Best maternity leggings 2022: From gym and sports to leather pairs

Best: Overall

Rating: 10/10

This pair of leggings have quickly become our favourite ever – which is quite the statement. Made from a soft, yet thicker, material than most others we tried, they feel more like you’re wearing a set of tights but with extra coverage. The leggings are made with a ribbed construction, which is designed to provide additional support across the tummy and lower back, and we also loved that they’re seamless, which makes them feel even more comfortable, like a second-skin almost.

Super stretchy, they’re a breeze to get on and off and keep their shape after washing. Available in XS to L (UK6 to UK18), they run a little on the long side, which is great for those with long limbs, and we found they turn up easily at the ankle for anyone that’s petite. We think these will remain a staple in our wardrobe throughout pregnancy and long after.

Best: Leather-look style

Rating: 9.5/10

Proving that being pregnant and fashionable can go hand in hand, this pair of leggings tick both the style and comfort boxes. Made in a sleek leather-look fabric, they may look restrictive but we were surprised to find they have a decent amount of stretch, making them easy to get on and off – so don’t worry, you won’t have a Ross from Friends moment wearing these. The leggings feature an overbump waistband in the same coated material, which helps to hug your curves for all-day comfort without squeezing your bump.

We also found them to be surprisingly breathable and appreciated the ankle grazer length, which means they can be worn with everything from trainers to boots. The leggings are available in sizes UK 6 to UK18.

Best: Size inclusive leggings

Rating: 9/10

Looking for an easy everyday pair? This simple style from M&S is a purse-friendly purchase that does the job. Soft to the touch, they have a decent amount of stretch, which makes them great for any stage of pregnancy, and an extra high waist that extends right over your growing bump with an elasticated waistband that ensures they stay in place.

The skinny fit design is snug and gives you plenty of support but isn’t so restrictive that they’re difficult to get on or off. We also loved how size-inclusive these leggings are – not only do they comes in sizes UK6 to UK22 but there are also a range of different leg lengths, including short, regular and long, meaning it’s easy to find the right fit for you.

Best: For support

Rating: 9/10

A brand best known for its shapewear, it should come as no surprise that Spanx’s leggings were the most supportive on our list. Super-thick, we were initially concerned that we’d struggle to get them on or that they’d feel too restrictive on our bump. However, because the fabric is so stretchy and the leggings are designed with the brand’s “Mama Magic” waistband, they made our growing belly feel immediately supported, while our legs had never looked better.

With a super high waist, the leggings can expand with you and your bump throughout all stages of pregnancy. We also loved that, aside from two stylish raised stripes on the outer leg, they’re completely seamless, meaning your hips and thighs are smoothed over and you don’t need to worry about getting dreaded camel toe. The leggings are available in sizes XS to 3XL (UK6 to UK34).

Best: Patterned pair

Rating: 8.5/10

Say hello to your new favourite pair of patterned leggings. Proving that you don’t need to sacrifice style when shopping for maternity clothes, this pair are ideal for expectant and new mums who are looking to inject their wardrobe with the fun factor. Available in sizes XS to XXL (UK8 to UK28), the leggings are made from a lightweight organic cotton and feature a two-tone black and grey swirly motif that’s reminiscent of zebra print.

When it comes to fit, they have a maternity panel that sits over your bump with an elasticated waist to prevent them from slipping and we found that the material was breathable with no worrying about them being see-through. Perfect if you’re looking to make more of a statement, they’re easy to style with everything from simple T-shirts to longline knits.

Best: For workouts

Rating: 9/10

It’s vital that you stay comfortable and feel supported during your workout sessions while pregnant, which is where this pair of leggings come in. Made from a soft fabric, they require a little more effort to get on, like most workout leggings, but provide a super snug fit once you’re in. While they’re high waisted and can cover your bump comfortably, we liked that you’re able to fold down the waistband when you’re ready to relax and require less support.

We tested this pair during a pregnancy yoga session and found that they stayed in place while allowing full freedom of movement and providing maximum coverage – so you don’t need to worry about accidentally showing off your undies. They’re equally perfect for everyday wear and look great paired with a hoodie on down days. The leggings come in sizes XS to XL (UK4 to UK22).

Best: Cropped leggings

Rating: 8/10

If you prefer a cropped style or are on the shorter side and struggle to find a pair of leggings to fit, consider this option from H&M. Made from a soft jersey material, they’re ideal for hot weather as the cotton fabric helps keep you cool, while the three-quarter length means they pair wonderfully under short dresses too.

The leggings are designed with a wide panel at the waist that promises to keep you comfortable throughout your pregnancy and they come in three colour combinations including the choice of two pairs of black, black and grey marl or navy and grey marl. Our only niggle would be that the breathability comes at the cost of coverage, so we think this pair are best worn with longer tops. Sizes run from S to L (UK8 to UK18).

Best: For sustainability

Rating: 9/10

These leggings make light work of pregnancy dressing and do their bit for the environment at the same time. Ethically made, they’re cut from stretchy “lenzing ecovero”, which is an eco-responsible Viscose fiber derived from sustainable wood and pulp. Isabella Oliver also rates each of its products on its environmental and social impact taking a range of factors into consideration, such as water use, use of chemicals and people’s wellbeing, with this pair of leggings scoring 82 per cent.

The leggings impressed when it came to fit, too. They are flattering, incredibly high-waisted, which makes you feel immediately supported, and didn’t slide down or feel too tight. They’re available in a choice of black or navy and come in sizes UK4 to UK18.

Best: Jeggings

Rating: 8/10

If you love wearing jeans but are finding it increasingly difficult to wiggle your way into your favourite pair, let us introduce you to jeggings – a stretchy garment at the intersection of leggings and jeans. Giving you the look of traditional denim while simultaneously providing a soft, stretchy feel, this set of two pairs promises to be your style saviour, especially if you’re a skinny fit fan.

Made with a soft cotton blend, the jeggings offer a comfortable wear that will see you through pregnancy and beyond, and they come in a great range of sizes from XS to XXL (UK6 to UK20). We also loved that, unlike most maternity leggings which have fabric that either goes over or below the belly, this style offers the best of both worlds as they can be pulled up just above your belly button or folded down, depending on your preference. Yes, they’re pricey, but if you’re missing not being able to wear jeans, you’ll be practically living in these throughout your entire pregnancy.