Black gym leggings are the 'squat-proof essential' in every winter wardrobe - here are our favourites

You can't go wrong with a pair of the best black gym leggings, whatever the season. They go with everything, making them an easy choice for early morning exercise, and they're suitable for most workouts given their unique ability to hide sweat and help you look great.

Over the years as woman&home's digital health editor, I must have worn close to a hundred pairs of the best workout leggings. I exercise at least three days a week, whatever the weather, so I can confirm these are great choices for whatever you have planned. I've also asked other members of the team for their tried and tested favourites, covering all types of workouts from running and hiking to yoga and Pilates.

Each pair of leggings tried and tested by the woman&home team and included in this round-up meets three essential criteria: durable (the colour doesn't fade after just a few washes), squat-proof (the material isn't see-through when you move in it), and comfortable (the fit and material of the leggings make them enjoyable to wear). Only the best workout leggings that met this criteria over several weeks of wear have been included in the list, so you can be assured that your pick of the bunch is truly the very best.

The quick list

Best black gym leggings, tried and tested by us

Best black gym leggings overall

A pair of black gym leggings that ticks all the boxes? It's got to be the Uniqlo Ultra Stretch AIRism Leggings (With Pockets). These full-length leggings have a mid-high waist for good support, three pockets, and a seam-free construction at the front for comfort.

I've worn these leggings on a hike paired with my favourite walking shoes, on a 5km run, and through several gym workouts and can confidently say they work for every one of these exercises. The waistband isn't so high that I felt too compressed but supportive enough to stay up while running, despite not having a drawstring waistband like the Sweaty Betty Power leggings. With three pockets, I didn't have to worry about where to put my phone and I could easily access it to take pictures on my hike and change the music in the gym.

I'm slightly taller than average, so I was pleasantly surprised to see these leggings came down to just above my ankle, making them full length. For winter workouts outdoors, these are a must.

My only gripe was that the material isn't particuarly sweat-wicking, unlike the Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 leggings, for instance. So, during my sweatier gym workouts, I saw the damp patches around my waistband. However, the black colour hid these well - I had to really look to see them - and the sweatier they got, the more like a second skin they felt so they stayed comfortable during my sessions.

When it comes to the best gym leggings with pockets, there's no pair quite like the Nike Go Women's Leggings. What I love most about these are the six useful pockets, each made in a different style (zip closures, folding fabric, tight elastane openings) and all strategically stored within the legs and waistband of the leggings. When I'm at the gym, these are among my favourites as I can store my phone and locker key safely - I've even managed to get a pair of lifting straps in the side pockets.

However, in their own right, these are excellent black gym leggings. Often, at the end of a sweaty workout, my other gym leggings with pockets will leave a residue on my phone. Only natural, considering the screen is either pressed against the legging material close to my thigh or the outside of the legging. That's not the case here though. I've always found the material to be thick enough to keep sweat residue away from whatever I've stored in there. However, the material still feels soft yet supportive, with moisture-wicking properties that prevent overheating.

A high waistband and drawstring cord fit into the design for additional support around the middle, making these a great option for outdoor runs, hikes, and walks as well.

While I have no doubt these will stand the test of time in the years to come, with their squat-proof design, the price of the Nike Go Women's Leggings with Pockets must be considered at £99.99. They are also only available in one black colourway, although other dark shades are an option on the Nike website.

The best black gym leggings for cardio

Though the Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings have just the one pocket on the leg and one in the waistband, they are my pick of the best black gym leggings for cardio enthusiasts. The back pocket is zipped, so it's more secure than others, and just the right size to hold keys and a credit card securely, there's a secure cord for tightening the waistband, and they wick away sweat very easily.

These also come in multiple black colourways so there's plenty of choice. My favourite is the black camoflage (pictured).

I've had my Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings in black for over two years and work out in them at least once a week - and I'm yet to see any sign of colour fading. The polyamide elastane fabric is durable while still feeling soft and lightweight. When Sweaty, much like our top pick of best black gym leggings, they develop a second skin-like feel that means they hold to the body comfortably.

They are not as high-waisted as others on this list, but they do come up to the belly button, offering enough support for running, walking, gym workouts, and any kind of exercise whee you're jumping up and down, and need your leggings to go with you - but there's also a drawstring in the waistband, should you need a little extra reassurance.

One thing to be aware of with the Sweaty Betty Power Gym leggings is the seam construction on the front of the leggings, which can give you a bit of a camel toe if you pull them up too high. You've been warned.

Read our full Sweaty Betty Power Gym Leggings review here.

The best black gym leggings for yoga

Lululemon is one of the biggest names in the fitness industry for a reason. There are three main collections, but Align is the best for yoga, Pilates, barre, and other low-impact workouts.

The materials and four-way stretch are the highlights, offering a weightless and buttery-soft feel against the skin, so soft and comfortable, I sometimes forget I'm wearing anything at all. They also have a higher waist compared to the Sweaty Betty Power leggings and come without a drawstring, so there's less compression against the stomach, making them a good option for lower-impact workouts.

The Align High-Rise 28" Leggings are also a favourite of Kerrie Hughes, woman&home's digital editor. "These are my go-to everyday leggings. I wear these everywhere, from rowing and CrossFit workouts to casual Sunday mornings. They're so comfortable, and the quality means I never have to worry about them being see-through," she says. And while these leggings sit towards the upper end of the price spectrum, you can often find alternative Align darker colourways in the Lululemon sale.

However, these suffer from the same problem as the Power leggings: they have a front seam. They also highlight the difference between yoga leggings and running leggings. As they don't have a drawstring waistband and the super soft, lightweight feel means they are more prone to slipping down than other black gym leggings, it's best to opt for the Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 or Uniqlo Ultra Stretch AIRism leggings instead.

The best high waisted black gym leggings

With a waistband that sits slightly higher than many, the Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 leggings are a top pick if you're looking for more support above the waist. I have two pairs of the black Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings and they're in my regular rotation for workouts, simply because they're so easy and practical to slip on, they don't bunch up, and they feel so lightweight I barely notice they're there.

For Tamara Kelly, woman&home's digital lifestyle editor, they're a winner for similar reasons. "They are a tight fit but with that, they offer a shaping element that makes you feel sculpted, which is a valuable asset when you feel somewhat exposed during exercise. The fabric is thick enough to hold you in and feel supported but lightweight enough to feel comfortable and not cause you to overheat."

When it comes to the best black gym leggings, these Gymshark leggings lack the variety of black colourways offered by brands like Sweaty Betty. Given the five different shades of green in this legging style, I'd love to see more variations on the black colourway in the future. However, as Tamara says, if you know how to wash gym clothes, these leggings will last a long time. "After a year of washing my leggings every week, the colour has stayed and they are still as good as new."

The most comfortable black gym leggings

Comfort is key when it comes to working out, whatever your activity. Rich in colour and super soft in material, these H&M SoftMove Seamless Sports Tights are one of the best Lululemon alternatives around - and possibly the most comfortable leggings I've ever owned.

While I wouldn't wear these for high-intensity activities like running, spinning, or HIIT workouts as they tend to collect sweat marks, they are perfect for gym workouts like strength training, yoga for beginners, and a full-body Pilates workout. The high, wide waistband offers good support and the length stretches to the ankle, even if you're a little taller than average (like me). They are also lightweight and breathable, and they sit on the lower end of the price spectrum compared to other popular leggings from Sweaty Betty and Lululemon, making them a great buy for those on a budget.

I'm normally a size large in leggings and didn't find the need to size up in the H&M SoftMove Seamless Sports Tights. However, reviews from other verified buyers have noted this as a common problem, so it's worth checking out the size guide before buying.

Best budget friendly gym leggings

The M&S Go Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings are a great pair of black workout leggings if you're looking for a pair under £30 - and our top pick isn't for you. At 7/8 length, these are particularly suitable for anyone 5 foot 6 inches and under, and anyone looking for a shorter style for whatever reason. Otherwise, they are more or less the same as full-length gym leggings.

I've had my M&S Go Move 7/8 leggings for several months, although I wore them more during the warmer spring and summer months. They work for the gym best, I believe, whether that's Pilates every day or spinning a couple of times a week. The have a high-waisted fit reaches just above the belly button and a drawstring waistband adds support during cardio workouts, which I love. Although, the back pocket has a zip that I found digs slightly into the lower back when lying down on a mat if not positioned correctly, so it's perhaps not the best pair for yoga mat workouts.

I've found them to be quick-drying and they wick away moisture just as well as some of the more premium options. They're also very breathable, so I don't feel myself overheating during sweaty workouts, which is a bonus.

It's worth noting, however, that the M&S Go Move High Waisted 7/8 Gym Leggings do come up a little small. When buying leggings with a shorter leg, this is definitely something to be aware of - otherwise you could end up with capris. I noticed it with my pair, needing to size up from my regular 12 to a 14, and other verified buyers have said the same thing.

The best black gym leggings for sculpting

While all the best black gym leggings are going to have an effect that makes you look slimmer and taller, as darker colours draw attention away from the body and to the head, hands, and feet, the block panelling on these TruePurpose Optime Training 7/8 Leggings work to sculpt the thighs, hips, and glutes. So, if you're looking to create a sculpted silhouette with your pick of the best black gym leggings, these are the best choice.

Above all else though, the TruePurpose Optime Training 7/8 Leggings made it onto my list as they are some of the most comfortable gym leggings I've ever worn. They have a four-way stretch and seamless design that has a second-skin-like feel when the leggings get sweaty, meaning they get more comfortable as you get uncomfortable. The high waistband is secure and supportive, with full coverage up to the base of the ribs, and small vents in the legs mean I never overheat.

Like other leggings on the list, the Adidas by Stella McCartney range is produced with 100% recycled materials, making them a great option for those looking to be more sustainable in their activewear choices.

Best black gym leggings on Amazon

While not available with Prime Delivery, the CRZ YOGA Women's Workout Leggings are for sale on Amazon almost exclusively. As well as a standard black colourway, much like lululemon and Sweaty Betty, CRZ YOGA offers unique black designs like tie-dye, marble, camouflage, and various shades of black in these leggings. So whether you want something to stand out in class or blend in, there's an option for you.

"I never thought I would say this about a brand from Amazon, but I love my CRZ Yoga leggings almost as much as my Lulus," says w&h Acting Digital Editor Kerrie Hughes. "They are unbelievably soft, comfortable and supportive. The black pair I own pass the squat test, but I would always opt for the quality of my Lulus on squat day, just to be on the safe side."

With sizes available between 6 and 16, there isn't a huge range of options available. There are also no longer or shorter length options. However, these leggings are just over £23 and one of the best lululemon alternatives you can buy, so they're a good option. CRZ Yoga Butterluxe leggings also come in a variety of colours, if you want to add a pop of colour to your workout wardrobe.

In testing

How I tested the best black gym leggings

• Durability: Each of the leggings listed in this guide was worn over several weeks, with several washes between wears, which is how we know the rich black colour of these leggings doesn't fade quickly. Some pairs, like the Sweaty Betty Power leggings and Gymshark Vital Seamles 2.0 leggings have a colour wash that's stood up to many years of wear and washes.
• Squat-proof: You want to feel secure and covered in any pair of gym leggings you own, given that they are tighter to the body than regular trousers. I wore each pair of these leggings to the gym, squatting and deadlifting without an issue. I've also worn them on several longer-distance runs and stand by the squat-proof, sweat-proof status I've given them.
• Comfort: Whether you're wearing your black gym leggings during a workout or on a recovery day, you want them to be supportive, while also being comfortable over at least two hours. I wore each pair of leggings for several hours at a time in different scenarios, from HIIT workouts to Sunday recovery brunches, to make sure the waistbands were comfortable, the seams scratchless, and the stretch was as good as the brand suggested.
• Availability: Every body is different, so it makes sense for brands to produce leggings in various sizes - including tall and petite ranges, with various leg lengths. When choosing my pick of the best black gym leggings, I ensured each had alternative options for different sizes where possible. Naturally, some leggings on the cheaper end of the price spectrum only offer one size.
• Materials: I also assessed the materials of each pair of leggings. Were they sustainably produced with at least 30% recycled materials? Were they a little more polyester than elastane or not? In each case, I highlighted the makeup of the materials and what this means for comfort, stretch, and coverage.
• Moisture-wicking: Needless to say, you'll be sweating in these leggings if you wear them to the gym. So, each pair needs to be lightweight where possible and made from breathable materials. I've also highlighted additional features that add to the moisture-wicking designs when I've spotted them.
• Supporting features: These are 'nice to have' features, like drawstring waistbands (for additional support during high-energy cardio workouts) and pockets. Where I spotted them in my collection of the best black gym leggings, I noted them down.

How to find the best black gym leggings for you 

• Size: If your fit is outside of standard, regular sizing, you may find you need alternative options. For example, I find the Nike Go leggings to be the perfect full-length option but for those who shop petite sizes, Sweaty Betty or M&S Go Move may be better since the black leggings come in 7/8 lengths too, which are suitable for those 5'4" or under.
• Brand: When considering which black gym leggings to buy, it's a good idea to think not just about the style but also the brand you're buying from. Consider Sweaty Betty vs Lululemon before making a purchase, for example, and don't just presume that because one brand is more popular than another, it will have the right pair of leggings for you.
• Seams: Do seams on leggings tend to make you itch and scratch? The material and construction of the leggings you choose should be considered. Where possible, try on the pair you're planning to buy before purchasing to make sure they are comfortable for you - otherwise, make sure the brand has a good returns policy.
• Activity: It's important to consider the activity you'll be doing in your leggings. If you're a treadmill enthusiast, you'll likely prefer the Nike Go leggings over the lululemon Align, as they are made with more cardio-safe materials and have a drawstring waistband to prevent slipping. The Align collection is better suited to those doing strength training, yoga, and Pilates.

What's the benefit of black gym leggings?

Black gym leggings won't show sweat marks as easily as lighter-coloured options, making them a fail-safe option for sweaty workouts and grab-and-go gym bag packing. This means they also tend to last longer per buy than others, since you can't see the wear and stain marks that tend to cling to gym leggings all of kinds, given their elastane and polyester-heavy materials.

You'll find that you'll be more likely to wear black gym leggings outside of exercise too, more so than lighter-coloured options or pastel colourways, as they blend into the background and offer a flattering fit.

What can I wear black gym leggings with?

The great thing about black gym leggings is that they go with almost anything, from your brightest pick of the best high-impact sports bras and t-shirts to low-key jackets and sweatshirts.

They make for a great base for any outfit, allowing you to accessorise with brighter shades when you want to.