If you’re serious about your gym workouts, it’s worth investing in a pair of high-quality gym leggings for women that won’t bunch up or slide down when you move. “Look for versatility, sweat-wicking fabric and comfort,” says Alex Boardman, physiotherapist for Aston Villa FC and county tennis player. You’ll also want to consider whether your workout leggings are ethically made – choose one that minimises water use, minimises packaging and empowers its workers.

We asked 18 fitness pros and class instructors (who teach everything from sweaty HIIT to meditative yoga) to rate the best leggings for working out. They scored each pair based on whether the fabric was soft against the skin, how well they wick sweat and kept their shape during exercise, and whether they had any extra features like drop-in leg pockets and reflective details. We also tested each pair to make sure they passed the squat test and checked how opaque they were, and how durable they were when worn multiple times.

Empowering Your Workouts: Exploring the World of Women’s Gym Leggings

This pair is the cheapest in our review but still feels luxuriously soft against your skin and did very well in the squat test, which means they’ll keep their shape and won’t slip down during exercise. The Spacedye fabric, which is printed with a subtle, textured pattern, is also incredibly comfortable. Its high-waisted design flatters the booty and tummy area, while the hems have a flattering rolled cuff, so they’re great for low-impact workouts like pilates. They’re available in a range of gym-selfie-friendly bright and pastel colours.