile. They're high rise and body hugging without being too heavy. If you're concerned about chafing, these are a good choice because they feel so comfortable, and though they do have inner thigh seams, they're pretty minimal and unobtrusive.

What customers say: Plus, with over 2,000 five star reviews, there's a whole community of people who swear by these leggings. One person in particular notes, "my favorite workout pant ever. I can wear them all day without having to repeatedly pull them up or adjust." Another customer says, "These leggings are a runner's dream. The material doesn't pill, pockets can fit all the energy gels, keys, etc. that you could possibly need, even a waist belt pocket that fits a phone so your phone doesn't bounce around. I have to use the drawstring to adjust the waist for running, but otherwise I almost forget I'm wearing them."

Why we love it: If you like the look of a legging but want the feel and breathability of a short, or nothing at all, these are the running pants for you. They're the summertime leggings you'll want in your closet, and they'll make even the sweatiest workouts comfortable.

What's worth noting: It's good to know about the raw hem at the ankle before you wonder if you accidentally bought an unfinished pair. They purposefully do not have a band or seam, which many people find to be looser and less constricting at the ankle, but can take some getting used to.

The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25, 28 in. length | Colorways: 10

Best High Intensity Workout Leggings: Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings
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Best High Intensity Workout Leggings: Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings

These Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings ($118) are this editor's newest favorite. They're lightweight, easy to move in, and look so good on the body. This is a shiny black color, and we love how flattering it is on the legs and butt. Plus, they're sweat-wicking but still hold you in, which is a more unique combination than it should be.

What customers are saying: One person said that these leggings are "extremely comfortable. Material feels great. Really like the single seam, full length and high waist. True to size and fits wonderfully," while another person said, "absolutely love them, they hug and smooth you perfectly. Just get them!"

Why we love them: These are the leggings you're going to want to be seen in. The shiny fabric is so flattering, and feels like a second skin. When you wear them, you feel like you can take on the world.

What's worth noting: These leggings do run slightly small, so if you're in between sizes, we'd recommend sizing up. They also don't have a ton of pockets.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XL| Length: 28 inch length | Colorways: 15

Best Leggings on Amazon: Colorfulkoala High Waisted Yoga Pants 7/8 Length Leggings with Pockets
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Best Leggings on Amazon: Colorfulkoala High Waisted Yoga Pants 7/8 Length Leggings with Pockets

If you're looking for a great legging on Amazon, we'd recommend these Colorfulkoala High Waisted Yoga Pants 7/8 Length Leggings with Pockets ($25). They're buttery soft and perfect for lounging. Plus, we love the side pockets; you really can't go wrong with black leggings that have plenty of pockets. These are the leggings you won't want to take off, and you'll wonder how you didn't buy them sooner.

What customers are saying: One person said, "I'm seven months postpartum and was wanting another comfy pair of leggings to wear for everyday use. I ended up buying them in a medium which I expected them to not fit that great or be too tight but that was not the case. Holding them up I thought they'd be too small to get past my butt lol. They fit so well and have become my favorite pair of leggings. They also have pockets which is a must for me. They aren't see through and I like how they aren't a thicker material. They're very soft and smooth and don't pill."

Why we love them: These are the leggings you're going to wear every single day. They're affordable, comfortable, and perfect for running errands or doing some light movement. They're not too compressive and not too thin, they're just right.

What's worth noting: These leggings run true to size. There's debate on certain colors passing the squat test, but the black pair seems to be a winner in this department.

The details: Sizes: XS-XL| Length: 25 inch length | Colorways: 26

Most Comfortable Leggings: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi 7/8 Leggings
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Most Comfortable Leggings: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi 7/8 Leggings

These Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi 7/8 Leggings ($97) are made of the softest material that you'll never want to take off. You've never worn leggings that feel like this, we promise. We have them in two colors, they're that comfortable. Plus, we'll find excuses to wash them and wear them again. Pick these for winter workouts, or lower impact activities.

What customers are saying: One person loves the durability of these leggings, saying "Two of these bought years ago have lasted VERY well: worn and washed hundreds of times. Newest version is even softer and a better fit." Another person said, "I finally tried Beyond Yoga and am genuinely really impressed (and obsessed). No cameltoe or any semblance of getting one easily whatsoever, and extremely comfortable for all day wear. You don't feel like you're being hugged in too tightly and all that."

Why we love them: These are possibly the most comfortable leggings we've ever worn. They're buttery soft, and thick enough to be great for chillier days. When you want to feel swathed in comfort, go with these leggings.

What's worth noting: These leggings are on the thicker side, so they're not our top choice for sweating it out in 100 degree heat. These also don't have pockets, but there is a pair that does!

The details: Sizes: XXS-4X| Length: 25 inch length | Colorways: 15

Best Crossover Leggings: Aerie Offline Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare Legging
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Best Crossover Leggings: Aerie Offline Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare Legging

The Aerie crossover leggings have reached cult-favorite status. Looking for a flared legging? These Offline By Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare Leggings ($35, originally $50) are the ones for you. They've got the Aerie signature crossover waistband, which is so flattering, and the flare detail isn't too wide, which we love. Plus, they're comfortable, affordable, and so on trend.

What customers are saying: One purchaser notes, "Besides the fact that it's so flattering, the quality is super soft and not the type of leggings that will fade and cheap out over time! I have multiple Aerie leggings and this by far my favorite. I wear it to lounge and even to dress up!" Another customer raves, "I am a plus size woman and these leggings were the boost of confidence I've been needing in a pair of leggings. No other legging or pant has ever made me feel this way, I could literally do anything in these. They are so flattering and you can dress up them up or down. Thanks Aerie!"

Why we love it: These leggings are on trend, affordable, and so flattering. They're lightweight, with light support and a quick drying fabric. Plus, so many people of all different body types feel great in these leggings.

What's worth noting: These leggings are a bit longer than your average leggings. They have short, regular, and long styles, so you can find your perfect length.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XXL | Length: 30, 32, 34 in. length | Colorways: 5

Best Leggings With Pockets: Lululemon Align Pant II With Pockets
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Best Leggings With Pockets: Lululemon Align Pant II With Pockets

Fair warning: you're going to want to live in the Align Pant II With Pockets ($128-$138). It is so buttery soft, you'll feel like you're not wearing anything — which, in fact, is the purpose of the fabric it's made of, Nulu. This is definitely a yoga pant as opposed to a running or HIIT pant, but it can also be an errands pant, a brunch pant, or really just an anytime pant. I have spent a good portion of the last year on the couch in these pants, and I might just have to get another pair. The deep side pockets are game changers, and they make going hands free so easy.

What customers say: These pants have over 5,000 five-star reviews, with one user saying "I need 949575853 more. It feels like i'm wearing nothing! The quality is absolutely there. The comfort is there. I want to wear nothing else but these leggings."

Why we love it: The soft, comfortable lounge leggings of your dreams do exist, and you'll find yourself doing laundry just so that you can wear them again.

What's worth noting: They, like almost all Lululemon pants, are high rise; mine come up just past my belly button. I've had mine for years at this point, and they feel just as soft and comfortable as the day I bought them. There's no pilling or fraying at all.

The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25 in. length | Colorways: 11

Best Seamless Leggings: Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings
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Best Seamless Leggings: Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings

If you love a seamless legging, you're not alone. Our top pick is the bestselling Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings ($54). They're comfortable, supportive, and easy to move in. Plus, even though seamless leggings are normally associated with thicker fabrics, these are surprisingly breathable.

What customers are saying: One person notes these leggings "fit perfectly, very flattering and can be worn in hot or cold weather (very thick but not weighing you down)" while another customer says that they're, "snug in all of the right places and hold my waist in nice and tight. Super flattering. I now want them in every color."

Why we love them: These leggings will not budge throughout your toughest workouts. The seamless fabric is comfortable and easy to wear, and these leggings have a waistband that's comfortable and sturdy.

What's worth noting: If you like a more compressive fit, customers recommend going with your usual size, and if you want a bit more room and flexibility, try sizing up.

The details: Sizes: XS-XXL| Length: 30.5 inch length | Colorways: 10

Best Affordable Leggings: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings
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Best Affordable Leggings: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings

If you want the ultimate comfortable, affordable leggings, you need these Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings ($40). They've got a hidden pocket that's so useful and Go-Dry moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable. Their high-rise waistband will make you feel comfortable and secure while their pocket is large enough to stash your phone in. Explore all of the great Old Navy leggings in our shopping guide, and you can also read our editor's review of the Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings.

What customers are saying: Customers love these pants, with one saying that these are the "I will never buy another brand after wearing these to the gym. They were the comfiest to workout in." Another person said, "These are my favorite leggings. They don't slide down, they don't ball up. These are the best ones I've worn."

Why we love them: Simply put: these leggings don't move. They stay on throughout your workout and are so comfortable that they feel a lot more expensive than they actually are. Plus, at just $40, they're affordable, and perform like they're double or triple the price.

What's worth noting: These leggings are made of Old Navy's Powersoft fabric, which is lightly compressive, and buttery soft. It also comes in tall and petite varieties. If you want a more compressive fit, maybe size down.

The details: Sizes: XS-4X| Length: 26, 28, 32 inch length | Colorways: 3

Best Thick Leggings: Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tight
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Best Thick Leggings: Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tight

We all know that some of our leggings are thicker than others; they're the ones we love for winter, when it's a bit colder outside. The Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tights ($80 - $109) are the go-to leggings when you want to feel comfy but still held in. These are great for low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates where you aren't getting drenched in sweat. Explore all of the great leggings that will make your butt look amazing in our shopping guide.

What customers are saying: One person said, "I love that they stay in place, unlike other brands that I am pulling up as I walk. Very soft and comfortable!" Another one raved, "This legging is very soft and doesn't cut off my circulation.. yet it still holds everything in. I can wear these all day with no problem. It's also flattering.I definitely recommend."

Why we love them: These leggings make your butt look amazing. They're perfectly compressive and thick enough to be warm and comfortable, plus we can't stop staring at ourselves in the mirror when we wear them.

What's worth noting: These leggings are, as we've said, thicker than most. They're not too heavy, and are fine if you're planning on working out hard, but if you're doing hot yoga, you might want something a little more breathable.

The details: Sizes: XXS-3X| Length: 25, 27, 30 inch length | Colorways: 3

Most Versatile Leggings: Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight
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Most Versatile Leggings: Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight

I'm someone who likes to switch up my workouts; one day I'm doing my favorite Pilates workout, and the next I'm sweating it out on my Peloton bike. While I respect the fact that different pants are built for different activities, sometimes you just want one versatile piece that can move with you. Enter the Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight ($128). You can read my full review of the Invigorate High-Rise Tight, but to cut to the chase, I love these leggings. It's specifically designed to take you through a multitude of workouts; it's made of Everlux, lululemon's fastest drying fabric, so it's sweat-wicking and breathable but thick enough to provide support, and it doesn't have a back zipper, allowing you to lie down in Pilates or yoga. It also passes my squat test when training, and when I'm going to a Barry's Bootcamp class, where I have to both run and lift weights, these are the pants I choose. They don't fall down, and I've had mine for years without pilling. Plus, it has side pockets, and you can explore all of the great leggings with pockets in our shopping guide.

What customers say: With over 700 five star reviews, one customer says, "These are super comfortable and supportive for all kinds of workouts. They're squat proof and they don't feel soggy after an indoor spin class. They even make it feel like I can swing by the grocery store to pick up the missing produce for dinner after my workout!"

Why we love it: If you don't know what your workout will entail, reach for these comfortable leggings. They're great for low-impact, high-impact, and everything in between.

What's worth noting: The pants are available in 25, 28, and 31 inch lengths; I'm five foot seven inches, and I like the length of the 25 inch pants.

The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25, 28, 31 in. length | Colorways: 9

Best Leggings For Yoga: Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging
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Best Leggings For Yoga: Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging

You can't go wrong with these bestselling Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging ($88). These are some of our favorite yoga leggings, and they're super thick, so your butt looks like it's been airbrushed. Even though the material is thick, it's also soft and comfortable, but still holds you in. If you're doing something that won't leave you drenched in sweat, these are a great option. Explore all of the great yoga leggings in our shopping guide.

What customers are saying: One person said, "This was my first pair of Alo leggings and I am in love! They have the right amount of compression, and best of all, the waist band doesn't slide down or roll. I will be purchasing more." Another one noted, "I bought these leggings after doing tons of research before dropping more than $50 on a pair of workout leggings. These were worth the price! I love the compression and support without being tight."

Why we love them: They're called Airbrush leggings for a reason. You'll do a double take in the mirror, that's how good they make your butt look. Plus, they don't move in downward dog, and are thick and soft, so they're perfect for lower impact activity.

What's worth noting: We've found the sizing on these pants to be, honestly, inconsistent. Some people need to size down, some people wear their true size, and others need to size up. This editor wears her true size, so be sure to check the size guide before.

The details: Sizes: XXS-XL| Length: 24 inch length | Colorways: 7

Best Size Inclusive Leggings: Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings
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Best Size Inclusive Leggings: Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings

The Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging ($78) is designed for high-impact workouts with an extra-high-rise waistband and four-way stretch for optimal coverage and flexibility. The fabric is both thick and sweat wicking, making them squat-proof and breathable. However, that doesn't mean you can't wear these to relax at home or run errands.

What customers are saying: One customer raves, "Girlfriend Collective leggings are built to last and the fact they are sustainable makes it 100x more awesome! Also, I am a pretty active runner and finding pants that I don't have to constantly pull up is HARD. But, for me personally, once these babies make it over my hips, they aren't budging. I love running in them because they are truly comfortable. I have also gone on hikes, done yoga, gardened and biked. They are perfect for all of those activities. Truly, I don't think I'll buy activewear from anywhere else. I'm impressed with how they fit, how I can wear them for any activity, the fact they are ethical & sustainable, the quality, the price and they are CUTE!! I mean the list goes on & on. If you're unsure about buying, I say DO it. I don't think you'll find another pair of leggings of this quality, sustainability, cuteness all while being this fairly priced."

Why we love them: Not only are we in love with these stylish leggings, but they also have a hidden back pocket. They feel so buttery soft on the skin as well, making them great for everyday wear. Plus, they support you in all the right places for a lifted, flattering look.

What's worth noting: The leggings are made from 79 percent recycled plastic bottles and spandex. They also have tons of matching sports bras and tanks, so you can find your perfect fit.

The details: Sizes: XXS-6XL | Length: 19.5, 23.75, 28.5 inch length | Colorways: 6