
“A lot of it is that there’s a desire to feel like you’re containing that postpartum waterbed of a belly,” she says. Despite what you may read, Pagliano says that compression garments are trending at the moment for postpartum parents for reasons associated with comfort, not medical necessity. It’s important to note that wearing high waisted leggings is not medically necessary for most people. That kind of waistband will provide more body coverage and support while also maintaining comfort. Susan Sokolowski, a sports product researcher and inventor with patents for sports bras, shoes and athletic apparel-as well as founding director of and professor in the sports product design master’s program at the University of Oregon-agrees, noting that a wider waistband is the ideal for a pair of high waisted leggings. “You want leggings to feel supportive, but you also don’t want them to slip down,” says physical therapist Carrie Pagliano. Here’s what else our experts told me about what matters most when it comes to finding the best high waisted leggings: Fit Most pairs are made with moisture-wicking materials. They can be used for all kinds of activities, including running, hiking, cycling, yoga, barre, pilates and everyday life. Most high waisted leggings typically feature a wide waistband that compresses your mid-section, offering a smoothing effect as well as added support through the lower stomach. What To Consider About High Waisted Leggings I eventually narrowed the list from 25 to eight, based on the following criteria: advice from our experts on fit and construction, user reviews and my experience, brand reputation, fabrics and versatility. Next, I spoke with three experts: Carrie Pagliano, PT, a physical therapist who specializes in working with women on their pelvic health postpartum Susan Sokolowski, PhD, a professor of product design at the University of Oregon and Kim Mock, an avid plus-sized hiker and photographer from Colorado. I’ve worn almost all of the leggings on that list at one point or another, either for gear reviews or in my own life. I’ve worn leggings as a staple in my wardrobe for years.įirst, I created a list of 25-plus high waisted leggings that have been highly reviewed by both online reviewers and publications.

I hike almost daily, practice yoga and pilates, run as often as I can, and spend a lot of time skiing and snowshoeing in the mountains. I’m a mom to two tiny humans: a 3-year-old and an 8-month-old. In addition to being a writer, I’m also incredibly active. Most of my reviews these days are focused on health, the outdoors and parenting gear. Since then, I’ve worked on product-focused content for Reviewed, Slate, Wirecutter, Gear Patrol, REI and others. Before I started freelancing, I worked as a full-time editor at Wirecutter, where I reviewed and wrote about outdoor and travel products. I’m a freelance journalist who’s been writing product reviews, parenting content and more for over a decade.
