What does squat proof mean, and how do you avoid see-through leggings?

Ever tried on a pair of leggings that looked absolutely fine until you bent over?

Then you'll know the frustration of fabric becoming see-through when it stretches.

We don't think that should be something you have to worry about.

That's why making our leggings squat proof is one of our priorities when developing them.

But what does squat proof actually mean?

What does squat proof mean?

Squat proof means the fabric in your leggings is designed not to become see-through when you bend over or squat.

A squat is an exercise in which you bend at the knees and hips to lower your body.

As you do, the fabric stretches across your hips and bottom. If it doesn't provide enough coverage, it can become see-through.

That's why it's important for leggings to offer good coverage when you're moving, not just when you're standing still.

Why do some leggings become see-through?

There are several possible reasons.

Some fabrics are very thin or woven in a way that makes them more transparent when stretched.

Other leggings become see-through because they're too tight, stretching the fabric further than intended.

The colour and construction of the fabric can also make a difference.

So choosing dark leggings or a particular fabric isn't always enough.

What matters is how the fabric performs when you're actually wearing the leggings and moving around.

How to check whether your leggings are squat proof

Luckily, it's quite easy.

Put your leggings on, stand in front of a mirror in good lighting, then bend over or try a few squats.

If you're unsure, you can also ask someone else to check whether the fabric becomes see-through at the back.

Make sure you're wearing the right size when you test them. If the fabric is stretched too far, that can affect its coverage.

And it's always worth choosing leggings from a brand that clearly states whether the fabric is squat proof.

Can leggings be incredibly soft and squat proof too?

Absolutely.

In fact, that's one of the things that makes our Signature Leggings special.

We've spent more than seven years refining our super-soft Signature fabric, which is now loved by over 200,000 women.

It's incredibly light and stretchy, and feels very different from many traditional, tight-fitting leggings.

It moves with your body without feeling restrictive, so you're free to move whatever your day brings.

And Signature is 100% squat proof.

So you get that wonderfully light, comfortable feel without compromising on coverage.

Which Maya Freya leggings are squat proof?

All our main leggings collections are designed to be 100% squat proof, but each has its own features.

Signature

• Incredibly light, super soft and stretchy

• High waist and pockets on both sides

• Our favourite all-round leggings

• 100% squat proof

Eva Compression

• Light compression and extra support

• A closer fit

• Sweat-absorbent fabric

• 100% squat proof

Bea Winter

• Warmer fabric with a brushed inner lining

• The same comfortable fit as Signature

• Plenty of stretch and freedom to move

• 100% squat proof

Maya Flared

• Super-soft fabric with a gentle flare at the hem

• High waist and a smarter look

• Available with or without pockets

• 100% squat proof

Our Hope and Holly Leggings also use the same squat-proof Signature fabric as Signature.

Does squat proof only matter when you're exercising?

Not at all.

You don't have to work out to appreciate leggings that don't turn see-through.

Think how often you bend over during an ordinary day.

Picking something up off the floor, playing with the children, getting things done around the house or simply moving about.

We think you should be able to do all those things without worrying about whether your leggings will become see-through.

That's why squat proof isn't something we think about only for our sports leggings.

It's an important part of our entire leggings collection.

Explore our squat-proof leggings and find your new favourites.