Best leggings with pockets for women on the go

Comfy and practical, some of the best leggings are the ones that come complete with pockets. 

An upgrade on your average pair, the best leggings with pockets really earn their keep in your wardrobe when out and about. Whether you're running errands or heading out for a jog, they'll keep your phone and keys close to hand with no need for a bag - or to stuff your essentials in your best sports bra. 

The best leggings with pockets you can buy now 

Sweaty Betty has achieved almost cult-like status in the activewear world, thanks to its failsafe designs, and the hero piece is the Power Leggings. An iconic member of the SB activewear family. These are a real crowd pleaser, with tons of glowing reviews online. 

When put to the test, I had to admit the Sweaty Betty following are on to something – these were the most comfortable of the bunch, with a light and incredibly soft material that promised to stay cool and comfortable throughout any workout. The fabric is super soft and stretchy, yet sculpting, with a high waist and stomach-control panelling that provides a flattering silhouette. I felt confident and secure during workouts, with little need to do any adjusting. 

Some of the best workout leggings we've trialled, The Power Gym Leggings mean business. Two types of pockets to ensure there are no loose-change mishaps or the threat of an iPhone jumping ship mid-sprint. 

See full our Sweaty Betty Power Leggings review

My fashion philosophy is, if you find something you feel great in, buy it in every colour. And, luckily for me, these trusty M&S leggings come in a wide variety of patterns, colours and materials. I tried the Go Move Printed 7/8 Gym Leggings with a striking print and, despite these being the most affordable, they were the leggings I received compliments on, with fellow gym goers enquiring about the bold pattern. 

It’s become a recurring theme that the leggings with pockets I tested came up a little on the small side, so again I’d go up a size if you’re between sizes. The waistband is high, but not as high as other brands, so I did have to do some adjusting to stay comfortable during my workout. 

Whether you’re looking for some comfortable leggings to lounge in, or want to up your workout game with a performance-enhancing activewear choice, these leggings are a safe bet.

While they are more on the expensive side, the higher price point is reflected in the comfort level – think barely there, as soft as a kitten. These are a joy to wear and may even convince you to squeeze in that extra weekly workout. 

The leggings are made using Nulux™ fabric, which is quick-drying and sweat-wicking, offering lightweight coverage. These leggings also have added Lycra for shape retention, so while they are soft and stretchy, they’re also durable, ensuring you get that cost-per-wear value, which is essential for these more expensive investment pieces. 

Pour Moi are steadily building a reputation as one of the best shapewear brands. But they also create activewear too. These stylish mesh leggings offer something a little different to the plainer workout options. Celebrities such as Coronation Street’s Helen Flanagan and I’m A Celebrity favourite Emily Atack have shared their love of Pour Moi’s striking designs, calling them their lockdown activewear brand of choice. The Energy range from Pour Moi comes in an array of colours and patterns, all with the same mesh panelling. 

I prefer a higher waistband in a snug fit when wearing workout leggings, as there’s nothing worse than having to constantly pull up your leggings or readjust during a workout – that's too distracting! Pour Moi’s sturdy workout leggings are on the snug side, but they also feel very secure, with a double-lined high waistband. I’d just recommend going for a bigger size if you’re between sizes. 

One of the worries for me when it comes to jogging is that after a few spins in the washing machine, my workout leggings will go see-through. But you needn’t worry when wearing Nike’s classic running leggings – they’re very opaque even after a wash, and after a nosy around the comments section on the Nike website, they seem to stay that way.

I tried the black leggings, but judging from the positive reviews, this isn’t an issue with the other colourways, either. With two waistband pockets, which are both big enough to store a phone, there’s plenty of space to keep valuables safe while out running. 

Like the other leggings with pockets we’ve recommended in this guide, the Nike One Women’s Mid-Rise Leggings are breathable, with sweat-wicking fabric that will keep you dry, even during an intense workout.