The best functional fitness leggings to wear in the gym – Metro.co.uk

The gym legging is a staple of any fitness-fanatic’s wardrobe.

You’ve probably got millions of pairs – but a pair that feels great, looks great and performs really well is hard to come by.

We know what we don’t want when it comes to fitness leggings – we don’t want a saggy crotch, we don’t want them to go see-through when we bend over, we don’t want to be forever pulling them up, and we don’t want them to give us extra love handles.

Looking and feeling great in the gym is really empowering. When you don’t have to think about what you’re wearing, you can focus on performing at your best.

We tested out some of the best in the business and came up with a list of all our favourite leggings that are flattering and functional.

Because we need them to be both.

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Sweaty Betty leggings
Perfect for running, hiit or spin (Picture: Sweaty Betty)

The power leggings are great for running, spinning or hiit class – they have sweat wicking and they’re quick drying.

All of Sweaty Betty’s leggings have thick, squat-proof material – that definitely won’t go translucent, and the thick waste band is flattering on the hips.

Craft Leggings
We love this super sleek design (Picture: Craft)

The Eaze Tights are super stretchy, which makes them really comfortable for yoga – or anything where you have to move a lot.

They have an ergonomic design and soft waistband with mesh at the back of the knees for extra ventilation – they even have a cute little key pocket so you won’t lock yourself out when you go for a run.

Nike leggings
For fans of colour blocking (Picture: Nike)

We love these leggings for their comfort and breathability – they even have a zip at the back so you can get them on and off easily.

The super high waistband provides secure coverage even when you bend over.

Odlo leggings
These leggings let you move how nature intended (Picture: Odlo)

These base layer leggings are essentially a second skin.

Ridiculously comfortable, the elastic seamless knitted texture controls the flow of air and adapts to breathing and movement. They also really cool.

Freddy Leggings
Sculpt your butt like never before (Picture: Freddy)

These are absolutely fantastic on the bum. There’s a ruched seam at the back that just gives that extra lift and perk to your behind.

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They also sport a secure silicone waistband that won’t slip, no matter how hard you work out.

CEP Leggings
The compression is really effective (Picture: CEP)

These leggings mean serious business. Made for runners, the material provides your muscles with added support to help with endurance.

They also provide some compression, which helps to improve blood flow and essentially get your legs to work more efficiently.

Leo & I leggings
An elegant staple (Picture: Leo & I)

These navy leggings are the perfect staple pair – they go with anything and you can wear them for any kind of exercise.

The technical performance fabric sculpts the body to help you feel confident in movement.

Fabletics leggings
Secret pockets! (Picture: Fabletics)

As well as the super adorable pattern, these leggings are incredibly functional with high compression to hold you in, even when you’re doing burpees.

They also have useful hidden pockets and are fully chafe resistant.

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