There used to be a time when jeans were king, but lately that statement makes legging-lovers everywhere cringe uncomfortably. Originally, leggings were a staple of the work-out industry, but it didn’t take long for them to transcend all fashion labels.
Today, it doesn’t matter if you’re going to a friend’s house, browsing the aisles of a grocery store or stretching into Downward-Facing Dog — chances are, you’re probably wearing leggings. This is especially true when it comes to high waisted leggings because, let’s face it, they lift us up where we belong!
Before we reveal the best high waisted leggings of the year, let’s cover what you need to know before making your pick. We assume you’re here because you know what you’re looking for, just not exactly how to look for it. Yet, if you’re unsure whether high waisted leggings are for you, our full guide below will take you through the ins and outs of these marvelous garments.
- What to Consider When Buying High Waisted Leggings
- Top 10 Best High Waisted Leggings 2026
- 1. Best Overall High Waisted Leggings Colorfulkoala Leggings
- 2. Best Medium Compression High Waisted Leggings PHISOCKAT Leggings
- 3. Best High Waisted Leggings For Yoga Ewedoos Leggings
- 4. Best Versatile High Waisted Leggings Dragon Fit Leggings
- 5. Best High Waisted Leggings For Low-Impact Work-outs Lingswallow Leggings
- 6. Best Budget High Waisted Leggings Leggings Depot
- 7. Best High Impact High Waisted Leggings ODODOS Leggings
- 8. Best Premium High Waisted Leggings 90 Degree Leggings By Reflex
- 9. Best Everyday High Waisted Leggings SYRINX Leggings
- 10. Best High Waisted Leggings For Cycling SATINA Leggings
- Guide to Buying the Best High Waisted Leggings
- FAQ
- Final Thoughts
What to Consider When Buying High Waisted Leggings
When creating a list of the best pair of high waisted leggings, we mainly considered the following three factors. Our reviews go into more detail about each pair of leggings, but these three considerations are the most important when you’re choosing a pair that’s best for you.
Fabric
High waisted leggings come in all sorts of materials and depending on what you use them for, some fabrics may be more ideal than others. We’ll fill you in on the fabrics used for every single pair of leggings on our list. To find out more about fabrics and their individual properties, check out our section about fabrics.
Cut
It’s easy to forget about the cut of your leggings when you’re focusing on measurements and fabrics — but we’ve got you covered! We’ll let you know what length we’re dealing with as we dive into each entry. For more information on which cut is best for you, check out our leggings length guide.
Extras
One of the most important things to consider is each pair of leggings’ unique attributes. Do they have built-in compression? Do they have pockets? And if so, are they big enough to fit a large smartphone? We’ll make sure you know what sets each pair of high waisted leggings apart.
Leggings are like friends. If they don’t offer you support and comfort — they’re probably not doing their job right. Our goal is to unite you with a pair of leggings so fantastic that you’ll feel a sense of familiarity the second you slip them on. We shopped around and found the ten best high waisted leggings on the market and it’s time to share them with you!
Top 10 Best High Waisted Leggings 2026
1. Best Overall High Waisted Leggings Colorfulkoala Leggings
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Fit: True to Size
- Fabric: 75% Polyester, 25% Spandex
- Cut: Full-Length
Review
Colorfulkoala Leggings are super comfortable and very soft. Their light compression and seamless waistband attract new moms who are still shedding their baby weight, as they help flatten and support the tummy during vigorous work-outs or day-to-day activities. They’re super flattering thanks to their butt-contouring seam, which basically shines a spotlight on your derriere. Better yet, if you’re someone who enjoys hefty work-outs but hates sporting leggings that show everything from sweat stains to cellulite, Colorfulkoala Leggings are your new best friend. They’re sweat-proof and non-see-through so hide anything you don’t want people to see.
Since they’re made with a blend of polyester and Spandex, these leggings are somewhat prone to lint and pilling issues. This is especially true for those of you who have pets. However, a quick swipe from a lint brush is an effective solution. To find out more about pilling and how to prevent it, check out our guide.
Extras
On top of being available in an array of different colors, Colorfulkoala Leggings are also known for offering a light compression. Better yet, they have a secret waistband pocket — perfect for storing your keys during work-outs.
Pros
- Soft fabric
- Light compression
- Seamless waistband
- Butt contouring seam
- Sweat-proof
Cons
- Prone to pilling
2. Best Medium Compression High Waisted Leggings PHISOCKAT Leggings
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Fit: True to Size
- Fabric: 77% Polyester, 23% Spandex
- Cut: Full-Length
Review
PHISOCKAT Leggings are quickly becoming one of the most beloved legging brands. It doesn’t matter if you’re fifty-five or eighteen years old — these leggings will make you feel supported and slim. They’re made with a super soft fabric that is comfortably thin without being see-through. However, it’s important to note that some of the lighter colors available may be a little sheer, especially if the size runs small.
These leggings offer a medium compression along the tummy section, making them ideal for anyone who has gone through a weight loss journey, or anyone who wants to suppress their stomach area while giving their booty a nice lift (who doesn’t, right?).
These leggings will keep you dry whether you’re jogging through the streets or lifting weights at the gym. One thing to note is that if you plan on using leg bands during your work-outs, we recommend going with Colorfulkoala Leggings instead. This is because PHISOCKAT Leggings don’t have the strongest leg seams and leg bands can cause them to tear.
Extras
PHISOCKAT Leggings are available in dozens of fun colors. They’re decked out with pockets, making them stand out from the rest. They have a pocket on each leg — big enough to fit the average smartphone. On top of that, they also offer medium compression while harboring a small and secretive pocket, ideal for keys, on the inside of the waistband.
Pros
- Super soft
- 4-way stretch
- Tummy control
- Lifts buttocks
- Moisture-absorbent
Cons
- Lighter colors are see-through
- Not compatible with leg bands
3. Best High Waisted Leggings For Yoga Ewedoos Leggings
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Fit: True to Size
- Fabric: 75% Polyester, 25% Spandex
- Cut: Ankle-Length
Review
How can a pair of leggings be both flexible and roomy at the same time? We don’t know, ask Ewedoos! If you consider yourself a yogi or a work-out enthusiast, you’re probably on the prowl for a pair of leggings that are thick enough not to be see-through but thin enough to stretch in all directions — without them bunching up and rolling down at the waist. Well, look no further, because Ewedoos Leggings do just that. They also offer light compression around the tummy. Who doesn’t love a flattering pair of leggings?
Despite all of their pros, we have to keep in mind that these high waisted leggings are more like medium-high waisted leggings. And, since they are ankle-length, they might come off as a little short to you tall ladies out there. Lastly, since they are cut from a thicker cloth, they don’t do much to suppress sweating.
Extras
If you thought the PHISOCKAT Leggings had a stellar pocket-situation, wait until you hear about the Ewedoos Leggings. They have two pockets on each leg — and deep ones, too! While the side pockets are perfect for storing earbuds, smartphones and more, the secret waistband pocket is ideal for spare change, credit cards, and keys!
Pros
- Silky soft
- 5 pockets
- Tummy control
- Waistband doesn't roll down
- Light compression
Cons
- Medium high-waisted
- Sweaty
4. Best Versatile High Waisted Leggings Dragon Fit Leggings
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Fit: Sizes Run Small
- Fabric: 88% Polyamide, 12% Spandex
- Cut: Ankle-Length
Review
Slipping on a pair of Dragon Fit Leggings is comparable to wearing a cloud — that’s how soft they are. In fact, they’re so comfortable they can be worn as regular pants. That’s partially because they lack compression. Instead of compression, Dragon Fit Leggings have a waist-shaping band that does a lot to slim down and elongate the figure. Although most people enjoy using these leggings as everyday pants, you can wear them to the gym no problem. They’re breathable, and they don’t roll down at the waist. But beware, if you do wear them out, you’re sure to receive a compliment or two.
However, keep in mind that these leggings aren’t the best for work-out enthusiasts who enjoy squatting like there’s no tomorrow. They will become a little see-through, especially in natural light. But that con fades into the background once you pair them up with tunics or long T-shirts. You can sidestep this issue altogether by ordering a darker color or wearing neutral undergarments.
Extras
Unlike Lingswallow Leggings, Dragon Fit Leggings offer extremely deep pockets that can fit large smartphones. They also have a secret waistband pocket.
Pros
- Waist-shaping
- Very affordable
- Comfortable
- Deep pockets
- Doesn't roll at the waist
Cons
- No compression
- See-through
5. Best High Waisted Leggings For Low-Impact Work-outs Lingswallow Leggings
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Fit: True to Size
- Fabric: 77% Polyester, 23% Polyurethane
- Cut: Ankle-Length
Review
Lingswallow Leggings were designed for people who enjoy intense gym work-outs. They’re made with breathable fabrics that keep you feeling fresh and dry no matter how many hours you put in at the gym. If you’ve been betrayed by see-through leggings before, you’ll be happy to know that Lingswallows are the furthest thing away from sheer. These leggings will keep you feeling tucked in and supported despite their low amounts of compression.
That said, they aren’t exactly ideal for runners. This is because they’re known to slip down at the waist during high-impact activities. If you’re a jogger, we would highly recommend checking out Ewedoos Leggings instead. Their waistband doesn’t roll down and their pockets are a lot roomier.
Extras
The Lingswallow Leggings have medium-sized pockets on each leg (5 inches deep), and a small pocket on the waistband which fits a debit card or other small items.
Pros
- Unbeatable price for quality
- Soft
- Non-see-through
- Breathable fabric
- Tummy control
Cons
- Pockets aren't deep enough to hold a large smartphone
- Not ideal for running
6. Best Budget High Waisted Leggings Leggings Depot
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Fit: True to Size
- Fabric: 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
- Cut: Full-Length
Review
If you dream of owning a collection of high waisted leggings that mimic the colors of the rainbow, Leggings Depot is your pot of gold. These leggings are seriously comfortable and they work with your environment, not against it. They’re thin enough to keep you cool but thick enough to fight off chills. Yet they won’t betray you by going see-through, or revealing panty lines, the second you bend over.
If you’re looking for a basic pair of high waisted leggings that you can wear to school, to work or to a friend’s house, look no further. However, if you’re also thinking of hitting the gym, we would suggest that you look into Colorfulkoala Leggings and Dragon Fit Leggings, they’re a lot more versatile!
Despite these positives, they have a tendency to lose their shape. In other words, they don’t have the longest lifespan. But hey, you get what you pay for, right? Another thing to note is that these leggings are prone to dye transfers. So, before wearing them, be sure to soak them in water and then give them a good wash to prevent staining — this is especially true for dark colors.
Extras
We chose to feature the Active Flex Yoga leggings option, which does not come with any extras. However, for a few extra bucks, you can select the Side & Inner Pocket Yoga option and get a pair of Leggings Depots with a side-pocket on each leg and a secret pocket situated on the waistband.
Pros
- Super soft
- Comfortable
- Non-see-through
- Hides panty lines
Cons
- Dark colors can stain
- Short lifespan
7. Best High Impact High Waisted Leggings ODODOS Leggings
