If you’ve recently become a new mom, you’ll be wanting to feel comfortable and able to embrace your “new body.”
For many of us, exercise plays a vital role in our pregnancy and postpartum journeys, and having the right clothing is essential for maintaining comfort, confidence, and full range of motion.
Traditional fitness attire is not designed for pregnant or new moms, and sadly the waistbands will feel restrictive, uncomfortable, and will largely be unflattering - and this is likely to put you off exercising!
Thankfully, there’s a great range of tummy control leggings on the market, whether you’re looking for a pair for exercise, day-to-day wear, or simply for lounging around.
OUR TOP PICK
These leggings from IUGA are not only super affordable, but they come in so many different colors that you’ll probably want to purchase several pairs!
They feature a wide high-rise waistband with tummy control for a flattering look and super soft material that fits close to the skin. With a hidden pocket for your phone and keys, these leggings are perfect for active or busy women who are always on the move.
The four-way stretch material promotes both compression and support, while the gusset crotch allows you to maximize your range of movement, and the interlock seams minimize rubbing and chafing.
They have an ‘Ultra-Stretch Fit’ meaning they provide thickness and aren’t see-through, so they’re ideal for wearing not only at the gym or in yoga class but for wearing out and about around town.
Pros
- Extensive range of colors to choose from
- Wide, high-rise waistband with tummy control
- Super-soft, four-way stretch material
- Hidden pocket
- Gusset crotch for a full range of movement
- Interlock seams for minimal chafing
Cons
- Some taller women found these were short on them
EDITORS CHOICE
These yoga pants from Ewedoos are made up of 75% Polyester and 25% Spandex so they have plenty of stretch in them thanks to their four-way-stretch fabric.
They’re also moisture-wicking, so they’re perfect for working out, and they have a soft and silky feel that ensures maximum comfort at all times, whether you’re lounging around or working out.
The button closure and high waistband provide a smooth, secure and flattering fit so you can feel comfortable and confident.
There’s also a pocket on each side so you can easily store your phone and other essentials, and a hidden pocket in the waistband for additional valuables like your keys, card, or cash - allowing you to keep your hands free.
Pros
- Spandex for added fit and stretch
- Moisture-wicking fabric for breathability
- Soft and silky feel
- High waistband for comfort and security
- Three pockets including a hidden one
Cons
- These are really thick which is great as they’re not see-through, but they may feel hot in the summer due to a high percentage of spandex
BEST VALUE
With 92% polyester, these Syrinx yoga pants are thick and non-see-through, while also being moisture-wicking and comfortable.
Four-way stretch provides flexibility and a full range of movement for a range of activities, while gentle compression gives a streamlined look that keeps your tummy in place and flatters your figure. These fit like a second layer of skin, but without restricting your comfort.
With two side pockets and a secret inner pocket, you’ve got plenty of room to store your card, keys, and phone, so you needn’t take your wallet and can keep your hands free.
Available in a range of sizes, from x-small to 3x-large, and with a variety of colors to choose from, there’s a pair of Syrinx pants for everyone.
Pros
- Thick and non-see-through
- Moisture-wicking fabric is ideal for workouts
- Gentle compression around your tummy
- Two side pockets and inner pocket
- Wide range of sizes and colors to choose from
Cons
- Sizes seem to run a little big
RUNNER UP
If you prefer a capri fit, these high waist leggings from Dragon Fit are perfect. Made from 88% Polyester and 12% Spandex, they have just the right amount of stretch. They’re also quick-drying, perfect for keeping you dry and comfortable during your workouts.
The skin-friendly, low-friction fabric sits comfortably on the skin without causing chafing and irritation, while interlock seams and ‘four needles six lines’ sewing technology mean these leggings are figure-hugging and smooth to the touch.
The strong elastic waist controls your tummy and provides a streamlined fit while still maintaining comfort levels.
Plus they feature various useful pockets on both the inner waistband and on the sides, with a stretchy expandable pocket that is able to accommodate a six-inch phone. Capri leggings are perfect for summer, and these also come in a variety of stylish colors and patterns.
Pros
- 12% spandex for added stretch
- Moisture resistant fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
- Skin-friendly and low-friction to minimize chafing
- Strong elastic waistband to control the tummy
- Various inner and outer pockets
- Stylish capri style is perfect for summer
Cons
- Some people found them a little see-through
RUNNER UP
If you’re somebody who relies on leggings a lot, why not opt for these Fengbay 2 pack yoga pants, which provide you with great bang for your buck, and come in a range of color and length options.
These leggings have a high, wide waistband to provide full tummy control and provide a contoured fit to flatter your curves. They even claim to offer a unique fitness and compression technology that improves blood circulation and helps to relieve muscle fatigue.
The four-way stretch fabric is moisture-wicking to keep you dry throughout your workout, while the lightweight fabric provides all-day comfort. The interlock seams reduce irritation and eliminate chafing, making these leggings great for exercise or daily wear.
They also feature an inner pocket to stash your valuables, and some styles feature both inner and outer pockets which are great if you want to minimize the number of things you need to carry to the store or the gym.
Pros
- 2 pack offers great bang for your buck
- High, wide waistband to cling to your curves and provide tummy control
- Four-way-stretch fabric for all-day comfort
- Interlock seams reduce irritation
- Inner and outer pockets depending on the style
Cons
- Some people found they slipped down slightly, which could be down to fit
RUNNER UP
Another great multipack, these leggings from FullSoft come in a pack of three and are extremely affordable - perfect if you wear leggings on a daily basis.
You can’t go wrong with a pair of basic black leggings, as they go with pretty much anything. These are made from ‘squat-proof’ interlink fabric to endure everyday wear and last through frequent machine washing.
92% polyester and 8% spandex provides a combination of softness and stretch that flatters your figure while maximizing your range of movement.
FullSoft insists that these are a great ‘tummy tamer.’ They provide gentle compression that provides smoothness and control around the abdomen while elongating the legs and slimming the waist.
The band is just the right size - wide enough to provide support but not thick to the extent where it creates a bulge as some leggings do. One of the things customers love about these leggings is how soft they feel, so they’re a great option for everyday wear, relaxing at home, or working out.
Pros
- Three pack offers great value for money
- Squat-proof interlink fabric is durable enough for frequent wear/washing
- 8% spandex for stretch and range of movement
- Gentle compression around your midsection
- Ideal for everyday wear
- Super soft fabric for ultimate comfort
Cons
- They’re a little on the thin side
RUNNER UP
Featuring ‘Power Flex’ fabric, these tummy control leggings from Reflex feature high-quality construction and superior durability spandex and nylon mix which has been developed to endure everyday wear and machine washings for years to come.
With a high 4 ½” waistband for better tummy control and light compression around your midsection, these leggings provide subtle support while still ensuring comfort and a flattering, streamlined fit.
The gusseted crotch helps maximize your range of movement while the interlock seams minimize rubbing and chafing, so they’re perfect for anything from yoga to pilates to jogging.
They’ve also got a hidden pocket in the waistband so you’ll be able to stash your gear safely and go wallet-free.
These 22” capris are designed to come just above the ankle for a flattering, leg-lengthening style, plus the ReBound material is sweat and moisture-wicking, keeping you dry during your workouts.
Pros
- Thick, 4 ½” waistband for better tummy control
- Durable ‘power flex’ fabric
- Provides light compression for a streamlined fit
- Interlock seams and gusseted crotch for minimal chafing
- ReBound material is moisture-wicking
- Hidden pocket so you can go wallet-free
Cons
- They can run a little big
- Some colors can be a tad see-through (which could be down to a poor fit)
Best Tummy Control Leggings Buying Guide
Material
Polyester
Polyester is a popular choice and most activewear will have a high percentage of polyester in them.
As a hydrophobic fabric, it’s water-resistant and sweat-wicking, so it’s ideal for working out.
Spandex
Most leggings - at least the activewear variety - will have at least some spandex in them (also known as Lycra leggings, or elastane leggings). Spandex is what provides leggings with stretch, and this is particularly important for tummy control leggings.
Leggings with spandex in them are known for being stretchy and figure-hugging and aim to streamline the body. However, you don’t want too much spandex in your fabric, as otherwise, your leggings will feel restrictive and not very breathable, which is why it’s usually combined with polyester.
Nylon
Nylon is a great fabric - its durable, lightweight, and keeps its shape well. However, it does have a tendency to shrink, so it may have specific wash and care instructions.
Nylon-spandex is a great option, as these materials provide a soft and cozy feel while also wicking away sweat and moisture - making them perfect for working out or for everyday wear.
Cotton
We haven’t featured any cotton leggings on our list, and there’s a reason for that. Cotton is a no-go when it comes to tummy control. Sure, it’s breathable and comfortable, but it won’t hold its shape well.
It’s also not breathable when it’s wet. This is because cotton is pretty hydrophilic, which means it holds up to 25 times its weight in water.
While cotton is fine for everyday wear, you might want to find a pair that contains spandex and a sweat-wicking fabric like polyester, but we wouldn’t recommend cotton leggings for activewear.
Waistband
When it comes to tummy control, it’s all about the waistband. You want a waistband that has a high degree of elasticity (which is where the spandex comes in), and it’s a good idea to look for a pair of leggings that have a wide, high-waisted band that covers your mid-section and controls your tummy.
You want your leggings to have gentle compression to streamline your figure, smoothing your abdomen and providing a flattering fit.
However, you want to ensure you get the right size, as otherwise, the waistband could feel oppressive and uncomfortable, or the opposite - where it slides down and doesn’t provide support.
Comfort
When it comes to tummy control leggings, while you want gentle compression to streamline your stomach, you also need to ensure your leggings are comfortable - otherwise, you’re going to be reluctant to wear them.
Look for leggings with a flat waistband and interlock seams, as these lie flat on the skin and minimize chafing. A gusset crotch is also great for maximizing your range of movement.
Thickness
Thickness is important when it comes to leggings, as many of us have experienced the paranoia of a see-through pair of leggings. Having the right thickness of leggings can boost your confidence, especially when you’re working out.
The key here is to check the mix of the material. Polyester usually provides leggings with added thickness and durability, and you should look out for leggings that can pass the ‘squat test.’
You also want to make sure that the leggings are durable enough to endure regular washing - otherwise, they may become thin and skimpy in time.
Fit
Fit is super important, as otherwise your leggings may feel restrictive and tight, or could be loose and will slip down when you work out. While the focus here is on tummy control, don’t be tempted to go for a smaller size in the hope that it’ll suppress your tummy more.
This will only bring discomfort, and may even create ‘bulges’ around the stomach area. If you pick leggings that are too small, they’ll also need to stretch more, which could make them appear see-through and thinner than they were intended to be.
Check the manufacturer’s size guide and read reviews to get an idea of which size to go for before you buy.
Pockets
Pockets are a bigger deal than you might think because having the right amount of pockets means you can go hands-free and leave your wallet at home, which is ideal if you’re hitting the gym and need to call in the store on your way home.
A ‘secret’ waistband pocket is perfect for storing your keys and other small valuables, while side pockets can be great for providing easy access to your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What leggings make you look slimmer?
Leggings with tummy control and a high waistband will help streamline your figure, and those with spandex or nylon in their fabric mix will provide gentle compression.
Black or dark colors can also help elongate your figure and make you look slimmer.
Why do my leggings keep rolling down?
This is a common issue with leggings, and it’s usually down to having the wrong size. If your leggings are too big, they won’t cling to your waist, and instead, they’ll slip down when you move around.
This can be super frustrating, especially if you’re working out and you need to constantly readjust your waistband. This is also a common problem with leggings that are made out of cotton, as cotton has a tendency to lose its shape after a while, and can sag or become baggy.
Do leggings look good on plus size?
Yes! It’s absolutely a myth that leggings can only be worn by slimmer sizes. Leggings can look flattering on a range of body shapes, the key, however, is to ensure you get the right size and style for you, and that you wear them with confidence.
If you're looking to streamline your figure, look for leggings with a high waistband and tummy control, as well as a fabric that contains spandex or nylon, as these will provide a good degree of stretch while also giving you control and compression in the areas you need it most.
However, above all, leggings look best when they’re worn with confidence.