The Best Maternity Leggings to Complete Your Pregnancy Wardrobe
The athleisure trend continues to reign supreme in the fashion world, much to the delight of moms-to-be everywhere. The ongoing need for comfy yet cute clothing, has made stretchy maternity leggings (that are still super-chic) more accessible than ever. Leggings are a must-have item for moms-to-be who like to work up a sweat. But they’re not just for the gym; leggings are the ideal work-from-home uniform and a great alternative to maternity jeans on days when you need a little extra stretch.
Ready to start browsing? Check out our top tips on how to find the perfect pair—plus, a few of the best maternity leggings to scoop up right now.
Before you invest in a pair of maternity leggings, think about your comfort needs and preferences. There are two main types of pregnancy leggings on the market:
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Under-the-bump maternity leggings: These maternity leggings are low-waisted and rest just under your baby bump. Under-the-bump leggings have a super stretchy waistband that offers moms-to-be gentle support. This style is a good option earlier on in pregnancy when your belly isn’t big enough to fill out an over-the-bump style.
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Over-the-bump maternity leggings: This style has a built-in panel that’ll stretch to accommodate your growing belly. Over-the-bump maternity leggings are super-versatile, as the belly panel can be folded down during early pregnancy (and postpartum) or pulled up for maximum support in the final trimester.
Not sure where to start your search? Many athleisure brands now offer maternity-friendly styles—here are our top four favorite places to buy the best pregnancy leggings.
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Beyond Yoga: Voted the top maternity workout brand in the 2022 Best of Pregnancy awards, Beyond Yoga offers a great range of pregnancy-friendly leggings, tops and shorts. Additionally, the brand’s signature Spacedye fabric is moisture-wicking and super-soft with four-way stretch and UV protection. And we love that Beyond Yoga also has a nursing-friendly collection for the fourth trimester and beyond.
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Girlfriend Collective: The maternity collection at Girlfriend Collective may be small, but it packs a serious punch. Mix-and-match seamless maternity leggings and biker shorts with the brand’s stretchy sports bras and a long-sleeve tee. Made from recycled performance jersey, each item is incredibly soft and stretchy (not to mention stylish!).
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Nordstrom: Not ready to commit to one brand? Head straight to Nordstrom. This online department store carries tons of great brands offering maternity athletic gear, from Ingrid & Isabel and Belabumbum to Nike.
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H&M: On the hunt for budget-friendly maternity leggings? H&M has your back when it comes to everyday basics. The affordable retailer offers a wide selection of styles, including chic treggings (trousers + leggings, get it?), faux-leather designs and classic cropped options.
Feeling overwhelmed when you google “best maternity leggings”, or scroll through your favorite maternity brand’s leggings section? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. While shopping, keep your lifestyle in mind. If you’re looking for styles that can be incorporated into your work wardrobe, consider maternity jeggings or a classic black pair. Gym bunnies should keep an eye out for supportive workout leggings made from moisture-wicking fabric. Want a pair that does it all? No sweat—there are plenty of high-performance maternity leggings that are super-stylish to boot! All in all, no matter where you plan on wearing them, the best pregnancy leggings are made from breathable materials with plenty of stretch to accommodate your growing bump.
Now that you have all the facts, you’re more than ready to pick out the best maternity leggings for your needs. And to make your choice even easier, we’ve asked our readership—real moms and moms-to-be, just like you—to tell us about their favorite maternity leggings. Check out their thoughts below, alongside our picks for the best maternity leggings available today.
Overall best maternity leggings
If you’re looking for your next go-to pair of maternity leggings, check out this style by Beyond Yoga. The leggings are made from buttery soft performance fabric that’s supportive and durable enough to work out in. The pair wicks moisture away to keep you cool and offers a four-way stretch to keep you comfy. The midi length hits just above the ankles, and the over-belly waistband can be folded up during pregnancy or down postpartum. Choose from an array of cool core colors and vibrant seasonal hues.
Sizing: XXS to XL | Material: 87% polyester/13% elastane | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry | Color options: 6
“These leggings combine performance with ultimate comfort. I practically lived in my Beyond Yoga leggings throughout my pregnancy, whether I was at the gym or yoga studio, running errands or lounging around the house. The fabric is moisture-wicking, soft and stretchy, and the fit was perfect. The leggings can be worn above the bump or below, giving you options, and the panel always hugged my bump but never constricted, even as I got bigger later in pregnancy. As a petite person, I also appreciated that Beyond Yoga leggings come in varying lengths, so I didn't have to worry about the bottoms bunching awkwardly.” – Ashlee, mother of two and content director at The Bump
- Exceptionally soft fabric has built-in UV protection
- Foldover waist can be worn over or under your bump
- Comes in a variety of cool colors
- Runs small, some reviewers suggest sizing up
Best maternity leggings with pockets
Looking for the best pair of maternity leggings with pockets? You can’t go wrong with this classic style from Kindred Bravely. The pair features a stretchy, over-the-bump panel that’s ultra-high (read: it will reach up to your bust). Don’t need all that extra coverage? No problem—just fold the waist over for a more relaxed style. What’s more, these pregnancy leggings are complete with two side pockets that are deep enough to hold your cell phone, keys and other everyday essentials.
Sizing: S to 1X | Material: 87% polyester/13% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Color options: 2
“I liked that these leggings grew with my bump, while retaining their support and shape. Plus: pockets!” – Julie, mother of one
- Ultra-high waist panel can be folded over, depending on your preferences
- The pair offers light compression for added support
- Also available without pockets
- Some reviewers say they don’t like where the seams are located
Best affordable maternity leggings
Since you’re only going to wear your maternity clothes for a finite amount of time, you may not want to blow your budget on basic pieces that cost a pretty penny. Check out the maternity leggings at H&M. The store sells everything from stylish treggings and faux leather pairs to cropped designs. But our favorite go-to is this classic style. Made from a super-soft brushed jersey, they’re so affordable, you can stock up on several pairs at once. The best part? These maternity leggings have a comfy and stretchy foldover waistband.
Sizing: XS to XXL | Material: 52% cotton/43% rayon/5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cool, line dry | Color options: 1
“Very flattering—they keep their shape and let me dress nicely to work when I can't wear jeans.” – Katherine, expectant mother
- Wide, foldover waistband
- Suitable for pregnancy and postpartum stage
- Affordable price point
- Leggings lack stretch
Best maternity compression leggings
If pregnancy has led to varicose veins and swollen ankles, these maternity compression leggings may offer some relief. BLANQI maternity leggings offer full over-the-belly support with a built-in anchor to lift and redistribute your baby bump weight, as well as light compression to help combat swelling. Thanks to the stretchy expandable panel, these pants can take you through all three trimesters.
Sizing: XS to XXL | Material: 95% nylon/5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry | Color options: 6
“I loved my Blanqi leggings so much that I bought three pairs because they were a staple in my wardrobe during my third pregnancy. I felt so supported and the material was thick and high-quality, but not restrictive or suffocating. I could easily dress them up or down and ended up wearing them long past my pregnancy.” – Jen, mother of three and head of marketing at The Bump
- Super-stretchy over-bump band
- Compression material smoothes and supports
- Seamless construction to prevent chafing
- Some customers report that the fabric pills and snags with regular wear
Best everyday maternity leggings
Next up on our list is a pair of staple pregnancy leggings you'll reach for again and again. Ingrid & Isabel's leggings are made from premium materials with a touch of Spandex for added stretch. Thoughtful design features like a crossover back panel offers incredible support, while gold zippers on the ankle keep things stylish. Wear them with an oversized sweater or pop on a shirt and blazer for a comfy office look.
Sizing: XS to XL | Material: 87% nylon/13% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Color options: 1
“I like the comfort of the leggings as well as the accuracy of sizing.” – Hannah, expectant mother
- Crossover panel can be worn rolled up or down
- Super-soft and stretchy
- 29” inseam length may not be suitable for all
Best athletic maternity leggings
High-performance maternity leggings are a must-have for active mamas. And this figure-sculpting camo-print pair from Seraphine really goes the distance. Made from recycled polyester, the super-stretchy leggings are totally opaque and squat-proof. Plus, the stretchy belly band can be worn over your bump for more support during pregnancy or folded down for postpartum wear. Stylish workout gear that can be worn during every stage of pregnancy? Yes, please.
Sizing: XS to XL | Material: Polyester | Care instructions: N/A | Color options: 3
- Leggings are totally opaque
- Flexible foldover waist
- Made with eco-friendly materials
- Suitable for pregnancy and postpartum stage
- This pair is not moisture-wicking
Best maternity flare leggings
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect pair of maternity flare leggings, you can’t go wrong with lululemon’s best-selling Groove Flared Pants. While they aren’t technically maternity wear, the supportive super-high-rise fit will effortlessly accommodate your growing bump. Whether you’re headed to a prenatal yoga class, running errands or having a reset day at home, this pair will have your back.
The best part? These high-quality maternity leggings will last you well into postpartum life as well. Choose from a rainbow of cool colors, from light blue chambray or dark olive to java brown or classic black. Still not convinced? Just check out this glowing review from their webste: “I’m happy to report that these are 100% worth it. I’ve been wearing them regularly, and I’m now in my second trimester. I’m sure they’ll last all pregnancy and postpartum.”
Sizing: 0 to 20 | Material: 81%nylon/19% lycra elastane | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Color options: 13
- Made from lululemon’s iconic, buttery soft fabric
- Back waistband pocket to hold keys, a card or other small necessities
- Available in an array of colors
- Reviewers suggest sizing up to accommodate your bump
Best cropped maternity leggings
Looking for a stylish pair of cropped maternity leggings? Turn to Hatch Collection. Designed to suit people at every stage of pregnancy, this genius pair will never sag or lose its shape. The high waistband will reach effortlessly over your bump for the perfect amount of coverage, but it can easily be rolled down for extra support postpartum. Thanks to their soft, moisture-wicking bamboo blend and light compression, these maternity leggings are even c-section-friendly—what’s not to love?
Sizing: XS to XL | Material: 80% bamboo/20% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low | Color options: 1
“I can wear these leggings anytime. They are very soft and comfortable, and have held up through numerous washer cycles.” – Anna, mother of one
- Reviewers say they’re incredibly comfortable
- C-section-friendly
- Made from a moisture-wicking bamboo blend
- Thicker fabric may be better suited for cooler weather, according to some reviewers
Best yoga maternity leggings
Okay, so this next pair is not technically made for pregnancy. But lululemon’s Align pants are too good to leave off the list. Designed specifically for yoga, these leggings are the softest in the game thanks to the weightless Nulu fabric. Plus, the high-rise cut has enough stretch to cover and support your baby bump without feeling restrictive. There’s even a hidden pocket in the waistband that fits a card or key. A favorite of seasoned yogis, these leggings will not disappoint.
Sizing: 0 to 20 | Material: 81% nylon/19% lycra elastane | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Color options: 18
“The lululemon Align High-Rise are one versatile pair of leggings! They were great for motivating me to do yoga later in pregnancy, when I’d often rather lay on the couch. They are really high-quality and last a long time—I’m still wearing them a couple years later—and they stretch with you in pregnancy to accommodate your bump. I also love the little convenient pocket for keys or a credit card.” – Natalie, mother of one and senior editor at The Bump
- Made with buttery soft fabric that’s stretchy and sweat-wicking
- Features a hidden waistband pocket
- Choose from four inseam lengths for the best fit
- Available in an array of colors and prints
- Reviewers suggest sizing up to accommodate your bump
Best petite maternity leggings
If you’re a mom-to-be with a smaller stature, it can be tough to find great pregnancy leggings that aren’t too long. Good news—Nike offers workout gear in a range of inclusive fits and sizes. This pair of maternity leggings is available in a short leg length that falls just above the ankle and features a versatile, foldover waistband for your comfort. Aside from the petite-friendly fit, these leggings are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for any activity you have planned.
Sizing: XS Short to XXL Tall | Material: 78% polyester/22% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash | Color options:
“The fit was great; I was able to wear the one size for all of my pregnancy. I bought two pairs of leggings in different colors and two of the bike shorts. They were all staple items of my pregnancy. Easy to wash and dries fast.” – Amanda, expectant mother
- Made from sustainable materials
- Light, breathable feel to keep you comfy
- Inclusive sizes in petite, standard and tall options
- Material percentages may vary per pair; check label for actual content
Best plus-size maternity leggings
Storq is one of the best places to pick up maternity basics in every size. These plus-size maternity leggings come in four colors, making them a fantastic capsule piece for your plus-size pregnancy wardrobe. Crafted from a silky soft spandex-jersey blend, the leggings feature a stretchy panel for a great fit as your bump grows. Wear the panel over or under the belly, and revel in the fact that Storq’s leggings have few exposed seams, which can help cut down on that annoying pregnancy itchiness. One possible downside is that this pair is not totally opaque on everyone, meaning you may want to wear them underneath a long top for added coverage.
Sizing: P to 4X | Material: 92% modal/8% spandex | Care instructions: Hand or machine wash cold, lay flat to dry | Color options: 4
“Super soft, actually long enough, and still fit sans maternity belly.” – Linda, mother of one
- Buttery soft fabric is pregnancy- and C-section-friendly
- Available in petite and plus-sizes
- Leggings are not totally opaque
- Non-compressive material
Best maternity jeggings
Love the look of skinny jeans but need more than a little give? Opt for SPANX’s super-stretchy maternity jeggings. The smoothing fabric and over-the-bump band are designed to make you feel fully supported but definitely not squeezed. This pair offers the comfort of leggings with the refinement of classic denim.
Sizing: XS to XL | Material: 69% cotton/26% polyester/5% elastane | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry | Color options: 3
- Fit true to size
- Seamless over-belly band can be worn up or rolled down
- Center seam-free for a more comfortable fit
- Wash before use to prevent dye transfer
Best under-belly maternity leggings
Under-belly maternity leggings don’t have to cost a small fortune. Take this convenient two-pack from Bumpstart, for example. Made from a soft cotton-spandex mix, these leggings are uber-comfortable. The best part? They have a genius crossover waistband that’s lower in the front so it sits comfortably under your bump but won’t slip down in the back.
Sizing: XS to XL | Material: 97% cotton/3% spandex | Care instructions: Machine-washable | Color options: 2
- Crossover under-bump waistband
- Breathable cotton material
- Affordable price tag
- Wear with a long top for full belly coverage
- Some say the material is thinner than expected
Best over-belly maternity leggings
We’re big fans of Girlfriend Collective, an eco-friendly company that makes their activewear from recycled water bottles and fishing nets. The brand’s over-the-belly maternity workout leggings come in a wide range of sizes (XXS to 6XL), plus a few trendy colors. They offer all the support and comfort you crave, courtesy of a compressive fit and boast a moisture-wicking fabric. Better yet, the super-soft maternity leggings offer UPF 50+ sun protection. Bonus: The seamless style is available as biker shorts too.
Sizing: XXS to 6XL | Material: 83% nylon/17% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold | Color options: 5
- Super-soft material
- UPF 50+ protection
- Available in inclusive sizing options and in two lengths (23.75” and 28.5” inseam)
- Some customers report that the fabric pills at the crotch
- Colors may bleed when washing at first
Best fleece-lined maternity leggings
A pair of cozy fleece-lined maternity leggings is a must-have for any winter pregnancy wardrobe—you never know when you’ll need to brave a snowstorm, after all. This thick pair comes in two colors and features a breathable cotton gusset, an over-belly panel as well as a stretchy waistband that won’t dig in. When the weather turns cold, you’ll never want to take these off.
Sizing: S/M to L/XL | Material: 93% polyester/7% spandex | Care instructions: Hand wash cold | Color options: 2
- Cozy fleece lining keeps you warm without adding bulk
- Can be worn on their own or as a base layer in winter
- Seamless construction
- Waistband runs small
- Shorter length may not suit taller people
- Visible gusset
Best maternity support leggings
If you’re looking for a pair with a bit more support, opt for maternity compression leggings. Check out this pair from Belly Bandit, for instance. They offer gentle compression and are made with a built-in belly panel that can be worn over or under your bump. Whichever style you choose, count on these maternity leggings to smooth and support you. Better yet, you can wear them during the fourth trimester; roll them up for a high-waisted coverage as you breastfeed.
Sizing: S to XL | Material: 100% WonderWeave™ | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry | Color options: 3
“The thick material made them very comfortable!” – Eleanor, mother of one
- Features light compression and built-in belly support
- Can be worn over or under your bump
- Comes in three classic colors: black, gray and navy
- Some reviewers say they wish the seams were more comfortable
- Inseam varies from size to size
Best tall maternity leggings
Taller mamas are all too familiar with the struggle to find the perfect pair of maternity leggings, since regular-length pants end up looking more like capris. Your salvation: These pregnancy leggings from Long Tall Sally. The wardrobe staple is made from a comfy cotton blend and features a wide, elasticated belly band for added support. Better yet, the denim look and pocket details make these leggings perfect work attire. Looking for a pair you can lounge in? You’re in luck—the brand also makes classic cotton maternity leggings.
Sizing: 6 to 22-24 | Material: 76% cotton/22% polyester/2% elastane | Care instructions: Machine-washable | Color options: 2
- Extra-long 36” inseam
- Over-bump support band
- Zip detail on the cuffs
- Not suitable for exercise
Creating a pregnancy wardrobe that’s equal parts stylish and functional isn’t always a breeze. To streamline your shopping experience, we scrolled through tons of maternity leggings from leading maternity brands and trusted online retailers so you don’t have to. We considered several factors when choosing which leggings to include in our roundup, such as fit, bump support, cost, material, sizing options, quality and, of course, style. We read user reviews to understand how these designs worked for real moms-to-be, and didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. And since many of us are also parents, we also relied on our writers’ and editors’ experience wearing some of these maternity leggings during their own pregnancies.
Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.
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