:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/vwt-flare-leggings-test-lululemon-groove-super-high-rise-pant-nulu-jthompson-2530.jpg-e1293c31e14c487ea74bffc2c3fda59d.jpg)
Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
The best squat-proof leggings are completely opaque and breathable, keeping you covered and comfortable all day. When shopping, look for comfortable, supportive, moisture-wicking, and durable options that work well for leg day and handle frequent laundering. While many squat-proof leggings can be found in darker colors, some lighter options are also totally opaque.
To find the best squat-proof leggings, we first consulted fitness experts on what key features to look for when shopping for a high-quality pair. Then, we tested 100+ pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home, wearing them while performing squats, lunges, deadlifts, and more. We evaluated each pair for fit, performance, opacity, quality, and value. We also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this story for accuracy.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
lululemon Align High-Rise Pant with Pockets 31"
Lightweight and breathable
Super stretchy and comfy
Three convenient pockets
Underwear lines may show
May run small
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra | Sizes: 0-20 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They're For
Best for those who want a comfy, high-rise squat-proof legging for light to moderate exercise and daily wear.
Why We Love Them
lululemon's Align High Rise Pants with Pockets quickly nabbed our top spot thanks to their super soft, breathable feel and multiple convenient pockets. During testing, we appreciated how smooth, lightweight, and stretchy they felt, which allowed us to get them on and off easily. As we worked out, nothing moved, including the waistband, crotch, and ankles. They stayed in place during our bending and stretching, and we felt fully supported, even during more intense cardio workouts.
We tested one of the bright color options, and there was no sheering when we performed squats and moved around, so you can feel secure knowing nothing will show through. We appreciate that the color holds up beautifully and the pockets don't stretch out, even after multiple washes. We especially love the deep side pockets and the hidden waistband pocket, which gives us more storage than we need. We also like that they come in four lengths and a wide range of colors.
Potential Flaws
- While these leggings are not see-through, they're not thick enough to fully hide underwear lines.
- These leggings tend to run small, so consider sizing up.
Most Valuable Insight
"These leggings fit me perfectly. They're compressive but still comfortable, and I love the support they give me while working out." —Sarah Felbin, Verywell Fit product tester
PHOTO: VeryWell Fit / Sarah Felbin PHOTO: VeryWell Fit / Sarah Felbin PHOTO: VeryWell Fit / Sarah Felbin PHOTO: VeryWell Fit / Sarah Felbin PHOTO: VeryWell Fit / Sarah Felbin
Best Budget
Copyleaf Flare Yoga Pants
Flattering V-shaped waistband
Light, supportive compression
Thick and stretchy fabric
Underwear lines may show
May bunch in the crotch
Key Specs
Material: Polyester, spandex | Sizes: 0-22 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a budget-friendly boot-cut style legging for low-intensity activities and lounging.
Why We Love Them
Copyleaf's Flare Yoga Pants impressed us with their fit, many color options, and budget-friendly price. We like how well they stretch to conform to our body without feeling too compressive. We also love their V-shaped waist detailing and flared ankle, which looks very flattering. And they're thick enough not to see through them at all while performing squats, squat variations, lunges, and more.
We found them perfect for low-key activities, like wearing them around the house and for walks outside. We also love the drop-in pockets on both sides, which are a good size for comfortably holding our phone. They're made with four-way stretch material, so they easily move when we move. Their compression is just enough to feel supportive, especially around the waistband, and we love how comfortable they are to wear, whether we're working out or relaxing.
Potential Flaws
- While these leggings are made of thicker material and are completely opaque, they may show underwear lines.
- During test wears, we noticed that the crotch would sometimes bunch and occasionally need to be readjusted.
Most Valuable Insight
"My favorite things about these leggings are the super deep pockets and the waistband, which is flattering and supportive." —Zoey Lyttle, Verywell Fit product tester
The Copyleaf Flare Yogo Pants are made of a thick, stretchy nylon and spandex fabric that remains completely opaque, even while performing squats. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson These high-rise pants offer a comfortable, yet compressive feel, however, they do tend to show underwear lines. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples These pants feature an attractive crossover waistband that feels secure and won’t roll, even during more challenging yoga or pilates exercises. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson These pants feature a slight flare that feels comfortable and looks flattering, plus the fabric won’t show any sweat marks. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Best Seamless
Gymshark Seamless Leggings
Breathable mesh detailing
Ribbed waistband prevents shifting
Supportive compression
Ankles may roll up during high-intensity moves
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, elastane | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers with sensitive skin who want a seamless, breathable legging to minimize irritation.
Why We Love Them
Gymshark's Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings wowed us with their comfortable, smooth, seam-free fit, making for a flattering and sleek silhouette. We can move easily without feeling constricted when we wear these during our nightly workout routines, where we primarily focus on various leg exercises. Their material strikes a great balance between stretch and compression, and we loved how comfortable they felt when we ran errands, like getting our nails and hair done.
We also found that most of the compression in these leggings is around the ribbed waistband, so there's no shifting or slipping during movements. Plus, they feel supportive and breathable, thanks to mesh detailing throughout the waistband and leg. Because they’re seamless, they don’t dig into or irritate our skin, which we appreciate.
Potential Flaws
- While these leggings are completely secure around the waistband, they did roll up at the ankles during high-intensity workouts.
Most Valuable Insight
"These leggings are very opaque and pass the squat test without me seeing any skin or my undergarments. They also don't feel like they're ever at risk of ripping or thinning with any movement. I feel very comfortable wearing these at the gym without feeling exposed or like I have to limit my movements." —Chantia Murphy, Verywell Fit product tester
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples These leggings are stretchy, sweat-wicking, and durable. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson
Best Compression
lululemon Wunder Train High Rise Tight 25"
Fast drying
Available in four inseam lengths
Hidden drawstring keeps waistband in place
No side pockets
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra, polyester | Sizes: 0-20 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They're For
Best for those who prefer leggings with mid-level compression for moderate to intense exercise.
Why We Love Them
If you like the feel of solid compression during your workouts, you'll love lululemon's Wunder Train High Rise Tights. During testing, we were impressed with their compression level. They felt nice and snug, keeping us supported without squeezing us. We wore these leggings for strength training, including squats and deadlifts, as well as Pilates and barre workouts, and they stayed completely opaque regardless of the moves we performed.
Their fast-drying fabric wicked sweat away extremely well, so we never felt overheated. We especially like that they come in four inseam lengths, allowing them to work well for many individuals, including tall and petite wearers. We love that their hidden internal drawstring helps keep them firmly in place as we work out. Plus, being able to toss them in the dryer after washing makes them a cinch to take care of.
Potential Flaws
- These only have a small hidden waistband pocket, which may not be ideal for some.
Most Valuable Insight
"For a strength training legging, you expect full opacity, and that's what you get with these. They didn't sheer out during squats or deadlifts. They also wicked sweat away really well, so I didn't get overheated or feel sweaty and clammy during any of my workouts." —Ashleigh Morley, Verywell Fit product tester
Made from lululemon’s compressive Everlux fabric, these leggings are great for high-intensity workouts. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao While these leggings are designed for training, we found them comfortable enough for yoga and Pilates, too. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Although they're compressive, we can still easily move in this pair without feeling constricted. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best High Rise
lululemon Align High Rise Pant 25"
Soft and supportive
Sweat-wicking and breathable
Lighter colors are lined for added opacity
Only has a small waistband pocket
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra | Sizes: 0-20 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a buttery soft, high-rise squat-proof legging with mild compression for light to moderate activities.
Why We Love Them
lululemon's Align High Rise Pant provides great coverage, support, and comfort, plus has enough compression for light to moderate activities, including yoga. We wore these while strength training and on several 20-minute runs and we loved how well they held us in and supported us. We appreciate that their fabric is super stretchy and breathable but still holds its shape nicely. And the wide waistband stays put and doesn't dig in, even when we performed deeper squats.
We love that these leggings are made of lightweight, sweat-wicking material that keeps us dry and comfortable, no matter how intense our workouts are. We appreciate that their lighter color options are a bit thicker and lined for added opacity. They have a hidden waistband pocket for small items, and we like that they're available in four lengths and many color options, all of which are truly squat-proof.
Potential Flaws
- The only pocket on these leggings is a hidden waistband pocket, which may not provide enough storage for some.
Most Valuable Insight
"Their fabric is buttery soft, and these are definitely the coziest pair of leggings I own. They're stretchy, yet compressive enough for me to comfortably perform squats or go on a run." —Kayla Hui, Verywell Fit product tester
Best Contour Fit
lululemon Wunder Train Contour Fit High-Rise Tight
Mid-level compression
Roomier cut in hip and thighs
Hidden drawstring keeps waistband in place
No side pockets
Smaller size range
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra | Sizes: 0-14 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a flattering, curve-hugging squat-proof legging for moderate to intense exercise routines.
Why We Love Them
We love that lululemon's Wunder Train Contour Fit High Rise Leggings have a narrow waistband and a roomier cut through the hip and thigh that hugs your body for a comfortable, flattering fit. Their mid-level compression provides the support you need for cardio, HIIT, and strength training workouts—and they're opaque enough to be completely squat-proof.
When we wore these leggings, it was hot—over 90 degrees—but their breathable, sweat-wicking material kept us comfortable and dry. We love that they're stretchy enough to complete various workouts, but stay put, never sliding down or riding up. We also like that they come in three inseam lengths, and their hidden drawstring in the waistband keeps them cinched in. Overall, we found these leggings to be versatile and flattering.
Potential Flaws
- While these leggings have a small waistband pocket, we wish they had additional pockets so we could carry more.
- They aren't offered in as many sizes as some other options on our list.
Most Valuable Insight
"They fit really nicely in terms of width and around my legs. I especially like their contouring feeling. They never feel tight, and they don't move at all during my workouts." —Sabrina Rojas Weiss, Verywell Fit product tester
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Sabrina Weiss PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Sabrina Weiss PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Sabrina Weiss PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Sabrina Weiss
Super lightweight, soft fabric
Supportive waistband
Very durable
Only one inseam length
No side pockets
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra | Sizes: 0-20 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who prefer a more relaxed, flared squat-proof legging that can be worn for light to moderate exercise.
Why We Love Them
We recommend lululemon's Groove Super High Rise Flared Pants for anyone looking for extremely soft comfort with a flattering style. They fit and feel like a dream, thanks to their buttery soft fabric, which is so lightweight it's almost weightless. We like wearing these during long walks and yoga classes and love the flattering look of their flared leg.
These sweat-wicking, breathable leggings stayed perfectly in place throughout the day without needing any readjustment. Their high, wide waistband offers great support and doesn't roll or slip down. Plus, it also has a hidden pocket in the back to stash small items. We love how durable these leggings are. We've washed them frequently, and they've shown no sign of pilling, discoloration, or becoming misshapen.
Potential Flaws
- These leggings only come in one inseam length, so they may not be suitable for petite or very tall individuals.
- They don't have side pockets for larger items like a phone.
Most Valuable Insight
"These feel like a literal dream. Their fabric is soft, silky, and smooth and never makes me feel itchy or trapped. They're high-waisted and come up to a comfortable spot just above my belly button, which makes my lower tummy feel supported, and they don't roll down when I'm moving a lot. I never have to readjust these. They always stay perfectly situated on my body." —Abby Moore, Verywell Fit product tester
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Best Flared, Runner-Up
Athleta Elation Flare Pant
Rated UPF 50+ for solid sun protection
Comes in three inseam lengths
Breathable mesh-lined waistband
Only one pocket
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra | Sizes: XXS-3X | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a more budget-friendly flared squat-proof legging for light to moderate activities, lounging, or casual wear.
Why We Love Them
Athleta's Elation Flare Pants are a comparable alternative to lululemon's Groove Flare Pants at a more budget-friendly price point. They come in three inseam lengths, and we felt comfy wearing them for low-impact workouts like yoga, Pilates, light cardio, and strength training. We like that their super high waistband is breathable, mesh-lined, and features a back drop-in pocket large enough for a phone.
We love that their soft, supportive fabric is sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and rated UPF 50+, keeping us dry, comfortable, and protected when running errands or exercising outdoors. We also like how well they hold up to laundering. We noted no noticeable wear and tear during testing, like pilling, even after multiple wears and washes.
Potential Flaws
- While these leggings have one pocket that can hold a phone, we wouldn't mind a couple more for other small belongings.
Most Valuable Insight
"These leggings are super comfortable. The thick material feels supportive, looks flattering, and gives the coverage I want in a good pair of leggings. I didn't experience any thinning of the material after multiple wears and washes." —Dana Sorkin, Verywell Fit product tester
Unlike other pairs, these flare yoga pants don't feel baggy since they still offer compression. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples These leggings didn't show any signs of wear and tear, even after multiple washes and workouts. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson These leggings passed our squat test, remaining opaque both outside in the sun and in the gym. PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples
Most Size Inclusive
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi Legging
Thick, supportive waistband
Moderate compression
Two large hip pockets
No drawstring in waistband
Key Specs
Material: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: XXS-4X | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want leggings with an above-the-ankle cut and a moderately compressive fit.
Why We Love Them
Beyond Yoga's Spacedye Out of Pocket High Waisted Leggings have the broadest range of available sizes of any leggings on our list, which is why we love them. They're available in many color options, and their length is perfect, hitting just between our calves and ankles. We also like their fabric's four-way stretch and UV protection.
When we tested these leggings, we wore patterned underwear and found that nothing showed through, regardless of our activity. They fit true to size and were compressive enough to provide plenty of support during our workouts. Their thick waistband provides added support, and we appreciate the two hip pockets that make toting our phone and other small items easy.
Potential Flaws
- While we liked the fit, we wish there were a drawstring in the waistband to keep them perfectly in place.
Most Valuable Insight
"These leggings are phenomenal in terms of opacity. They're compressive enough to be supportive without feeling like a sausage casing, and they're 1000 percent opaque." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester
Best Lightweight
Athleta Transcend Stash Tight
Rated UPF 50+
Deep, secure side pockets
Completely hides underwear lines
Some seams fray easily
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, Lycra | Sizes: XXS-3X | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want very lightweight, quick-drying squat-proof leggings for low-impact activities.
Why We Love Them
For a super lightweight pair of leggings that easily move with you, we recommend Athleta's Transcend Stash High Rise Leggings. We love their silky soft fabric and found them so comfortable that we almost forgot we were wearing them. Even though the fabric feels barely there, it still provides full, opaque coverage, making these leggings lightweight but squat-proof. Thanks to their stretchiness, they moved amazingly well, and we comfortably wore them for yoga, meditation, running errands, and more.
We appreciate their deep, secure side pockets and that they come in three inseam lengths, working well for petite and tall wearers. Their fabric is sweat-wicking and quick-drying, keeping us dry and comfortable, even during more intense exercise and in warmer weather. They're also rated UPF 50+, a nice touch for anyone who prefers to exercise outdoors. And, despite how lightweight the fabric feels, underwear lines completely disappear.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, we noted some fraying on the leg and ankle seams. Because of this, it may be best to skip the dryer and air dry them instead.
Most Valuable Insight
"The material is extremely stretchy, with light compression. I was surprised by how much these leggings moved with me—I never ever had to stop and adjust them." —Sarah Felbin, Verywell Fit product tester
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin
Best for Yoga
Carbon38 High Rise Full-Length Legging
Fits like a second skin
Super stretchy and soft fabric
Smoothing effect
Underwear lines may be visible
No pockets
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, spandex | Sizes: XS-XL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, hang dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a lightly compressive, stretchy, and breathable squat-proof legging for yoga.
Why We Love Them
For a comfortable yoga flow, you need leggings that move with you. Carbon38's High Rise Melt Leggings are made of buttery soft fabric that fits like a second skin. Made for yoga and other low-impact activities, we felt comfortable and confident wearing them all day. They move freely with our body without pinching or binding, regardless of our yoga pose.
We especially love that they have a smoothing effect without being super compressive. They're also breathable and moisture-wicking enough to handle 60-minute heated yoga classes easily. And they're a breeze to put on, thanks to their soft, stretchy fabric.
Potential Flaws
- These leggings are completely opaque, but underwear lines may still be visible.
- These don't have any pockets, which may not be ideal for some.
Most Valuable Insight
"These are the most silky smooth leggings I've ever worn! They have a smoothing effect but aren't super compressive. They move so freely with my body, which is important during yoga classes." —Michelle Parente, CYT, Verywell Fit product tester
Most Flattering
Alo Yoga High Waist Leggings
Very durable
Completely hides underwear lines
Compressive and comfy
Only comes in one inseam length
Pricier than other options
Key Specs
Material: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: 00-14 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a sleek, highly compressive legging for moderate to high-intensity exercise.
Why We Love Them
Alo Yoga's High-Waist Airlift Leggings nabbed the spot for our most flattering pick, thanks to their subtle sheen and sleek style. We love that they're completely opaque and hide underwear lines incredibly well. They also feature high compression levels for a snug but flattering fit and a double-layered high waistband that smooths and supports, making them ideal for high-intensity workouts.
Even though they're compressive, we think they're comfortable enough for everyday wear. They stayed perfectly in place while we wore them, and we never had to readjust or pull them up. Their soft fabric is durable and easily withstood plenty of wearing and washing, a feature we look for in a truly high-quality pair of leggings.
Potential Flaws
- These leggings only come in one inseam length, so they may not be suitable for petite wearers.
- They're one of the pricier options on our list, but we think their quality exceeds their cost.
Most Valuable Insight
"These fit perfectly! They're the perfect balance of compressive and comfortable. Their fabric is stretchy, super supportive, and smoothing against my skin." —Michelle Parente, CYT, Verywell Fit product tester
Best for High-Intensity Workouts
Sweaty Betty Power 7/8 Workout Leggings
Zippered back pocket
Smooth, comfortable seams
Comfy and supportive
Side pocket not secure enough to hold phone
Key Specs
Material: Nylon, elastane | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They're For
Best for exercisers who want a legging with plenty of comfortable support for running and other high-intensity workouts.
Why We Love Them
If you like to do lots of high-intensity exercise, you need leggings that can keep up. Sweaty Betty's Power Leggings do just that. During testing, they felt comfortable enough to wear for hours, and we often wore them all day. We like that they make us feel held in and supported but not constrained, with plenty of compression and stretch for intense activity.
We wore these during workouts, around the house, on long walks, and even kayaking. They felt great during all our activities with no sheering or show-through at all. We loved that the seams felt very smooth and didn't cause any irritation or marks on our skin. There was also no waistband gaping in the back, which we've experienced with other leggings. We also appreciate the secure back zip pocket and the hidden drawstring in the waistband, which keeps everything in place.
Potential Flaws
- While we appreciate the back zip pocket in the waistband, the triangular-shaped side pocket isn't very deep and doesn't feel secure enough to hold our phone.
Most Valuable Insight
"I like the feel of their fabric and could wear these for hours. Plus, there wasn't any sheering or even that pre-sheering shininess that sometimes happens when the elastic material is stretched too much—these leggings are completely opaque." —Kate Geraghty, Verywell Fit product tester
Most Comfortable
Vuori Daily Leggings
Light, comfortable compression
Adjustable drawstring
Silky, soft fabric
Inseam may be too short for taller wearers
Key Specs
Material: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They're For
Best for wearers who want a super comfy, opaque legging for lounging and working out.
Why We Love Them
Vuori's Daily Leggings are the pair you'll want to live in, whether relaxing or working out. While these are perfect for running errands, walking the dog, or lounging around, we also found that they work just as well in the gym. They’re completely opaque and squat-proof—with no signs of sheering or underwear lines at all. We also love the cuffed ankle look, which is super flattering and doesn't roll or bunch up.
One of our favorite features, the drawstring waistband, allows you to completely customize the fit. During test wears, we found that this helped prevent the waistband from slipping or rolling down as we ran or rode our exercise bike. Plus, the moisture-wicking, silky-soft fabric offers a barely-there feel. We found them so soft and dreamy that wearing them was almost like wearing nothing at all.
Potential Flaws
- The inseam on these leggings may be too short for taller wearers.
Most Valuable Insight
"I love these! They're absolutely the unicorn of leggings! The fit is great, and they're so soft and dreamy. The waist hits above the belly button and doesn't roll down. I would wear them all day, every day, in every color." —Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/vwt-athleta-leggings-test-vuori-daily-donna-freydkin-01-7a2bb96191e846128585fab6a3f59af6.jpeg)
Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin
Squat-Proof Leggings We Also Tested
We tested over 100 pairs of squat-proof leggings, but only 14 impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some of these leggings' features, they ultimately didn't meet our rigorous standards.
- Gymshark's GS Power Original Leggings are high-rise, supportive, and feature ruching detailing on the backside, which we thought was flattering. But while we found them to be squat-proof and opaque, these leggings didn't stay put during workouts, making them uncomfortable.
What We've Updated
- Since publishing our initial tested roundup of the best squat-proof leggings, we've re-evaluated our previous picks and hands-on tested the newest iterations of leggings from trusted brands. Through our testing, we've evaluated each pair for fit, opacity, performance, quality, and value and included these new insights in our article.
- Based on our testing insights, we've reworked most of our superlatives and product picks, including Best Overall, Best Budget, Best Compression, and more.
- We consulted an additional expert, a dermatologist, to better understand fabric safety and ensure that all of the information in our roundup is up to date.
What to Look for When Shopping for Squat-Proof Leggings
- Material: Material or fabric blends can greatly impact opacity. Common fabric blends in opaque leggings may include elastane, Lycra, nylon, and spandex. In general, when shopping for squat-proof leggings, look for a thick, compressive fabric that still feels soft and breathable, says certified personal trainer Claudette Sariya, NASM-CPT.
- Fit: Leggings come in various fits, and choosing the right one for you is up to personal preference and what types of activities you’ll be doing. Rise, length, and compression are important factors when choosing a pair of leggings. For high-impact workouts, you may want a high-rise waistband and a more compressive fit, whereas for lounging, a mid- or low-rise with a less compressive fit may be more comfortable. As for length, capri leggings may be a great choice for warmer months and petite wearers, while 7/8-length or full-length may be best for cold weather workouts and taller wearers, says Sariya.
- Durability: Squat-proof leggings should be flexible enough to move with you yet durable enough to withstand any type of workout. Material blends that include stretch fabrics, like nylon or Lycra, are a great option because they will move with your body while still holding up to the wear and tear that comes with exercise and daily wear.
- Design: Legging brands may include design elements to make leggings more functional or comfortable for the wearer. Pockets are a great example of this, says Sariya. Leggings with pockets allow you to take your keys, phone, or a post-workout snack on the go, adding convenience to your workout. Other features may include breathable mesh detailing, a non-slip waistband, key ring clips, and a comfy, seamless design for those with more sensitive skin.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/leggingsWTLF-391730de4ecd453180aac057a8d548e0.png)
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
How We Tested the Squat-Proof Leggings
To find the best squat-proof leggings, we tested over 100 options in our Lab and at home, wearing them while we performed squats, ran, practiced yoga, and more. When testing squat-proof leggings, we evaluate each pair based on the following key criteria.
- Fit: The first time we try on each pair of leggings, we note whether they fit true to size or feel too tight or loose. We ask things like: Does the waistband fit as described? Is it too tight or gaping? Do the leggings go on smoothly, or are they difficult to get into? Is there any bunching or pinching anywhere? We prioritize leggings that fit comfortably without the need for readjusting.
- Opacity: To gauge opacity, we stand in front of a mirror while squatting and bending down to ensure the fabric isn't sheering or thinning. We also note if opacity changes in different settings, like outside or in a workout studio. After wearing and washing each pair of leggings several times, we note whether the fabric is thinning or the opacity has changed. We prioritize leggings that remain completely opaque regardless of setting, lighting, and how many times we launder them.
- Performance: To test performance, we note whether the leggings feel suitably compressive for the activity they're designed for, whether we feel supported the whole time we're wearing them, and whether the support fades over time. We also evaluate how well the leggings wick moisture and control our temperature.
- Quality: To evaluate the quality of each pair of leggings, we first note how the fabric feels against our skin. Is it itchy and irritating, or soft and smooth? We also note how well the material holds up over time. Do we see any signs of wear and tear? Does washing alter the shape or opacity? Are the seams fraying, and do the leggings hold on to odor? We only choose leggings that feature high-quality materials and construction and are made to last.
- Value: To determine the value of each pair of squat-proof leggings, we wait to look at the price until we evaluate all other key criteria. Then, we determine if the leggings are worth their price. We only include leggings we would buy or recommend to a friend or family member.
Our Experts
We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts helped us better understand what key features to look for when shopping for a high-quality pair of squat-proof leggings. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our choices.
- Mariashi Bennett, NASM-CPT, certified personal trainer, weightlifter, and founder of The Posture Person
- Claudette Sariya, NASM-CPT, certified personal trainer and holistic health coach based in New York City
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if leggings are squat-proof?
The best way to test if your leggings are squat-proof is to gently stretch the fabric with your hands or try them on and squat down to see if they become transparent or sheer. It's also a good idea to look at them in different settings, including indoors and outdoors, to see if the fabric remains opaque.
When should you wear squat-proof leggings?
Bennett says that in addition to squatting, squat-proof leggings are good for any exercises where the hips are in motion, like deadlifts, lunges, and using the Stairmaster. They may also provide good coverage and keep you comfortable during your daily routine and outdoor workouts.
What materials make leggings squat-proof?
Material blends with nylon, spandex, and Lycra are best for opacity, moisture-wicking, and stretch. Thicker cotton blends may also work well, although they won't be as moisture-wicking as performance fabrics.
Do squat-proof leggings cost more than other leggings?
Squat-proof leggings don't necessarily cost more than other leggings. Like all leggings, their price can be impacted by fabric blends, features, and more.
Do squat-proof leggings contain BPA?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing blends of polyester and spandex. Zeichner says it's best to limit how much time you spend in activewear and to change post-workout. Keep in mind that the science of BPA's transdermal absorption is still not settled, and none of the products on this list have been recalled or deemed unsafe for use.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
April Benshosan is a Verywell Fit writer and experienced weightlifter. She's tested countless activewear pieces from various brands, so she knows what makes a high-quality product. She lives in leggings year-round and personally recommends many of the brands on this list. Her work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.
Additional reporting contributed by Jennifer Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP
Jennifer Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is an ACSM-certified exercise physiologist and Verywell Fit health and fitness writer. She has been in the fitness industry for over 25 years and has used and tested everything from fitness equipment and accessories to shoes and activewear. She works and exercises in leggings daily and knows what to look for in a good pair.
For this article, the authors looked over our testing insights from our lab to choose our top picks.