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Written by Molly, mum of two. Last updated: September 2026.

There comes a point in every pregnancy where jeans become a personal enemy. For most of us, that’s when maternity joggers step in and quietly become the only thing we wear for months.

And the good news? A decent pair doesn’t have to cost much, and the right ones will see you through pregnancy, hospital, and those hazy newborn weeks too. Here’s what to look for and the maternity joggers worth buying in the UK right now.

Quick picks

• Best budget: Foucome Over Bump Maternity Joggers (around £18, Amazon)
• Best “looks like real joggers”: JoJo Maman Bébé Loopback Maternity Joggers
• Best high street: New Look Maternity Wide Leg Joggers
• Best for pregnancy AND postpartum: Latched Maternity & Postnatal Jogging Bottoms (removable bump panel)
• Best bargain hack: Aldi and Lidl middle aisle maternity loungewear, when it drops

Prices and stock change often. Always check current price and sizing before buying.

Over bump vs under bump: which is better?

Over bump

A stretchy panel that covers your whole bump. Most people find these the comfiest, especially in the third trimester, and they stay up better. The downside is they can feel warm in summer.

Under bump

A soft, low waistband that sits beneath your bump. Cooler and less fussy, and nice if you don’t like fabric on your tummy. They can slip down more, though, particularly as your bump gets bigger.

My take: if you’re only buying one pair, go over bump. You can always fold the panel down, but you can’t add one that isn’t there.

What to look for in maternity joggers

• A soft, wide waistband or bump panel. Avoid thin elastic that digs in.
• Stretch in the fabric. A bit of elastane or a soft jersey means they’ll grow with you.
• Breathable cotton blend. Pregnancy makes you run hot. Cotton-heavy fabrics are much comfier than 100% polyester.
• Pockets. Non-negotiable, honestly. Phone, snacks, tissues, Rennie.
• Cuffed or wide leg. Cuffed looks sportier; wide leg is cooler and more forgiving for swollen ankles.
• Postpartum wearability. A foldable or removable bump panel means they’ll carry on being useful after baby arrives.
• Machine washable. Obviously.

The best maternity joggers UK 2026

1. Foucome Over Bump Maternity Joggers: best budget

Around £18 | Check price on Amazon

A popular Amazon pick with an over-bump panel, pockets and a stretchy, sporty fit. At this price, you can grab two and always have a clean pair, which, in the third trimester, is basically luxury.

Good: cheap, over bump, pockets.
Not so good: fabric won’t feel as premium as high street brands. Check the size chart carefully.

2. JoJo Maman Bébé Loopback Maternity Joggers: best “real joggers” look

Mid-range | Check price

These are the ones mums on forums recommend when they want joggers that look like actual joggers, not pyjamas. Loopback cotton feels proper and holds its shape through a lot of washes. Also sold through Next.

Good: quality fabric, smart enough for the school run, trusted brand.
Not so good: pricier than supermarket and Amazon options.

3. New Look Maternity Wide Leg Joggers: best high street

High street price | Check price

Relaxed, high-waisted wide leg joggers with a stretchy over-the-bump panel and side pockets. The cotton-polyester jersey is soft and the wide leg is really forgiving later on. They also do a cream version if you’re bored of black.

Good: affordable, over bump, wide leg is cool and comfy.
Not so good: wide leg can drag if you’re petite, so check length.

4. Latched Maternity & Postnatal Jogging Bottoms: best for bump and beyond

Mid-range | Check price

The clever bit here is the removable bump panel, so they work for bigger bumps in pregnancy and then carry on as normal joggers after birth. Soft and stretchy, and great for autumn and winter lounging with a newborn.

Good: genuinely two-in-one, designed for big bumps.
Not so good: smaller brand, so stock and sizes can sell out.

5. Aldi and Lidl maternity loungewear: best bargain hack

Both supermarkets drop maternity basics in their middle aisles every so often, joggers included. If you spot them, they’re usually a real bargain. The catch is you can’t plan around them, so treat them as a bonus.

Money-saving tips

• Buy one pair first. Your shape changes a lot. Test the fit before buying multiples.
• Try sizing up in regular joggers. In the first and second trimester, a size-up in soft high-waisted joggers can work fine.
• Check Vinted and Facebook Marketplace. Maternity clothes get worn for a few months and often sell barely used.
• Use cashback. Sites like Quidco give cashback at lots of high street retailers.
• Grab freebies. While you’re sorting baby prep, don’t miss my list of free baby stuff in the UK.

Maternity joggers for hospital and after birth

Pack a pair in your hospital bag. You’ll want something soft and loose to go home in, because your bump doesn’t vanish on day one (nobody warns you about that, and I’ve written more about what nobody tells you in 4 things nobody tells you about the newborn stage).

After a C-section: go for a high over-bump panel that sits well above your scar, or a very soft low waistband that sits well below it. Anything that lands right on the incision line will be uncomfortable. Dark colours are also handy in those first few weeks.

FAQ

When should I start wearing maternity joggers?

Whenever your normal clothes stop being comfortable. For many people it’s somewhere in the second trimester, but there’s no rule. If your waistband is digging in, it’s time.

Do I need to size up in maternity joggers?

Usually no. Maternity clothes are designed to be bought in your pre-pregnancy size, with the extra room built into the bump panel. Always check the brand’s size guide.

Are over bump or under bump maternity joggers better?

Over bump tends to be comfier and stays up better, especially later in pregnancy. Under bump is cooler and works well if you dislike fabric on your tummy.

Can you wear maternity joggers after birth?

Yes, and most people do. Styles with a fold-down or removable panel are the most useful postpartum, and they’re perfect for going home from hospital.

What are the best maternity joggers for a C-section?

Ones with a high, soft over-bump panel that sits well above the scar, or a low, soft waistband that sits well below it. Avoid anything tight at scar level.

Can I just wear normal joggers when pregnant?

Early on, often yes, especially high-waisted, stretchy ones in a size up. Later in pregnancy, most people find proper maternity joggers far more comfortable and supportive.