These Maternity Leggings Were So Comfy We Wanted to Live in Them Our Entire Pregnancy (2024)

Our Top Picks

Why We Like It

Old Navy’s maternity leggings earned our Best Overall recommendation because they are affordable, incredibly comfortable, hold up well with repeat washes/wears, and are easy to care for without compromising on compression, fit, and fabric durability. The ⅞ hem means they sit slightly higher without being a true cropped fit. Plus, these are opaque so you don’t have to worry about flashing anyone your underwear.

Our tester appreciated the soft material made of a polyester-spandex blend and shared that these pants didn’t sag or bunch with movement and were incredibly breathable. Even with repeated wears between washes, these leggings don’t sag. The overbelly band provides light compression that doesn’t constrict even when seated, while pockets add to the functionality.

But Take Note

Our tester had nothing negative to say about this pick, but customer reviews note these may run small.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to 2XL
• Material: 77% polyester, 23% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly

Why We Like It

At under $20, these leggings are super affordable. You can even buy a two-pack for $35. But a low price doesn’t mean skimming on key features you would expect to find with a more expensive pair of maternity leggings. The waist has a double-layered fabric band so that you can reposition it for underbelly or over-belly wear. In both configurations, our tester found that the waistband stayed put without rolling down, drooping, or moving around.

The cotton-blend material is thick and stretchy, even after several cycles in the washing machine. Not only do they snap back after washing, but the black doesn’t fade to gray. One of the biggest advantages of the fabric’s thickness is that it’s opaque. Even when stretched out, you couldn't see any underwear, which made our tester feel confident wearing these.

But Take Note

These leggings weren’t as soft as other options tested. Our tester proclaimed them “outside leggings that you can wear on your errands,” and not quite soft enough for lounging.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to 2XL
• Material: 55% cotton, 40% polyester, 5% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Both

Why We Like It

While these leggings are meant for exercise, they’re also great for lounging. Our tester felt that the polyester-elastane blend made for an ultra-soft, smooth fit that comfortably molded to the body and moved with her, regardless of the activity being performed. And if you prefer outdoor activities, the infused UV protection is a nice touch. The moisture-wicking fabric was great for active moments as it prevented overheating.

The belly band adds support without constricting and can be worn over or under your bump and these leggings can carry you into the fourth trimester. These feature two handy side pockets for cards, cash, or a phone. This material is also incredibly durable. After washing the leggings according to the manufacturer’s instructions, they still looked brand new.

But Take Note

These are among the most expensive leggings we reviewed. Also, you might experience a bit of visible panty lines because of the thinner texture, but your underwear won’t show through.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: 87% polyester, 13% elastane
• Over or underbelly: Both

Why We Like It

Our tester felt these outperformed the wildly popular Lululemon leggings because of their belly band that stayed put and their ability to repel dog hair. Plus, flare leggings might be preferable for pregnant people struggling with swollen feet and ankles since they won’t constrict blood flow.The material is thick, with just enough compression to offer comfortable support.

After repeated washing, the materials still feel brand new and there was no stretching or gaping through the crotch or waistband. Even though the brand recommends these for later in pregnancy and postpartum, our tester felt that they could work in an earlier trimester since the band can be folded under the belly.

But Take Note

Along with being a pricier option, these leggings lack pockets. That’s frustrating if you’re trying to travel light while running errands. Also, the sizing range is limited from x-small through x-large.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: 77% polyester, 23% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Both

Why We Like It

Pregnancy brings aches and pains that need extra support—which is why these leggings earned a spot on our list. They feature an inset support panel in the back band and medium compression in the belly to lighten the load on your bump and joints.Our tester appreciated that these leggings maintained their structure, yet weren’t a struggle to wear. The material stays in place without constricting or chafing. They also maintain their shape after machine washing. These fully opaque leggings also come with deep side pockets.

But Take Note

Our tester wasn’t completely wowed by these leggings. They felt they weren’t as soft as our Best Overall pick and didn’t feel they worked for extended lounging periods. Also, these are not very size-inclusive with a limited size range from extra-small to extra-large.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: 77% nylon, 23% elastane
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly
  

Why We Like It

If you’re looking for a pair of leggings you’ll want to rock throughout pregnancy, this pick is a must-have. These leggings are buttery soft to the skin, yet still offer enough support and compression to keep your bump and back comfortable all day. The overbelly band offers light compression in the front and a crossback design for more structure in the back.

Our tester felt that these leggings held up very well to extended wear. They wore them frequently around the house, running errands, and during low-impact activities like walking. These are also opaque so there’s no concern of seeing your underwear through the fabric. Other key features include moisture-wicking, a breathable finish, and a smooth texture that won’t attract lint.

But Take Note

Even though these are billed as performance leggings, our tester questioned whether these would work for more high-impact activities. In their words, “I don’t think they are ideal for a runner.”

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: 83% polyester, 17% spandex, 100% cotton gusset
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly

Why We Like It

Size inclusivity is one of the biggest issues with maternity clothing; these Torrid leggings are essential to fill that gap. The stretchy and supportive leggings range from 00 (US women’s 10) to 6 (6X) and accommodate growing curves without sacrificing comfort or budget.

These leggings have a modest price point and are opaque for full coverage. The cotton-spandex blend provides a comfortable fit that works for exercise, grocery runs, lounging, cooking, and playing with a toddler. Our tester appreciated that her “entire belly was covered and they didn’t fit like high water pants.”

But Take Note

Torrid’s maternity leggings struggled with durability issues. With repeated washing, the color dulled and they shrank, which ultimately impacted the fit. The crotch started to sink over time with regular wear. Our tester also commented that some compression would have been nice.

The Details:

• Size range: 10 to 30
• Material: Cotton and spandex
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly

Why We Like It

Pregnancy swelling is normal, but moderate compression leggings like these from Blanqi can help. The expandable belly panel provides built-in support to keep you comfortable all day.In testing, the polyester-spandex blend fabric proved opaque and the leggings washed well, too.

Our tester liked the four pockets, pretty color options, and built-in contouring that hugs your belly, thighs, and butt. She said the "powermesh" back support panel makes these a good option for people who suffer from back pain and have to be on their feet, while the moisture-wicking fabric and compression mean they're also great for working out.

But Take Note

These leggings are pricey and were a struggle to get on. Our 8-months-pregnant tester chalked this up to them being too small, so you may want to size up; unfortunately, these max out at XL. Our tester also felt the compression made them less than ideal for lounging.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: 95% nylon, 5% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly

Why We Like It

A wider size range, durable design, and thicker fabric make Spanx one of our top picks. Our tester felt the thicker material made them ideal for winter pregnancies. Our tester reported that these leggings maintained their shape and structure even after several washings. Plus, the overbelly band didn’t roll down throughout the day.These leggings are also a great value since they’re designed for before, during, and after pregnancy.

Because these are Spanx, they feature light compression, but you won’t experience the same “suck-in” feeling you get from the brand’s traditional shapewear. Our tester felt that these were comfortable enough for running errands, taking a walk, or even playing with their child.

But Take Note

These leggings are a bit more structured. Our tester didn’t feel they were as comfortable as the Old Navy maternity leggings they tested and wouldn't be good for lounging.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to 3X
• Material: 91% nylon, 9% elastane
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly

Why We Like It

If you feel more confident knowing your leggings are “totally opaque,” our testing found that these Seraphine leggings lived up to their claim of being entirely non-see-through. There wasn't a chance you could see anything through that fabric on the pair we tested. A flexible waistband allows for mid-belly or underbelly options.

Our tester wore these as their go-to for work, yoga, lounging, napping, and more. They loved the silky soft nylon-elastane fabric, which provided plenty of stretch without unwanted sagging. Plus, our 5’11” tester really appreciated that these reached the full length of their long legs. Even with repeated washing, these held up well, maintaining their soft texture and their shape.

But Take Note

These are on the pricey side, and our tester found that as their pregnancy progressed, the adjustable waistband sometimes slipped and rolled down. Also, these leggings have a limited size range from extra small to extra large.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: 77% nylon, 23% elastane
• Over or underbelly: Midbelly or under

Why We Like It

Storq says these leggings should be considered thick tights rather than pants. They pair perfectly with tunics or dresses (or with an old T-shirt for lounging around at home!). Our tester loved the opacity of these modal jersey-spandex leggings, sharing that this “has not changed since I’ve washed them multiple times.” We found these leggings were durable and supportive during any activity.

The wide, double-layer waist panel is adjustable for over- or under-belly placement. Testing found that the waist panel offered complete belly coverage, with plenty of support and room to accommodate more growth without any sagging or shifting. The adjustable belly panel means you can continue to wear them into your fourth trimester, even after a C-section.

But Take Note

These leggings might be too long on shorter people. Our 5’2” tester mentioned that there was loose fabric around her ankles that she had to roll up.

The Details:

• Size range: Petite to 4XL
• Material: 92% modal jersey, 8% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Both

Why We Like It

We can’t pretend that some people don’t dress their bump in non-maternity gear—including leggings. If you’re looking for a durable pair of non-maternity leggings that will still be useful after you deliver your bundle of joy, these are a solid go-to option. They’re made with a buttery-soft nylon and Lycra elastane blend that offers light compression coverage, a decent size range, two lengths, and multiple colors.

Lululemon’s leggings performed well in our tests, offering a comfortable fit and no sagging. They fit true to size in testing, were opaque, and looked brand new after multiple washes. There’s a hidden pocket in the waistband to securely hold a key or card. These leggings are available in a wide assortment of colors and patterns and range in sizes from 0 to 20.

But Take Note

These are pricey and the waistband rolls down easily, so be prepared to make adjustments throughout the day. This is a common complaint with Lululemon even for people that aren’t pregnant. While this specific style lacks deep side pockets, those can be found on the brand's version of the Align leggings with pockets.

The Details:

• Size range: 0 to 20
• Material: Body: 81% nylon, 19% Lycra elastane; Lining: 90% nylon, 10% Lycra elastane
• Over or underbelly: Mid-belly (non-maternity)

Why We Like It

These Gap Maternity leggings aren’t just super soft, breathable, and a breeze to wash—they also have a belly band that stays put. Our tester was impressed that even into their third trimester, these leggings easily stretched to fit their belly without sacrificing comfort.

The cotton and spandex material looked and felt brand new after multiple machine-washes, and didn’t stretch, fade, or pill. Our tester opted to line-dry these leggings to prevent any shrinkage. They come in XXS to XXL, but you might want to order one size up from your pre-pregnancy size if you tend to carry your weight in the hips, thighs, and buttocks.

But Take Note

These leggings struggled in a few areas. First, they’re not truly opaque. Our tester said her colored underwear was slightly visible under the heather gray leggings. They were also slightly short on our 5’11” tester and the elasticized fold-over waistband didn’t cover their entire belly.

The Details:

• Size range: XXS to 2XL
• Material: 90% cotton, 10% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Both

Why We Like It

Our tester lived in these leggings throughout the test and loved how they provided the ideal amount of stretch and compression without restricting her movement. Best of all, they are less casual or sporty than other options, and therefore could easily be dressed up or down to fit the setting.

These leggings are stretchy and lightweight without sagging. They have a wide waistband with a reinforced lower back for extra support during any activity. The polyamide-spandex blend is soft against the skin with no chafing issues. Our tester felt these were extremely comfortable. Even after multiple washes, the color didn’t fade and the stretch remained the same.

But Take Note

You might experience pilling around the ankles with repeated washing. Also, these leggings weren’t entirely opaque during testing, as brighter-colored underwear did show through.

The Details:

• Size range: S to 3XL
• Material: 90% polyamide, 10% spandex
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly

Why We Like It

These leggings are ideal for pregnant people who don’t want to spend a ton of money on clothes with a 9-month shelf life. The bamboo-spandex blend makes them soft and cozy, with plenty of stretch instead of prioritizing compression. Because of the stretch, our tester felt they were better for lounging and kicking your feet up rather than for more intense activity. The lightweight fabric also checked off the opacity box and maintained durability and function after repeated washes.

But Take Note

If you get too active, these leggings tend to sag and stretch. After a brisk walk, our tester noticed that the stretchy factor encouraged sagging that led to thigh chafing.

The Details:

• Size range: XS to XL
• Material: Bamboo and spandex
• Over or underbelly: Overbelly