When you're navigating the postpartum journey, having the right support can make all the difference in how you feel and look. Many moms find themselves drawn to leggings that offer both comfort and a smoothing effect, but with options like our Pregnancy Recovery Leggings and Body Shapewear Leggings, it can be tricky to know which one is best for your current needs. They look similar, and there's definitely overlap, but understanding their unique designs can help you choose the perfect fit.
The Verdict
For smoothing out your midsection and achieving a more sculpted look in your clothes, especially six months postpartum when the primary recovery phase is behind you, the Body Shapewear Leggings are likely your best bet. They offer firmer, targeted compression and a structured design that enhances your shape, making them ideal for everyday wear under various outfits. However, if you still desire gentler support and a "held together" feeling, or if you're planning another pregnancy, your existing Pregnancy Recovery Leggings remain a fantastic option.
The Options
We're comparing two excellent choices designed with postpartum and beyond in mind:
- Pregnancy Recovery Leggings: Originally developed for immediate postpartum support (0-12 months), these leggings offer gentle compression to aid recovery. Their high waistband sits comfortably above c-section scars, providing a secure "holding everything together" sensation, and they are often recommended by women's health physiotherapists.
- Body Shapewear Leggings: Designed for ongoing body shaping at any time, these leggings provide slightly firmer compression for a smoothing and lifting effect. They feature a unique 4-panel support system with built-in mesh, aiming for a "lifted and shaped" aesthetic suitable for replacing traditional shapewear.
Key Differences
While both offer comfort and a smoothing effect, the core differences lie in their purpose and the type of compression and support they provide:
| Feature | Pregnancy Recovery Leggings | Body Shapewear Leggings |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Postpartum recovery support, gentle compression | Everyday smoothing, shaping, and a lifted look |
| Compression | Gentle, supportive | Firmer, engineered for sculpting |
| Support System | High waistband (above c-section scars) | 4-panel system with integrated mesh |
| Feel/Vibe | "Held together" feeling, aiding recovery | "Lifted and shaped" look, everyday shaping |
| Best For | Immediate postpartum, gentle support needs | Post-recovery smoothing, enhancing silhouette, daily wear |
Both are made from the same comfortable, pet-hair-resistant Supaflex fabric and are priced at $130, with pocket options available.
When to Choose Each
Your current stage and desired outcome are key to making the right choice:
Choose Pregnancy Recovery Leggings if:
- You are still in the early stages of postpartum recovery (0-6 months) and need gentle compression to help your body feel supported.
- You experienced a c-section and require a waistband that sits high and comfortably above any scars.
- You prefer a softer, more encompassing "held together" feeling rather than a structured shaping.
- You are seeking recommendations from women's health professionals for physical recovery support.
- You are planning another pregnancy and want a versatile garment that will serve you again in the future.
Choose Body Shapewear Leggings if:
- You are six months or more postpartum and your primary focus is on smoothing your midsection and hips for a sleeker silhouette under clothing.
- You want a noticeable "lifted and shaped" appearance rather than just gentle support.
- You dislike how regular leggings or basic compression garments show every line and lump.
- You intend to wear them both as standalone leggings (with oversized tops) and as a smoothing layer under dresses or tunics.
- You're looking for a comfortable, breathable alternative to traditional, often torturous, shapewear.
Customer Questions
"I had my second baby 6 months ago and I want something to smooth out my midsection. I've seen you have both "Body Shapewear" and "Pregnancy Recovery" leggings - what's the actual difference? They look pretty similar."
"My tummy is still pretty soft and I hate how everything shows through regular leggings."
"Will the shapewear ones be comfortable enough to wear all day though? I've had spanx before and they were torture."
"I have the recovery ones from when I had my first baby. Can I keep wearing those for everyday or should I upgrade to the shapewear ones?"
Trade-offs: No Perfect Fit, But a Better One
While both options are designed for comfort and effectiveness, it's important to acknowledge their specific strengths and limitations. The Pregnancy Recovery Leggings offer exceptional comfort and gentle support, ideal for healing, but they won't provide the significant smoothing and sculpting that the Body Shapewear Leggings deliver. If you opt for the Body Shapewear Leggings for their superior smoothing capabilities, you might find the compression slightly firmer than what you experienced with the Recovery version – though it’s designed to feel like comfortable, engineered support rather than restrictive tightness.
If your existing Recovery Leggings are still in good condition and provide the level of comfort you need for lounging or casual wear, there's no immediate need to replace them. They are built to last and will continue to offer their gentle support. However, if your goal is a more defined shape and a smoother appearance under clothing, especially for outings or when you want to feel more put-together, the Body Shapewear Leggings represent an upgrade specifically for that purpose.
Many customers find value in having both: the Recovery Leggings for days when comfort and gentle support are paramount (like lounging at home or WFH) and the Body Shapewear Leggings for when they want that extra edge of smoothing and shaping to elevate their look. The decision hinges on whether your priority is continued recovery support or achieving a more sculpted silhouette.
Last updated: December 2025 • Based on real customer conversations
