11 Best Maternity Yoga Pants + Leggings [Petite, Tall, + Plus Size Options!]

best maternity leggings

Leggings are a staple in most women's wardrobe, pre-pregnancy and postpartum. But finding the best pair of maternity yoga pants that provides comfort, support, and can transition through the trimesters and beyond can feel overwhelming. We've tested out and researched the best maternity leggings based on style, cut, and for every body size (petite, tall, plus size).


Overall Best Maternity Yoga Pants: lululemon Align™ Pant 

If you are looking for the most comfortable, most durable, and best overall maternity leggings, look no further than lululemon Align™ Pant!

Spending money on workout maternity wear (or maternity clothes in general) can get expensive. Which is why I love that these aren't technically “pregnancy workout pants.” I've never met a woman who didn't love them AND that they didn't work for throughout pregnancy and postpartum…

I got my first pair over 5 years ago, then bought 2 more before getting pregnant two years later. I've had the same 3 pairs through two pregnancies now. YES YOU READ THAT RIGHT!

I've worn these leggings pre-pregnancy, through my entire first pregnancy, postpartum, and now I'm 34 weeks in the photo above and still wearing them.

Not only do they last through your transitioning prenatal body, they just LAST.

So while they are certainly one of the priciest option on this list, when I consider how many pairs of leggings I'd have to buy over 6+ years, only to replace them, or need more during pregnancy, they are 100% worth the investment.

This photo I'm 36 weeks during my first pregnancy. I love that you can also fold over the high waist band when you just want to let your belly out!

They feel buttery soft and like you aren't wearing anything, while simultaneously supporting and sucking everything in. They also are quick drying and moisture wicking. I live in South Florida, finding a legging that I can wear year round through our hot and humid months can be a challenge, but these do the trick!

They are made for literally every body type. They offer sizes from 0 to 20 so petites and plus sizes can feel comfortable. The yoga pant also comes in 3 different inseam lengths, ensuring both petite and tall women can find their desired length. Plus, lululemon offers complimentary hemming on all their pants, so if you aren't satisfied with where it hits your ankle, you can just bring them to the store!

They really are perfect as prenatal workout pants OR comfortable maternity leggings for every person and situation.

Pros
  • Large size range fitting petites, tall, and plus size
  • Cool, moisture wicking material
  • Super soft barely there feel
  • Grows with your ever changing body
  • Large color and print selection
Cons
  • I've experienced minimal pilling after a few years, but I just use this little tool and it takes care of it.

Best Maternity Yoga Pants Bootcut: Secret Fit Belly Maternity Yoga Pants

If you’re a fan of bootcut yoga pants, then this pair from Motherhood Maternity is equal parts functional and flattering. The modern wide leg yoga pants help to elongate the body while you’ll appreciate the sturdy support provided by the full belly band in the waist. 

These straight leg yoga pants are made from jersey knit and are available in sizes from small through XL. While they’re only available in black, you’ll be able to easily wear these for low-impact exercise or to lounge around the house. 

Pros
  • Jersey knit material 
  • Full belly band support 
  • Great for taller mamas
Cons
  • Only available in black

Best Maternity Flare + Fold Over Yoga Pants: Black Foldover Maternity Leggings

Depending on your activity level, you may not always need a full belly band in the waistline. These fun foldover maternity leggings from PinkBlush are perfect for fashion-forward ladies who like to have options.

Because of the foldover belly panel, these pants can transition with you from the first trimester right through to your postpartum days. 

The modern maternity flare pants at the hem gives you a whimsical look as well.


These maternity leggings are available in both black and eggplant purple and come in sizes small through 3X — making these a great choice for plus-sized moms.

Pros
  • Versatile fold-down belly panel 
  • Modern flare hem 
  • Available in S – 3X
Cons

Best Plus Size Maternity Yoga Pants: Spanx Maternity Leggings “Mama Look at Me Now Seamless

When you’re a plus-sized mama, shopping for fashionable maternity clothing that goes beyond being simply functional can be difficult at times. But from the brand that brought us integrative shapewear comes a pair of maternity leggings with a commendable size range from small through 3X. 


These Spanx seamless leggings feature a full belly band panel in the waist to give you the extra support that you need. We like that these come in two colors — black and navy — which makes them ideal for a wardrobe staple item. And as for the seamless claim, you’ll love that this includes no center seam for a truly flattering effect.

Pros
  • Available in sizes S – 3X
  • Full belly band 
  • Completely seamless — including in the crotch
Cons
  • Cannot be put in the dryer
  • Runs large

Best Casual Lounge Maternity Yoga Pants: Harem Loose Yoga Pants

The #1 question I get asked about in my closet (pregnant or not) are my harem pants.

Unfortunately the brand I've worn for the last 8 years (I bought like 10 pairs), went out of business.

The good news: they were just a basic loose yoga pants made of rayon and spandex and there are loads of brands on Amazon that sell similar options.

I recently bought this exact pair to replace the black one's I'd finally worn/stretched out and they are AMAZING! They are super soft, and a flattering cut for all body types.

They're lightweight and breathe (essential for me both during pregnancy and living in hot/humid South Florida!). During pregnancy, I tend to wear them below my belly, so they are a bit baggier in the front, but you can easily pull them over your belly to slim out the leg and be just as comfortable.

CAUTION: Wash on delicate with a low spin. If you wash too aggressively, you risk stretching them out a bit. Like I said, I've had pairs with this exact rayon/spandex blend for 8 years now. One pair generally lasts me about 3-4 years with weekly wear, before they start to look worn. At that point, I just move them to pajama pants status and wear them to lounge around the house.

Pros
  • Flattering for all body types
  • Soft and breathable
  • Transition from pregnancy to postpartum
Cons
  • No pockets (not the worst thing; I do have pairs with pockets, but the heavy phone in pocket led to premature sagging/wearing of the elastic waistband.)

Best Petite Maternity Yoga Pants: Essential Crop Secret Fit Belly Leggings

Just like with plus-sized moms, when you’re petite inseams can be the bane of your shopping existence — especially when you’re trying to find a pair of bottoms.

While not officially made for petite women, moms are loving Motherhood Maternity’s Essential Stretch crop leggings because it’s the perfect hack for finding a pair of pants that fit in the length. 

Although these pants would be cropped on average height women, they’ll hit most petite mamas at the ankle. You’ll also get the patented Secret Fit full belly panel for added comfort and support. And we love the larger size range from small through 3X. 

Pros
  • Crop length may be ideal for petite moms
  • Available in three colors 
  • Available in sizes S – 3X
Cons

Some women report being able to see cellulite through the legging


Best Tall Maternity Yoga Pants: Active Yoga Leggings

Just like with petite moms, taller moms may also find that regular-length yoga pants look like high waters on them. And unless this is the look you’re going for, that’s not ideal. The Foucome maternity leggings feature extra length with plenty of tall moms raving about the comfortable fit through the inseam. 

We also like that these pants are available in a wide range of colors. Choose from 23 colors including plenty of prints and solids. You’ll also like that these maternity yoga pants have a full belly band support panel. Note that sizing is only from small through XL. 

Pros
  • Extra length ideal for most tall moms
  • Large color selection 
  • 4-way stretch
Cons
  • Smaller size range from S – XL
  • In-seam may still be a little too short for extra tall moms, in which case we'd recommend these

Best Maternity Yoga Pants With Pockets: Maternity Casual Stretchy Comfortable Lounge Pants

Let’s face it, pockets are key. And that’s why women get excited when anything has working pockets in them — like dresses!

But maternity yoga pants with pockets are just a smart practical design feature. The Liu & Qu casual stretch pants are designed as a casual jogger pant that’s close to the body but features two working side seam pockets. 

These pants feature a full belly band and are available in sizes small through XL. The Liu & Qu pants are a synthetic blend, making them ideal for active mamas looking for stretch and comfort. Choose from 18 colors from black, navy, white, blush, light and dark grey, and several patterns!

Pros
  • Casual jogger fit 
  • Available in 18 colors 
  • Full belly panel
  • Super soft
Cons
  • Limited size range S – XL
  • Pockets and waistband not design for carrying heavy items items (can stretch/cause awkward sagging in the pant)

Best Maternity Capri Yoga Pants: Maternity Full Panel Elevate Powersoft Crop Leggings

Capri maternity yoga pants offering support can be hard to find. But there's a reason these full-panel cropped leggings from Old Navy are a best seller!

They are perfect for your growing belly and are designed with activity in mind. Along with four-way stretch, you’ll also get a moisture-wicking fabric finished with flat seams to minimize the risk of discomfort or chaffing and light compression. There are also hidden pockets to keep you light on your feet. Choose from multiple colors and patterns with a size range from XS through 2XL. 

Pros
  • Performance leggings with moisture-wicking 
  • Pockets and flat seams 
  • Commendable size range from XS – 2XL
Cons
  • Panel may roll in late 3rd trimester

Best High Waist Maternity Yoga Leggings: Beyond Yoga Empire Waist Maternity Leggings 

If you're looking for a comfortable high waist maternity yoga legging that's also flattering, durable, and supportive, Beyond Yoga maternity leggings are a great option.

We love the continuity of color from their pant to the belly band as most maternity leggings or yoga pants feature hidden belly panels that aren’t normally meant to be seen. And this becomes obvious when some brands use a color in the contrasting belly panel that doesn’t make sense — like a “nude” panel against a navy pant which limits top options or can be awkward if exposed.

They feature an empire waistline with flatlock seams for a more comfortable fit. You’ll like that these are machine washable. They're available in black and charcoal in their solid version, or a few tri-color options in black, grey, and pink in Beyond Yoga' Spacedye empire waist option.

Pros
  • Flattering fit with flatlock seams 
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Machine washable
Cons

Limited size range (XS-XL)


Best Prenatal Yoga Pants: Zella Mamasana Maternity Ankle Leggings

If you're looking for durable and supportive workout clothes during your pregnancy, Zella maternity leggings are a top pick.

These workout pants feature a stretchy and supportive panel that expands with your growing bump. They use Zeltek fabric which is moisture-wicking to keep your cool and comfortable. Lastly, prenatal mama's will appreciate the flatlock seam (extra comfy; no seams cutting into your thighs!).

We also like the slightly larger size range of these workout pants from XXS through 2XL. Choose from two colors, black and purple nebula. 

Pros
  • Full belly panel 
  • Flatlock seams 
  • Available in XXS – 2XL
  • Moisture wicking
Cons
  • Zella sportswear tend to be thicker/super supportive; some women may find this uncomfortable and prefer the barely there feeling of these instead.

How To Choose Maternity Yoga Pants + Leggings:

Fashion is personal, which is why the process that goes into picking the right pair(s) of maternity leggings is going to be slightly different for each woman. Along with basics such as fabric content, and ease of maintenance and care, you’ll want to think about the following questions as you shop for the best maternity yoga pants for you:

Questions to ask yourself first: 

Where do you plan to wear them? 

Some yoga pants are designed for performance. This can include features like compression, moisture-wicking, or enhanced breathability. If you’re active during the prenatal period, these features are going to be important so your pregnancy workout pants aren’t constricting and give you the range of motion that you need. 

Alternatively, if you genuinely want a pair of maternity leggings so you can lounge around the house or meet friends for a decaf coffee while still looking presentable, you might be interested in loose yoga pants with pockets, and less interested in performance features. In this case, we suggest focusing on fabric and cut or how easily the pants can be cleaned.

Lastly, we suggest staying away from maternity yoga pants that have a sheen or lycra finish as these may not be as compatible if you're trying to get away with them at work under a long cardigan in the third trimester.

What do you plan to wear them with? 

Thankfully, maternity leggings come in a variety of styles and designs. From solids to prints, to wide leg or straight leg, to flare or boot cut, to tall or petite, to loose yoga pants or with pockets, and so much more. The options are truly endless. We always recommend starting with the basics. 

You can’t go wrong with a few pairs of maternity yoga pants in neutral shades like black, gray, and navy. These are going to work well in pretty much any athleisure outfit and can become your go-to as you progress through pregnancy. 

If you like to wear crop tops, make sure you opt for a high waist maternity yoga pant, or one where the belly panel isn't a different color than the pant.

Styles of yoga pants:

Just like with regular sizes, maternity yoga pants come in a variety of styles and with different functional support. But in general, the following are the most common types of yoga pants and features that you’ll find.

Cut

Cut refers to the style. The options you’re most likely to find include boot cut, flare, joggers, and leggings. This feature is going to depend on your style preferences. Some people may prefer a boot cut look because they feel it elongates their body while others might opt for a classic fitted legging style.

Length

Do you want maternity leggings that reach your ankles or do you like the idea of capri or even yoga shorts that are above the knee? While not a true maternity legging, the biking short styles can be comfortable for moms in warmer climates who might feel uncomfortable in a full-length pair of pants. 

Support

If you’re in your first trimester or the beginning of your second trimester, belly support might not register as something to think about. But as you progress through the second and third trimester, your growing belly may need added support. 

You can find maternity yoga pants in a few support options — no band, mid-belly band, and full belly band. No band pants are low rise. These are ideal for women just starting to show or women who feel uncomfortable in yoga pants that have a belly band. 

Women further along in their second and third trimesters might find mid and full belly band yoga pants to be the most comfortable because the band helps to lift and support their growing belly. As a result, you might experience less strain on your back. Additionally, if you’re doing pregnancy workouts, opting for mid or full belly band maternity workout pants is a good idea to provide added support. 

Style

Style is going to depend on personal taste. You can find some yoga pants that look just like regular leggings whereas others might have a more athletic appearance. Maternity leggings that look more like regular fashion leggings may offer more versatility if you still need to attend events, functions, or work and don’t want to look too casual. 

Types of fabric: 

Maternity yoga pants come in several fabric compositions. Often, the fabric content is dependent upon the purpose — i.e. sportswear are made from a different material than lounge styles. 

Synthetic 

If you’re shopping for a true pair of athletic prenatal yoga pants so you can exercise, then synthetic fibers should be prioritized. These fabrics offer plenty of stretch but are designed with performance in mind. This often includes enhanced compression and moisture-wicking. You’ll also usually get great breathability. Plus, these pants are easy to keep clean and usually can be machine washed. 

Common synthetic fabrics we love in workout pants:

  • Rayon
  • Spandex
  • Lycra (found in Nulu, but not a pure lycra)

One's we tend to avoid:

  • Nylon
  • Polyester
  • Acrylic
  • Micro fiber

Nothing against them, they just tend to be shinier or don't breathe as well

Cotton Blend

Moms looking for yoga pants during pregnancy that can seamlessly transition from lounging to business casual will appreciate cotton blends. These fabrics are still incredibly breathable with plenty of stretch. But they also aren’t shiny like some cheaper workout pants, making them easier to blend into a more professional wardrobe. Outside of workout pants, most maternity leggings are made from cotton blends. 

Cotton

For casual days where you want to lounge around the house or simply run a few errands, cotton maternity leggings are a good investment. They offer plenty of ease while still maintaining their shape over time. The only negative is that 100% cotton leggings will wrinkle, which may add to your maintenance and care routine. 


FAQS about Maternity Yoga Pants

Are yoga pants good for pregnancy?

Yoga pants are great for pregnancy as they’re incredibly comfortable while also providing critical support where you need it most — your belly. These pants come in a wide array of styles, cuts, and designs, making them a versatile choice that’s a staple for many women’s maternity wardrobes. 

What is the difference between yoga pants and leggings?

The difference between yoga pants and leggings can feel a bit murky — especially since both are often used interchangeably. But technically speaking, yoga pants are typically designed with performance in mind while leggings are usually intended for casual or work clothing use. 

Can you wear normal leggings when pregnant?

Overall, you'll likely outgrow normal leggings during pregnancy; however some regular leggings are up for transitioning from pre-pregnancy to prenatal, and even hold their shape postpartum like these.

With that said, most normal leggings (especially cheaper ones) are not designed to accommodate an expanding belly through pregnancy.

Do I have to buy maternity pants with a belly band?

This is going to depend on preference and overall comfort.

In the earlier months, you might find that no-band or low-rise maternity leggings are comfortable. But as you get further along, you might prefer the comfort and added support provided of mid and full belly band maternity yoga pants. 

However, if you’re engaged in more active workout routines, it’s a good idea to invest in maternity leggings with a belly band to ensure that you’re giving your belly (and back!) the support and comfort that it needs. 

With that said, in our experience, no maternity pant will provide the same level of support as a separate belly band that you wear under your pants. If you really need the lower back support we suggest purchasing this one separately and even looking into prenatal chiropractic care (transformed my life during pregnancy!).

What material is best for yoga pants?

Synthetic fabrics like Nulu, Zeltek, and other blends typically work best for yoga pants in our experience as they usually offer performance features like moisture-wicking, compression and breathable.

For a lounge pant, you may prefer a cotton, rayon, or spandex blend for added comfort.

Does lululemon make maternity leggings?

No, lululemon does not make maternity clothes.

Which Lululemon leggings are good for pregnancy?

Lululemon Align Pants are perfect for maternity yoga pants in our experience through two pregnancies now. Every mom we've talked to has worn them during pregnancy agrees too.

We suggest avoiding Wunder Unders during pregnancy though. While mine have fit me throughout pregnancy, the top did start rolling down towards the end and I prefered the high waist of the Align pant.

Final Thoughts:

What are the best maternity leggings?

lululemon Align™ Pant are the best maternity leggings in our opinion. They have options for petite, tall, and plus size women. The fabric is stretchy, breathable, moisture wicking, and comfortable through all three trimesters. While they are a bit of an investment, you can wear them even when you aren't pregnant! Mine have held up over five years and two pregnancies. Style wise, you can wear them while working out, to the grocery store, coffee dates, or even in some casual work environments with a long cardigan. Plus they are comfortable enough to lounge around the house in!

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