JC London · leggings · second skin leggings ·Nov 18, 2025

Top 10 Leggings for Squats and Deadlifts (Tested)

There are few things more distracting during a heavy lifting session than a nagging worry in the back of your mind: "Are my leggings see-through?" That moment of hesitation before you descend into a deep squat or set up for a deadlift can break your focus and compromise your form. For serious lifters, the right pair of leggings isn’t a fashion choice—it’s a crucial piece of performance equipment. They need to be supportive, durable, and above all, completely opaque.

Finding the perfect pair of leggings that can withstand the demands of heavy compound movements is a common struggle. They need to offer a secure fit that doesn't slip, stretch without becoming sheer, and provide the confidence you need to focus solely on the weight you're moving. This guide is here to solve that problem. We have tested and compiled a definitive list of the top 10 leggings that are truly built for squats and deadlifts. Whether you're a seasoned powerlifter or just starting your strength journey, this is your resource for the best gym leggings UK brands have to offer.

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What Makes Leggings Great for Squats and Deadlifts?

Before we get to our top picks, let's define the criteria for a truly lift-proof legging:

Opacity (The Squat Test): The fabric must be thick and densely knit enough to remain completely non-see-through, even when stretched during a deep squat.
Secure Waistband: The waistband needs to be high, wide, and supportive, staying firmly in place without rolling, slipping, or digging in during movement.
Durable Fabric: The material must be robust enough to withstand friction from barbells (during deadlifts) and repeated use without pilling or thinning.
Four-Way Stretch: The fabric must offer excellent stretch and recovery, moving with your body without restricting range of motion and snapping back to shape afterward.
Supportive Fit: A good level of compression helps support muscles and provides a secure, "held-in" feeling that boosts confidence under the bar.

With these factors in mind, here are the top 10 leggings that meet the challenge.

The Top 10 Gym Leggings for Heavy Lifting

1. Sweaty Betty Power Leggings

The All-Round Performance King

Sweaty Betty's Power Leggings are an icon in the activewear world for a reason. They are engineered to handle anything you throw at them, making them a top choice for weightlifting.

Features: Made from a technical, compressive fabric, these leggings sculpt and support your muscles. The material is thick and completely squat-proof. They feature a side pocket for your phone and a back zip pocket for keys, adding excellent practicality. The famous "bum-sculpting" seams are incredibly flattering.
Pros: Excellent compression for muscle support, highly durable fabric, convenient pockets, and a huge range of colors and prints.
Cons: Premium price point, and the compressive fit can feel too intense for some.

2. Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight

The Unbeatable Comfort-Meets-Performance Pick

While Lululemon is often associated with yoga, their Everlux™ fabric used in the Wunder Train collection is specifically designed for training. It combines the soft feel of the Align legging with the technical performance needed for intense sweat sessions.

Features: The Everlux™ fabric is highly breathable and fast-drying, with a cool-to-the-touch feel. It offers four-way stretch and great shape retention. The waistband has a continuous drawcord to ensure a secure, customized fit.
Pros: Unbeatable combination of softness and technical performance, excellent sweat-wicking, and a secure waistband that won’t budge.
Cons: High-end price, and the fabric, while durable, is less slick than the Power Leggings, so may show more friction from barbells over time.

3. JC London Second Skin Leggings

The Affordable Luxury for Unrestricted Movement

JC London has emerged as a powerhouse in the affordable luxury space. Their leggings are prized for a "second-skin" feel that offers incredible comfort without sacrificing the performance needed for lifting.

Features: JC London’s signature fabric is buttery-soft yet impressively durable and completely opaque. The standout feature is the engineered high waistband, which is wide, supportive, and famous for not rolling down. The fit is a gentle compression, offering support that feels like a secure hug rather than a tight squeeze.
Pros: Unmatched comfort, a waistband that genuinely stays put, excellent value for a luxury feel, and a minimalist aesthetic. A top choice for lifters who prioritize comfort and a secure fit.
Cons: Lighter compression may not be enough for those who prefer an intensely "locked-in" feel.

4. Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings

The Community Favourite for Contouring

Gymshark built its brand on gym-focused apparel, and the Vital Seamless 2.0 leggings are a testament to that. They combine performance with a physique-enhancing design that has made them a global favorite.

Features: These leggings use seamless technology with figure-contouring shading. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and effective at wicking sweat. The high, ribbed waistband provides a secure fit for most people.
Pros: Flattering contouring details, affordable price point, good sweat-wicking properties.
Cons: Sizing can be inconsistent across different colors, and lighter shades are not always as reliably squat-proof as the darker ones.

5. Nike Pro Dri-FIT Leggings

The Athlete’s Choice for Breathability

Nike has a long history of creating high-performance athletic gear, and their Pro leggings are a staple for a reason. They are designed for serious training, with a focus on breathability and a secure fit.

Features: Made with Nike's Dri-FIT technology, these leggings are exceptional at moving sweat away from your skin. They often feature mesh panels on the lower legs to enhance ventilation. The wide, elastic waistband provides a snug, secure feel.
Pros: Excellent breathability and sweat management, reliable performance from a trusted brand, and a comfortable, athletic fit.
Cons: The elastic waistband can sometimes dig in, and the material is generally thinner than others on this list, so checking opacity is key.

6. Under Armour HeatGear® No-Slip Waistband Leggings

The No-Fuss, No-Slip Workhorse

Under Armour is a brand built on performance, and these leggings are designed to solve one of the biggest frustrations for lifters: a slipping waistband.

Features: The standout feature is the double-sided silicone on the inside of the high waistband, which physically grips your skin to prevent any slipping or rolling during movement. The HeatGear® fabric is lightweight, sweat-wicking, and offers good compression.
Pros: The no-slip waistband truly works, providing an incredibly secure fit. The fabric is lightweight and breathable.
Cons: The silicone grip may be irritating for those with very sensitive skin.

7. AYBL Core Leggings

The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Powerhouse

For those looking for high quality without the high price, AYBL has become a go-to. Their Core leggings offer features often found in much more expensive brands.

Features: Made from a soft and stretchy blend of nylon and elastane, these leggings are thick, compressive, and fully squat-proof. They feature a flattering high-waisted design and a seamless front to prevent camel toe.
Pros: Exceptional value for money, completely opaque fabric, and a comfortable yet supportive fit.
Cons: The waistband may roll down on some body types during intense movements.

8. Adanola Ultimate Leggings

The Minimalist Choice for Gym-to-Street Style

Adanola has captured the market for those who want activewear that is both highly functional and stylishly understated. Their Ultimate Leggings are perfect for lifters who appreciate a clean aesthetic.

Features: These leggings offer a compressive, sculpted fit from a four-way stretch, sweat-wicking material. The fabric is smooth, matte, and reliably squat-proof. The high, supportive waistband and minimal branding create a chic, versatile look.
Pros: Sleek, minimalist design, supportive and compressive fit, and durable, opaque material.
Cons: The compression can feel intense, so consider sizing up if you're between sizes. Popular styles often sell out quickly.

9. P.E Nation Grand Stand Legging

The Fashion-Forward Statement Piece

For those who want to make a style statement while lifting heavy, P.E Nation blends high-fashion aesthetics with technical performance.

Features: Known for their bold color-blocking and retro-inspired designs, these leggings are made from a compressive, technical fabric that’s recycled. The high-rise waistband is reinforced for core support.
Pros: Unique, fashion-forward designs, great compression, and made from sustainable materials.
Cons: Very high price point, and the bold designs may not be for everyone.

10. Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging

The Sustainable and Supportive Option

Girlfriend Collective has set the standard for sustainable activewear. Their leggings are made from recycled water bottles and are known for their sturdy, supportive fit.

Features: The fabric is thick, compressive, and completely sheer-proof. The fit is snug and supportive, making it great for lifting. The brand is also celebrated for its inclusive sizing.
Pros: Made from recycled materials, highly durable and squat-proof, and available in a wide range of sizes and beautiful colors.
Cons: The fabric is very thick, which might feel too warm for some during intense sessions.

Q&A: Your Lifting Leggings Questions Answered

Q: What makes leggings "squat-proof"?

A: It’s a combination of fabric density, knit, and color. A squat-proof legging uses a thick, tightly interlocking knit that doesn't become transparent when stretched. Fabric weight, measured in grams per square meter (GSM), is a good indicator; a higher GSM (250+) usually means a more opaque material. Darker colors are also inherently less likely to be sheer.

Q: How do I choose the right leggings for weightlifting?

A: For weightlifting, prioritize these three things:

A Secure Waistband: This is non-negotiable. Look for a high, wide band that won't roll or slip.
Durability: Choose a robust fabric that can handle friction from a barbell without pilling. Slicker materials are often better for deadlifts.
Support: A good level of compression helps you feel secure and supported. Look for descriptions like "compressive," "supportive," or "sculpting."

Q: Does the seam placement matter?

A: Yes. Look for leggings with flatlock seams, which lie flat against the skin to prevent chafing. Ergonomic seam placement that follows the natural lines of your muscles can also enhance the supportive feel and flattering look of the legging. A gusset (a diamond-shaped panel in the crotch) is also a sign of quality construction, as it disperses stress and improves durability.

Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good pair of gym leggings in the UK?

A: There is a wide range. You can find excellent options like AYBL for around £30-£40. The affordable luxury category, including brands like JC London and Adanola, typically sits between £40-£60. Premium brands like Lululemon and Sweaty Betty will cost you £80 or more. The sweet spot for quality and value is often in that £40-£60 range.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Confidence

Choosing the right pair of leggings is a critical investment in your training. The confidence that comes from knowing your gear is secure, supportive, and 100% opaque allows you to channel all your mental energy into your lift. The distraction of a slipping waistband or the fear of a see-through moment is the last thing you need when you’re aiming for a new personal best.

Whether you opt for the all-around performance of Sweaty Betty, the unmatched comfort of JC London, or the budget-friendly power of AYBL, the UK market is full of fantastic options. Use this guide to find the pair that best suits your body, your budget, and your lifting style. Now, you can load up that bar and squat deep with the total confidence you deserve.