The 7 best leggings with pockets of 2026, tested by style editors

I can't tell you how many times a good pair of leggings has come in clutch. Whether it's as a comfortable option for a long-haul flight, as part of a last-minute outfit when I accidentally overslept, or as a looks-like-pants-but-doesn't-feel-like-pants option for a lazy day, leggings are a total closet staple for me — and likely for you too.

The one catch? They typically don't come with any sort of pocket, forcing you to carry a crossbody bag or even worse, jam your phone into your waistband (so uncomfortable, so awkward). And while great workout leggings traditionally lacked side pockets to achieve that smooth, seamless look, most of our favorite brands are finally meeting us at the cross-section of functionality and style with the best leggings with pockets.

We made it our mission to get our hands on the very best ones that feature everything you love about your favorite leggings (think extra buttery-soft, smooth fabrics, flattering compression and unmatched performance for sweaty workouts) combined with convenient, spacious and non-bulky pockets to stash a must-have or two.

We distributed 40 pairs of leggings among 16 expert testers who wore them for traveling, lounging, running, lifting and sweating. They and other long-term testers filled out a 30+ question survey detailing their experiences. In the end, we collected over 60 surveys and over 900 data points. We used all that info to create this list, which considers the very best of fabric, construction, rise and pricing along with key performance features.  

Best leggings with pockets of 2026

How we chose the best leggings with pockets

Our team of style editors spent hours researching the top leggings brands and the most talked-about pairs from Amazon dupes and infamous Lululemon styles that have earned their place in the leggings hall of fame, to lesser-known styles and newer launches in the athleisure space.

In addition to relying on our own team's years of evaluating clothes and fashion, we also tapped the expertise of designers, fitness trainers and fabric specialists to understand what goes into making a great pair of leggings.

Then, we got our hands on dozens of samples and distributed them to our testers who ranged from ages 25-54, sizes 0-18 and petite to tall. Each tester took their leggings for a spin in the real world by sitting, standing, walking, running, jumping, sweating, and dancing in them to see where each pair shone (or flopped) and then filled out a 30+ question survey.

Seventy-five surveys and hundreds of data points later, we whittled down our favorites — including these seven pairs of the best leggings with pockets that we think are actually worth your money.

Factors to consider when choosing leggings with pockets

There are many criteria to consider when shopping for activewear and leggings for women, including fit, fabric, performance features, aesthetics and price. We suggest taking a look at each of the following factors in detail:

• Fit: Denise Chakoian , exercise specialist and owner and founder of Core Studio , wears leggings at least six days a week and says the top requirement for leggings is finding a pair that gives you the right "feel." Those looking for a cozy pair to lounge in should choose lightly compressive, buttery soft options. Others seeking a figure-hugging pair that offers extra support during the most grueling workouts, or a pair that sculpts, lifts and tones the appearance of their legs and tush, should opt for compression leggings.

• Rise:Your preferred rise (meaning the point on your body where the top of the waistband sits) will depend ultimately on your preference and what feels most comfortable and flattering to you. That said, "the waistband is key — opt for high-rise or mid-rise styles that will stay in place and provide support, especially for high-intensity activities," says Ben Jenks , NASM-certified personal trainer, fitness expert and senior editor of Powerlifting Technique . A guide:

  • High-risehits at or just above the natural waist.

  • Mid-risehits just below the waist, sitting under the belly button.

  • Low-risehits at the hips.

• Inseam:The inseam is the measurement of the inner seam that runs from the garment's crotch to the bottom hem at the ankle and determines how long the leg of the garment is. While inseam length varies from brand to brand, here's a rough guide to the average measurements you might see:

  • Capri:17–21"

  • Short/petite:23–25"

  • Regular:26–28"

  • Tall:29–32"

• Fabric:Legging fabric matters both for comfort and laundry considerations. Melissa McGlynn, senior strategic account manager at the LYCRA Company , says high-quality fibers and fabrics are essential "to ensure they fit better, last longer and feel more comfortable." (The trade-off: You'll end up spending a lot for brands like Lululemon and Alo that splurge on fabric.) An opaque, "squat-proof" fabric is also ideal so you can concentrate on your workout without having to worry about visibility. "For lounging, softer, cotton-blend fabrics are most comfortable," says Jenks.

• Pockets:Pocket depth varies: Some are just big enough for your keys, Airpods and energy gels while others sport pockets spacious enough to hold a phone. Where the pockets are placed is all about style preference and what you're carrying. And while some might want as many pockets as possible, others "may want fewer pockets for a sleek look," says Jenks.

  • Side pockets"are easier to access and retrieve items than pockets within the waistband," says Tammy Foxx , fitness trainer and founder of Bridal Fitness Coach. Lexie Chan, regional director of operations at Fanka , agrees, saying, "Since nearly everyone needs a place for their phone, I think side pockets are the most useful."

  • Waistband pockets"are ideal for storing smaller items like keys or cards discreetly, keeping them on hand without the risk of bouncing or shifting during dynamic movements," says Chan. Personal trainer and nutritionist Jasmine Peterson added that items in the waistband can even be beneficial to your workouts since they can help "distribute weight more evenly around your core" than side pockets.

• Performance features:Jenks recommends his clients opt for leggings with performance details to make training more comfortable.

  • Seams: Look for "flat [or] seamless construction to avoid chafing, as well as gusseted inseams that allow a full range of motion," he says. Peterson agrees that this can "prevent chafing or discomfort during physical activities.

  • Moisture-wicking properties:Peterson says, "The ability of the leggings to manage sweat and allow your skin to breathe can dramatically enhance your overall experience, especially if you're wearing them for exercise or in warmer climates." To test, drop a bead of water onto your leggings. The way the fabric reacts will tell you whether it's sweat-wicking: If it quickly spreads and lightens, you're good to go. If it beads up and leaves a dark, saturated spot, continue on your search.

  • UPF protection:Some leggings that are designed specifically for outdoor activities will boast sun protection built into the fabric itself. The Athleta Headlands Cargo Legging on this list is a great example and offers UPF 40 in its fabrication.

Best leggings with pockets specs comparison chart

Meet our experts

• Denise Chakoian , exercise specialist and owner and founder of Core Studio

• Lexie Chan, regional director of operations at Fanka

• Tammy Foxx , fitness trainer and founder of Bridal Fitness Coach

• Ben Jenks , NASM-certified personal trainer, fitness expert and the senior editor of Powerlifting Technique

• Melissa McGlynn , senior strategic account manager at the LYCRA Company

• Jasmine Peterson, personal trainer and nutritionist

Update, June 12, 2026: We checked all product prices and availability and added the Lululemon Fast & Free Leggings based on further testing. Our top pick for the best leggings with pockets remains the same.