If you practically live in leggings, you're not alone.
Whether you're heading to the gym, walking the dog, running errands or spending a busy day with the kids, leggings have become an everyday wardrobe staple.
The only problem?
The wrong underwear can completely ruin them.
Visible panty lines. Constant adjusting. Underwear that rides up. Waistbands that roll down. Thick seams showing through your tights.
The good news is that most of these problems are avoidable once you understand what to look for.
In this guide, we'll explain exactly how to choose the best underwear for leggings, why some seamless underwear still shows through, and the features that make the biggest difference to comfort.
Why leggings show every little detail
Unlike jeans or thicker trousers, leggings are designed to stretch closely against your body.
That means they highlight:
- thick seams
- bulky waistbands
- textured fabrics
- underwear that is too small
- underwear that doesn't fit your body shape
Even underwear labelled "seamless" can still create visible lines if it's poorly designed.
What makes the best underwear for leggings?
There isn't one perfect style for every woman.
The best underwear for leggings should have several key features.
1. Laser cut edges
Instead of thick stitched seams around the legs, laser cut edges lie flat against your skin.
This helps reduce visible panty lines.
2. Smooth performance fabric
Fabric matters far more than most people realise.
A smooth nylon and elastane blend glides under leggings far better than thicker cotton fabrics.
Benefits include:
- smooth appearance
- lightweight feel
- moisture wicking
- quick drying
- four way stretch
If you're interested in how fabrics compare, read What Seamless Underwear Is Really Made Of (And Why Cotton Isn't Always Better).
3. The right fit
Many women assume smaller underwear creates fewer lines.
Often the opposite is true.
Underwear that's too small can:
- dig into your skin
- create more visible lines
- ride up
- feel uncomfortable
Choosing the correct size usually creates the smoothest finish.
For sizing advice, see Find Your Fit: The Squaties Style Guide.
4. A waistband that stays put
One of the biggest complaints we hear is rolling waistbands.
A supportive waistband that sits comfortably without digging in makes a huge difference throughout the day.
Which Squaties Style Is Best for Leggings?
The truth is, there's no single "best" underwear for leggings. The right choice comes down to how much coverage you like, where your leggings sit on your waist, and what feels most comfortable on your body.
Brazilian
If you love the feeling of less fabric, a Brazilian is a fantastic choice. The cheekier cut offers less back coverage than a full brief while still feeling secure enough for everyday wear.
It's perfect for women who prefer a more minimal feel without wearing a thong.
|
|
Browse our Brazilian collection →
Classic Brief
|
Don't assume you need less fabric to avoid VPL.
A well-designed Classic Brief can disappear beautifully under leggings while giving you the confidence of fuller coverage. Many women find it's the perfect balance between comfort, support and an invisible finish.
If you like to feel covered without sacrificing a smooth silhouette, this is an excellent everyday choice.
|
|
Shop our Classic Briefs →
High Rise Classic
|
If you're wearing high-waisted leggings (or simply love a little extra tummy coverage), a High Rise Brief creates a beautifully smooth silhouette.
The higher waistband sits comfortably without digging in and pairs perfectly with today's high-rise activewear.
Many women also love the extra confidence and support it provides throughout a busy day.
|
|
Explore our High Rise collection →
Bikini Brief
|
The Bikini is one of those styles that's often underestimated.
If you prefer a lower-rise fit that sits comfortably below your leggings waistband, it's a brilliant everyday option. It offers a little less coverage than a Classic Brief while still feeling secure, making it a favourite for women who don't want high-rise underwear but still want comfort that lasts all day.
It's also surprisingly good under leggings, which is exactly why it's one of my personal favourites.
|
|
Shop our Bikini collection →
What colour underwear should you wear under leggings?
Under black leggings, colour usually matters less than fit, fabric and edges. Under lighter, thinner or slightly sheer leggings, choose underwear close to your skin tone.
For lighter leggings, white tights or cream activewear, choose underwear close to your skin tone rather than white.
Colours like Honey, Caramel Latte and Blush Pink are designed to disappear under lighter clothing far better than white underwear.
Why some seamless underwear still shows
This surprises many women.
Not all seamless underwear is created equal.
Visible lines can still happen because of:
- bonded leg edges
- incorrect sizing
- fabric bunching
- thicker stitches through the gusset
- the cut of the underwear
- the fit of your leggings
Understanding the cause can help you choose a smoother fabric, better size or more suitable cut.
Why does underwear ride up under leggings?
Ride up is usually caused by one or more of these factors:
- incorrect sizing
- the wrong cut for your body shape
- fabric with poor recovery
- leg openings that don't suit your shape
It's one of the most common questions we receive from customers.
Common mistakes when choosing underwear for leggings
Avoid these common mistakes:
❌ Choosing underwear that's too small or too big
❌ Assuming all seamless underwear performs the same
❌ Wearing white underwear under white leggings
❌ Buying based only on style rather than fabric
❌ Ignoring fit recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is seamless underwear really the best choice for leggings?
Generally, yes. A well designed seamless style with laser cut edges and smooth fabric should be much less visible and far more comfortable than traditional stitched underwear.
Is a G-string the only way to avoid VPL?
Not at all.
Many women prefer a seamless brief or Brazilian because they provide more coverage than a G string while still creating a smooth finish under leggings.
Can I wear cotton underwear under leggings?
You can, but thicker cotton fabrics are often more visible and tend to hold moisture for longer during exercise. This can leave you damp and uncomfortable.
Should underwear be visible under leggings?
Ideally, no.
The right fit, fabric and style should create a smooth finish without obvious lines.
What is the best underwear for gym leggings?
Look for smooth performance fabric, laser cut edges, moisture wicking properties and a comfortable waistband that stays in place during movement.
Our recommendations
At Squaties, we designed our underwear specifically for women who spend their days in leggings.
Every style features:
✓ Smooth performance fabric
✓ Laser cut edges
✓ Moisture wicking fabric
✓ Soft cotton gusset
✓ Four way stretch
✓ Designed for all day comfort
Whether you're heading to Pilates, the gym, work or the supermarket, the right underwear lets you forget you're even wearing it.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Suzanne, the founder of Squaties.
After years of testing fabrics, refining fits and helping thousands of women find their perfect pair, I've learnt that comfortable underwear isn't about one "perfect" style. It's about finding the right fit for your body, your clothes and your lifestyle.
I created Squaties to solve the everyday frustrations so many women experience, from visible panty lines to underwear that rides up or rolls down. Through these articles, I share practical advice to help you feel comfortable and confident every day.
|
|
