The 12 Best Compression Leggings That Are So High-Quality, According to an Editor Who Has Tested Tons

published 27 October 2024

It may not be the most stylish topic, but hear me out: compression leggings are the game-changing item your wardrobe needs. While they've been gaining popularity amongst fitness enthusiasts for many years, those of us who prize comfort just as highly as they do fashion are getting clued into the magic of these basics. These leggings provide additional support, increase blood flow to the muscles, and happen to be extra flattering. One of the primary advantages of this legging style, which I now consider a life hack, is its ability to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue. The increased pressure they apply on the muscles can promote blood flow and serve as shapewear for a comfortable fit that we're all after. What's not to love?

@lucywilliams02 wearing leggings and trainers

While their functional points are A+, trust me when I say they don't sacrifice on style. Whether you're wearing to the gym of throwing on with a sweatshirt to run errands, these leggings deliver on creating the sleek, cool silhouette that converted everyone to leggings in the first place. Below, I've curated my list of the 12 very best compression leggings available, each with an example of the kind of glowing customer feedback that convinced me to include them. After hearing about all the hype, I'm sure you'll be wearing compression leggings in no time.

The Best Compression Leggings, Listed:

Lululemon SenseKnit Running High-Rise Tight
Pangaia Plant-Stretch Compressive Leggings
Nike Go Firm-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings With Pockets
Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold® High-Waisted Leggings

1. Lululemon SenseKnit Running High-Rise Tight

lululemon

Senseknit Running High-Rise Tight 28"

It's not secret that Lululemon makes good leggings. The brand's senseknit high-rise tight might be made for running, but they are sleek enough to also be worn outside of exercise. Pair with a cashmere jumper and knee-high boots for a polished take.

Customer Review: "I absolutely love these. Best lululemon leggings for running. In fact best running leggings ever. Not too tight but they don't run down your legs on long runs. Hug you in the right place. Super soft and comfortable and enough pockets you don't need a bumbag."

2. Girlfriend Collective Compressive High Waisted Legging

Girlfriend Collective

Compressive High Waisted Legging

Is there anything worse than uncomfortable leggings? Fear not, as these are incredibly soft on the skin and are compact without being tight and restrictive.

Customer Review: "The fabric is really lovely, soft and not see through. Will absolutely keep wearing and will be buying again."

3. Alo Yoga Warrior Compression Pant

Alo Yoga

Warrior Compression Pant

This pair is particularly good for taller people as they run long. They also go up to a size 2XL.

Customer Review: "Super comfy and cute. Will definitely buy more."

4. Tala Sculpt Seamless Ribbed High Waisted Legging

Tala

Sculpt Seamless Ribbed High Waisted Legging

Tala is one of the best brands on the market when it comes to athleisure-wear. These leggings are made from recycled materials and are incredibly comfy, but they do run large so consider a size down to your usual.

Customer Review: "Love them! So comfortable and flattering."

5. Pangaia Women's Plant-Stretch Compressive Leggings

PANGAIA

Plant-Stretch Compressive Leggings

I wear my Pangaia leggings at least twice a week (don't worry, I have multiple pairs!) with jumpers and blazers, but have also been known to wear them under a maxi dress when the temperature drops, too.

Customer Review: "They are very tight and compressive but also they give a great shape. I like the quality and durability of material. And also they breathable!"

6. Alo Yoga Airlift 7/8 Stretch Leggings

ALO YOGA

Airlift 7/8 Stretch Leggings

These are made from a double-knit stretch fabric, ensuring they are flattering and cooling, while a wide waistband acts as further support.

Customer Review: "I own most of the Alo styles but these are definitely the most flattering. The wide waistband has enough compression without creating a muffin top and they are long enough to be worn under the heel for barre classes."

7. Jockey 7/8 Compression Capri Legging

Jockey

7/8 Compression Capri Legging

Capris took over this year, so why not invest in a pair of cropped compression leggings to really nail the trend?

Customer Review: "I work out a lot, and this brand is one of my favourites. These leggings are amazing, very comfortable, durable, and an excellent price."

8. Skims Smoothing Seamless Legging

SKIMS

Soft Smoothing Seamless Leggings

Leggings meet shapewear with this piece, which gets bonus points for having sizing that goes from XXS - 4XL.

9. LNDR Streamline 7/8 Legging Black

LNDR

Streamline 7/8 Legging Black

Now these are expensive, but if you're looking to invest in a pair of leggings with a fantastic fit and that will last you for a very long time, these are the ones to go for.

Customer Review: "These really do fit like a glove, give great support and are super flattering."

10. Nike Go Firm-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings With Pockets

Nike

Firm-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings With Pockets

Ah, Nike. A go-to for so many women, and for good reason. These comes in sizes XS to 4XL, and are available in seven colours.

Customer Review: "They are soooo good, no chafing (even on first wear), smooth and soft and comfortable."

11. Fabletics On-The-Go Powerhold® High-Waisted Leggings

Fabletics

On-The-Go Powerhold® High-Waisted Leggings

I love Fabletics for affordable, high-quality pieces that fit well; This high-waisted pair have been a staple in my wardrobe for a while now.

Customer Review: "I love these - the powerhold leggings have been my go to for a decade now and the addition of pockets without any change of compression/fit is great!"

12. Running Girl Compression Workout Leggings

ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY

Truepace Cold.rdy Stretch Recycled Leggings

Style meets substance and sustainability with this Adidas x Stella McCartney pair that is made from recycled materials.

Customer Review: "Beautiful unique design, I love the aesthetics of these leggings! The fit is amazing, thick, very comfortable and supportive."

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Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.