If you thought the best part of pregnancy was getting to eat an extra slice of cake (or three — we’re not judging), then wait until you discover the pure joy of living in maternity leggings. 

These stretchy, comfy wonders are about to become your new BFFs — right after that pint of ice cream in your freezer. But, with so many choices out there, how do you find the right pair? Kick up your swollen feet and relax, because your friends here at HATCH have you covered.

Pregnancy is a wild ride — full of beautiful moments, yes, but it also features its fair share of aches, pains, and fashion challenges. Making the switch to maternity clothes will be inevitable as your baby bump continues to grow, and it’s common to experience discomfort in the lower back as your baby gets bigger.

That’s where choosing the right pregnancy leggings comes in. It’s like finding the holy grail of comfort and style during these transformative months.

Here’s the deal: Maternity leggings should be more supportive than your best friend, more stretchy than an Olympic gymnast, and more comforting than a warm cup of decaf. They should rise to the challenge of your growing bump and changing body with the same tenacity you’re showing in this whole baby-growing journey.

You may wonder, why not stick with your trusty non-maternity leggings? Well, just like your favorite pre-pregnancy jeans, regular leggings may start to feel like they’re auditioning for a role in a medieval drama (think tight corset scenes).

Maternity leggings, on the other hand, are designed with your growing belly in mind. They offer extra support, have belly bands that expand with you, and generally treat your bump like the VIP it is. It’s like comparing a cozy recliner to a wooden stool — which would you rather sit on for the next few months?

Finding the ideal maternity leggings can feel as complex as splitting the atom, but fear not. We’ve got some tips to get you through this fashion mission. Look for leggings that are stretchy (we can’t stress this enough), breathable, and have a belly panel for support.

And here’s a pro tip: See-through leggings (aka transparent leggings) are a big no-no — your leggings should maintain your dignity even during the most ambitious yoga pose or park stroll. And if they can take you from daytime casual to nighttime glam with just a change of top? Well, you’ve struck maternity style gold!

With all of the aches and pains that can crop up (especially during the third trimester), it’s important to have a pair of soft maternity leggings that also offer back support. Look for leggings with over-the-bump panels and support built into the backs so you can enjoy some back and belly support.

It’s also important to look for compression leggings, which may help encourage blood flow through postpartum and beyond. If your legs start to cramp up after an hour or two of sitting, this can help greatly. As it turns out, the benefits of leggings go beyond yoga!

Pro tip: Make sure you also pair your supportive leggings with an equally supportive bra. With all of the changes your body is about to go through, you’ll want high-quality support every step of the way.

Legging length is a matter of personal preference and climate. Full-length leggings are perfect for colder seasons or if you simply prefer a bit more coverage. If you’re in a warmer climate or like to feel the breeze on your calves, mid-leg or short leggings might be your best bet. 

Our tip? Stock up on different lengths for variety. Plus, it’s always a good excuse to add to your maternity wear wardrobe, right?

Your pairs of maternity leggings should evolve with you. In the first trimester, wearing your pre-pregnancy size in stretchy, high-waisted leggings should work fine. But come the second and third trimesters, you’ll want to transition to leggings with a supportive belly panel. After all, comfort is queen when you’re growing a new human.

For the postpartum period, consider leggings with compression features or a soft belly panel, especially if you’ve had a c-section. They can provide that extra support and make you feel more secure as your body heals.

We know you’re pregnant and have approximately zero time for nonsense, so let’s cut to the chase. Here are the maternity leggings that are truly the stretchy, supportive, and stylish best friends every pregnant person dreams of:

Say hello to your new maternity style icon. These best-selling leggings are ultra soft, super stretchy, and, yes, they will grow and shrink with your bump throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Their high-rise, non-elastic waistband can hug your bump right up to your chest when you’re pregnant and can be rolled down for c-section-friendly wear afterward. 

Oh, and they don’t have uncomfortably tight compression — just purely soft, supportive, and chic.

Part of our Seamless collection, these leggings are designed to be your second skin from the first trimester and beyond. These seamless maternity leggings are finely ribbed for extra compression and support, with a fit that’s so buttery you’ll never want to take them off. Bonus points for being moisture-wicking, breathable, and Oeko-Tex certified (that’s code for “free of nasty chemicals”).

Meet your ultimate maternity activewear leggings that transition from yoga to brunch with the ease of a seasoned yogi. These maternity workout leggings are ultra-flattering, breathable, and made from a 4-way stretch and moisture-wicking fabric blend. These yoga pants are destined to become a maternity wear classic in every pregnant woman’s wardrobe. Talk about good karma!

From regular leggings to the best maternity leggings you’ll never take off, this fashion-forward maternity wear journey is all about embracing comfort, function, and style. Every trimester is a new chapter, and every choice, from your maternity jeans to your full-length leggings, should reflect your unique journey and needs.

So go ahead and stock up on those cotton leggings, explore maternity brands like Spanx, and never underestimate the power of a comfortable fit. You’re growing a life, and that calls for nothing but the best. Keep rocking your maternity style, and here’s to all the joy and leggings-filled days ahead!

Got a bump and a bundle of questions? Head over to Babe by HATCH, your go-to space for all things mama-related. Comfort, style, wisdom — we’ve got it all.

Sources:

Body changes and discomforts | Office on Women’s Health 

Recovering From Delivery – Postpartum Recovery | familydoctor.org

First Trimester Of Pregnancy: What To Expect | Cleveland Clinic 

The Third Trimester | Johns Hopkins Medicine