The best gym leggings womens should be super soft, fit like a second skin and be breathable. They should also resist pilling and sweat, be totally opaque and pass the squat test with flying colours. Plus, it’s worth looking for a pair that’s made ethically and minimises water use, empowers workers and uses recycled materials.

Our team of Telegraph Recommended testers wore a range of leggings to a sweat session, then assessed them on a scale of 0 to 10. The top picks for workout leggings include Lululemon’s Align leggings – they have a soft buttery feel, high-waist support and flattering figure-contouring shading. But they’re pricey, and the fabric isn’t quite as durable as some of the others on this list.

Stylish and Functional: The Evolution of Women’s Sports Leggings in Athletic Wear

We also love Everlane’s leggings, which are super light and stretchy and look and feel like a second skin. They’re ideal for lower-impact workouts like yoga, PT and barre. Our testers loved how comfortable and supportive they were, with a wide waistband that didn’t slip and a leg length that’s perfect for all body types. Plus, they have a pocket big enough for your keys or a credit card.

If you’re on a budget, Marks and Spencer’s Goodmove leggings are a great option. They have a slimming black or grey fabric, high-waisted fit and phone-sized pocket in the waistband. They also pass the squat test and offer excellent stretch. They’re less expensive than many of the other leggings we tested and are available in a full-length, too (68cm on our size 12 tester). They may not have the high-end finish of our other picks but they’re still great value.

…