Best Maternity Leggings Of 2020

Versatile, effortless, and cozy, leggings are a staple in many women’s wardrobes–and they are a great option for busy mothers-to-be.

Maternity leggings look stylish and provide comfort. This article will provide tips on what to look for when buying maternity leggings and suggestions for the best maternity leggings out now. 

Maternity Leggings vs. Other Leggings: What’s the Difference?

Compared to regular leggings, maternity leggings have a custom fit suited for women during pregnancy.

Maternity leggings are made from a stretchy material like most leggings and also come with certain features to ensure the leggings can fit throughout pregnancy.Maternity leggings include a high waist to support your changing body. They often have a belly panel, or belly band, a fabric feature that serves as an elastic area for the belly and can be worn folded up or down.

This panel is made from a flexible fabric such as spandex or nylon to ensure a fit that is both comfortable and flattering. Leggings can include a belly band that is attached to the pant (often in another fabric) or a seamless “no belly” panel that flows from the pant and belly band in the same fabric to create a smooth silhouette.Some maternity leggings are available in one size, made flexible to fit most women. Other leggings are available in multiple sizes to pick the best size. Whatever size you choose, the stretch of maternity leggings will provide the right support and coverage needed during pregnancy unlike regular leggings.

How to Choose the Best Maternity Leggings

Maternity leggings are available in a variety of colors, cuts, and patterns. Depending on the type of leggings, you can wear them to work or the gym, as you can dress them up or dress them down with the right styling.

When choosing the suitable maternity leggings for you, first consider the places in which you plan on wearing them. Leggings can be easily layered in outfits–under a dress or tunic top or to provide extra warmth under an outfit during the cooler months.

They are also a comfortable option to wear while exercising or for casual days when you’re running errands. Whether you’re on the go or lounging around, the right pair of maternity leggings can be versatile for many occasions.

Before you start looking for your perfect pair, there are certain features to look for in leggings that will help you determine the fit and look you’re going for.

These tips below will help you cut time in your search and identify good quality brands for maternity leggings. Keep reading to learn more about the features and why they might be ideal for your maternity wardrobe.

Before You Shop: Important Features for Maternity Leggings

Soft, comfortable material. When looking for maternity leggings, picking a pair made from high-quality material is a must.

Look for a comfortable pair of leggings with an elastic fabric that is breathable, durable, and soft. Leggings often come in knits, cotton, modal, nylon, and spandex.

If you’re shopping in person at a store, try a pair on and see how it feels. Soft? Smooth? Totally in love? Get it! Too itchy? Too stiff? Keep looking!

If you’re online, read the details of the product to get a sense of the fabric it’s made from. When you’re on your feet all day or just relaxing, you want a pair of leggings that make you feel great.Stretch fit. In addition to purchasing leggings that are soft and cozy, make sure they have a good stretch. Leggings with a stretch fit will provide the flexibility you need.

If you’re looking for a versatile pair that can be worn with a nice outfit or for a morning walk, stretch is also important.

If you have the chance to try on maternity leggings in store, see how the leggings fit when you move. If you’re shopping online, check whether the retailer indicates that the leggings have a stretch fit.Full belly panel. The high waist is an important part of maternity leggings to provide great support and fit.

Make sure your leggings have a full belly panel or belly band that supports the entire waist. The panel should be stretchy in particular to be able to expand throughout the pregnancy and avoid discomfort.

Ideally, the panel should be able to hold securely over your belly. Consider whether you want leggings with a seamless belly panel or one with an attached panel. A panel that can fold up and down is more versatile as it can be worn during and after pregnancy.Additional features. How versatile do you need these leggings to be? You can purchase maternity leggings that have the look of pants, with features such as pockets, patterns, or jean-like fabric. Other leggings are fleece-lined for extra warmth. The possibilities are endless!

Top Maternity Leggings:

Shop Pretty Girl Seamless Stretch Maternity Leggings

Sold in a two-pack, these budget-friendly Shop Pretty Girl leggings prove that some of the best things come in twos. They are sold as one-size fits all and are made from a high-density knit fabric, providing a soft fit for the entire day. 

What We Liked

• checkThese seamless maternity leggings are less likely to rip, and their ultra-soft fabric provides great flexibility during pregnancy as your body changes.
• checkThe lightweight material is ideal for warmer months or times when you want to use the leggings to layer multiple pieces for an outfit. 
• checkThe leggings have strong stitching to ensure a secure hold, durable enough to last long as a staple in your wardrobe.

What We Didn’t Like

• exclamation-triangleWhile these leggings are not see-through, the material is sheer and won’t provide the same coverage and warmth as a thicker pair.
• exclamation-triangleWhile this size might fit most women, you potentially risk not getting the ideal fit you’re looking for in a pair of maternity leggings. 
• exclamation-triangleThese leggings include a thick band at the top that can cause too tight of a hold, so they are best worn during the earlier months of pregnancy to avoid discomfort.

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Motherhood Secret Fit Belly French Terry Maternity Leggings

If you’re looking for a versatile legging for every and any day wear, these leggings from Motherhood Maternity might be the right ones for you. Available in multiple sizes, they come with a “Secret Belly” panel attachment that provides a comfortable hold. 

What We Liked

• checkThese leggings have a range of sizes available, from small to extra large, so you can find the best fit that works for you.
• checkEquipped with pockets, these leggings have the look of actual pants with the comfortable feel of leggings and can be dressed up or down with any outfit–whether at work or running errands.
• checkThe panel on these leggings is high-waisted, able to provide coverage and support for the entire belly.

What We Didn’t Like

• exclamation-triangleDepending on your height, these leggings might run slightly large or long, but they might fit better as your belly grows during pregnancy.
• exclamation-triangleBecause of the high-waisted belly panel attached to them, these leggings can potentially show through clothing you layer on top.
• exclamation-triangleWhile these leggings have usable back pockets, the front pockets are just for style.

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A Pea in the Pod Secret Fit Belly French Terry Maternity Leggings

These leggings from A Pea in the Pod are an option for those looking for a basic in their wardrobe. Made from a cozy French terry material, they are cool and casual. Also, the “Secret Fit Belly” panel can fold down and provide stretch. 

What We Liked

• checkThe French terry fabric provides thickness and makes the leggings soft to touch as well as flexible enough to move around.
• checkThe thick material ensures that these leggings are not see-through, which can be a common problem in other fabrics.

What We Didn’t Like

• exclamation-triangleThe fit of these leggings can run longer than others depending on your height and body shape, but they can be rolled up for a quick fix.
• exclamation-triangleWhile the belly panel is a helpful asset on a pair of maternity leggings, this panel attachment is at risk of ripping off the leggings if not handled with care.
• exclamation-triangleThe French terry material might be too warm in warmer seasons, and the thick material can cause pilling on the fabric easily after the first wash or wear.

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Happy Mama Boutique Maternity Denim Look Leggings

These unique, chic leggings are sure to make you feel like a “happy mama.” Though it has a denim look, this legging includes an elastic high waist and a stretch fit. Happy Mama Boutique is UK based brand but can ship orders to customers outside Europe. 

What We Liked

• checkDenim Look. These leggings are perfect for days you feel like dressing up while remaining comfortable, day or evening.
• checkTrue to size. These leggings have one of the widest range of sizes on our list, so you can find the most flattering fit for your body type and trust that it will fit you well.
• checkElastic belly panel. The panel is soft and comfortable to wear, and it will expand and stretch with your body during your pregnancy.

What We Didn’t Like

• exclamation-triangleIn addition to having the looking of denim, these maternity leggings have a close, bodycon fit meant to accentuate your curves, so it doesn’t leave as much room for versatility.
• exclamation-triangleThese leggings are best worn with a longer top to ensure coverage.

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Plush Fleece Maternity Leggings

These fleece maternity leggings from Plush are as soft as they sound. With warm, fleece-lined fabric, these leggings are great for layering as thermals and are versatile enough to complete an outfit.

Though they are on the pricier end of our list, they have a flexible fit and are high-quality–perfect for lazy, winter days.

What We Liked

• checkThe wide waistband can easily adjust during your pregnancy, providing a more relaxed fit that won’t be tight on your waistline.
• checkThese leggings are lined with fleece, providing a distinctly warm, soft, and flexible wear.

What We Didn’t Like

• exclamation-triangleThe low waist on these leggings will not cover the entire belly, which can give them a less secure hold than that of high-waisted options.
• exclamation-triangleThough the wide waistband is suitable for a stretch fit, these leggings can run large because of it.

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Conclusion: The Best Choice for Maternity Leggings

Our top pick: Motherhood Secret Fit Belly French Terry Maternity Leggings (Choice #2)Based on our tips on finding the best maternity leggings, this pair from Motherhood Maternity is a clear winner. The pocket detailing is a practical feature that is rarely found on leggings.

This Motherhood Maternity legging will make you look sharp no matter where you are, but it can still pass for casual days. Plus, the Secret Fit belly panel will provide extra support.

You can feel secure without having to adjust the leggings throughout the day repeatedly. With these comfortable, French terry pants, you won’t have to compromise your style for comfort.