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Best maternity leggings for every stage of pregnancy
Whether you’re still managing to hit the gym or just need something comfortable to relax in, the best maternity leggings are a pregnancy must-have for both style and comfort year-round. We've rounded up the top 12 for 2023.
By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated May 18, 2023
There are days during pregnancy when just the simple task of picking out an outfit can feel overwhelming. Given that the best maternity leggings can be teamed with everything from a T-shirt to a dress, whilst being the most comfortable thing you can wear, it’s no wonder that most mums agree that a couple of pairs of maternity leggings are as essential as the best prenatal vitamins during pregnancy.
With all the general discomfort that can come with growing a human, such as swollen ankles and backache, pulling on a pair of jeans or trousers and wearing them all day can sometimes feel like too much of a chore. Maternity leggings are easy to pull on over a growing bump, plus a good pair will have a nice stretchy band that will offer a little added support and last you from just when you’re starting to show up to the moment you're reaching for your TENS machine as labour hits, and beyond!
Whether you’re looking for the best maternity leggings to see you safely through a prenatal yoga class, something a little dressier for date night, or just an ultra-comfortable pair to relax in when it's all you can do to crack open your favourite pregnancy book on the sofa, there are all sorts of leggings available for every occasion and mood.
And who better to recommend the best maternity leggings than the women who've tried and tested them all? As home to the largest online network of UK parents, Mumsnet users are a second-to-none resource when it comes to all things pregnancy, baby and parenthood-related, from the best pregnancy test to buy on day one to the most popular parenting books to see you through the years to come.
Here are the best maternity leggings UK 2023.
The best maternity leggings: at a glance
Overall best maternity leggings: H&M MAMA Before & After Leggings | £13
Best maternity leggings on a budget: New Look 2 Pack Grey and Black Jersey Leggings | £18
Best seamless maternity leggings: Seraphine Seamless Over Bump Maternity Leggings | £15
Best maternity leggings for versatility: Purpless Maternity Pregnancy Trousers | £12
Best flattering maternity leggings: ASOS 4505 Maternity icon legging with bum sculpt seam detail | £16
Best maternity leggings shorts: Be Mammy Short Maternity Leggings | £14
Best cropped maternity leggings: JoJo Maman Bébé Black Cropped Seamless Support Maternity Leggings | £26
Best maternity leggings for breathability: Seraphine Bamboo Leggings | £32
Best maternity leggings for yoga: Foucome Women's Over Bump Super Soft | £18
Best maternity leggings for the gym: Adidas Training Essential Tights | £33
Best maternity leggings for date night: Topshop Maternity Faux Leather Skinny Trouser | £32
1. Best overall maternity leggings: H&M MAMA Before & After Leggings
Price on writing: £13 | Buy now from H&M
Key specs
Material: Cotton 52%, viscose 43%, elastane 5% | Sizes available: XS-XXL | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: Black, grey
What we love
- Super comfortable
- Fold-down waistband makes them suitable throughout your pregnancy and beyond
What to know
- Some reviewers felt they were a little see-through, so you may need to wear them with a longer top
What Mumsnet users say
“H&M Mama leggings are fab!” (Vetted by Mumsnet user HungryHippo20)
“I've lived in my H&M ones and am actually going to be distraught when I can't wear them anymore! They're brilliant.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user js30)
Our verdict
Rating: 5/5
The H&M Mama leggings were suggested time and time again on our Talk boards and it's not hard to see why – the reviews are fantastic. The word ‘comfortable’ was mentioned many times by those who’d tried the leggings, and reviewers loved the stretchy waistband which can be folded down to accommodate you both pre and post-bump.
Made from super soft jersey material which isn't too thick, these leggings will stop you from feeling restricted whilst offering a little extra support across the bump. Just make sure you've already rubbed in your best stretch mark cream so they don't get stained!
Finally, the bargain price tag is what pushed these leggings to the top of our list. They're great value and a reliable all-rounder for everyday wear.
Read next: The best nipple shields for breastfeeding mothers, as tested by mums
2. Best budget maternity leggings: New Look 2 Pack Grey and Black Jersey Leggings
Price: £18 for two | Buy now from New Look
Key specs
Material: Cotton 95%, elastane 5% | Sizes available: 8-20 | Machine washable? Yes | Colours: Black x 2, black and grey, black and navy
What we love
- Excellent value for money
- Made from breathable cotton
What to know
- Some reviewers noted that the waistband sometimes fell down as their bump became bigger
What Mumsnet users say
“New Look! Over the bump ones. Thick and comfy.” (Brand recommended by Mumsnet user Wolfgirrl)
“I'll second the New Look over the bump [ones]! I live in them and am wondering if I can get away with wearing them even way after baby is born.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user auroracase)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
Coming in at less than £9 a pair, these New Look leggings are great for those days when you don’t quite feel like leaving the house.
Made from comfortable and breathable cotton, they’ll keep you cool and they come with a bump-accommodating waistband so they can be worn before your bump starts to grow and postpartum.
A few did find the waistband slipped under their bump later on in pregnancy, but most users loved this two-pack for a casual option. Pair with the best pregnancy pillow for the ultimate in cosy prenatal lounging.
3. Best seamless maternity leggings: Seraphine Seamless Over Bump Maternity Leggings
Price on writing: £15 | Buy now from Seraphine
Key specs
Material: 94% polyamide, 6% elastane | Sizes available:XS - XXL | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: Black
What we love
- High quality
- Unlikely to be see through
What to know
- Non-refundable as counted as hoisery
What Mumsnet users say
"Seraphine are really good." (Recommended by Mumsnet user babyproductoverload)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
When choosing which leggings to buy, many mums-to-be want a pair without seams down the side. A seam can sometimes cause chafing or irritation whilst seamless leggings will tend to be much more comfortable, especially if you want them for exercising or moving around in. Not only that, but without the seam, the leggings can often appear a little more streamlined and therefore be more flattering. Seraphine, who're widely regarded as manufacturer of some of the best maternity clothes according to Mumsnetters, have come up trumps with this pair - flattering and comfortable in equal measure, they can be worn with any outfit.
The larger support band will grow with you through pregnancy, supporting your bump and relieving tension. Just be quick as they're currently on sale and selling out fast!
4. Best versatile maternity leggings: Purpless Maternity Under and Over Bump Pregnancy Joggers
Price on writing: From £12 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Material: Trousers: 100% Cotton, Belly Band: 95% Viscose, 5% Spandex | Sizes available: 8-18 | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: Black, plum
What we love
- Can be worn over or under the bump
- Fantastic value for money
What to know
- Not as fitted as other styles
What Mumsnet users say
"Purpless. They were comfy." (Recommended by Mumsnet user Fiddlestikks)
"Purpless: they're an online store. Pretty good value and good fabric." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user squizita)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
In the hot weather or on days when you just want your skin to breathe a little more, a pair of leggings with an under-the-bump band may be preferable.
These Purpless leggings come with a band that can be worn over the bump or folded underneath it. This also means that they will last you from when you’re just beginning to show, right through pregnancy. An under bump design also means they're less likely to interfere with a pregnancy support belt.
These leggings are made completely from cotton, apart from the band which is a viscose and spandex blend, making them comfortable and lightweight too.
Do be aware that these leggings are a looser fit and more of a jogger style so if you want something more tight fitting or formal looking these may not be the pair for you.
5. Most flattering maternity leggings: ASOS 4505 Maternity icon legging
Price on writing: £16 | Buy now from ASOS
Key specs
Material: 77% Polyester, 23% Elastane | Sizes available: 6-20 | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: Black, navy, grey
What we love
- Extremely comfortable
- Superb value for money
- Bum sculpt seam detail
What to know
- Can run large
What Mumsnet users say
“100% ASOS! They were a super soft material.”(Tried and tested by Mumsnet user nokia3210567)
“Another vote for ASOS leggings. Which I may still be wearing now as they're so comfy.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Putthekettleon2021)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
These ASOS leggings are not only super comfortable, they offer bum sculpt seam detail which are super flattering and a pocket for extra practicality.
Designed to fit from bump to baby, reviewers loved the flattering style of these icon leggings as well as the soft material and breathability.
Read next: Looking for more comfy yet supportive maternity wear? Check out our guides to the best maternity bras and compression socks for pregnancy.
6. Best maternity leggings shorts: Be Mammy Short Maternity Leggings
Price on writing: £14 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane | Sizes available: S-4XL | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: Black, brown, dark grey, medium grey, pale grey, navy, white, red
What we love
- Comfortable and cool to wear
- Available in a range of colours
What to know
- May be tight around the legs for some
- Can be a little see-through when stretched
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
Perfect for wearing under floaty dresses or tops either as shorts or to avoid the dreaded thigh-chafe, the Be Mammy Short Leggings are made from 95% high-quality cotton, a light and breathable material which will keep you nice and cool in the warmer weather, and 5% elastane, for extra stretch.
As these leggings are available in 10 different colours, there’s plenty of style choice too.
Most reviewers found these leggings to be extremely comfortable and loved the high waistband which covered the bump and offered a little extra support. Some did mention, however, that they found them a little tighter around the legs and recommended going up a size. There were also a few who found that they were a little see-through when stretched so you may wish to team with a longer top or dress.
7. Best cropped maternity leggings: JoJo Maman Bébé Black Cropped Seamless Support Workout Leggings
Price on writing: £26 | Buy now from JoJo Maman Bébé
Key specs
Material: 85% Polyamide, 15% Elastane | Sizes available: S-L | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: black, navy
What we love
- Thicker material so unlikely to be see-through
- Side pocket
- Ideal for exercise
What to know
- May be a little too short for those with longer legs
What Mumsnet users say
“They are not see-through, and are nice, thick and supportive.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user BeeBear2019)
“I’m 20 weeks and have four pairs of JoJo Maman Cotton Rich Leggings which I live in. They are fab!” (Brand tried and tested by Mumsnet user Windchangeface)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
These cotton-rich, cropped leggings are made with lightweight stretch fabric, making them ideal for summer without feeling restrictive.
They come with a wide waistband which can be worn over or under the bump and means they should last throughout the entirety of your pregnancy.
Most reviewers reported they were extremely comfortable to wear and passed the all-important see-through test, and they also have a handy side pocket - ideal for when you're out and about.
JoJo are well-regarded for their baby clothes as well as maternity wear, and are also a good port of call for some of the best baby gifts if you're on the lookout.
8. Best breathable maternity leggings: Seraphine Bamboo Leggings
Price on writing: £32 | Buy now from Seraphine
Key specs
Material: 86% viscose (derived from bamboo), 10% nylon, 4% elastane | Sizes available: S, M, L | Machine washable? Yes - gentle wash at 30ºC | Colours: Black, grey, navy
What we love
- Made from lightweight but supportive material
- Super comfortable
What to know
- Rather see-through
- Not as size-inclusive as some brands
What Mumsnet users say
“They are so stretchy that they've fit perfectly from 20 weeks to 30 weeks and will carry on growing with me. The band is wide, stretchy and soft without rolling over and reaches all the way to the top of my bump. The bamboo material is warm and breathable.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user BlueberryPancake21)
“If you can splurge I highly recommend Seraphine.” (Brand rated by Mumsnet user MichelleOR84)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
These Seraphine leggings are made from bamboo viscose which is both naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial. It will also wick moisture if you're prone to sweating and is an ultra-soft fabric, helping you to stay comfortable. It's a second entry for maternity moguls Seraphine - who also top our list of the best maternity jeans as well.
The leggings also have a specially designed stay-put waistband so you can rest assured it won’t roll down under your bump and is nice and high to keep you covered and supported.
Many reviewers loved the soft stretchy and supportive fabric of these leggings but also felt they were quite see-through so it's probably best to treat them as tights and team them with a dress or tunic top if going out.
9. Best maternity leggings for yoga: Foucome Women's Maternity Active Wear Yoga Leggings
Price on writing: From £18 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Material 90% polyester, 10% spandex | Sizes available: S-XL | Machine washable?: Yes | Colours: Black, grey, red
What we love
- Stretchy and comfortable material makes them perfect for a yoga or pilates class
- Thick material, so shouldn’t be see-through
- Also available in a two-pack
What to know
- Rather long so may not be the best option if you are on the shorter side
What Mumsnet users say
"[Get maternity leggings from] Amazon- honestly best quality and so comfy." (Advice from GirlMum93)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
Prenatal yoga or pilates can be an excellent way of staying supple and easing the general aches and pains of pregnancy. However, if your clothing isn’t comfortable or doesn’t feel right it’s unlikely you’ll be able to fully focus on the session - no one wants to be worrying whether their underwear is on show when they’re mid downward-dog!
The Foucome Yoga Leggings are made of polyester; a material that is on the thicker side, yet remains breathable, meaning that they won’t become see-through when stretched whilst remaining light enough to prevent overheating during exercise.
The four-way stretchy fabric makes them super comfortable to wear and the high waistband keeps you covered and supported whilst moving and stretching too. Combine with one of the best birthing balls for the ultimate pregnancy exercise combo.
10. Best maternity leggings for the gym: Adidas Training Essentials Tights
Price: £33 | Buy now from Adidas
Key specs
Material: 85% recycled polyester, 15% elastane interlock | Sizes available: 2XS-2XL | Machine washable?: Yes - use cold delicate cycle | Colours: Pink, black
What we love
- Numerous clever design features make them ideal for exercising
- Made from recycled materials
What to know
- A little on the pricier side
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
Experts recommend that you keep up your usual exercise routine for as long as you feel comfortable and able to do so, so there’s no need to cancel the gym membership or stop your run just because you’re pregnant.
Of course, exercise is going to be tricker so the last thing you need to be worrying about is feeling uncomfortable in your workout clothes. That’s why we love these Adidas Maternity Leggings which are specially designed to support pregnant women whilst exercising.
They come with minimal seams so there’s less risk of the material chafing and the waistband can be worn over your bump for support or folded down if you feel overheated.
11. Best leggings for date night: Topshop Maternity Faux Leather Skinny Trouser
Price on writing: £30 | Buy now from ASOS
Key specs
Material: Back: 92% polyester, 8% elastane; Coating: 100% polyurethane | Sizes available: 8-18 | Machine washable? Yes | Colour: Black
What we love
- Perfect for a touch of glamour on a night out
- Comfortable
What to know
- May not fit as well on those who have a smaller bump
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
Feeling comfortable doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on style. That's why we love these Topshop Faux Leather Skinny Trousers which are perfect for an evening out or a date night.
Despite the glam leather-look material, they're super comfy and really dress up a maternity tunic or blouse - though we don't recommend wearing them in the summer!
Read next: Looking for the ultimate in comfortable maternity wear? Don't miss our guides to the best maternity pyjamas and top-ranking maternity underwear.
12. Best for size inclusivity: LOVALL Classic Full Length Maternity Leggings
Price on writing: £24 | Buy now from LOVALL
Key specs
Material: 95% cotton, 5% elastane | Sizes available: 6 to 28/petite to extra tall | Machine washable? Yes | Colours: Black, burgundy, beige, brown, navy, royal blue, petrol, purple, green, orange, pale blue, white
What we love
- Impressive range of sizes and styles available
- Highly rated by Mumsnet users
What to know
- Risk of the waistband slipping or digging in a little
- LOVALL is the new brand name for Love Leggings
What Mumsnet users say
“I absolutely love them and wouldn't buy leggings anywhere else now.” (Brand vetted by Mumsnet user SlovenlyUnwedMother)
“I’ve never been a leggings person but I adore Love Leggings maternity ones. Soo thick and comfortable”. (Recommended by Mumsnet user Oneandabean)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
Love Leggings - now known as LOVALL - were mentioned a lot when we were researching Mumsnet users' favourite maternity leggings. They also scored an extremely high number of five-star reviews on their website.
One of the most impressive features of the LOVALL brand is the number of sizes available. Their leggings are made in four different lengths from petite to extra tall and range from a size 6 to a 28, making them one of the most size-inclusive brands out there. As well as varying sizes, these leggings also come in a whopping 18 different colours too.
Comfortable, non-see-through and good value for money, they certainly tick all the boxes when it comes to finding the right pair of maternity leggings.
It’s worth noting, however, that whilst most rated these leggings as super comfortable some reviewers did say that they could sometimes dig in around the top or failed to stay up over the bump as they progressed in pregnancy.
Are maternity leggings worth it?
For a lot of maternity wear, it is possible to simply go up a couple of sizes in regular clothes, particularly when it comes to smock dresses or oversized T-shirts. However, when it comes to leggings it is advisable to invest in a couple of pairs that are maternity.
As maternity leggings have a specifically designed waistband, they'll stretch to accommodate your growing bump and will therefore hold their shape. The band will also help to cover your bump and keep it supported. However, if you do find that regular leggings are still doing the job, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t continue to wear them, as long as you feel comfortable.
Remember to check out the pass-it-on and second-hand sites if you’re wanting to save a little extra cash too.
Which leggings are best during pregnancy?
We believe the best maternity leggings currently available are the H&M MAMA Before and After leggings. They're highly-rated, affordable, available in a good range of sizes and super comfortable. However, not all bumps are equal and you may find that one person's absolute hands down winner is not for you at all. We've made every effort to reflect a range of styles, budgets, shapes and sizes with our round up of the best maternity leggings - so whether you're after seamless, sporty or short, we've got you covered.
What type of maternity leggings are there?
There are a whole range of maternity leggings out there. Some are pretty straightforward offering stretchy, comfortable and supportive clothing whilst others are specially designed with sport in mind.
Leggings don’t have to be solely for casual wear either, and there are options such as leather-look or faux leather which are perfect for when you want to go a bit more glam. You could even pair some of the thicker options with a stylish pair of flats and a shirt or tunic if you’re heading to the office.
When it comes to fit, you’ll need to decide whether you want to wear them over the bump or under the bump. This is down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you. A lot of mums like the over-the-bump style as it offers a little support around the belly and helps you to stay covered. However, if you’re prone to overheating, you may prefer something that will sit below the bump. Some of our chosen leggings have a band which can be folded down so you can have a pair that does both.
Can I wear regular leggings during pregnancy?
Comfort is key during pregnancy - if your regular leggings are perfectly comfortable, you may prefer to stick with them. However, maternity leggings are specifically designed to accommodate a growing bump so we would recommend that even if you only buy one or two items/staples of maternity wear, they're one of them.
How to choose the best maternity leggings for you
The first thing to consider when choosing the right maternity leggings is where and when you’re going to be wearing them. If you’re heading to the gym or to a yoga class, ones designed specifically for sport are less likely to become see-through when you're moving and stretching.
Remember, you’re likely to feel the heat a little more when you’re pregnant, so it may be worth having a couple of lighter pairs to wear underneath dresses or tunic tops as well. You may also want to have a pair that you can dress up a little so you can remain comfortable but still feel glam on nights out.
Above all, comfort is key, so whatever your preference of style make sure that whatever you buy fits nicely, offers your bump a little bit of support and allows you to move around freely.
How we chose the best maternity leggings
Recommendations from real Mumsnet users
Nothing will give you a better sense of whether something is worth buying than an honest, unbiased review from a real parent. That’s why our first port of call is always the Mumsnet forums where we trawl the Talk boards to find out what our Mumsnetters are recommending.
Expert opinions
To help us whittle down our shortlisted products, we also took on board the top tips and advice from experts when it came to choosing the right kind of maternity clothing to keep mums comfortable and supported during pregnancy.
Authentic customer reviews
Finally, we looked at maternity leggings that were ranking highly on bestseller lists and those that had first-class reviews on retailer sites. We took into account what reviewers were saying regarding style and comfort and also selected a range that would be suitable for a number of occasions whether it’s going out, hitting the gym, or simply relaxing at home.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.