In case you weren't aware, there's a legging hierarchy. At the bottom, you have your laundry-day leggings, reserved only for those few hours everything else is in the wash. In the middle are your workout leggings — the several pairs you wear from the gym to the grocery store.
Video of the Day
But at the very top sit the leggings.
That one pair of black workout leggings that make everything right in the world. They move with your body like a second skin. They go with every workout top in your closet and hide all your sweat marks. And you know that when their last day comes, it'll be the end of an era.
And while we're well aware that finding your next pair of top-tier tights is no small feat, the LIVESTRONG.com team wants to offer a little support during this difficult time. Never managed to find your perfect pair? We've got you, too.
Browse our team's favorite black leggings and get ready to fall in love.
1. Athleta Elation 7/8 Tight
- High-waisted
- Inner pocket for keys
- Cropped length for extra cooling
"I have three pairs of the Elation tight, all in black — they are that comfortable," says K. Aleisha Fetters, CSCS, senior fitness editor and certified strength and conditioning specialist. "Yes, 'buttery soft' has become an it term when it comes to leggings, but I honestly have never felt a pair of great quality leggings that feel this good.
Buy them: Athleta.com; Price: $89
2. Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28"
- Two inseams to prevent movement while training
- Lightweight fabric
- Ankle length
"I'm not a big legging person when I train — usually I go with shorts," says Bojana Galic, CPT, fitness writer and certified personal trainer. "But these leggings honestly feel like they're not even there. The high waist isn't restricting and they don't bunch up around the crotch when I'm doing squats or lunges."
Buy them: Lululemon.com; Price: $98
3. Matty M Ladies' Wear Everywhere Leggings
- Long-lasting fabric
- Affordable price point
- Wide waistband
"I can't recommend these enough. I bought two pairs at Costco on a whim 7 years ago and only just replaced one of them last month (the other pair is still going strong)," says associate health editor Kathleen Ferraro. "They are so durable and truly last for years."
Buy them: Amazon.com; Price: $10
4. Fabletics Define High-Waisted Leggings
- Inclusive sizing for all bodies
- Chafe-resistant fabric
- Moisture-wicking
"The fabric is soft yet firm; they don't sag or bunch up, whether I'm working out or lounging around," says Sarah Klein, CPT, managing editor and certified personal trainer. "They're thick enough not to be transparent in any contorted position."
Buy them: Fabletics.com; Price: $69.95
5. 90 Degree By Reflex Womens Power Flex Yoga Pants
- Side pockets
- Squat-proof fabric
- Quick shipping
"I love the pockets, they're the perfect size for my iPhone," says senior wellbeing editor Kaitlin Ahern. "They're also high-waisted but not constrictive, which makes them comfortable to wear all day, not just for workouts."
Buy them: Amazon.com; Price: $26.99
6. Sweaty Betty High-Waisted 7/8 Workout Leggings
- Super high rise (above the belly button)
- Side pocket that fits smartphones
- Sculpting design
"I love the Sweaty Betty leggings because they dry very quickly even with the most intense workouts," says Tiffany Ayuda, CPT, contributing fitness editor and certified personal trainer. "I've used them to run, do HIIT and hot yoga, and they don't leave me a sticky mess after a workout. I hate having to peel leggings off of me."
Buy them: Sweatybetty.com; Price: $100
7. Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight
- Squat-proof
- Five waistband pockets
- Drawcord waist
"This is the first pair of leggings I've owned with pockets," says April Benshosan, senior nutrition editor. "For someone who doesn't really like carrying around a purse, this is a serious life-changer."
Buy them: Lululemon.com; Price: $128
