
No matter how dressy we like to get with the latest fashion trends, leggings are a great wardrobe crutch when we want to be laid-back and lounge about, unencumbered by tight waistbands or rigid fabric. There are so many kinds of leggings out there, from fleece-lined leggings (opens in new tab)—for those cold, harsh winters—to your regular pair of sweat-wicking workout bottoms. No matter which one you choose, there's one important detail to consider before you make your purchase. Which is: Does it have pockets? Now, when we say pockets, we don't mean in-your-face hideous side pockets that bulge out of your leggings. You want the pockets of your leggings to blend in with your favorite casual bottoms and look seamless. Thus, we set out on a journey to find some—and discovered a ton of different options to satisfy everyone's tastes.
If you haven't shopped at Old Navy in a while, I urged you to take a look at their leggings selection, but more specifically this pair. Over 12,000 shoppers left 5-star reviews on Old Navy's site, so you know they are worthwhile. They feature an ultra-flattering high waist, plus with their "powersoft" fabric, you'll never want to take them off. Shop from nine colors, including a cool marble print and metallic black in sizes that go up to 4X-Large.
Pros: Under $50; Sizes range from X-Small to 4X-Large; Offered in three inseam lengths; High-waisted; Squat-proof.
Cons:
Customer review: "These leggings are so comfortable and don't budge when you are working out or just running errands. The pockets are perfect for my phone, which is so convenient. I'm hooked!" — Old Navy
You really don't have to shell out a ton of money for a quality pair of leggings. Case in point: These Colorfulkoala leggings on Amazon. These leggings are made from the kind of smooth, buttery soft material that will make you forget you even have pants on, They also have just enough compression to make you feel secure, but won't restrict your movement. Over 35,000 5-star reviewers are obsessed with these affordable leggings and we can almost guarantee you will be too.
Pros: Under $50; Available in 36 different colors and prints; Buttery soft fabric; Seamless high waistband for comfort; Four-way stretch.
Cons: Offers light compression; Sizes only range from X-Small to X-Large.
Customer review: "These are perfect, very soft and stretchy but the high waist holds everything in without being uncomfortable or cutting into you. Perfect 7/8 length as well. Side pockets look small but fit my giant phone without an issue..." — Amazon
Get a lot more bang for your buck with a multi-pack. For just $30, you can get two pairs of top-rated leggings, which we'd wager is the best deal you've seen all week. Choose from bundles with must-have neutrals like black, navy, and grey, or opt for a little more color with the purple or burgundy bundle. Whichever you choose, know that both pairs of leggings are soft, smooth, and comfortable. You also get an added pocket for a key or card in the high waistband.
Pros: Great value; Sweat-wicking; Extra pocket hidden in waistband; Buttery soft fabric; Four-way stretch.
Cons: Some reviewers note the waistband fits more mid-rise.
Customer review: "These are some of my favorite leggings. They are thick enough to not worry about bending over etc. I love the side pockets, because who doesn't love pockets? They come in a bunch of great colors to change it up a bit. Super soft and comfortable. Very happy with my purchase." — Amazon
I'm personally a huge fan of Fabletics—they come out with cute new styles every month that actually make me want to work out. But if you would rather not join their monthly membership program, don't stress. You can buy these mega-bright leggings (and all their leggings, for that matter) without having to be a member. I reach for their Powerhold leggings every morning for my workout because they offer high compression and make me look so sculpted. Their size inclusivity is a major win in my book, too.
Pros: Sizes range from XX-Small to 4X-Large; Available in 38 different colors and prints; Offered in three inseam lengths; Offers high compression.
Cons: Limited colors available in some sizes.
Customer review: "These leggings are amazing. They're so soft, they feel like butter. The pockets are an added bonus. I will living in these from this day forward." — Fabletics
Add some shine to your workout clothing rotation courtesy of this pair of leggings from All Access. The statement-making black piping on the leg and waist will earn you added fashion points.
Once you see the magical snatching powers of the waistband on these leggings, you'll understand why TikTok is obsessed. The criss-cross waist instantly gives an hourglass effect so we promise you're going to look and feel your best. As for the material, it feels extra lightweight and smooth with a light to medium amount of compression, perfect for lounging, running errands, and even hitting the gym. These leggings also come in three inseam lengths so you can make sure you get the perfect fit.
Pros: Crossover waistband provides hourglass effect; Size ranges from XX-Small to XX-Large; Offered in three inseam lengths; Buttery soft fabric; Fast-drying; Squat-proof.
Cons: Only one color available.
Customer review: "Absolutely obsessed with the crossover leggings, and even more with this pair because of the pocket. Material is comfortable and the cut is flattering. Compression is low here so it’s great for workout and just lounging or running." — American Eagle
Girlfriend Collective is known for its size-inclusive activewear of an amazing quality. The brand's Compressive Pocket Legging may just be their number one best seller with nearly 9,000 rave reviews on their site and it's not hard to tell why. These have high compression and are sweat-wicking, which means they are your next best friends for high-impact workouts. All of their colorways have several matching top options so you can create a matching set with no sweat (pun intended).
Pros: Size ranges from XX-Small to 6X-Large; Made from recycled materials; Offers high compression; Sweat-wicking; Squat-proof; Offered in two inseam lengths; Ultra high-waisted.
Cons: Some reviewers note the waist slides down during exercise.
Customer review: "I love these leggings. The color seems like it would be flattering on anyone. They are definitely the right thickness and squat proof but they are also soft and hold you in without squeezing anywhere. I feel like the seems are flattering but not in a draw attention to your butt kind of way." — Girlfriend Collective
While there are so many dupes on the market, nothing quite lives up to the hype on Lululemon's Align leggings. Lululemon practically originated the buttery-smooth fabric that so many other brands have adopted, and if you haven't tried it out for yourself, it may be time to invest in a pair. These leggings feel so lightweight, comfy, and non-restricting, you'll basically feel naked. Because they are so lightweight, though, these might not be the leggings for you if you like compression.
Pros: Buttery soft fabric; Lightweight; Four-way stretch; Sizes range from 0 to 20; Offered in three inseam lengths; Extra pocket hidden in waistband.
Cons: Offers light compression; Over $100.
Customer review: "Amazing! They fit amazingly and feel like you’re wearing nothing at all but also like they are thick at the same time. They stay up! I Never have to pull them up!!" — Lululemon
These top-rated leggings from Free People's FP Movement line come with pockets on the side and a zippered one on the back, so you can keep all of your essentials close. They also come complete with high compression and a silicone grip at the back waistband so that they'll stay in place throughout your most intense workout sessions. The best part of these leggings, though, is the added seams along the front—the detail contours your body for an ultra-flattering effect.
Pros: Offers high compression; Stay-put high waistband; Extra zippered pocket on waistband; Squat-proof; Four-way stretch.
Cons: Over $100; Runs small on some; Limited color options.
Customer review: "OMG these are the first leggings with a tummy control band that’s tight (sucks you in) with a light, internal non-slip band. Love the high-rise and overall fit. Makes my butt look good!!" — Free People
Looking for a pair of no-frills leggings with maximum stretch? This pair promises to deliver on that note and more. The fit is a mid-rise (for those who don't like a high-waist fit) and is completely machine washable. These cotton leggings are perfect for those that prefer comfort over anything else. While this pair may not be great for working out and sweating in, they're a great option for lounging or running errands. For $20, these won't put a hurt on your budget, either.
Pros: Under $50; Lightweight; Four-way stretch; Soft cotton fabric for comfort.
Cons: Offers light compression; Fabric is thin.
Customer review: "I like these. They are lightweight but full coverage pants. The pockets are a plus! I don't like carrying a pocketbook on a quick errand. Now I have a place to put the keys & card." — Target
In case you needed further proof that great leggings with pockets can come with a small price tag, here you go. Over 27,000 Amazon shoppers have left reviews praising these leggings for their comfort, stretch, and flattering shape. They feature a second-skin fabric that is lightweight, breathable, and moves with your body, which means they're a great pick for your next yoga or spin class. They're currently the number one bestseller for compression pants on Amazon so you know these are a winner.
Pros: Under $50; Four-way stretch; Lightweight; Breathable; Squat-proof; Sweat-wicking; Tummy-control high waistband; Sizes range from X-Small to 3X-Large;
Cons: Waistband may fall down when pockets are full.
Customer review: "I love these leggings. They fit great very comfortable the waste stays put and doesn't roll down. The pants don't rid up on the crotch area which makes them so comfortable. Great leggings for a great price." — Amazon
European influencers cannot get enough of London-based brand, Sweaty Betty, and we understand the hype. They have some of the coolest, yet functional styles out there, with prints to die for. This funky geometric pair gives us The Matrix vibe and will surely make you the most stylish person at the gym. If plain black (opens in new tab) is more your speed, there's that too. The supportive, yet stretchy fabric works to shape your body and even promise butt-sculpting abilities.
Pros: Offers high compression; Sculpting; Four-way stretch; Zippered back pocket; Interior drawstring to keep waistband snug.
Cons: Mid-rise waistband.
Customer review: "So comfortable, fab quality, could wear them forever." — Nordstrom
For when two pockets isn't enough, turn to Athleta's Headlands Hybrid Cargo pants, which include a whopping six! These have the shape and fit of your favorite leggings, but are made to be much more durable. In fact, these leggings were made with hiking and climbing in mind, with abrasion-resistant and water-repellant features. That's not to say these wouldn't work for a casual look either, because they absolutely would. Throw on a cropped tee and and cool pair of sneakers and you've got yourself a trendy, yet comfy look.
Pros: Includes six pockets; Water-repellant; Rip-resistant; Durable; Sizes range from 0 to 26.
Cons: Not as soft as traditional leggings; Over $100.
Customer review: "It's the perfect hybrid between a functional hiking/walking legging and a stylish pant to wear out to dinner with a nice top. It has a very comfortable waistband and with 6 zippered pockets, there's no need to lug around a bag." — Athleta
Many people prefer seamless leggings over everything else since they are typically more compressive and sculpting. If you fall in this camp and are in search for a pair with pockets, I got you covered. These affordable Amazon leggings feature that seamless fabric you know and love but with the addition of pockets, making them all the more better for hitting the gym! That extra-wide waistband will keep you supportive without slipping, plus the v-shape of the behind makes your butt look extra perky.
Pros: Offers high compression; Sculpting; Tummy control wide waistband; Sweat-wicking; Squat-proof; Four-way stretch.
Cons: Limited color options with pockets; Runs small.
Customer review: "These leggings are amazing. I love lifting weights and they are fully squat proof, no seeing through these pants at all. They are high waisted which gives a flattering shape and do not slip." — Amazon
Brooke Knappenberger is the Editorial Fellow at Marie Claire, where she writes across the board from fashion and beauty to books and celebrities. As a pop culture junkie, Brooke obsessively consumes and writes about the latest movie releases, streaming TV shows, and celebrity scandals. She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.
- Marina LiaoFashion Editor
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