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Whether you want extra coverage or prefer a higher level of compression in the midsection, the best tummy control leggings provide snug comfort with a supportive, high-waist design. You'll notice that some of these leggings are specifically called tummy-controlling, but many others are grouped together with shapewear. A few don't carry any specific label yet work wonders on days you feel bloated or just want to smooth your stomach. To find the best versions out there, we consulted personal trainers, fitness enthusiasts and even a physician.

As a runner, hiker, and strength trainer myself, I also added in some of my favorites that I've tested throughout the years. Below, the best tummy-control leggings that are both supportive and stylish.

I'm a freelance journalist who writes about fitness, health and wellness, and I have been reviewing outdoor and fitness gear for four years. In addition to being a Forbes Vetted contributor, my work has been featured in The New York Times, GQ, and National Geographic, where I've covered everything from fitness trends to in-depth gear reviews.

I'm also a fitness enthusiast who works out about five or six days a week. As someone who spends a significant amount of time in leggings -- whether I'm out for a run, tackling a tough strength training session or working up a sweat in a boxing class -- I've come to know what fitness clothing works and what doesn't. I've tested everything from high-end options to budget-friendly picks, and I'm always on the lookout for leggings that strike the perfect balance between comfort, support and style. Even when I'm not testing gear for work, I pay close attention to performance, durability and comfort for any item of clothing.

To find the best options, I combined my own hands-on testing with expert insight to ensure a well-rounded selection. I spoke with three experts for this article including:

Their perspectives helped shaped this list to cover a wide range of needs. Then, I evaluated each pair of leggings based on its ability to provide sufficient tummy control, stay in place during movement and maintain comfort throughout the day. I also read through reviews and analyzed specs to consider factors like fabric durability, waistband design and overall fit.

Tummy control doesn't mean you need to cut off your circulation: A good pair should fit snugly without digging into your skin or leaving red marks. Pay attention to the waistband -- it should be wide enough to distribute pressure evenly across your midsection without creating a muffin-top effect or rolling down during movement (which may be a sign that the size is too small.)

High-waisted designs are often the best choice for tummy control, as they offer additional coverage and support, keeping everything in place whether you're bending, stretching or running. The higher waistband helps smooth out the stomach and offers light, medium or high compression (depending on the material) and makes them ideal for activities that involve a lot of movement, like yoga or HIIT training.

However, there may be situations where a mid-rise design is preferable. If you want a little less coverage or find high-rise leggings to be too constricting, especially during activities where you're frequently bending or sitting, mid-rise leggings can be a comfortable alternative as they offer a more relaxed fit just below that natural waistline. By design, they won't provide as much tummy control, though.

Opt for materials that offer a good balance of stretch and compression. Nylon-spandex blends are popular because they're both durable and supportive, holding their shape no matter how many times you run them through the wash. No matter what, the right material should have enough give to allow full range of motion during your workouts but still be firm enough to smooth your midsection.

Compression is key to effective tummy control, but it's important to choose the right level for your needs. Higher compression doesn't always mean better; it's all about what feels right for your body and your activities. Higher compression leggings provide more support and shaping, which can be great for high-impact activities like running or HIIT workouts. However, if you're looking for leggings to wear all day or for lower-impact activities like yoga, you might prefer a pair with medium compression that offers support without feeling too restrictive.