We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Activewear We Tested and Reviewed the 12 Best Squat-Proof Leggings for Your Next Leg Day From top brands like lululemon, Gymshark, Athleta, and more By April Benshosan April Benshosan April Benshosan is a writer, editor, and content strategist covering health, fitness, beauty, and wellness. She graduated with a Master's in Publishing, and her dedication to responsible health journalism has led her to spearhead the nutrition vertical at a major publication before taking on freelancing full-time. Learn about our editorial process Updated on December 06, 2023 Medically reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Heather Black, CPT Medically reviewed by Heather Black, CPT Heather Black, CPT is a NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Heather Black Fitness & Nutrition where she offers remote and in-person training and nutrition coaching. Learn about our Medical Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle. Learn about our editorial process Print Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson A pair of leggings that’s comfortable, supportive, and durable is essential for working out. But there’s nothing worse than being distracted by a see-through, sheer fabric during leg day. That’s why we researched and tested the best squat-proof leggings on the market to give you total confidence during all types of activities—whether you’re squatting, running, or even just lounging. Squat-proof leggings deliver opacity without lacking breathability—keeping you covered and comfortable all day long. When shopping, you’ll want to look for a pair of leggings that’s comfortable, supportive, breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable. Typically, finding a pair of opaque leggings means sticking to darker colors, but you can feel free to opt for a light-coloured option from the leggings included in this list. To find the best squat-proof leggings, we first consulted with fitness professionals on what to look for in terms of features, design, fit, and more. Then, we researched and tested dozens of pairs from quality brands to see how well they held up through multiple weeks of wear. We used our expert interviews and thorough research and testing to create the most reliable list of recommendations for our readers. We also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this story for accuracy and how to shop for comfortable leggings that last. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Gymshark Seamless Leggings at Gymshark.com ($48) Jump to Review Best Budget: ODODOS Yoga Leggings with Pockets at Amazon ($25) Jump to Review Best Petite: Beyond Yoga High Waisted Capri Legging at Amazon (See Price) Jump to Review Best Tall: lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight at Lululemon (See Price) Jump to Review Best Plus-Sized: Girlfriend Collective Compressive Drawstring Leggings at Zappos ($82) Jump to Review Best High Rise: Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight at Lululemon ($69) Jump to Review Best With Pockets: FlipBelt Leggings with Pockets at Amazon ($59) Jump to Review Best Compression: Athleta Ultimate Leggings at Gap.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Seamless: Gymshark Seamless Leggings at Gymshark.com ($54) Jump to Review Best Flattering: Gymshark Legacy Leggings at Gymshark.com (See Price) Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks We Also Tested How We Tested What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Gymshark Seamless Leggings Gymshark View On Gymshark.com $48 Pros No underwear lines Compressive but not constrictive Don’t show sweat Cons Material is too thick for warm weather Gymshark is a well-loved activewear brand, commonly donned by bodybuilders and weight-lifting champs—so you can trust that they deliver some of the best squat-proof leggings on the market. One of our favorite gymshark leggings, the Adapt Camo Seamless, boasts a ribbed waistband, seamless construction, and compressive fabric that made us feel comfortable and secure during testing. When we tested these leggings in the Lab and at the gym, we noticed that they’re quite stretchy and move comfortably with our bodies while squatting, lunging, and more—without ever feeling constrictive. We also love that the patterned material is thick enough to conceal underwear lines and sweat marks—these leggings are nothing near sheer. But, because the material is thick and compressive, they may not be the best choice during warm summer months. Still, we found that the fabric is super sweat-wicking and breathable—keeping us cool, dry, and comfortable for hours of activity. You should also know that these leggings held up exceptionally well throughout testing. They don’t hold onto odor, and throwing them in the laundry did not alter the size, shape, or performance of the leggings. If you’re looking for a pair of compressive, squat-proof leggings, we love this Gymshark pick. Key Specs: Material: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Sizes: XS to XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Best Budget ODODOS Yoga Leggings with Pockets Amazon View On Amazon $25 View On Ododos.co Pros Budget-friendly Great stretch and shape retention Deep, secure side pockets Cons Fabric pills easily Looking for a budget-friendly legging that doesn’t sacrifice opacity for price? ODODOS’ Yoga Leggings may be your best bet thanks to their soft, stretchy fabric that holds up to a heavy leg day. One of our favorite Amazon leggings, this pair strikes the perfect balance between stretch and shape retention—with no shifting, sliding, or gapping during workouts. Plus, the functional side pockets are deep enough to securely hold your phone, keys, wallet, or a protein bar. And the high-rise, double-lined waistband also boasts a concealed inner front pocket for added storage. We also love that these comfortable leggings kept us feeling supported throughout low- and high-impact workouts. However, we did notice some pilling starting to occur after running with these on—but for under $30, we really can't complain. Key Specs: Material: Polyamide, elastane, polyester, spandex | Sizes: XS to 3XL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Not listed Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Best Petite Beyond Yoga High Waisted Capri Legging Beyond Yoga View On Amazon View On REI $26 View On Beyondyoga.com Pros Super stretchy, soft material Supportive waistband Comfortable for all-day wear Cons Fabric tends to pill in crotch area A perfect pair for petite wearers, these capri leggings come in a 3/4 length that sits low on the calf. When we tested Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Walk and Talk Leggings, we did not notice any sheerness or underwear lines peeking through—even when bending to pick up dumbbells or squatting to strengthen our glutes. Plus, after many wears and washes, the opacity held up. The moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric lives up to its promise—we never felt overly sweaty or hot, regardless of outside temperature. And we love that the high-rise, compressive, 5-inch waistband doesn't gap, offering a flattering smoothing effect. One of our favorite things about this pair is how buttery soft they feel on the skin, allowing us to move freely during all workouts. Certified personal trainer, Claudette Sariya, NASM-CPT, agrees that Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Leggings are the most comfortable pair she owns. But you should know that we noticed that the fabric along the crotch area began to pill after about one month of wearing and washing. Key Specs: Material: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: XXS to 4XL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash and dry Verywell Fit / Cecily Mcandrews Verywell Fit / Cecily Mcandrews Best Tall lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight lululemon View On Lululemon Pros Compressive Super stretchy, soft material Supportive waistband Cons Waistband seam is very noticeable If you want opaque, squat-proof leggings for strength-training, yoga, daily wear and more, look no further than lululemon’s Wunder Train High-Rise Tight. During testing, we found that these didn't sheer out while doing squats, deadlifts, and other exercises. And, tall wearers will appreciate that they come in a variety of inseams—up to 31 inches. The fast-drying, breathable material kept us comfortable and dry during sweaty workouts, but was also thick enough for cool-weather runs. We also love the compressive waistband that provides optimal support and doesn’t budge or shift during workouts—including a lower-body circuit with squats, lunges, deadlifts, and more. But, we did find that the waistband seam is quite noticeable, sitting low on the waist for some wearers.Key Specs: Material: Nylon, lycra elastane | Sizes: 0 to 14 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Best Plus-Sized Girlfriend Collective Compressive Drawstring Leggings Zappos View On Zappos $82 View On Girlfriend.com View On Activethreads.com Pros Available in sizes up to 6XL Compressive fabric doesn't budge Adjustable drawstring Cons Waistband may be too high-rise for some Girlfriend Collective offers some of the most inclusive size ranges we've seen across activewear brands, and this pair of leggings is hard to beat when it comes to opacity, fit, and comfort. Crafted with a thick, sheer-proof fabric, we found these leggings to be ultra supportive and completely squat-proof. Plus, they’re made using recycled water bottles, so you can feel good about making a sustainable purchase. What's probably the most notable feature, the adjustable drawstring, helps you achieve the perfect fit. Not to mention, the stylish tie also adds some nice detail—helping this pair stand out against your average leggings. During testing, we loved how well they stay put, with no rolling or slipping during high- and low-impact workouts. Plus, we found that the ultra high-rise fit helps you feel snug and supported for extended periods of time. But, you should note that the waistband may be too high-rise for shorter wearers. Key Specs: Material: Recycled single-use bottles, spandex | Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Rise: Ultra high | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry flat Best High Rise Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight lululemon View On Lululemon $69 Pros Flattering fit Snug and supportive Durable Cons Fabric attracts lint and hair If you’re in the market for a training legging that won’t budge or sheer out during leg day workouts, we love lululemon’s Invigorate High-Rise Tight. It’s an investment worth making for many reasons—comfort, performance, durability, and more—we should know, wear-tested this pair for weeks. Boasting a high-rise waistband, these leggings sit above the belly button for most wearers— offering a more flattering and supportive fit. And, while testing, we appreciated that the compressive waistband stays in place during all types of movements. We didn’t have to adjust them mid-workout during barre, Pilates, walks, and more. We also love that this pair still looks as good as new after multiple wears and washes—a common thread among most of our favorite lululemon leggings. Plus, the side pockets add convenience—just slip in your smartphone or other essentials for easy access on the go. It's worth noting that the fabric attracts lint, pet hair, dust, and other rogue fibers, so you may have to lint-roll the pants before leaving the house. Key Specs: Material: Nylon, lycra elastane | Sizes: 0 to 20 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley Verywell Fit / Ashleigh Morley Best With Pockets FlipBelt Leggings with Pockets Amazon View On Amazon $59 View On Flipbelt.com Pros Supportive and secure waistband Great for all activities Lots of storage options Cons Too thick for hot weather Whether you’re a runner or a busy mom on the go, choosing a pair of leggings with ample storage options is always a good idea. FlipBelt’s Mid-Weight Leggings come with two side pockets and one back zipper pocket. Plus, the waistband provides 360 degrees of storage, letting you stock belongings through the entire belt area. During testing, we were pleased to find that the waistband stayed perfectly in place during all types of activities—even when holding our phones, snacks, keys, and more. Plus, you can confidently choose any type of workout underwear, because Flipbelt’s leggings are completely opaque. But because they are so thick and durable, we found that these leggings run you too warm in higher temperatures. Key Specs: Material: Polyester, spandex | Sizes: XXS to XXXL | Rise: Mid-high | Care Instructions: Machine wash inside-out on cold, line dry Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao Best Compression Athleta Ultimate Leggings Athleta View On Gap.com Pros Snug and supportive Has pockets that fit a smartphone Great for high-impact workouts Cons Not as soft as other options Athleta’s Ultimate Leggings hug you in all the right places and offer a snug fit that keeps you supported during high-intensity training. The fabric feels very sporty, and while it's not as soft as other picks on our list (like Alphalete’s Surface Pocket Legging or Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Walk and Talk Tight), we found that it doesn't feel irritating to the skin. While the high-compression makes these leggings great for your most intense workouts, it is a bit too snug for lounging and daily wear—instead, we’d recommend Vuori’s Daily Legging. Still, during testing, we appreciated that this pair doesn’t sag, bunch, or roll, which is always important in a pair of quality workout leggings. Also, the pockets are a huge plus—you can fit an iPhone, post-workout snack, and more. As for opacity, you can count on these to offer full coverage: We found that they don’t sheer out, even after many wears and washes. We also love that you can't see sweat in these, as the quick-drying, breathable fabric keeps you dry and comfortable for hours of activity. Key Specs: Material: Spandex, nylon | Sizes: XXS to 3X | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash, line dry Verywell Fit / Alena Kharlamenko Verywell Fit / Kate Geraghty Verywell Fit / Alena Kharlamenko Best Seamless Gymshark Seamless Leggings Gymshark View On Gymshark.com $54 Pros Breathable and supportive No gapping at the waistband Flattering contour detailing Cons Bottom of the leggings may ride up Gymshark's Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings wowed us with their comfortable, smooth fit that's seam-free—making for a flattering and sleek silhouette. When wearing these, we noticed that they allow you to move freely, without feeling constricted. And the material strikes a great balance between stretch and compression, making them comfortable for a wide range of activities—from bungee fitness to treadmill running. We also found that most of the compression in these leggings is around the ribbed waistband, so there's no shifting, slipping, or gapping around during movements. Plus, the leggings feel breathable and supportive—which can be a difficult duality to find. Because they’re seamless, these leggings don’t dig into your skin or cause any uncomfortable irritation usually caused by internal seams. They also feature a figure-contouring shading that adds style and flatter. While these opaque leggings are completely secure around the waistband, you should know that we did find they roll up at the ankles during more high-intensity workouts.Key Specs: Material: Nylon, elastane | Sizes: XS to XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Best Flattering Gymshark Legacy Leggings Gymshark View On Gymshark.com Pros Soft and supportive Super comfortable Lighter colors are still opaque Cons Not super compressive We love how Gymshark's Legacy Leggings look and feel, thanks to their flattering design and supportive fit. During testing, we found that this pair hugs you in all the right places and features a stylish Gymshark logo on the backside for added flair. The smoothing fabric glides over the skin, making these leggings easy to slip on and off. Comfortable enough for all-day wear, we love that these leggings offer quality support without feeling constrive. We wore them for working out, running errands, and lounging around—feeling equally comfortable during each activity. Plus, we love that even in the fun lighter colors, these leggings offer complete opacity. They aren’t as thick and compressive as Gymshark Adapt Camo Seamless Leggings, but we found that they still work well for high-impact exercise. Key Specs: Material: Nylon, elastane | Sizes: XS to XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Not listed Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Best Flare lululemon High-Rise Split-Hem Flared Pant lululemon View On Lululemon Pros Has a waistband pocket Super soft Supportive Cons May be too long for some Our favorite pair of flare yoga pants, or flare leggings, are lululemon’s Groove High-Rise Split-Hem Flared Pants. They are flattering, stylish, oh-so comfortable, and (of course) completely opaque. Whether we were squatting in front of a mirror or bending down to pick up a set of dumbbells, these leggings remained completely squat-proof with no signs of sheering or underwear lines at all. During testing, we appreciated that the thick, high-rise waistband did not budge during any type of activity—from walking to HIIT—and delivered a flattering fit. Adding to the flattering silhouette, the flare bottoms feature a split-hem—a small (yet stylish) detail that makes us love this pair even more. Plus, these squats-proof leggings also feature a small waistband pocket for storing your keys, phone, or a post-workout snack on the go. We also found these to be one of the most durable flare leggings that we tested: After wearing and washing them for one month straight, they showed no signs of wear and tear. But, before purchasing this chic pair, keep in mind that they may be too long for shorter wearers. Key Specs: Material: Nylon, lycra elastane | Sizes: 0–20 | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson Most Comfortable Vuori Daily Leggings Vuori View On REI $89 View On Vuoriclothing.com View On Nordstrom $89 Pros Light, comfortable compression Adjustable drawstring Silky, soft fabric Cons Inseam may be short for taller wearers Vuori's Daily Legging is the pair you'll want to live in—or, at the very least, they'll make you look forward to your daily workout. While these are perfect for running errands, walking the dog, or lounging around, we also found that they hold up in the gym. They’re completely opaque and squat-proof—with no signs of sheering or underwear lines at all. One of our favorite features, the drawstring waistband, allows you to completely customize the fit—just like Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive Drawstring Leggings. And during test-wears, we found that this helps to prevent the waistband from slipping or rolling down. Plus, the moisture-wicking, silky-soft fabric offers a barely-there feel. We also love the cuffed ankle look that looks flattering on all wearers. But, if you’re on the taller side, the inseam may be too short for you. In that case, we recommend lululemon’s Wunder Train High-Rise Tight. Key Specs: Material: Polyester, elastane | Sizes: XS to XXL | Rise: High | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin We Also Tested Overall, we tested 14 pairs of squat-proof leggings, but ultimately left one out of our final list of recommendations. While we did find some notable features, this pair didn’t quite make the cut. Gymshark GS Power Original Leggings are high-rise, supportive, and feature ruching detail in the backside that makes them more flattering. But while we found them to be squat-proof and opaque, these leggings do not stay put during workouts—making them uncomfortable and not worth the purchase. How We Tested the Squat-Proof Leggings To find the best squat-proof leggings, we began by consulting with two certified fitness professionals to learn more about what shopports should look for: Mariashi Bennett, NASM-CPT, weight lifter, and founder of The Posture Person Claudette Sariya, NASM-CPT, a certified personal trainer based in New York City Then, we researched dozens of highly rated pairs from reputable activewear brands, paying special attention to whether the brands called out any squat-proof features. Next, we put 14 pairs of leggings to the test in The Verywell Testing Lab, and then took them home to wear-test in our regular workout routines. In order to gauge opacity, we stood in front of a mirror while squatting and bending down to notice if there was any sheering in the fabric. In addition to opacity, we evaluated each pair of leggings for overall quality, performance, fit, and value. During our wear-tests, we noted whether or not the leggings held up to various activities and how comfortable they fit on different body types. We also paid attention to whether or not the leggings showed signs of wear and tear overtime. Finally, we combined our expert interviews, thorough research, and rigorous testing to compile a list of the 13 best squat-proof leggings for our readers. What to Look for in Squat-Proof Leggings Five key features to look for in leggings. Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente. Material Material or fabric blends make a huge difference when it comes to opacity. Most of the products on our list are composed of a blend of polyester, nylon, elastane, and spandex. In general, when shopping for squat-proof leggings, look for a thick compressive fabric that still feels soft and breathable to the touch, says Sariya. Fit Leggings come in a variety of different fits, and choosing the right one for you is up to personal preference and what types of activities you’ll be doing in your new pair of leggings. Some wearers prefer a high-rise fit for optimal support and coverage, while others like a cropped capri for warm weather wear. Rise and length are two important factors to consider when choosing a pair of leggings, so think about how and when you’ll wear them. For high-impact workouts, you may want a high-rise waistband, whereas for lounging, a mid- or low-rise may be more comfortable to you. As for length, capri leggings may be a great choice for warmer months, while ⅞ - of full-length is best for cold weather workouts, says Sariya. Flexibility and 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 Sometimes, legging brands will include design elements to make leggings them more functional or comfortable for the user. Pockets are a great example of this, says Sariya. Leggings with pockets, like FlipBelt Mid-Weight Leggings with Pockets, allow you to take your keys, phone, or a post-workout snack on the go—adding convenience to your workout. Another common design element is a flared silhouette. Some sweaters like flared leggings, such as lululemon Groove High-Rise Split-Hem Flared Pants, because they add flatter and style to more traditional leggings. Whichever design features you opt in for, the choice is completely up to your personal preference and activity style. 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 to see if it becomes transparent or sheers out. If so, the leggings are not squat-proof. You can also try the leggings on for yourself, and squat or bend down in front of a mirror to test for opacity—just like we did in the Lab during our squat-proof leggings test. When should you wear squat-proof leggings? Aside from squatting, squat-proof leggings are beneficial for other exercises where the hips are in motion—like deadlifts, lunges, and the stairmaster, Bennett says. She also recommends wearing squat-proof leggings while stretching so you don’t have to worry about them becoming see-through. Squat-proof leggings are also great to keep you comfortable while doing everyday activities, such as lifting heavy loads of laundry or groceries, hiking, or carrying children, says Bennett. What materials make leggings squat-proof? Material blends with nylon, spandex, and lycra tend to be best for opacity, moisture-wicking, and stretch. Do squat-proof leggings cost more than other leggings? Not necessarily. If you’re shopping for a pair of top-quality leggings, they are likely squat-proof. A quality pair of leggings averages at around $50, and the squat-proof leggings on our list range from $25 to $165. Do squat-proof leggings contain BPA? Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications. 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, including sports bras from Sweaty Betty, leggings from Nike, Athleta, Champion, Patagonia, and Kohl’s, shorts from Champion, Nike, and Adidas, and athletic shirts from Fabletics. We may recommend some of these products or similar items from these brands in this list, as these products have not been recalled and the science on transdermal absorption of BPA is still not settled. “The best way to prevent BPA exposure is to make educated decisions in choosing your personal care products,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. As a precaution, it is best to limit the amount of time you spend in activewear by changing out of it when you are finished working out. Why Trust Verywell Fit April Benshosan is a health journalist, editor, and experienced weight lifter. She's tested countless activewear pieces from various brands—so she knows what makes a high-quality product. April practically lives in leggings all year round, and she 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. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Helpful Report an Error Other Submit