13 Best Workout Leggings of 2026: The Ones That Stay Opaque and Stay Up

Thick, squat-proof fabric and deep mesh-lined pockets are the standout features here. This legging provides noticeable compression that stays in place during high-intensity movements like running and HIIT. Unlike softer alternatives, the fabric prioritizes opacity and structure over a buttery feel, making it a dependable choice for gym sessions where coverage matters.

Budget-conscious women who need reliable opacity for squats and compression for tummy control will find this a strong fit. However, sizing can vary between colors, so matching your usual size may take trial and error. The waistband may roll during very intense movement for some builds — this legging works best for those who prioritize function over fabric softness and are willing to accept minor fit inconsistencies.

These capri leggings from Heathyoga deliver thick, squat-proof fabric that stays opaque during movement, plus a hidden waistband pocket that secures a phone or keys without adding bulk. The fabric has a soft, compressive feel that works well for yoga, gym sessions, and warm-weather activities. As the name suggests, this is a capri length — ending below the knee — so it is not suitable for full-leg coverage.

For women who prefer capri length and want a budget-friendly option with opaque fabric and a hidden pocket, these are a strong choice. However, sizing runs small compared to similar brands; expect to order one size up, especially if you have curvier hips or thighs. The waistband compression offers good tummy control, but those between sizes may find the fit tricky.

The Butterlift fabric strikes a balance between the plush feel of Butterluxe and the firmer hold needed for pilates and gym workouts. Unlike the top pick's pocketed design, this legging keeps lines clean but requires a separate phone-carrying solution.

This legging suits women who prioritize opacity and moderate compression over storage. The 25-inch inseam works for heights up to 5'9"; taller women will find it cropped. Those wanting pockets should look elsewhere.

The YEOREO CoreFlex Flare Leggings bring a stylish bootcut silhouette with cargo pockets and a hidden scrunch detail that enhances shape without being obvious. The fabric offers comfortable compression and tummy control, keeping the waistband in place during movement. The no-front-seam design provides a smooth look that works well under fitted tops.

These leggings are best suited for women 5'7" and taller who enjoy the flare trend. Sizing runs small, so ordering up is advisable. The wide leg can catch on shoes or gym equipment, something to be mindful of during workouts. The length will likely need hemming for anyone under 5'4".

These IUGA leggings deliver an impressively buttery feel with enough thickness to stay opaque during bends and stretches. However, the fabric can pill after repeated washes, and the waistband may roll down during running or high-intensity moves. While the pockets are deep and secure, the lack of a two-pack option and the pilling risk keep it from matching the top pick's overall value.

These leggings deliver a buttery-soft feel and effective tummy control through a waistband that stays put during yoga and Pilates. The hidden pocket keeps a phone flat against the waist, adding convenience without bulk. However, the sizing runs small — expect to size up, especially in the waist — and the 25-inch inseam may feel cropped for anyone over 5'7'. The price sits above budget-friendly alternatives that offer similar fabric and pockets, making this a better fit for those who prioritize softness over cost and don't mind the extra step of ordering up.

The Colorfulkoala Full Length delivers the buttery-soft feel and effective tummy control that make this brand popular among yoga and Pilates enthusiasts. The 28-inch inseam provides full coverage for taller women or those who prefer leggings that reach the ankle. However, the absence of pockets limits its usefulness for running or gym sessions where you need to carry a phone, and some users note pilling after several washes. Given that the 7/8 length version offers similar quality without the extra fabric, the full-length variant makes sense primarily for those who specifically need maximum leg coverage and can forgo pocket storage.

Colorfulkoala's 7/8 leggings have built a following for a reason: the fabric rivals premium brands at a fraction of the cost, with a high waist that stays put during movement. Where the top pick prioritizes squat-proof thickness, these prioritize that sought-after buttery feel.

Best suited for women under 5'8 who prefer ankle-grazing length and don't rely on lighter colors for opacity. The shorter inseam may feel cropped on taller frames, and some shades can show sheerness under tension.

The SINOPHANT Buttery Soft leggings provide an ultra-soft, second-skin feel with a high waist that stays in place, making them ideal for lounging, yoga stretching, or layering under tops. But the fabric is thin enough to be see-through in lighter shades or when bending over, and the lack of pockets means storing a phone isn't an option. These are best suited to home wear and low-impact activities where sheerness isn't a concern.

These leggings deliver on buttery-soft comfort and the side pockets hold a phone securely, making them ideal for lounging or running errands. However, the thin fabric can become sheer in lighter shades when stretched, and there is no compression or tummy control, so they are not suited for gym workouts or activities requiring opacity.

The Bluemaple 4-pack delivers maximum quantity for minimum cost — soft, comfortable fabric and a high waist that stays put make these fine for lounging, yoga, or low-impact workouts. However, opacity varies by color (lighter shades can be sheer), and the thin material may snag or pill over time. The claimed tummy control and butt lift are mostly marketing, not functional. This set suits buyers who prioritize rotation and softness over gym-ready performance or long-term durability.

The SINOPHANT leggings combine buttery-soft fabric and deep side pockets that hold large phones, all at a price that undercuts most pocketed options. However, the thin material can be see-through in lighter colors, limiting its scope to lounging or low-impact activity rather than gym workouts involving bending or squatting. Wearing a long top helps manage the sheerness.