fashion
Store your phone, ID, keys and so much more
By Abby Hepworth
•
Published Jan 6, 2024
Additional reporting by
Stephanie Meraz
&
Dana Dickey
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
Dasha Burobina for PureWow
We run almost solely in leggings with pockets, whether they be from Vuori, Nike or Amazon, because they’re infinitely better (and more convenient) than wearing a running belt. In our view, these styles—such as the best overall pick Fast and Free pair ($128) from lululemon and the Vuori Stride leggings (was $89, now $53)—are the perfect workout garment because there’s no need for adjusting, thanks to their compressive nature, and they’ve got just enough room for our phone, ID and keys. (Some, such as this $82 pair from CSB offer insanely good stomach support too, but more on that in a minute.)
To make your search for the right pair more of a breeze, we conducted hours of research, product testing and pored over reviews to find the 20 best pairs of leggings with pockets that are both fashionable and functional. Whether you’re training for a marathon, crossing off a high intensity workout for the week or lounging in your PJs on a Netflix binge, there’s a pair in the list below for almost every need.
The Best Pairs of Leggings with Pockets at a Glance
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How We Chose the Best Leggings with Pockets
Relying heavily on our trusted PureWow editor recommendations, we tapped the in-house intel to discover which leggings with pockets were *actually* worth it from brands like lululemon, Vuori, Amazon and Love & Fit for postpartum recovery. To meet this criterion, we considered three major things when sourcing the list: the workout and lounge leggings need to be functional, fashionable and offer plenty of space to hold your essentials (so we can give our hardworking lululemon belt bag a much-deserved break every now and then). When we weren’t relying on the tested and reviewed leggings, we turned to PureWow reader favorites and included the pants you buy time and time again.
Additionally, we scoured hundreds of customer reviews, considered various price points (from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy), types of activities (like walking, lounging, HIIT and recovery) and style, for those who live by the motto, “Look good, feel good.” Trust us when we say you’ll do just that in the 20 pairs of leggings with pockets, below.
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Best Overall
1. lululemon Fast and Free Tights
What We Like
- adjustable drawstring waistband
- reflective detailing
What We Don’t Like
- sizing may vary
Lululemon
For starters, the fabric on these leggings are just thick enough to ensure total confidence while squatting, and the numeral sizing means you’re more likely to find a pair that fits exactly right (not too small here, nor too large there), though some reviewers note that the updated, stretchy material can cause the legging to run large, so we suggest that you consider sizing down if you’re in-between sizes.
PureWow’s Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth gave them her stamp of approval for both fashion and function. “[They] absolutely live up to the name in the sense that they glide beautifully while on (ideal for sprints and speed workouts so I don't feel my thighs rubbing together) and are wonderfully lightweight (my legs feel free to move in any direction they need during agility drills).”
There are even three different lengths so you can pick the length that's tailored to your height and ankle-bearing preference. As for storage space, there are two side slots and five (we repeat: five) hidden pockets in the waistband. They may not be big enough to fit your cell, but they’re the perfect size for your ID or set of keys.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 0 to 20
- Material: nylon, lycra elastane
- Length: 23-, 25- and 28-inch inseams
Best Leggings for Everyday Wear
What We Like
- buttery soft
- flexible fabric
What We Don’t Like
- lighter colors show cellulite
Nike
While these leggings were intentionally made with fewer pockets to give you a super slim fit, they still have a drop-in pocket on the back that's big enough to hold your phone, as well as a card and key if that's all you need. One reviewer shares, "These are perfect for everyday activities because they're not compressive but stay put with the higher rise on the waist. I've run in them a few times, and the pocket at the back waist does fit my phone." Buttery soft fabric and a flexible form-fitting silhouette? Yes, please. And we especially love that they come in both regular and tall lengths, so they won’t end up looking like capris on taller women.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XXL
- Material: nylon, spandex
- Length: regular and tall sizes available
Best Leggings for Running Errands
What We Like
- deep pockets
- double-lined waistband
What We Don’t Like
- material may feel thin
Colorfulkoala
PureWow Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak enthuses, "I love the feel of these leggings for low-impact workouts or casual wear. The pockets are deep enough to hold my iPhone 14 Pro Max without feeling like it's bouncing around or pulling one side of the leggings down. The thick, double-lined waistband is a game-changer for keeping your waist supported and sculpted, too." Add to that the flatlock construction ensuring the seams don't rub when you're running around, and you've got a great pair of go-to leggings.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Material: polyester, spandex
- Length: 25-inch inseam
Best Matte Finish Leggings
4. Athleta Salutation Stash Tights
What We Like
- buttery soft
- pockets placed comfortably high
What We Don’t Like
- some colors may show sweat marks
Athleta
These Athleta leggings feature a high waist to keep you covered while fitting your body like a glove. And the breathable, quick-drying Powervita fabric does a neat trick of providing light sculpting while caressing your body with buttery-feeling fabric. Speaking of the fabric, thanks to the UPF rating of 40+, this stunner is the ideal pair of leggings to wear on a hike. These guys also wash up like champs, so there are no loose seams or faded areas to take away from the leggings' high-end appearance.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 3X
- Material: nylon, lycra
- Length: 23-, 25- and 28-inch inseam
Most Versatile Leggings
5. Zella Cozy Tech Performance Leggings
What We Like
- versatile styling
- cozy fabric
What We Don’t Like
- shorter people may need to tailor hem
Zella
One reviewer of these explains how they are the most versatile leggings designed to take you through all of life’s activities easily: "[The] pants are super comfortable,” she says. “They move with you, fit great [and] they work for walking around or [playing] on the pickleball courts.” Unlike the typical performance-based legging, these feature a stylish straight leg fit that feels both casual and trendy, which is a dream for those days when you want to look cute with minimal effort. Most importantly, there is a deep zippered pocket above the bum that’s wide enough to hold a wallet or even an extra pickleball. Another reviewer assures it lives up to its name, saying that they’re cozy enough to live in. Be advised, though, that the inseam is 30 inches, so shorter women will want to hem them.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to L
- Material: polyester, spandex
- Length: 30-inch inseam
Customers’ Favorite Leggings
6. Girlfriend Collective Pocket Leggings
What We Like
- compressive
- squat proof
What We Don’t Like
- can feel too compressive
Girlfriend Collective
After showing so much love for the brand's high-waist leggings, Girlfriend Collective fans asked for a version with pockets. Its newest style comes in six essential colors, two inseam lengths and a whopping 11 sizes, so you can find that perfect fit. Not to mention the four limited-edition colors for the one who adores a pop of color for that upcoming Pilates class, from a blood orange to a bright blue. Oh, and they feature two pockets, one on either side of the hips, large enough to stow an iPhone 15, keys, credit cards or your Airpods.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 6XL
- Material: recycled plastic bottles and spandex
- Length: 23.75-inch inseam, 28.5-inch inseam
Best Drawcord Design
What We Like
- four-way stretch
- adjustable drawcord waist
What We Don’t Like
- may feel too low-waisted for longer torsos
Vuori
From the joggers to the leggings, PureWow editors are obsessed with Vuori athleisure, and these quick-drying, polyamide-and-elastane leggings are no exception. Designed to fit high-rise, these pants have an interior drawcord that can be adjusted to your liking and will stay up even when you're running around with a phone and keys in the side stash and the hidden back zip pockets.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 6XL
- Material: recycled plastic bottles and spandex
- Length: 23.75-inch inseam, 28.5-inch inseam
Most Supportive Leggings
What We Like
- adjustable drawcord waist
- mesh panels for ventilation
What We Don’t Like
- runs small
Nike
Gone are the days of having separate leggings dedicated to working out and running errands. This pair has you covered for everything according to reviewers who are obsessed with their polyester and spandex fabric that strikes the perfect balance between stretchy and supportive for all-day wear. Better yet, the waistband should sit comfortably right below your navel and is adjustable by a drawcord, so you can wear it tighter for runs and looser for strolls in the park. As for pockets, it has plenty. We're talking in the front and back to store your cards and keys, plus a zippered waistband pocket that's roomy enough to carry your phone. Needless to say, you can leave your bag at home.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XXL
- Material: polyester, spandex
- Length: one length
Most Compressive Leggings
9. CSB Activluxe Pocket Leggings
What We Like
- compressive
- contouring seams
What We Don’t Like
- can feel too compressive
CSB
Whether you’re in the market for a tummy control pant or want something that provides a more contoured silhouette, PureWow’s Associate Fashion Commerce Editor, Stephanie Meraz, recommends that you consider the pocket leggings from Australian-based brand Crop Shop Boutique. “I’ve had my eye on this brand for a while now, loving how creator Rachel Dillon saw the gap in the fitness industry when it came to cute, fashionable styles that include strappy sports bras, darling sets and tie details, to name a few. In full honestly, I’m a seamless gal through-and-through, but I’m a sucker for a contour design that makes my bum and legs look snatched (which this has) and the fact that this has no front seam is a total win. I must admit it: having multiple pockets to store things I’d rather not carry by hand or purse was surprisingly nice. The compression on these babies is no-joke, though, and I found myself feeling too suctioned when I wore these for eight-plus hours on a recent excursion to Joshua Tree, but they’re definitely my new go-to for shorter stints.” For that reason, Meraz suggests sizing up if you’re in between sizes or prefer less compression.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Material: nylon, spandex
- Length: one length
Best Cold-Weather Leggings
10. Outdoor Voices Frostknit Leggings
What We Like
- soft, brushed fleece interior
- reflective details
What We Don’t Like
- runs small
Outdoor Voices
Want a legging that stands up to snowy conditions? Outdoor Voices has a cold-weather legging that's built for freezing temps in fabric that's a cozy 36 percent lycra, 34 percent nylon and 30 percent polyester, all tricked out for safe outdoor exercise. Besides having two side pockets for your phone and keys, these leggings have subtle reflective piping that keeps you visible in low-light conditions and an internal drawcord that keeps your leggings in place, for the long run. Even better? They’re editor approved. “I like that the pockets are big enough to fit my phone but also SNUG so it’s not bouncing around against my leg on runs. They’re also super soft on the inside (like a brushed fleecy texture) and thick for cold weather workouts,” says PureWow Senior Food Editor Katherine Gillen.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XXXL
- Material: lycra, nylon, polyester
- Length: 26-inch inseam
Best for Lounging
11. Offline By Aerie Warmup Leggings
What We Like
- fuzzy interior fabrication
- cuffed bottoms
What We Don’t Like
- may not fit well on curvy frames
lululemon
Forget the high-compression, mega-sweat-wicking superpowers of so many performance leggings and cuddle up in a pair of these hybrid leggings-sweatpants. The 90 percent recycled polyester and 10 percent elastane fabric blend has a fleecy fabric inside and plenty of stretch, and the wide waist and cuffs design makes them look as much like casual pants as they do workout clothes.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XXL
- Material: recycled polyester, elastane
- Length: (short) 24.75-, (regular) 26.75- and (long) 28.75-inch inseam
Best Temperature Regulating
12. Ministry of Supply Joule Active Leggings
What We Like
- high compression
- NASA-developed temperature regulation
What We Don’t Like
- may sag at the crotch
Ministry of Supply
These leggings have a unique and figure-flattering side panel construction, and their fabric, an anti-pilling polyester blend, was developed by NASA to regulate body temperature. All that, plus there are two side pockets, a third one tucked over your bum and a fourth one tucked into the waistband for convenience.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XXL
- Material: recycled polyester, nylon, lycra
- Length: 7/8
Best for Short Legs
What We Like
- breathable fabric
- shaping waistband
What We Don’t Like
- no option for taller lengths
Yummie
Deep 9-inch side pockets and a shaping waistband (it dips in front to control your stomach and curves up in back to lift your rear) are standouts in this super-soft pair of leggings. The high cotton content makes these leggings cozy, matte, breathable (a bonus for those who tend to run sweaty) and comfortable in the hottest weather. Thanks to the petite-friendly 22 ¼-inch inseam, it’s especially great for shorter legs.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 1XL
- Material: cotton, spandex
- Length: 22.25-inch inseam
Best Value
14. Ewedoos Fleece-Lined Leggings
What We Like
- warm fleece lining
- squat proof
What We Don’t Like
- can pill over time
Ewedoos
Two side slots make these convenient, and a fuzzy-warm fleece lining means they're also winter-proof. When you warm up from your exertions, the moisture-management fabric wicks away wetness so you're comfy enough to stay out in the chill to work on your endurance. Reviewers especially appreciate how thick yet not bulky the stretchy material is, proving to be squat-proof for the toughest of workouts.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 3XL
- Material: polyester, spandex
- Length: one length
Best for Long Runs
15. lululemon Swift Speed Tights
What We Like
- drawcord waistband
- no chafing
What We Don’t Like
- can feel too compressive
lululemon
Side drop-in pockets for your handheld, a zippered pocket in the back to secure your keys and a row of unobtrusive reflective dots along the outer calf to keep you visible while you’re on the run. What’s more? There’s even a continuous drawcord waistband that won’t get lost in the wash. All that, and lululemon's signature flattering design, keep you on the trail for an extra mile.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 0 to 20
- Material: polyester, spandex
- Length: one length
Best Zipped Pockets
16. Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings
What We Like
- high UPF protection
- zip closures
What We Don’t Like
- pockets are not very deep
Eddie Bauer
Worried things might pop out of your pockets while you’re out on a trail run or bouncing up and down during an intense HIIT session? Zippered pockets are the way to go. The two side pockets aren’t quite as deep as some of the others on this list, but they make up for that with the security of anti-chafe zippers guaranteed to keep all your belongings safe and sound. (There’s also an ID/key pouch in the waistband.) Plus, the FreeDry moisture-wicking fabric has SPF 50 built in, so you can protect your skin as easily as you protect your phone.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Material: polyester, spandex
- Length: regular, standard, petite and tall
Best Postpartum Leggings
17. Love & Fit Guardian Evolve Leggings
What We Like
- flexible, soft and stretchy material
- no-slip grip
What We Don’t Like
- some say XL size gets baggy at ankles
Love & Fit
For the gal who needs all the support and ample comfortability after giving birth, let us introduce you to Love & Fit’s Guardian Evolve leggings. There are two deep side pockets packed into these babies that are roomier than you’d think. Just take it from PureWow’s VP of Editorial, Candace Davison, who swears by them, saying “Postpartum, I've been living in Love & Fit, largely because they have a no-slip-grip waistband, so I'm not tugging up my leggings every time I move (especially as my weight fluctuates). And they're velvety soft, supportive and the pockets are deep enough to fit even a massive phone—trust me, I have a brick of a Pixel Fold!”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 3XL
- Material: lycra, nylon, polyester
- Length: 25-inch inseam
Best Leggings for Tall People
18. Gapfit Full Length Leggings
What We Like
- exceptional shape retention
- wide waistband
What We Don’t Like
- runs small
Gap
One reviewer gives these high marks for their full-length fit. "I am 5'9" and wear a 34-inch inseam in most pants, size 14-16 and a large in all Gap-brand stretch bottoms," she writes. "Amazingly, the regular length is the best fit on me." The beloved style is available in a tall and petite fit, too. Long-waisted women will appreciate the wide waistband on this style from GapFit and the durable, stretchy 79 percent recycled polyester and 21 percent spandex fabric blend. And there’s nothing more satisfying than finding a pair of leggings on sale that boast smooth lines and no chafe design.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to XXXL
- Material: spandex, recycled polyester
- Length: 26-inch inseam
Best Tummy Control
What We Like
- squat proof
- tummy control mesh layer
What We Don’t Like
- waistband may roll
Ododos
An ultrawide waistband is the secret sauce here: There's a thin band of elastic to keep it in place (though some reviewers found it to roll during extraneous activities) and an entire tummy control mesh layer added to really look like you've been working those lower abs. The fabric is a 72 percent polyamide and 28 percent spandex blend, so it has some serious opacity (no flashing during squats) as well as a four-way stretch (so it bounces back after every move). At this price and in this many colors, there's no reason not to round out your rainbow of leggings by trying a pair.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Material: polyamide, elastane
- Length: 14-, 19-, 25-, 28-inch inseam
Fastest Drying Leggings
20. lululemon Wunder Train Tights
What We Like
- high waistband
- adjustable drawcord
What We Don’t Like
- can pill over time
lululemon
Drop-in side pockets and a hidden waistband pocket mean you've got more than enough room for everything from your phone and keys to energy gels and spare adhesive strips, in case your blister acts up on those last couple miles. The fast-drying nylon-Lycra blend means your sweat will be wicked away and evaporated before you know it—and a drawcord waist means you won't have to fiddle with pulling your leggings up throughout your workout. Dubyak swears by the originals, which boasts the same soft and comfortable material as this pocketed version.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 0 to 20
- Material: nylon, lycra elastane
- Length: 23-, 25-, 28-inch inseam
First off, they should be tailored to your workout needs. If you're going for a long run, you'll want a side pocket for your phone and a secure (preferably zippered) waist or leg pocket for your ID. Doing an outdoor HIIT or indoor CrossFit class? You might opt for a waist drawcord design so your leggings don't fall down with all those squats. Need a pair that you can just run errands in? This PureWow favorite is as appropriate for casual Fridays as it is for a quick jog around the block.
What Brands of Leggings Have Pockets?
In the vetted list above, we tapped into PureWow readers favorites as well as PureWow editor-recommended brands, from lululemon and Nike to Athleta and CSB. Major retailers, such as Nordstrom and Amazon have their in-house label leggings with pockets that are too good to overlook, too, like Zella and Colorfulkoala.
What Is the Back Pocket in Leggings for?
As Hepworth, who’s a certified running coach with RRCA and PureWow’s in-house hiking expert, explains, “The back pocket on a pair of workout leggings is ideal for storing smaller items like your ID, keys or earbuds. But you can also use it to store gels if you’re doing a long training run, or a safety device like the Birdie alarm. Unlike the pockets on your sides, which provide easy access to essentials like your phone or a stopwatch, the back pocket is best for items you won't need to reach for frequently during your workout.” Storage and stride? Sign us up.
TikTok-Recommended Leggings with Pockets
There's a lot of show-and-tell in the TikTok leggings community. We appreciate the TikTok fitness instructor who turned us on to leggings with pockets suitable for "thick thighs and a booty" like the Ododos Tummy Control leggings (was $46, now $23) on Amazon, Aerie drawstring (was $50, now $25) and lululemon Wunder leggings ($128). TikTok also turned us on to leggings made with GOTS-certified cotton (and created in maybe the cutest animal print ever) from Pact.
Baleaf Sports also impressed us with a slideshow of their stylish leggings on a wide range of bodies. And of course, the ongoing debate about lululemon alternatives remains unabated on TikTok, with the Amazon-sold HeyNuts brand getting some love for its lulu-similar pairs that cost under $30. (Shannon at thislovelylifeofmine says they're squat-proof and stay in place in all their high-waisted glory, though they ultimately didn’t make the cut in our roundup.)
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The 16 Best Workout Leggings for Every Body Type and Fitness Need, According to Our Editors
Abby Hepworth
Editor
- Covers fashion, trends and all things running
- Received certification as an RRCA run coach
- Has worked in fashion for over a decade
read full bio
Stephanie Meraz
Associate Fashion Commerce Editor
- Covers all things fashion and shopping
- Boasts over 23 years of experience as an avid shopper, having secured a personal stylist at Limited Too at the age of four
- Studied English literature, communications and creative writing at the University of San Diego, and completed the Columbia Publishing Course at Columbia University in New York
read full bio
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