The Best High Waisted Leggings to Add to Your Wardrobe

Words by Talia Hopkinson

Low rise might be currently trending but at the gym, we’re clinging on to high-waisted leggings.

From hidden side pockets, seamless fabric and contoured fit, high-waisted leggings have come a long way in recent years. So much so, fitness brands are desperately trying to keep up with the demand by releasing new lines and consistently selling out of their bestsellers. - Even purchasing popular leggings can feel like a race.

But why are they SO popular? High-waisted leggings are a great option for workouts as they are made of a flexible material, they keep you tucked in and…they look great paired with workout tops!

To save you the hassle of scouring the internet for the best leggings only to have them arrive and hate the fit, here are the best high-waisted leggings that have consistently proven their worth in the competition.

High Waisted Gym/Training Leggings

Due to the overwhelming amount of gym leggings, it can be difficult to decipher just which ones are worth the investment. That is where we come in.

When purchasing gym leggings, you want to look out for flexibility, durability and a thick material. (Squats and sheer leggings? No thank you.)

We have curated a list of our bestselling high-waisted gym leggings with that exact brief in mind.

Girlfriend Collective Compressive High Waisted Legging

Congratulations, you just found your new favourite pair of black high-waisted gym leggings!

Don’t be turned off by the tight fit at first, over time The Girlfriend Collective Compressive leggings will conform to your body creating a totally flattering fit.

Despite being made from, in part, 25 recycled water bottles, you’ll be impressed by the soft, stretchy feel. The best part, though? The extensive range of colours. Seriously, we wouldn’t blame you, if you too, needed these in every colour.

Varley Always High Legging 25

Never worry about these leggings bunching up or rolling down as these leggings live up to their “always high” name.

These sleek leggings provide an unbelievable level of comfort combined with a practical level of functionality. The high-rise waistband snatches in at your waist for a tight fit but the moisture-wicking material and the 4-way stretch allows for maximum movement. Bag yourself a pair in this gorgeous blue colour or stick to your trusted basics with black or grey.

Nike One Leggings

Girls, this pair of leggings has a totally hidden pocket…in the waistband.

Say goodbye to strange outlines and purchase a pair of leggings where you can hold your keys in the most hidden place possible.

If that hasn't sold you already, you should know that these Nike high-rise leggings are made from Nike’s Dri-FIT technology that wicks away moisture and keeps you cool throughout your training session. Choose from classic black or opt for a bolder approach with industrial or diffused blue.

YMO Full Circle Seamless Leggings

These YMO Full Circle Seamless leggings will become your go-to pair for any workouts that require flexibility.

The compressive fit, ribbed waistband and adorable cutout details creates a pair of leggings that will keep you feeling secure and confident all day long. Once you have experienced these leggings once, you’ll want them in every colour.

Dri-FIT One High Waisted Printed Tights

Stand out from the crowd with these Nike high-waisted leggings.

Nike uses their expert Dri-FIT technology to create a pair of sweat-wicking printed leggings that are completely opaque. These leggings also have a contoured waistband for a complimentary fit and two hidden pockets. Also, we just can’t get over the fun print!

High Waisted Running Leggings

Streamline your next run with a quality pair of high-waisted leggings. High-waisted leggings are perfect to protect you from the early morning breeze or keep you warm during cooler weather. The pockets on running leggings also offer a convenient place to keep your phone on you.

Keep scrolling for the best high-waisted leggings for running.

Lilybod Becca Legging

Hit the track feeling your best in these Lilybod high-waisted running leggings.

These leggings are designed with cardio and stretching in mind. The 4-way stretch and extra high-rise effect ensures that the leggings are perfectly sculpted to your waist and never bunch up or roll. The side pocket is also the perfect convenience addition. It goes without saying that the moody Indigo colour and camo design is super cute too.

Lilybod Gemma-XR Legging

Unleash your full potential on the track with the Lilybod Gemma-XR Leggings.

These high-waisted black leggings have the most gorgeous colour blocking design. Accompanied with a hidden pocket and made from sweat-wicking material, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without these leggings in your life.

Nike Pro Leggings

Chic, classy and timeless? We’ll take all three.

These high-waisted Nike Pro leggings never seem to falter in popularity. Moreover, these leggings are ideal for long distance running as the combination of Dri-Fit technology and mesh material promotes ventilation.

The simple design (that goes with basically anything) will also help to seamlessly transition you from the track to your errands for the rest of the day.

High Waisted Yoga Leggings

Become the “that girl” you’ve always dreamed of being by purchasing a pair of high-waisted yoga leggings and booking your early morning yoga class.

Seriously though, yoga has incredible mental and physical benefits and having a pair of flexible, opaque and comfortable leggings will encourage you to keep showing up to that class and reaping the rewards.

Alo Yoga 7/8 High Waisted Airlift Legging

Purchase Alo Yoga’s best selling leggings before they’re all gone.

These high-waisted yoga leggings are perfectly versatile and made from a buttery smooth, moisture-wicking fabric. You’ll be able to fully immerse yourself into your yoga class feeling confident and secure. Plus, with the range of colours to choose from, you really can’t go wrong.

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging

Flexible leggings that hug you in all the right places? We’re in.

These beyond yoga leggings had a soft moisture-wicking material that is designed to move with you. There are also no outer seams to cause irritation during your yoga session and they come in a flattering midi length and a list of vibrant colours to choose from.

BORN Nilay Seamless Legging

Crush your workout with these second-skin feel high-waisted leggings.

The seamless design of these leggings is something to be reckoned with. The material stretches with your body, so even the most advanced yoga poses will prove easy when wearing these. While the black and blue options are effortlessly stylish, we are obsessed with the unique sage colour.

Alo Yoga Airlift High Waisted Suit Up Legging

Alo Yoga continues to dominate in this category with another best selling pair of leggings.

The comfortable and classy design of the Airlift high Waisted leggings allows you to wear these leggings even outside of the yoga class. The elastic waistband keeps your waist smoothed and sculpted and the leggings hit the ankle for a seamless fit. Pair with your favourite sports bra and you’re good to go.

Takeaway

Whatever workout you have in mind, there is a high-waisted legging to fit your vibe.

Before you make your purchase, remember that workout leggings should be flexible, opaque and durable. Then, simply decide on the style and fit you like the most. Seamless or contoured are both great options.