Leggings [1] without pockets are my number one pet peeve. Without pockets, where exactly am I supposed to keep my essentials while I work out? Since I'm not running with a fanny pack, I need a place for my keys, credit card, ID, face mask [2], and phone. If, like me, you find the concept of leggings sans pockets unnerving and just plain wrong, you've got to shop these 11 pairs.
The thing about leggings with pockets is that, at this point, almost all leggings have some kind of pocket. However, in our opinion, a tiny pocket at the interior waistband doesn't quite cut it. If it doesn't fit our phone, we don't want it. Usually, the deepest pockets are found at the sides of the thighs, but there are some pairs with good sized pockets at the back of the waist, and plus, they might even have a zipper, which will ensure your items stay put. From basic black pairs to soft neutrals and even brightly colored styles, these are the leggings with pockets you're going to fall in love with. You might even want to do laundry just so you can wear them again. Or, you know, you could just buy multiple pairs. Keep on reading to shop our favorite workout leggings with pockets!
Most Versatile Leggings: Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight
I'm someone who likes to switch up my workouts; one day I'm doing my favorite Pilates workout, and the next I'm sweating it out on my Peloton bike. While I respect the fact that different pants are built for different activities, sometimes you just want one versatile piece that can move with you. Enter the Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight [4] ($128). You can read my full review here [5], but to cut to the chase, I love these leggings. It's specifically designed to take you through a multitude of workouts; it's made of Everlux, lululemon's fastest drying fabric, so it's sweat-wicking and breathable but thick enough to provide support, and it doesn't have a back zipper, allowing you to lie down in Pilates or yoga. It also passes my squat test when training, and when I'm going to a Barry's Bootcamp class, where I have to both run and lift weights, these are the pants I choose. They don't fall down, and I've had mine for years without pilling. Plus, it has deep side pockets.
What customers say: With over 700 five star reviews, one customer says, "These are super comfortable and supportive for all kinds of workouts. They're squat proof and they don't feel soggy after an indoor spin class. They even make it feel like I can swing by the grocery store to pick up the missing produce for dinner after my workout!"
Why we love it: If you don't know what your workout will entail, reach for these comfortable leggings. They're great for low-impact, high-impact, and everything in between.
What's worth noting: The pants are available in 25, 28, and 31 inch lengths; I'm five foot seven inches, and I like the length of the 25 inch pants.
The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25, 28, 31 in. length | Colorways: 9
Best Colorful Leggings: Outdoor Voices Core 7/8 Legging
The Outdoor Voices Core 7/8 Legging [6] ($88) feels like butter and has a flattering fit that will make you feel confident. It's made with the TechSweat fabric that helps cool your body down by wicking away sweat. The legging is also quite breathable and lightweight. It's great for medium- to high-intensity workouts. If you want something lightweight and breezy, this is the one for you.
What customers are saying: One purchaser notes, "I LOVE these pants - so much so that I own them in 4 colors. The best for everything from walks to HIIT to running a half marathon (wore these through a crazy storm during my half and they didn't budge once). When I say these are the best pants to workout in I mean it. Will probably buy them in every other color!!"
Why we love it: The legging has a back pocket where you can store your essentials, and it's one of the only back pockets we've used that fits our phone. It also has a bonded waistband that is designed to stay put no matter how you move.
What's worth noting: This has a midrise waistband with a 22-inch inseam. Made with a nylon, lycra, and polyester blend, the best way to care for it is to machine wash on cold and tumble dry on low.
The details: Sizes: XS-XL | Length: 25 in. length | Colorways: 5
Best Leggings For Lounging: Lululemon Align Pant II With Pockets
Fair warning: you're going to want to live in the Align Pant II With Pockets [7] ($128-$138). It is so buttery soft, you'll feel like you're not wearing anything — which, in fact, is the purpose of the fabric it's made of, Nulu. This is definitely a yoga pant as opposed to a running or HIIT pant, but it can also be an errands pant, a brunch pant, or really just an anytime pant. I have spent a good portion of the last year on the couch in these pants, and I might just have to get another pair. The deep side pockets are game changers, and they make going hands free so easy.
What customers say: These pants have over 5,000 five-star reviews, with one user saying "I need 949575853 more. It feels like i'm wearing nothing! The quality is absolutely there. The comfort is there. I want to wear nothing else but these leggings."
Why we love it: The soft, comfortable lounge leggings of your dreams do exist, and you'll find yourself doing laundry just so that you can wear them again.
What's worth noting: They, like almost all Lululemon pants, are high rise; mine come up just past my belly button. I've had mine for years at this point, and they feel just as soft and comfortable as the day I bought them. There's no pilling or fraying at all.
The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25 in. length | Colorways: 11
Best Affordable Leggings: Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings
If you want the ultimate comfortable, affordable leggings, you need these Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings [8] ($40). They've got a hidden pocket that's so useful and Go-Dry moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable. The high-rise waistband will make you feel comfortable and secure while the pocket is large enough to stash your phone in.
What customers are saying: Customers love these pants, with one saying that these are the "I will never buy another brand after wearing these to the gym. They were the comfiest to workout in." Another person said, "These are my favorite leggings. They don't slide down, they don't ball up. These are the best ones I've worn."
Why we love them: Simply put: these leggings don't move. They stay on throughout your workout and are so comfortable that they feel a lot more expensive than they actually are. Plus, at just $40, they're affordable, and perform like they're double or triple the price.
What's worth noting: These leggings are made of Old Navy's Powersoft fabric, which is lightly compressive, and buttery soft. It also comes in tall and petite varieties. If you want a more compressive fit, maybe size down.
The details: Sizes: XS-4X| Length: 26, 28, 32 inch length | Colorways: 3
Best Thick Leggings: Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tight
We all know that some of our leggings are thicker than others; they're the ones we love for winter, when it's a bit colder outside. The Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tights [9] ($109) are the go-to leggings when you want to feel comfy but still held in. These are great for low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates where you aren't getting drenched in sweat. Plus, the side pockets are thick, and your items will not budge.
What customers are saying: One person said, "I love that they stay in place, unlike other brands that I am pulling up as I walk. Very soft and comfortable!" Another one raved, "This legging is very soft and doesn't cut off my circulation.. yet it still holds everything in. I can wear these all day with no problem. It's also flattering.I definitely recommend."
Why we love them: These leggings make your butt look amazing. They're perfectly compressive and thick enough to be warm and comfortable, plus we can't stop staring at ourselves in the mirror when we wear them.
What's worth noting: These leggings are, as we've said, thicker than most. They're not too heavy, and are fine if you're planning on working out hard, but if you're doing hot yoga, you might want something a little more breathable.
The details: Sizes: XXS-3X| Length: 25, 27, 30 inch length | Colorways: 3
Best Running Leggings: Lululemon Fast & Free Tight II
If the Align Pant was intriguing, but you consider yourself more of a runner, lululemon has answered your prayers. The Fast and Free Tight II [10] ($98-$138) is made with Nulux, and gives the same second-skin sensation that you're used to from the Align legging with the added bonus of being sweat-wicking and quick-drying. They're a must have for anyone who's obsessed with that buttery-soft feeling, but still wants a high performance legging. My best friend, a serious runner, counts these among her favorites, but they really are great for any activity because they're so versatile. They're high rise and body hugging without being too heavy. If you're concerned about chafing, these are a good choice because they feel so comfortable, and though they do have inner thigh seams, they're pretty minimal and unobtrusive. As far as pockets go, these have two pockets at the sides of the hips and a whopping five waistband pockets, so you're really good to go.
What customers say: Plus, with over 2,000 five star reviews, there's a whole community of people who swear by these leggings. One person in particular notes, "my favorite workout pant ever. I can wear them all day without having to repeatedly pull them up or adjust." Another customer says, "These leggings are a runner's dream. The material doesn't pill, pockets can fit all the energy gels, keys, etc. that you could possibly need, even a waist belt pocket that fits a phone so your phone doesn't bounce around. I have to use the drawstring to adjust the waist for running, but otherwise I almost forget I'm wearing them."
Why we love it: If you like the look of a legging but want the feel and breathability of a short, or nothing at all, these are the running pants for you. They're the summertime leggings you'll want in your closet, and they'll make even the sweatiest workouts comfortable.
What's worth noting: It's good to know about the raw hem at the ankle before you wonder if you accidentally bought an unfinished pair. They purposefully do not have a band or seam, which many people find to be looser and less constricting at the ankle, but can take some getting used to.
The details: Sizes: 0-20 | Length: 25, 28 in. length | Colorways: 10
Best Sustainable Leggings: Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Pocket Legging
The Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Pocket Leggings [11] ($88) is designed for high-impact workouts with an extra-high-rise waistband and four-way stretch for optimal coverage and flexibility. The fabric is both thick and sweat wicking, making them squat-proof and breathable. However, that doesn't mean you can't wear these to relax at home or run errands.
What customers are saying: Customers not only adore this comfortable pair but also can't get enough of the brown color (pictured). Reviewers claim they feel soft and airy with just the right amount of compression. They also rave about the flattering fit.
Why we love them:These leggings feel so buttery soft on the skin, making them great for everyday wear. Plus, they support you in all the right places for a lifted, flattering look.
What's worth noting: The leggings are made from 79 percent recycled plastic bottles and spandex. It has both side pockets and waistband pockets, so you'll have plenty of room.
The details: Sizes: XXS-6XL | Length: 23.75, 28.5 in. length | Colorways: 5
Most Unique Leggings: Outdoor Voices Snacks 7/8 Legging
The Outdoor Voices Snacks 7/8 Legging [12] ($118) is one of the most innovative leggings on the market. It's built with functionality in mind, including a mini backpack that clips onto the legging. It's made from SuperForm fabric that's perfect for high-impact activities. This is a supportive yet breathable pair of leggings that's sweat wicking and body sculpting. The editor-favorite Snacks 7/8 Legging [13] is great for activities like running, golf, tennis, hiking, and more.
What customers are saying: One customer notes, "Got my first pair of these last month and am so obsessed that my browser just remembers the product page link from how many times I've checked for new colors LOL. I mostly wear my workout gear on the trail so am always looking for a good pair of pocket leggings. The little backpack and all the hooks, nooks and loops are genius (goodbye trail bag!). I took my usual M in tight leggings/workout bottoms. They take some effort to get into but fit perfectly with no digging or sagging once on."
Why we love it: The legging is built for those who love to have all their essentials with them at all times. Not only does it come with a removable mini backpack, but it also has a waistband equipped with pockets and loops so you can hang small towels, store a water bottle, and more. Plus, there are side leg pockets, hidden waistband pockets, and a zipped mesh pocket in the back. The fabric has a UPF sun protection of 50+.
What's worth noting: The legging has a midrise waistband with a 26-inch inseam. These are on the tighter side, so if you're worried about sizing, we're recommend going up a size.
The details: Sizes: XS-XL | Length: 26 in. length | Colorways: 3
Most Comfortable Leggings: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi Legging
These Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi Leggings [14] ($99) are made of the softest material that you'll never want to take off. You've never worn leggings that feel like this, we promise. We have them in two colors, they're that comfortable. Plus, we'll find excuses to wash them and wear them again. Pick these for cold weather workouts, or lower impact activities.
What customers are saying: One person loves the durability of these leggings, saying "Two of these bought years ago have lasted VERY well: worn and washed hundreds of times. Newest version is even softer and a better fit." Another person said, "I finally tried Beyond Yoga and am genuinely really impressed (and obsessed). No cameltoe or any semblance of getting one easily whatsoever, and extremely comfortable for all day wear. You don't feel like you're being hugged in too tightly and all that."
Why we love them: These are possibly the most comfortable leggings we've ever worn. They're buttery soft, and thick enough to be great for chillier days. When you want to feel swathed in comfort, go with these leggings.
What's worth noting: These leggings are on the thicker side, so they're not our top choice for sweating it out in 100 degree heat. The side pockets are super deep, so they'll fit your phone, wallet, or whatever you need.
The details: Sizes: XXS-4X| Length: 25 inch length | Colorways: 8
Best Leggings With a Back Pocket: Nike Epic Luxe Dri-FIT Pocket Running Tights
If you're getting sweaty, go for these Nike Epic Luxe Dri-FIT Pocket Running Tights [15] ($76, originally $95). They have both back and side pockets, which means you can go out for a run and not have to worry about taking any kind of bag with you. Plus, the back zip pocket means your items will stay secure.
What customers are saying: One customer notes, "For the gym-goer, we know that most colors - other than black - are going to show sweat in "those areas" and a hard workout will certainly create sweat! If you take plenty of phone breaks or sit out between sets, you may avoid revealing perspiration, but these tights are quick-dry, supportive and energizing."
Why we love it: The legging is built for those who love to run and get sweaty. They have both a back zippered pocket and side pockets, so you'll be protected and comfortable as you move through your workout.
What's worth noting: These leggings have a back zip pocket, so if you're planning on doing mat work or laying down in, say, a yoga class, these may not be the best choice. We'd wear them on a run.
The details: Sizes: XS-XXL | Length: 27 in. length | Colorways: 2
Best High Performance Leggings: Under Armour Meridian Leggings
These Under Armour Meridian Leggings [16] ($70) have a discreet side pocket that's easy to store everything from your phone to keys. The material was created to be both super soft and sweat-wicking, which is a unique combination. Whether you're hitting the weights section or going for a run, pick these leggings.
What customers are saying: One customer noted "When it comes to shopping for my workout clothes I am very skeptical on what I decide to invest my money on. This line that UA came out with truly stole my heart, the Meridian leggings are my all time new favorites. From squat proof, to durability, to comfort, they just fit so right and hug your body in all the right places and definitely true to size."
Why we love it: This legging is built for high performance movement. The fabric has been specially engineered to be buttery soft but still wick sweat unbelievably well, which is so rare.
What's worth noting: These leggings also come in petite and tall sizes, so you can find your preferred fit easily.
The details: Sizes: XS-XXL | Length: 29 in. length | Colorways: 5