The 8 Absolute Best Black Leggings, No Matter What You're Looking For
If there's one article of clothing that can cure the nothing-to-wear conundrum, it's a pair of black leggings. Basic leggings are versatile, super comfy, and go with pretty much everything. Wear them while lounging, to the gym, or as a layering piece under a dress or skirt. Or throw them on when experimenting with different style aesthetics; they blend seamlessly with the balletcore fashion aesthetic, indie sleaze, and everything in between. There are virtually no rules when it comes to pulling off a good pair of black leggings.
With that said, leggings can also be one of the trickiest items to buy. Compression level, sizing, material, length — there are a lot of factors to decide between and even more brands to choose from. In general, comfort should be your top priority when purchasing black leggings, especially if you want to rely on them for everyday wear. Thankfully, you don't have to visit dozens of dressing rooms in search of your perfect pair. We rounded up the best, comfiest black leggings for a variety of needs. The hardest part? Waiting for them to be delivered to your door.
How we selected the best black leggings
To decide which black leggings are most worthy of your hard-earned money — and wardrobe space — we first eliminated any bottoms that might not actually be considered leggings. By our definition, leggings are stretchy styles that hug the body from the hips to the ankles (sorry, flared leggings, but you're not invited to this one).
Then, we dug into the research, looking at the top legging and athleisure brands on the market. We checked buyer reviewers, press coverage, and any awards or honors given to the black leggings (the first product we chose earned a spot on Oprah's "Favorite Things" list in 2022, for example). We also looked at sizing options, selecting size-inclusive pairs when possible.
Finally, we compared prices, tossing out any luxury-brand black leggings that might break the bank. Leggings are a closet essential, so accessible prices are a must. Still, you may find some of our picks are on the pricey side, depending on your budget, so we made sure to throw in some affordable options, too.
Best Overall Black Leggings: Girlfriend Collective Black Compressive Pocket Legging
An all-around winner, Girlfriend Collective's Black Compressive Pocket Legging is designed to support you during high-intensity workouts, yet it works just as well for running errands or meeting friends as well. The style contains two deep side pockets and one small one in the back (bye-bye, bag!) while still hugging the body with its compressive fabric. Girlfriend Collective also offers a range of sizes from XXS to 6XL to fit almost every figure. And, the cherry on top, these leggings are made from 79% recycled plastic bottles, making them a sustainable choice. No wonder they got Oprah's seal of approval and have earned stellar reviews online.
Purchase Black Compressive Pocket Leggings at Girlfriend Collective for $88.
Best Budget Black Leggings: Amazon Essentials Women's Legging
Anyone who's fallen into a late-night Amazon rabbit hole knows that, beyond the kitchen appliances and electronics, the mega e-tailer offers some solid fashion finds. The best part: Many are way more affordable than what you'd find elsewhere. Amazon's black leggings are no different. These bottoms are your go-to if you want a pair of black leggings for each day of the week — without maxing out your credit card. One reviewer said it best: "These are one of the best pants I have ever bought and a great price to top it off."
Purchase Amazon Essentials Women's Leggings at Amazon for $15.12 – $18.90.
Best Workout-Friendly Black Leggings: Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant
Whether you're a yoga girlie or an avid runner, Lululemon's Align High-Rise Pant is a must. These leggings are flexible (thanks to their four-way stretch), lightweight, and sweat-wicking, so you can stay on your game while working out. The high waist and ankle-grazing length also means you're fully covered even during downward-facing dog. Choose between four different lengths and 11 different sizes for your perfect fit. Be aware, however, that some reviewers suggest sizing down if you want a snug feel. Apart from their over 7,700 five-star reviews, USA Today's product review site Reviewed published an entire article on these cult-classic leggings, writing, "They're worth every cent."
Purchase Align High-Rise Pants at Lululemon for $98 – $118.
Best Cropped Black Leggings: Alo Yoga High-Waist Airlift Capri
Sometimes, you just feel like showing a little leg, even when donning black leggings. If calf-bearing, slim-fit capris are your thing, Alo Yoga has you covered. The brand's High-Waist Airlift Capri offers the same sleek and supportive fabric you'll find in its other Airlift leggings, just with a shorter cut. The product's breathability makes it ideal for exercise, though don't be surprised if you find yourself wearing it outside the gym, too. Reviewers have named these leggings "the perfect capris" and their "new favorite leggings." Keep in mind that you can't customize inseam length, so for petite women, these capris may hit lower on the calf.
Purchase High-Waist Airlift Capris at Alo Yoga for $118.
Best Black Winter Leggings: Baleaf Women's Fleece Lined Leggings
Can't part with your black leggings come winter? We get it, which is why we found the best cold-weather black leggings to keep you warm when the mercury drops. Our pick: Baleaf's Women's Fleece Lined Leggings. The fleece interior keeps heat in, and the water-resistant fabric (be sure to choose this option before checking out) keeps rain and other moisture out. These leggings have become a bestseller on Amazon and have won over thousands of buyers, with an average rating of 4.4 stars.
Purchase Baleaf Women's Fleece Lined Leggings on Amazon for $33.99.
Best Black Jeggings: Amazon Essentials Women's Pull-On Knit Jegging
Despite what you may have heard, skinny jeans aren't dead, and there's nothing wrong with sporting tight-fitting denim. To get the skinny jean look with the stretchy feel of a legging, try a basic black jegging. Amazon Essentials (coming in clutch a second time) offers the perfect jegging for casual days and at a reasonable price. We also love the product's range of size options. "These are some of the most comfortable pants/jeans/jeggings I've ever found, and that includes some of the high-end designer brands costing as much as $150," wrote one shopper.
Purchase Women's Pull-On Knit Jeggings on Amazon for $21.50 – $22.87.
Best Leather-Finish Black Leggings: Commando Faux Leather Leggings
Glossy leggings are one of the easiest ways to elevate any look, and when compared to other legging styles, they can still be just as comfy and contouring. Commando's Faux Leather Leggings are the perfect choice when you want some shine without sacrificing stretch. Besides being a favorite among fashion influencers, celebs have also rocked the leggings (Laverne Cox even wore hers on the 2023 Grammys red carpet). Online reviewers praise the leggings' fit and high-quality fabric in particular.
Purchase Faux Leather Leggings at Commando for $118.
Best Black Maternity Leggings: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Love the Bump Midi Maternity Legging
Black leggings are a staple for many pregnant parents-to-be who need clothing with some extra stretch and comfort. However, not all leggings are created equal. After the first trimester, skip regular (non-maternity) leggings and opt for Beyond Yoga's Spacedye Love the Bump Midi Maternity Legging instead. These leggings might become your pregnancy BFF, with their stretch and support designed to fit as your belly grows. They're also moisture-wicking during workouts or pregnancy hot flashes and soft enough to lounge around in. With an average rating of 4.6 stars on the brand's website, these leggings are buyer — and bump — approved.
Purchase Spacedye Love the Bump Midi Maternity Leggings at Beyond Yoga for $108.