5 Pairs of the Absolute Best Leggings With Pockets For Whatever You’ve Got Going On

We’ve all had that moment when someone compliments a dress or an outfit, and the first words out of our mouths are: “Thanks, it has pockets!”  Having played this game myself many times over the years, I’m a big believer that anything with pockets is significantly better, and that includes leggings.

Now that 2020 has established leggings as our wardrobe’s hottest ticket item, we need options that are both comfortable and functional, and that’s where pockets come in. Whether you’re looking for a pair of patterned leggings with a hidden zip on the waistband or some sleek, black classics with deep pockets at the thigh, we’ve got you covered. Below are the best leggings with pockets that can carry it all—whether that means a handful of peanut M&Ms to the couch for a Netflix binge or your Airpods case on a long winter run.

1. ALALA Mirage Tight, $125

best leggings with pockets
Photo: Alala

I’ll borrow the term “brunch leggings” to describe this streamlined pair from one of our favorite BIPOC-owned brands. With room for a phone on one side and every other essential on the other, these leggings are functional while also adding an elevated touch with the slick material. Alala preaches “all day style” with its workout wear, and these leggings are the perfect pick for transitioning from day to night when you don’t have extra time to change. Who needs an LBD when you can have a pair of LBLs (little black leggings)?

Shop now: ALALA Mirage Tight, $125

2. Girlfriend Collective Tart Hi-Rise Pocket Legging, $78

best leggings with pockets
Photo: Girlfriend Collective

Craving a pop of color in your winter wardrobe? These cult-fave leggings are back by popular demand in five classic colors as well as four limited-edition brights, like this autumnal orange shade. They’re ultra-high rise, compressive, and have double side pockets for extra storage space. And the best part? They’re made from recycled water bottles, and each pair keeps 25 bottles out of landfills.

Shop now: Girlfriend Collective Tart Hi-Rise Pocket Legging, $78

3. Lululemon Fast and Free Tight II, $128

best leggings with pockets
Photo: Lululemon

These Lulu leggings—which are among my personal favorite—are the queens of unrestricted movement (cue a dramatic dance). The drop-in pockets are the perfect size for a phone, and the waistband is tight enough to help you avoid those mid-workout adjustments. They’re made for running, and their quick-dry fabric will help you say buh-bye to uncomfy chafing.

Shop now: Lululemon Fast and Free Tight II, $128

4. Free People Kyoto Hi-Rise Ankle Legging, $128

best leggings with pockets
Photo: Free People

Looking for a pair of leggings that feel like your favorite sweatpants? These high-rise picks are perfect for both low-impact workouts and even lower-impact movie nights. Plus, the patchwork detailing will make them feel totally different from the other 15 pairs of black leggings in your already-overflowing drawer.

Shop now: Free People Kyoto Hi-Rise Ankle Legging, $128

5. Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tight, $108

best leggings with pockets
Photo: Athleta

Great for backcountry hikers or city explorers, these leggings are the most versatile of the lot. They’ve got six pockets (six!), are waterproof, and have been touted as the best on-the-go pants around.

Shop now: Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tight, $108

Pop your iPhone in your pocket and put these leggings to the test with this running endurance workout. 

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