Yoga pants with pockets are revolutionizing fitness apparel. Brands like Colorfulkoala have earned over 39,000 five-star reviews on Amazon alone. Fitness experts tested 75 different leggings and found these functional designs solve a common workout problem: storing essentials while exercising.
Pockets make workouts much easier. Our hands can hold multiple items, but workout efficiency gets better when these items have a secure spot. The right storage space turns regular leggings into practical workout gear, whether you need maternity yoga pants with pockets, plus size options, or flare styles with pockets. Many fitness enthusiasts say these leggings are “life-changing” and help them focus better during exercise.
This piece looks at the best yoga pants with pockets you can buy in 2025. You’ll find detailed comparisons of top brands like Lululemon leggings with pockets and Athleta offerings, plus budget-friendly options like Colorfulkoala’s popular $23 leggings. It also helps you pick the right pair based on your activities, body type, and priorities.
Table of Contents
- 1 Why pockets make a difference in workouts
- 2 Key features to look for in yoga pants with pockets
- 3 Best yoga pants with pockets for different needs
- 3.1 Best for running: workout leggings with pockets
- 3.2 Best for lounging: cotton yoga pants with pockets
- 3.3 Best for pregnancy: maternity yoga pants with pockets
- 3.4 Best for plus-size: inclusive sizing options
- 3.5 Best for cold weather: fleece-lined or winter-ready
- 3.6 Best flared style: flare yoga pants with pockets
- 4 How we tested and selected the top picks
- 5 Top brands to consider in 2025
- 6 Summing all up
- 7 Here are some FAQs about the yoga pants with pockets:
- 7.1 What is the pocket in yoga pants for?
- 7.2 What is the main difference between yoga pants and leggings?
- 7.3 What does Gen Z call yoga pants?
- 7.4 What are those pants with pockets called?
- 7.5 Do you wear anything under yoga pants?
- 7.6 What’s the pocket in Girls Undies for?
- 7.7 Why are yoga pants so flattering?
- 7.8 What are yoga pants called now?
Why pockets make a difference in workouts
Pockets in athletic wear have reshaped how people work out. Workout leggings with pockets have moved faster from being just a new feature to becoming a must-have in fitness apparel. These benefits go nowhere near just storing items.
Hands-free convenience during movement
Yoga pants with pockets let you move freely while exercising. You won’t need extra accessories to carry your stuff. These pockets work better than armbands or waist belts because they combine smoothly with the leggings.
This design gives fitness enthusiasts a new kind of freedom. You can practice yoga, run outdoors, or do high-intensity training with your essentials close by. Side pockets work great for phones, keys, or small water bottles without limiting your movement.
The smart placement of these pockets helps you move naturally. Well-laid-out yoga pants keep their shape even with items inside. You won’t feel the uncomfortable bounce or shift that often happens with other storage options.
No more distractions from holding items
Loose items can break your focus during workouts. Yoga pants with pockets solve this by giving your essentials a home.
This helps especially when you need to concentrate. You can switch between exercises or yoga poses without thinking about where to put your stuff. Knowing your items are safe lets you focus on your workout completely.
Brands now offer different pocket styles:
- Zippered pockets keep items secure while running or cycling
- Side-seam pockets give quick access during lighter workouts
- Hidden waistband spots work for minimal storage
Your essentials stay within reach, so you won’t need to stop and go to your locker. This smooth experience keeps your training momentum going, which helps in timed workouts and structured classes.
Improved focus and performance
Workout leggings with pockets boost your exercise quality. Safe belongings mean better attention to form, breathing, and movement.
This mental clarity leads to better workouts. You can focus on your goals and technique without worrying about loose items. Outdoor athletes need this focus to stay aware of their surroundings while carrying important items like ID and phones.
Then, women’s leggings with pockets become vital for activities that need deep focus. You can engage better with your exercise, from meditation to precise strength training, without outside distractions.
These benefits last beyond your workout. Quick storage makes switching between activities easier, whether you’re heading to the street or running errands. Workout pants with pockets aren’t just gym wear anymore – they’re practical everyday clothes.
Key features to look for in yoga pants with pockets
Finding the right yoga pants with pockets means understanding several design elements that affect both comfort and function. The technical details will determine if your leggings become your favorites or end up at the back of your drawer.
Fabric types: cotton, polyester, spandex blends
Great yoga pants start with the right fabric choice. Performance materials need to balance multiple needs: breathability, durability, and flexibility that lets you move freely. Each fabric mix has its strengths:
- Nylon-Spandex Blends: These have a smooth, slightly slick feel and excel at wicking away sweat. They work best for high-intensity workouts and hot yoga classes.
- Polyester-Spandex Blends: These give you a soft, matte finish and handle moisture well. Most polyester yoga pants mix 80-90% polyester with spandex to keep costs down and stay lightweight.
- Cotton-Synthetic Blends: These feel natural and breathable for long wear. The downside is they might get loose over time and become baggy after washing.
Fabric thickness, measured in GSM (grams per square meter), plays a big role in how the pants work. The best yoga pants usually fall between 280-310 GSM, which keeps their shape while letting you breathe.
Smart pocket placement shows where function meets clever design. The right spots keep your stuff secure while you move without ruining the pants’ look.
Popular options include:
- Waistband pockets: Sleek storage in the waistband (3-5 inches deep) – perfect for keys and cards.
- Side pockets: Bigger pockets on the outer thigh (6-8 inches deep) fit phones and other items.
- Zippered pockets: These keep things from bouncing around during jumps and runs.
- Hidden interior pockets: Subtle storage inside the waistband that won’t show.
The best options have elastic openings that stay tight while you move, with pockets deep enough to keep items in place during headstands.
Compression and stretch for support
The best yoga pants use four-way stretch fabrics that compress without limiting movement. This creates a perfect fit while adding features like gusseted crotches that let you move freely during exercises.
Different activities need different compression levels. Medium-weight fabrics (280-320 GSM) balance breathability and coverage, while heavier ones (320+ GSM) give maximum coverage but might get hot during tough workouts.
Breathability and sweat-wicking
Your yoga pants should handle sweat well. High polyester content (found in top-selling Amazon options) helps sweat dry quickly. You need pants made from fabrics that let sweat evaporate through the material to keep you dry while working out.
Thinner fabrics (230-280 GSM) let you breathe better in hot conditions but might be see-through. The right balance between staying cool and staying covered depends on where you’ll wear them most.
Durability and wash performance
Good yoga pants keep their qualities through more than 100 washes with proper care. The best ones have special fiber treatments that keep colors bright and prevent pilling.
Look for these signs of quality:
- More stitches per inch mean stronger seams
- Double-needle stitching where pants get the most stress
- Shape that stays true after lots of wear and washing
Your pants will last longer if you turn them inside out, wash them with similar synthetics, don’t overstuff the washer, and go easy on fabric softener to keep the moisture-wicking working.
Best yoga pants with pockets for different needs
Your lifestyle needs play a big role in choosing the right yoga pants with pockets. Each activity and body type calls for unique features that go beyond simple storage options. After looking at many top-performing styles, here are the best picks that match different requirements.
Best for running: workout leggings with pockets
Runners need leggings that provide secure storage without limiting movement. The best running tights come with deep side pockets (6+ inches) and tapered bottoms so phones stay put during high-impact movement. You’ll want options with higher elastane content (30-32%) that gives significant compression and security while carrying items. The most secure designs feature minimal silicon bands at pocket openings to keep contents from sliding out during intense workouts.
Best for lounging: cotton yoga pants with pockets
EcoFabric™ blends with organic cotton and modal deliver amazing softness while keeping their structure, making them perfect to wear all day. The magic mix contains 53% organic cotton, 35% modal and 12% spandex – striking the right balance between comfort and durability. These fabrics wick away moisture to keep you comfortable year-round and work great whether you’re doing light activities or just relaxing. The mid-rise fits and wider waistbands keep everything secure without sacrificing comfort during long wear.
Best for pregnancy: maternity yoga pants with pockets
Maternity leggings are a game-changer for expectant mothers. Quality maternity yoga pants include expandable belly panels that adapt throughout pregnancy. The best options blend 65% rayon, 30% polyester, and 5% spandex to provide enough stretch while keeping their shape. Top-tier maternity designs keep pockets functional while meeting the specialized fit needs of pregnancy wear.
Best for plus-size: inclusive sizing options
Plus-size athletes deserve yoga pants that combine great storage with an excellent fit. Leading brands now make sizes from 16-20 with various rise and inseam options. The best plus-size designs add reinforced seams at stress points like inner thighs and pocket openings to boost durability. Wide, supportive waistbands prevent rolling down even when pockets are full.
Best for cold weather: fleece-lined or winter-ready
Cold-weather workouts need proper insulation that isn’t bulky. Premium fleece-lined leggings use exterior spandex to block wind and interior insulating layers to trap heat. Multilayered designs with Polartec technology work great near freezing temperatures and still let you move freely. The best winter leggings let you access pockets without exposing your hands to cold temperatures, even with thicker fabric.
Best flared style: flare yoga pants with pockets
Flared designs blend fashion and function beautifully. Modern flare leggings mix traditional yoga pant coverage with contemporary style that works for both workouts and daily activities. Quality flared options use moisture-wicking fabrics with four-way stretch to keep their shape as you move. Smart designs place pockets in ways that maintain the flared silhouette’s clean lines while storing your essentials.
How we tested and selected the top picks
Our team tested yoga pants with pockets extensively to find out which ones actually work. We didn’t just try them casually – we put them through their paces to identify the best performers in each category.
Real-life workout scenarios
The testing started with over 300 hours of exercise in different types of activities. Yoga teachers and dedicated practitioners stretched each pair through more than 150 yoga sessions and completed over 4,000 chaturangas (yoga push-ups). The pants went through their paces during hiking on rugged terrain, climbing sessions, dance classes, dog walking, and daily errands. This approach showed us how well the pockets worked during actual movement.
Comfort and fit across body types
We gathered feedback from people with different body shapes. Each pair of yoga pants with pockets went through reviews by multiple editors, with at least two testers (sometimes three or more) trying every option. The team checked if waistbands stayed in place during inversions or slipped down during activities. Plus-size bodies got special attention to see how reinforced seams performed at stress points.
Pocket usability and security
The pockets underwent serious testing on multiple fronts. We checked if they could hold smartphones securely during runs without bouncing, stay secure during inversions, and allow easy access without disrupting workouts. The team spotted the difference between fake pockets and ones that actually worked. We measured pocket depth (side pockets needed 6-8 inches to fit smartphones properly) and checked if items showed through the fabric.
Editor and user reviews
The final rankings combined professional testing with real customer experiences. Popular brands like Colorfulkoala had thousands of verified customer reviews that we analyzed. Each pair went through at least three complete wash cycles to test durability. The team tracked how well the pants performed in stretch recovery, moisture management, pilling resistance, washability, and overall construction quality. This complete approach ensured our recommendations matched both expert testing and customer satisfaction.
Top brands to consider in 2025
Our tests of many options show that some brands really shine when it comes to yoga pants with pockets. These makers have found the sweet spot between storage space, comfort, and long-lasting quality.
Lululemon leggings with pockets
Lululemon sets the standard in this category with several specialized options. Their Align High-Rise Pants with Pockets (25″ length) come with two side pockets big enough to fit smartphones and cost between $128-$138. Runners will love the Fast and Free High-Rise Tight that has five pockets – some along the waistband and bigger ones on the sides to store everything you need. The Swift Speed High-Rise Tights give you both side pockets and a secure zippered back pocket, making them perfect for any activity.
Athleta leggings with pockets
Athleta shines with smart pocket designs and sizes that work for everyone. Their Rainier High Rise Legging keeps phones secure with zippered side pockets that work well even during tough workouts. The popular Salutation Stash Pocket II Tight combines Athleta’s signature Powervita™ fabric with two storage options. The brand makes all leggings in regular, tall, and petite sizes to fit different body types perfectly.
Colorfulkoala and Amazon bestsellers
Budget-smart shoppers will love Colorfulkoala’s great value. Their popular Women’s High Waisted Yoga Pants with Pockets (7/8 length) cost just $19.99, while similar premium options cost 5-6 times more. These bestsellers feature soft four-way stretch fabric (75% polyester, 25% spandex) and deep side pockets that fit smartphones easily.
Girlfriend Collective and sustainable picks
Girlfriend Collective blends function with eco-friendly practices. Their Black Compressive Pocket Legging ($98) gives you squat-proof performance with two side pockets. Each pair uses 25 recycled water bottles (79% RPET) and comes from Fair Trade certified facilities that pay living wages and maintain safe working conditions. The brand shows its steadfast dedication to accessibility and sustainability through inclusive sizing (XXS-6XL) and a ReGirlfriend recycling program that gives $15 credit for returned items.
Summing all up
Yoga pants with pockets have evolved from a niche product into a must-have companion for fitness enthusiasts. Their design solves the common problem of storing essentials during workouts without restricting movement. These functional garments let you focus on form and breathing instead of worrying about your belongings.
Quality testing of various brands and styles shows why investing in well-designed pocket leggings makes sense. The best pairs combine secure storage with comfort and durability that lasts. The pocket placement should match your workout needs without getting in the way of movement.
Lululemon and Athleta dominate the premium market with their advanced designs. Budget-conscious shoppers can find great value in Colorfulkoala’s options. Companies like Girlfriend Collective show how functional workout wear can support environmental values too.
You’ll find the right yoga pants with pockets no matter what you need – running tights with zippers, maternity options, inclusive sizing, or weather-specific designs. Success comes from knowing which features matter most to you, from fabric choice to pocket location, compression, and breathability.
These pants do more than just store your stuff – they show how good design can make workouts better. This practical addition helps fitness enthusiasts stay focused, perform better, and move naturally between activities. Your workout wardrobe needs this upgrade that brings together convenience and performance.
Here are some FAQs about the yoga pants with pockets:
What is the pocket in yoga pants for?
The pocket in yoga pants with pockets is designed for convenience, allowing you to carry small essentials like keys, cards, or your phone during workouts. Many women prefer maternity yoga pants with pockets or plus size yoga pants with pockets for hands-free storage while exercising or running errands. These functional pockets maintain the sleek look while adding practicality to your activewear.
What is the main difference between yoga pants and leggings?
Yoga pants typically have a thicker, more opaque fabric and often feature details like pockets or gussets that you’ll find in cotton yoga pants with pockets. Leggings are usually thinner and more form-fitting, though some flare yoga pants with pockets blur the line between the two styles. Yoga pants are specifically designed for movement and exercise, while leggings can be more fashion-oriented.
What does Gen Z call yoga pants?
Gen Z often refers to yoga pants as “flared leggings” or “yoga flares,” especially when describing flare yoga pants with pockets that have made a comeback. Some use the term “athleisure bottoms” to describe both yoga pants with pockets and similar styles. The terminology varies based on the specific style and whether they’re worn for fitness or fashion purposes.
What are those pants with pockets called?
Pants with built-in pockets are commonly called yoga pants with pockets, especially in activewear styles. You’ll find specific variations like maternity yoga pants with pockets for expecting mothers or plus size yoga pants with pockets for curvier figures. These functional styles are also sometimes marketed as “utility leggings” or “pocketed activewear.”
Do you wear anything under yoga pants?
Most women wear underwear under regular yoga pants with pockets, though some prefer seamless styles for comfort. With cotton yoga pants with pockets or thicker materials, underwear is typically worn for hygiene and comfort. The exception might be certain performance fabrics designed with built-in liners for activities like hot yoga.
What’s the pocket in Girls Undies for?
The small pocket in some girls’ underwear serves as a liner pocket for sanitary products, unrelated to the functional pockets in maternity yoga pants with pockets. This hidden feature provides discreet protection during menstrual cycles. It’s a completely different design element from the visible pockets in plus size yoga pants with pockets meant for storing items.
Why are yoga pants so flattering?
Yoga pants with pockets are designed to hug curves while providing support and smoothing effects, creating a flattering silhouette. Styles like flare yoga pants with pockets balance the figure by widening at the ankle, creating an elongating effect. The stretchy fabrics and strategic seams in cotton yoga pants with pockets accentuate the body’s natural shape comfortably.
What are yoga pants called now?
Modern terminology includes “active leggings,” “athletic pants,” or “performance leggings,” though many still call them yoga pants with pockets. Trendy variations like flare yoga pants with pockets have regained popularity recently. The name often depends on the brand, with some using terms like “studio pants” or “training tights” for similar styles with pockets.