The 25 Best High-Waisted Workout Leggings in 2023

(Image credit: Getty)

By Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Rachel Epstein

published 1 March 2022

There's nothing worse than paying for an exercise class only to find yourself completely distracted by workout pants that keep slipping or falling down. I'm convinced that high-waisted leggings were specifically invented to solve this problem, which is why every woman needs a pair (or five) in her closet. A bonus: There's nothing like a great pair of leggings to transform the whole mood of your workout. Narrow your search with these comfy-but-stylish high-waisted workout leggings that are cute enough to go straight from the gym to brunch—or, you know, just to brunch.

Nike Sculpt High-Waisted Cropped Training Leggings

Nike's sculpted high-waisted leggings purposefully aim to show off those toned calf muscles when you want the world to know you're a fitness queen. Bonus: They're made from a minimum of 75 percent recycled material.

Roam Loud Ansa Legging

Electrify your workout in Roam Loud's citron-colored leggings. They feature dual compression (a.k.a. majorly squat-proof), with two large pockets to accommodate a cell phone and keys.

Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight

Athleta's high-rise leggings were made for yogis to nail that tree pose and downward dog. They're simple, and the waistband stays in one place without being too tight. As one reviewer so eloquently wrote, "I'd like to live in these."

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28"

Lululemon's Align high-rise leggings are a bona fide staple in every workout wardrobe. So scoop up your favorite color or print quickly—new season versions sell out fast.

FP Movement High-Rise 24/7 Leggings

If you don't own these FP Movement leggings in multiple colors, you're doing it wrong. They're insanely soft, lightweight, and stretchy yet durable to withstand outdoor runs and hikes.

Alo High-Waist Airlift Legging

Alo is the ultimate move for trend-forward workout gear that's exceptionally well-made (aka worth every penny). The brand's high-waist Airlift legging is iconic and beloved by tons of celebs for its sculpting abilities. We can't resist this new Fuschia hue, complete with a comfy second-skin fit and feel.

Universal Standard Ronda Stirrup Legging

Universal Standard's high-waisted stirrup leggings are crafted from sweat-wicking antimicrobial fabric with tons of support. They come in two other colors and are perfect for yoga, Pilates, or stretch classes.

Outdoor Voices Springs 7/8 Legging

You'll have trouble deciding whether or not you want to sweat in these amazing Outdoor Voices leggings or head out for a Saturday of fun. Either way, they're a super-cute option featuring the brand's signature chevron design—the matching bra top is kind of a must to pair with them, in our opinion.

Splits59 Ella High Waist Airweight Leggings

Get your Sporty Spice on in these racer-stripe leggings by Splits59. The airbrush fabric is no joke—you'll feel breezy while your workout heats up.

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi Legging

Beyond Yoga's leggings are the ultimate in comfort, with tons of color options each season. While they're equipped to handle any workout, you'll want to spend every waking hour in these, if not ones when you're catching zzz's, too.

Fabletics Oasis High-Waisted Pocket 7/8

Fabletics always delivers on fun prints that motivate a workout or a stylish athleisure outfit. This high-rise pair (with pockets!) is cut from light-as-air fabric you'll rely on for summer and heated workouts alike.

Bandier All Access Sport Rib Center Stage Legging

Bandier's best-selling All Access Center Stage leggings are a staple in every fitness pro's arsenal. The brand debuts fresh colors each season—including new ribbed designs!—and we're so into this muted mauve shade.

Girlfriend Collective Cabana Luxe Legging

Secure a pair of Girlfriend Collective's most luxe legging yet, made from recycled water bottles. Their signature snug fit comes in five colors, going up to size 6XL.

Tory Sport High-Rise Tie-Dye Seamless 7/8 Leggings

Tory Sport's leggings are unquestionably worth the splurge. We love the brand's mid-weight compression designs in cool weather. But in the heat, you can't beat the high-rise leggings from the seamless collection.

Spanx Look At Me Now Seamless Leggings

If you love Spanx, you'll appreciate these thick seamless leggings even more. They're spun from breathable matte yarn with a double-compression waistband designed to sculpt your shape.

IVL Collective Active Faux-Leather Leggings

Let your leggings shine as much as your work ethic in the gym. This pair is made from Hydrasculpt collagen-infused fabric that feels soothing on the skin with a supportive high waist.

Eleven by Venus Williams Smooth Legging

It doesn't get chicer than Eleven by Venus Williams' compression leggings that wick away sweat and moisture. They're equally on point for a Zoom yoga class or a quick grocery store run.

Year Of Ours Ribbed Veronica Legging

Don't discount Year Of Our's signature V-shaped waistband when shopping for high-rise leggings. They sit plenty high while creating a so-flattering shape you'll love wearing from workout to wine o'clock.

Sweaty Betty Power Block High-Waisted 7/8 Workout Leggings

There's something about bold color-blocking that really gets us in the mood to sweat. Even better, this high-rise pair, designed for extra support and coverage, comes in full and 7/8 lengths.

Zoezi Sport Nala MaruMaru Leggings

You'll make a bold statement in these marbled leggings by Zoezi Sport, wherever you wear them, be it yoga, HIIT, Pilates, or spin. They feature a four-way stretch fabric with excellent recovery, which means they'll last.

LSKD Base Full Length Legging

If you don't have Australian LSKD on your radar, you'll want to get familiar stat. These high-rise leggings (which come in lots of colors) are buttery soft yet supportive for any style of movement—leisure included.

Vitae Apparel Ultra-Pulse Leggings

We can't emphasize how silky smooth Vitae Apparel's leggings feel on the skin. They're ultra-lightweight and perfect for workouts on the hottest days. Oh, and can we discuss the adorable scalloped hems?

Pru Apparel Shujaa Leggings

Don't fear white leggings! This sustainably-made pair from Pru Apparel is totally squat proof, with cool mesh panels for extra style points.

Strut This x Happily Grey Twiggy Ankle Legging

Catch a '70s vibe in Strut This' collaboration with Happily Grey. The high-rise silhouette wicks away sweat with four-way compression and UPF 50+ sun protection.

Janji Groundwork Winter Tight

Get your winter run on in these durable high-rise tights by Janji, complete with reflective seams and a lightly brushed interior for added warmth.

Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire, where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop.