25 High-Waisted Leggings to Make You Look and Feel Like a Fitfluencer
The best pairs for working on your fitness, or just working from home.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
We all know that money can’t buy happiness, but what it can buy is a little extra motivation for getting up off the couch and into the gym. After all, one of the best motivators for finally committing to that hot yoga class is a handful of cute new workout clothes. Specifically, we’re talking about the do-it-all fitness garment: high-waisted leggings. With a high-rise inseam, smooth waistband, and snatch-you-in fabric, these fitted pants are a fitfluencer favorite for a reason. They’re also easily transformed into a casual daytime look with a matching sports bra and fresh pair of workout sneakers.
However, not all leggings are created equal. We’ve all experienced the horror of realizing mid-workout that our leggings are slouching—or worse, failing in terms of opacity with every squat—so we searched for sleek and snug fits that fully support you without feeling too restrictive. From breathable materials like sweat-wicking fabrics to structured cuts perfect for barre, HIIT, or whatever sport your body loves best, we’ve got you covered (literally).
Shop 25 booty-boosting tights that are fail-proof whether you want to hit the gym, or just make it look like you do. And in case you want more, we even discovered some of the best Amazon workout clothes that double as dupes of your favorite designer styles, too.
Pros
Moisture-wicking
Multiple inseam options
Added Lycra® fibre for shape retention
Cons
Expensive
If you haven’t yet sung the praises of Lululemon’s cult-favorite Align leggings, your approach to workout gear is about to change. Expand your closet with this neon pink hue if you already own the classic black pair, but with 21 colors, you’re bound to find a style that suits you.
What people are saying: “I wear these constantly. I have tried numerous brands and these comes out on top, I finally get what all the talk is about...I will be buying more for sure!”
Key Specs
Size Range | 0-20 |
Color Options | 21 options |
Material | Nylon, Lycra elastane |
Length | 25”, 28”, 31” |
Pros
Reinforced gusset
New seasonal colors
Cons
Limited size range
In partnership with Feeding America, this yogi-inspired brand will donate proceeds from each item sold to provide a meal to someone in need. So when you add a pair of these seamless performance leggings to your closet, you’re also giving back. Namaste.
What people are saying: “Super comfy ribbed leggings that feel sturdy and supportive! Obsessed with the color and feel!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS/S-XL/2X |
Color Options | Nutmeg, Gold |
Material | Nylon, Spandex |
Pros
Laser-cut holes along the leg for extra ventilation
Part of a matching set
Cons
Only 1 color option
Runs large
Glam up your workout routine with these shiny, designer collab leggings that one reviewer called out for collecting “lots of compliments” from fellow gym-goers.
What people are saying: “Looks fantastic on...fits perfect and also bought the matching top!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XXS-XL |
Color Options | Burgundy |
Material | Recycled polyester, elastane |
Pros
Hidden waistband pocket
Expansive color selection
Cons
Limited compression and hold
This Lululemon dupe has a 4.5-star rating and 29,000+ Amazon reviews, so at $26, it’s hard to pass up.
What people are saying: “I found these recommended by a TikToker. She was right! These are the holy grail of leggings! Lightweight, breathable, soft, yet still tight enough for support during activity.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XXS-2XL |
Color Options | 45 options |
Material | Polyamide, Spandex |
Pros
Made for movement
Extreme, anti-snag durability
Suitable for layering
Cons
Runs small
Some reviewers complained of stretching in the waist
Composed of abrasion-resistant material, these leggings are specifically made to handle rock climbing, hiking, and the great outdoors.
What people are saying: “Tested these new leggings out on a few laps of the Sea to Summit trail and didn't have to adjust the waist once. They stayed in place perfectly! So far they’ve crushed all my hikes and are nice and light—excited to bring them traveling as my go to!”
Key Specs
Size Range | 00-16 |
Color Options | Black, Forage |
Material | Nylon, elastane |
Pros
Crop fit
Stretchy-soft fabric
Cons
Not for high impact activities
Online barre classes are always great for those who can’t make it to the gym, and we’re grateful for the leggings that made us feel like we were actually in a ballet studio and not just shuffling around the kitchen table. This dance-inspired collection by Neiwai is nothing short of en pointe.
What people are saying: “I just wore them to my gym and have already received compliments! The color and pattern is so gorgeous and the material is super comfortable.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-L |
Color Options | Violet Sea, Black, Cocoa |
Material | Nylon, Spandex |
Pros
Side mesh panels for added style and breathability
4.5” waistband
Cons
Limited sizing
Only 1 color option
Show off all the hard work you put in with this ultra-flattering contrast stitch pair. You can’t not get the matching top, right?
What people are saying: “These pants looked great after washing, and the quality of the fabric feels so soft. I was nervous about the sheer part on the side of the pants, but even that part is made of really durable material. The color is very bright, a perfect color for outdoor biking!”
Key Specs
Size Range | S-XL |
Color Options | Coral/Neon |
Material | Spandex, nylon |
Pros
Squat proof
Dri-FIT Nike technology
V-shaped back for support
Cons
Limited color options
When it comes to intensive HIIT training, Nike leggings are up to the challenge. The brand’s staples are basically made for burpees. Nike is also great for looking like you just worked out, even if you just had to Google what a burpee is.
What people are saying: “Awesome plus size workout pants. I am 5’10” and the length of the pants lays correctly on the ankles. The fabric is smooth and you can't see through them. These pants are even great to wear on the weekends.”
Key Specs
Size Range | 1X-3X |
Color Options | Black, Archaeo Pink, Jade Smoke |
Material | Polyester, Spandex |
Pros
Affordable
Fun pattern choices
Cons
May be too short for tall or standard inseam lengths
Sells out quickly
If you’re under 5’6”, you probably know the pain of pulling on a pair of pants only to find they’re reaching well past your stature. Look to this pair of super stretch leggings that range from XS to 2XL in a petite inseam length.
What people are saying: “Love these pants! I am a short petite med, and the 7/8 style fit me perfectly. The length is a regular length on me.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XSP-2XLP |
Color Options | 10 options |
Material | Polyester, Spandex |
Pros
Ultra lightweight support
Short and long inseam lengths
Stylish, ribbed cutout waistband
Cons
Some reviewers claim this runs large
We’ve raved about Aerie’s workout leggings before, and they still hold up to the hype (seriously—two years later and my personal pair is still one of my faves). They also don’t skimp on style, like this ribbed cutout pair of leggings that double as a cute brunch look.
What people are saying: “Flatters my waist and looks great with crop tops. Love the material and easy fit.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XXS-2XL |
Color Options | 73 |
Material | Nylon, elastane |
Length | Short, Standard, Long |
Pros
Second skin comfort
Stirrup prevents material from bunching at your ankles
Cons
Pricey
Not as suitable for high-impact activity
Keep your leggings from gathering at your ankles and around your knees with this streamlined stirrup pair from Splits59.
What people are saying: “Absolutely loved these! Comfortable, slimming and stylish with the stirrup! I have some swelling in my ankles and the stirrup covers it up perfectly. So happy! Recommend!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-XL |
Color Options | Black, Heather Grey |
Material | Nylon, Spandex |
Pros
Organic fabric contents
Minimal pilling
Wide curved waistband
Cons
Expensive
May run long on petite frames
These aren’t your everyday crop flare leggings—they’re actually hemp-infused, so you’re getting an earthier fabric that’s anti-bacterial and boasts near-magical stretch recovery.
What people are saying: “I love this fabric and these patterns, and I’m so glad prAna brought them back!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-XL |
Color Options | Pink Sand Mosaic, Dark Iron, Dark Iron Mosaic |
Material | Organic cotton, hemp, elastane |
Pros
Figure-contouring shading
Breathable marl mesh dots for keeping cool
Made with a sustainable dyeing process
Cons
Some reviewers complained these weren't squat proof
Gym Shark’s leggings are made for more intense workouts, thanks to their seamless material that won’t rub your skin the wrong way. You’ll feel supported (yet weightless) with every side lunge and sumo squat.
What people are saying: “Favorite leggings...great compression, length, nice fabric, and love the seamless look.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-2XL |
Color Options | 16 options |
Material | Nylon, elastane |
Pros
5” overlapping waistband
No outer seams
Made in the USA
Cons
Some reviewers felt these were too tight
Beyond Yoga makes the absolute greatest leggings for those times you need support without restriction, like for a yoga class or light hike. It doesn’t hurt that their colorful matching sets will reel in the compliments as soon as you walk out the door.
What people are saying: “I’ve been searching for the perfect legging and these are it! I love the waistband, I feel so supported and tucked in without too much compression, and they are so so flattering. The material is high quality, soft and breathable. I’m obsessed!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-XL |
Color Options | 7 options |
Material | Polyester, elastane |
Pros
Shaping and lifting
Limitless color options
4.2 stars from over 89,000 reviews
Cons
Minimal compression
Not necessarily a subtle style
These leggings need no introduction, but if you’re living under a TikTok-less rock, know that these are the leggings for anyone looking to enhance their, ahem, assets.
What people are saying: “Y’all... TikTok made me buy these. You know how leggings just kinda go across your butt? They can look fine, form-fitting, cool, whatever....but THESE totally emphasize EACH INDIVIDUAL CHEEEEEK, making the bum look ON POINT. Just get them.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-4XL |
Color Options | 93 options |
Material | Polyester, spandex |
Pros
No-slip waistband
Hidden pocket for convenience
Brushed, buttery soft fabric
Cons
Less durable material than higher-end brands
Nordstrom shoppers are obsessed with Zella’s aptly named Live In leggings. With 4.5 stars from more than 7.3k reviews, rest assured that this perfect pair is one you’ll never want to take off.
What people are saying: “So soft and tight. They keep everything (mommy bulge) nice and smooth because of the high waist. The name says it all—you can totally live in them!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XXS-2XL |
Color Options | Green Sherbet, Blue Thistle, Burgundy Port, Grey Forged, Black |
Material | Polyester, Spandex |
Pros
Anti-microbial technology
Booty shaping ruching and contour stitching
Anti-camel toe (no front seams)
Cons
Not as opaque as some wearers had hoped
Another TikTok-worthy brand, users can’t stop buzzing about TLF. This particular style features contour lines that are created to lift and visually accentuate your derrière.
What people are saying: “These leggings are smooth, stretchy, and so soft! They are camel toe-free, and the butt scrunch is very flattering!! I love them!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-XL |
Color Options | Orange, Storm, Blue, Black |
Material | Polyamide, elastane |
Pros
Medium strength compression
Comes in plus sizes
Cons
30” inseam may run long on petite figures
Two words: Oprah’s favorite. Melt Fit leggings were on Oprah’s coveted Favorite Things list in 2021, so you can trust that these neutral, mid-compression leggings will suit any lifestyle.
What people are saying: “I’ve always loved Oprah’s Favorite Things list and I needed some leggings, so of course I had to try these Melt Fit ones. OMG!!! So glad I did! They are so comfortable yet so pretty you can wear them for different occasions!”
Key Specs
Size Range | S-3X |
Color Options | Burgundy, Black, Navy, Grey, Hunter |
Material | Polyester, Spandex |
Pros
4.4 star rating from over 25,000 reviews
Budget friendly
Available in packs of 2 or 3
Cons
Some reviewers noted these lost shape after a few washes
With more than 25,000 reviews (and counting), this is one of Amazon’s bestselling leggings. They’re often compared to pricier brands in terms of quality, but come at a fraction of the price—and are available with Prime shipping.
What people are saying: “These are my favorite and go-to item. I own several pairs!! I am 5’3” and these are just the right length, and the high waist is perfect. They also have an outside phone pocket which I often use. Recommend 100%.”
Key Specs
Size Range | XS-3X |
Color Options | 42 options |
Material | Polyester, Spandex |
Pros
Featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things list 2022
Inclusive size range
Recycled and recyclable through ReGirlfriend
Cons
Some reviews suggest sizing up
Consider this brand the Glossier of fitness gear: clean, simple, and Instagram-friendly. They’re also sustainable and size-inclusive, with this pair of leggings ranging from XXS to 6X.
What people are saying: “Was excited to try the pocket leggings and was not disappointed! First of all, great quality. LOVE the plum color, it’s the perfect shade. And the thickness is just right—I almost prefer them to the regular compressive leggings!”
Key Specs
Size Range | XXS-6XL |
Color Options | Plum, Midnight, Black, Moss, Earth |
Material | Recycled materials, Spandex |
Length | 23¾”, 28.5” |


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