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Written by our gear testing crew
Built for more than just yoga—we tested these leggings under real gym conditions to see if they live up to the hype.
Squat-proof, secure, and surprisingly durable for the price.
When it comes to affordable workout leggings, it’s easy to get burned. Thin fabric, waistbands that roll, see-through squats—there’s a long list of things that can go wrong. THE GYM PEOPLE’s Thick High Waist Yoga Pants are designed to fix all of that: they offer a compressive, high-rise fit with real pockets and full-length coverage that’s built to hold up through heavy training and everyday use.
We spent weeks lifting, stretching, and walking in these to give you a complete picture of how they actually perform.
Key Features
THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants
THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets, Tummy Control Workout Running Yoga Leggings for Women
- Material: Thick nylon/spandex blend with four-way stretch
- Waistband: High-rise, wide, and compressive without cutting into the waist
- Pockets: Two large side pockets plus one hidden inner waistband pocket
- Length: Full-length—ankle coverage even for taller women
- Design goal: Built for training, walking, yoga, and all-day wear
Fit and First Impressions
Out of the package, these feel heavier than typical cheap leggings—in a good way. The material is dense and slightly brushed, giving a smooth, comfortable feel against the skin.
The waistband is what stands out most. It’s wide and holds everything in place without folding or slipping during movement. For women who struggle with leggings that constantly ride down or require adjusting mid-set, this is a clear upgrade.
They’re true to size for most athletes, but the compressive nature of the material may feel snug at first. That tightness translates to support, not restriction, once you start training.
Gym Performance
Squats and Deadlifts: These leggings passed the squat test without question. The fabric is thick enough to prevent transparency under tension, and the waistband stays anchored during deep squats, hip thrusts, and bent-over rows. There’s no bunching, sliding, or gaping in the back.
Mobility and Stretch: The four-way stretch allows for deep lunges, side-to-side movement, and full hip extension. They’re flexible enough for yoga or mobility work without losing compression.
Breathability: While not the lightest pair on the market, the fabric still breathes well during indoor lifting and moderate cardio. That said, they may run warm during high-intensity circuits or hot-weather training.
Pockets: The two side pockets are deep enough to fit most smartphones securely. No bouncing or slipping during movement. The inner waistband pocket is a nice bonus for stashing cards or a key.
Durability and Longevity
After multiple wears and washes:
- No fading or fabric thinning
- Waistband held its shape—no stretching out
- Stitching remained intact, especially around stress points like the waistband and thighs
- Minimal signs of pilling, even for those with thicker legs or higher friction areas
These aren’t leggings that fall apart after a few washes. They’re built to last, and that shows in the stitching and fabric density.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-rise waistband that stays in place during all movements
- Squat-proof fabric that holds up under tension
- Pockets are actually usable—no tiny, decorative nonsense
- Comfortable for all-day wear, not just the gym
- Washes well and holds shape over time
Cons
- May run slightly warm for intense cardio or hot climates
- Compression fit might feel tight at first (especially in the waist)
- Slight pilling can occur in high-friction zones after long-term use
Best For
- Lifters who want a reliable pair of leggings that won’t ride down under load
- Yoga and mobility training where freedom of movement matters
- Daily wear or errands, thanks to the all-day comfort and pockets
- Athletes looking for squat-proof leggings at an affordable price point
- Taller women who often struggle to find full-length coverage
Not Ideal For
- Hot yoga or summer HIIT sessions where you need ultra-light fabric
- People who want a super-soft lounge legging with no compression
- Anyone who prefers low- or mid-rise waist designs
Final Verdict
THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants
THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets, Tummy Control Workout Running Yoga Leggings for Women
THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants punch above their price tag. They offer real support, structure, and durability that rivals more expensive brands. Whether you’re training heavy in the gym, flowing through a yoga class, or just want leggings that actually do what they say they will, these are a smart buy.
They’re not flashy. They’re not fashion-first. But they perform where it counts.
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