Zella High Waist Leggings
Our Zella high waist leggings are engineered for every movement—from studio flows to weekend errands. The signature high-rise waistband sits securely above the natural waist, providing core coverage that stays put through burpees, inversions, and everything in between.
We crafted these leggings with our proprietary Z Dri moisture-wicking fabric that pulls sweat away from skin while maintaining four-way stretch. The dense knit construction delivers squat-proof opacity without sacrificing breathability, so you move with confidence no matter the pose.
Fabric & fit details
Fabric technology & construction
We developed our Z Dri fabric exclusively for Zella to solve the core challenges active women face in performance wear. The polyester-spandex blend wicks moisture 40% faster than standard athleisure fabrics while recovering instantly from stretching. Every pair undergoes rigorous squat testing to ensure complete opacity at full extension.
The double-layer gusset construction reinforces high-friction areas without adding bulk. Flatlock seaming lies completely flat against skin, eliminating the irritation that derails long training sessions. We finish each pair with antimicrobial treatment that keeps fabrics fresh between washes.
High-rise fit & sizing
The 10-inch waistband is cut to sit 2-3 inches above the navel for secure core coverage. Interior silicone grippers anchor the waistband during dynamic movement without digging into skin. We engineer compression into the waist and hips while maintaining unrestricted stretch through the seat and thighs.
Size guidance
Our high waist leggings run true to size across XXS through XXL. The 28-inch regular inseam suits heights 5’4″ to 5’10”. Petite lengths (26-inch inseam) accommodate 5’0″ to 5’4″, while tall lengths (31-inch inseam) fit 5’10” to 6’2″. If between sizes, we recommend sizing down for compression or sizing up for a relaxed fit. The same precision fit you’ll find in our Live In collection extends across the entire Zella range.
Care & durability
Machine wash cold with like colors using mild detergent. Tumble dry low or hang dry to extend fabric life—high heat can degrade elasticity over time. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, which break down moisture-wicking properties.
The reinforced stitching at stress points withstands hundreds of wash cycles without fraying. Our Z Dri fabric retains shape and compression even after 50+ washes. We stand behind construction quality with a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
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Questions about Zella high waist leggings
Yes, our high waist leggings feature double-layer construction in the seat and thighs that maintains complete opacity during deep squats and bends. We test every pair at full stretch to ensure coverage meets our squat-proof standards. The dense Z Dri knit prevents sheerness even after extended wear and washing.
The 10-inch waistband sits 2-3 inches above the natural navel, providing full core coverage from hips to lower ribs. Interior silicone grippers prevent rolling or sliding during movement. The high-rise design offers more coverage than standard mid-rise leggings while remaining comfortable for all-day wear.
Regular 28-inch inseam fits heights 5'4" to 5'10". Petite 26-inch inseam suits 5'0" to 5'4". Tall 31-inch inseam accommodates 5'10" to 6'2". The inseam is measured from the center crotch seam to the hem along the inner leg. If you're between height ranges, consider your preference for ankle coverage.
Our classic Zella high waist leggings include one hidden waistband pocket sized for cards, keys, and small essentials. The pocket sits flat against your back and doesn't add bulk during movement. For phone storage, we recommend our pocket legging styles that feature dual side pockets.
Machine wash cold with like colors using mild detergent. Tumble dry low or hang dry to preserve elasticity and moisture-wicking properties. Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, and high heat, which can degrade the technical fibers. Proper care maintains compression and shape through hundreds of washes.
Our Z Dri moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from skin and distributes it across the surface for rapid evaporation. The dark colorways further minimize visible moisture. While no fabric is completely sweat-invisible during intense workouts, our leggings resist the obvious wetness marks common in cotton blends.
Absolutely—the compression fit and moisture-wicking fabric make them excellent for running. The no-slip waistband stays secure during high-impact movement, and the four-way stretch allows unrestricted stride. UPF 50+ protection shields legs during outdoor training, and reflective details on select colorways increase visibility.