Women with bigger thighs will know that shopping for leggings online can be a stressful experience.
There’s nothing more disheartening than spending your hard-earned money on a pair of leggings that don’t fit properly, tear at the seams or end up looking see-through on your figure.
With all the different body types out there and so many products to choose from, finding the perfect pair can seem like a daunting task.
Luckily, we’ve made a list of the five best leggings on the market for big thighs. There’s something here for a wide range of sizes and body types, as well as a variety of styles, colors and designs, so whether you’re working out or lounging on the sofa, you can be comfortable, confident and stylish while you do it!
In a hurry? Here’s our top pick:
Here’s our top pick – CompressionZ High Waisted Women’s Leggings. Why?
- •Comfortable
- •Durable material
- •Incorporates protective and figure-enhancing compression
- •Discreet pocket at the back
Top 5 Best Leggings for Big Thighs
OUR TOP PICK
CompressionZ High Waisted Women’s Leggings
EDITORS CHOICE
IUGA High Waisted Yoga Pants for Women with Pockets
BEST VALUE
No products found.Redquenting Women’s High Waist Seamless Leggings
OUR TOP PICK
CompressionZ High Waisted Women’s Leggings
These leggings really have it all. Comfortable and supportive at the same time, the CompressionZ High Waisted Women’s Leggings are made from a durable blend of polyester and spandex, so you can move around freely without worrying about tearing or feeling exposed.
CompressionZ leggings are designed to fit tight to your body with amazing benefits. Not only does the added compression enhance your figure, it also helps to protect against injuries including muscle pain and shin splints, as well as health concerns like deep vein thrombosis.
It also helps to prevent painful chafing which, as any woman with thick thighs will know, is a must! The discreet pocket in the back means you can carry your keys or phone with you during your workout.
Stocked in sizes XS-4XL and a wide range of colors, you should be able to find a pair that fits both your body type and your personal style!
Pros
•Durable
•Pocket at the back
Cons
•Reported quality issues with the gray color option
EDITORS CHOICE
IUGA High Waisted Yoga Pants for Women with Pockets
Reviewers absolutely love these high-waisted leggings from IUGA. Squat-proof and designed with 4-way stretch, the soft fabric is perfect for fitting bigger thighs without restricting movement or becoming see-through.
These leggings use light compression to streamline your silhouette without compromising on comfort. The compression is specifically concentrated on the midsection area to flatten out the lower abdomen for a flat-stomach look.
The tightness around the waist also helps the leggings to stay in place during exercise while the interlock seams minimize chafing. The seams have the added benefit of providing a contour-like design on the legs and buttocks.
The IUGA leggings are also very practical, incorporating a pocket on either side plus a hidden waistband pocket so you can keep your valuables and essentials on you at all times.
With sizes ranging from XS-XXL and a rainbow of colors to choose from, these leggings really do tick all the boxes!
Pros
•Comfortable
•4-way stretch
•Side and waistband pockets
•Wide range of colors
Cons
•Reported sizing inconsistencies
BEST VALUE
Redquenting Women’s High Waist Seamless Leggings
No products found.Sizing can be a struggle for women with bigger thighs, especially if there’s a significant size difference between your waist, hips and legs.
Redquenting’s Women’s High Waist Seamless Leggings minimize this issue. The breathable blend of nylon, polyester and spandex is not only comfortable and durable, but also super stretchy and accommodating for your figure.
The material is thick enough to prevent the leggings from looking see-through when stretched whilst maintaining breathability. This makes these leggings an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin, as it helps to prevent irritation caused by sweat and friction.
The wide, elasticated waistband keeps the leggings in place, leaving you free to move around without hindrance. The design incorporates turnup hips and a gathered waist, which work together to highlight your curves.
Stylish, sweat-proof and slimming, these high-waisted leggings are perfect for any occasion. Combined compression and contouring streamline your figure while the eye-catching detail and range of colors will definitely help you stand out from the crowd!
Pros
•Stretchy
•Sweat-proof
•Attractive detailing
Cons
•Small size range (S-L)
RUNNER UP
Rainbeau Curves Women’s Plus Size Leggings
For the plus-size ladies out there, these Rainbeau Curves leggings will have you looking and feeling your best, inside and outside the gym.
Specially designed with a wide waistband to prevent rolling, plus all-over compression for support, the leggings stay firmly in place while accentuating your curves in all the right places.
Incorporating stretchy mesh lining and a wide-lined gusset, these leggings are perfectly adapted for plus-size figures and allow for unrestricted movement.
The fabric consists of a blend of polyester, spandex, spandex mesh and nylon. Not only is this blend ideal for providing maximum stretch, it is also moisture-wicking.
Whether you want to wear them around the house all day or to a kick-boxing class, the fabric will ensure you stay dry and prevent irritation. Reviewers also report positive effects from the compression for conditions such as lymphedema, although you should, of course, consult your primary physician before purchasing any garments for such purposes.
These leggings are available in black or gray and range from sizes 14/16 to 30/32.
Pros
•Ideal for plus-size women
•Waistband does not roll
•Built-in compression technology
Cons
•No pockets
•Only two colors available
RUNNER UP
KIWI RATA Women’s High Waist Workout Compression Seamless Leggings
If you’re looking for a combination of style and comfort that will fit you regardless of your proportions, these might be the leggings for you!
These KIWI RATA high-waist leggings come in a variety of vibrant colours and fun designs, with sizes ranging from S-XL. The polyester-spandex blend is breathable, moisture-wicking and squat-proof with 4-way stretch.
The jacquard mesh designs on the legs contribute to the breathability by increasing air flow; this makes them perfect for intense workouts, or just for wearing in hot weather.
The leggings are also seamless, minimizing chafing, and are designed to reduce the dreaded camel-toe effect which can make wearing leggings in public such an ordeal.
These leggings are extremely flattering thanks to their fitted and contour-focused design. The high waistband flattens and supports your stomach. Meanwhile, the contouring makes your waist appear smaller while accentuating your natural curves.
With color options ranging from simple black to bright pink and sunny yellow, you’ll look amazing and feel confident whenever and wherever you wear them.
Pros
•4-way stretch
•Wide range of colors and designs
•Flattering contour
Cons
•No compression
Best Leggings for Big Thighs Buying Guide
A lot of things need to be taken into consideration before you buy a pair of leggings, especially if you have bigger thighs. Choosing the perfect leggings for your body type, lifestyle and fashion preferences can seem like an overwhelming task at first, but don’t worry!
This buyers guide will break down the things you’ll need to consider and help point you in the right direction.
Occasion
Before you choose a pair of leggings, consider where you anticipate wearing them, as this can place some restrictions on what material and style you select.
For example, if you’re planning on wearing your new leggings to a hot yoga class, you should make breathable fabric and ease of movement a priority. If you’ll be doing intense workouts at the gym, be sure to choose leggings with a wide, elasticated waistband that fit snugly and are likely to stay in place.
For lounging at home or simply running errands, your requirements might be less specific, but you should still choose leggings with good coverage and make comfort your number one priority.
Material
The material is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a pair of leggings. Regardless of where and when you’ll be wearing the leggings, it’s always best to opt for a breathable, stretchy fabric for maximum comfort. Polyester and nylon are ideal for both stretch and breathability.
You’ll also want to think about whether you’ll be wearing your leggings indoors or outdoors, as this will affect the ideal thickness of your leggings. For outdoor wear, consider a slightly thicker material.
Another important factor with material, especially for women with larger thighs, is that it needs to be squat-proof and not see-through. To ensure this, stay away from ultra-thin materials and check photographs uploaded by reviewers, as official product photographs can sometimes be deceiving.
Seams
One of the biggest struggles of having bigger thighs is chafing, and the combination of friction and sweat that comes with working out can exacerbate this problem.
To avoid painful chafing during your workout, look for leggings with flat seams. Another important thing to note about seams is that they are often structurally the weakest point of any garment. Flat seams are not only more comfortable than other seams; they also tend to be stronger and can withstand more strain, making them the perfect choice for activewear, and especially for leggings.
Alternatively, to completely eliminate the risk of chafing, opt for a seamless design.
Durability
Of course, you’ll want to make sure that the product you’re investing in is durable and isn’t going to fall apart, especially if you’re planning to wear your leggings to the gym. This is especially important if you’ve got larger thighs as this area is where a lot of the wear and tear occurs in activewear.
By opting for stretchy, high-quality material, you’ll increase your chances of purchasing a pair of leggings you can wear over and over for months and years to come. As mentioned above, flat seams also add to the durability of a garment.
Sizing
Sizing can be tricky when it comes to leggings. It can be difficult to find a pair that fits your waist, hips and legs perfectly. If you have large thighs and a small waist, for example, there are a couple of things you can do to increase your chances of securing the perfect fit.
Opting for stretchy material means the leggings will be more likely to accommodate your proportions. The leggings listed above are all stretchy for this reason. If you’re still concerned about the fit, check the reviews section, as reviewers will often specify their measurements along with the size they purchased and how well it fits. If in doubt, size up!
Style
Whether you’re lifting weights at the gym, running errands or just relaxing at home, it’s always nice to know that you look good. It’s easy to feel self-conscious in a garment as form-fitting as a pair of leggings. However, the right pair of leggings can help you to look and feel incredible.
First and foremost, leggings come in different lengths, so consider whether you prefer a full-length or capri-style legging. Factors such as warmth and your personal fashion preferences will come into this. Also consider whether you prefer plain leggings in neutral shades that are easy to match, or whether you’d like your choice to stand out a little more.
Many activewear brands now incorporate compression technology and contouring into their leggings to simultaneously streamline your figure and accentuate your curves. The popular high-waisted style of leggings can also help to flatten and support the abdomen.
Additionally, the wide range of styles and designs on the market means it’s easier than ever to find leggings in vibrant colors and patterns that allow you to express your individual style.
Practicality
Looking good is important, but so is practicality. A practical pair of leggings will have at least one pocket so you can easily carry your keys and phone with you. For added security, consider zip-up or hidden pockets to keep your valuables out of view and avoid anything falling out.
On the subject of practicality, it’s important to prioritise comfort and unrestricted movement when selecting a pair of leggings: after all, the main purpose of activewear is that it allows you to move around! Stretchy, seamless (or flat-seamed) fabric will allow you freedom of movement and superior comfort.
Leggings – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear leggings if I have big thighs?
Anyone can wear leggings, regardless of size or body type! The important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident. Having bigger thighs can potentially make avoiding chafing and wear-and-tear more difficult, but the reviews and buyers guide above will help you to choose durable and flattering leggings that are right for you.
Which leggings are the most flattering?
Taste is subjective and this will vary from person to person. However, if you’re specifically looking for leggings that will streamline or enhance your figure, look for compression technology and/or contouring.
Compression leggings have many potential health benefits, but they also help to streamline your figure. Meanwhile, contouring can add definition to your curves.
Are leggings in style?
Yes, leggings are definitely in style. In fact, it’s unlikely that they will ever go out of style because they are so versatile. Additionally, leggings often provide the perfect middle ground between being fashionable and comfortable.
How should I wash my leggings?
It’s best to wash leggings on a cool wash, as they tend to be made from synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester or spandex. This is to make sure that they retain their shape.
Avoid using fabric softener, as the silicone in the majority of softeners can affect the breathability of your leggings. Remember to zip up any pockets to avoid abrading the fabric of your leggings.
Once clean, let your leggings air-dry and avoid putting them into the drier as this is likely to cause them to shrink.
Will my leggings stretch out over time?
A common worry when purchasing leggings is that they will eventually stretch out or get ‘saggy’ with repeated wear and washing. Luckily, though, there are things you can do to avoid this.
The washing tips outlined above will help to reduce the risk of your leggings stretching out by preventing heat and chemicals from interfering with the structure of the fabric.
Ultimately, though, the best way to prevent leggings from stretching out or sagging over time is to invest in well-made leggings made of high-quality, durable fabric.
Are higher-quality leggings worth the price?
These days, it’s easy to find high-quality leggings for affordable prices, as the products reviewed above demonstrate. However, it can sometimes be tempting to sacrifice quality for a cheaper price tag. So, are higher quality leggings worth the price?
If you have larger thighs, the answer is definitely ‘yes’. Spending a little extra on high-quality leggings will reduce the risk of your leggings tearing at the crotch or inseam.
Better quality material also means your leggings are less likely to look see-through as they stretch. They are also likely to be more durable, meaning that by spending a little more on a high-quality pair of leggings that will last, you could actually save money by reducing the number of purchases you need to make over a period of time.