We Tried The M&S Leggings That Have Sold More Than A Million Times — Here’s Why They’re So Popular

Gym wear brands like Alo Yoga, Sweaty Betty and Lululemon have set the bar with flattering designs and cult followings. And, while these brands may dominate Instagram feeds, they often come with lofty price tags. What the gymwear sector is missing is a true middle-ground brand — one which can deliver that same high-performance feeling and on-trend designs as its higher priced counterparts, with a price that feels more achievable. High street hero Marks & Spencer clearly had the same realisation as I, and, in 2020 released an activewear line that's now earned a loyal following thanks to its performance, style and affordability.

Gemma Lavers, fashion commerce writer

Grazia's fashion commerce writer, Gemma Lavers, wore the Go Move leggings to the gym and during her daily walk. Her verdict is: 'I think the Go Move leggings are a solid contender in the world of affordable activewear. At £27.50 you might not expect the same quality as an £80+ pair from Lululemon, but these hold their own because of the slightly thicker fabric. The animal print pattern is surprisingly versatile - perhaps more versatile than I thought when I first opened them - and pair with most of the gym wear I already own. Once the Go Move leggings are on, they're also incredibly comfortable.'

Grazia's fashion assistant, Gavi Weiss, says: 'As a tall and curvy gal, finding good workout gear often feels like an uphill battle. I’ve spent the past few years on a seemingly endless hunt for the perfect leggings, so I was eager to see if the M&S Good Move leggings could live up to the hype. I put the leggings to the test with a gym workout, a few hours of deep cleaning my flat and then a bedroom dance party to Chappell Roan to see how they would hold up in my day to day activities. From the get-go, it was clear these leggings were thoughtfully designed with women’s bodies in mind.'

Georgia Scott, Grazia's beauty commerce writer tested the leggings at her regular Pilates class: 'As someone who lives in gym leggings 99% of the time, I think of myself as a bit of an expert and know exactly what to look for when shopping for a new pair. Although typically I love to wear a block colour, I love the subtle yet flattering print that makes a change from wearing all black. I love the high-waisted shape and the length of these leggings and found they were a great fit for a 5'7 girl.'

Available in chest sizes 32-42 and bust sizes A-E, this sports bra from M&S offers extra high support through its non-wired cups and thick straps. For ease there's a clever riptape fastening at the back which means you can take the bra off or adjust it from the front, and it's made out of a moisture-wicking fabric.

The collection isn't just limited to the popular leggings and extra supportive sports bra, either. You'll also find lightweight rain jackets, heavy puffer coats (which we currently need in this cold snap), breathable t-shirts and even trainers. Whether you're layering up for a chilly outdoor run, heading to your first Reformer Pilates session or simply updating your workout wardrobe, M&S' Goodmove have you covered from head to toe - literally.

A good gym ensemble isn't complete without a massive puffer coat that'll take you from the gym car park, to the gym without freezing. This quilted puffer is filled with padding to provide added warmth and on the outside, has water-repellent technology to keep you dry.

This charcoal colour will go with almost anything you already have in your gym wardrobe, including those Go Move leggings. Plus, the tee is made from a breathable cotton-rich fabric that reduces the likelihood of impending sweat patches and helps to cool you down.

Layer up for those chilly outdoor winter runs with this gilet from the M&S Goodmove collection. Designed in a fitted shape and high funnel neck for days when you're feeling the chill, the Ultraheat Gilet promises to keep you warm no matter the temperature.

As part of the Goodmove collection, M&S also does gym trainers too. This pair have a comfortable regular fit and chunky rubber heels for the best cushioning and support. Plus, the trainers are made from a knitted fabric which prevents your feet from overheating while exercising.

If you're not about HIIT workouts and prefer to go to class that's more low impact, we're talking Pilates and yoga - you're going to need to come armed with a great pair of yoga pants. This style from M&S not only have a flared shape, quick-drying material and Cool Comfort technology, but they also come in a stunning dark taupe shade.

This sports bra, as the name suggests, has medium support so is most ideal for workouts with slow and steady movements. If you tend to prefer workouts that are faster paced then this might not be the bra for you. Saying that, it still has some great qualities including a racer back, Cool Comfort technology and is even cleverly reversible.

A good quality sweatshirt is an essential element to any workout wardrobe, especially in these freezing temperatures when the walk from the gym to the car park is far too long. This sweatshirt from M&S has moisture-wicking technology, classic crew neckline and cotton-rich material.

For your outdoor workouts this sport jacket has handy 360 degrees reflective fabric that makes sure you'll be seen even if it's dark. Cut to a regular fit, the jacket features an adjustable hood and waist for a personalised fit, as well as a back vent to keep it well ventilated.

Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).