Yoga leggings with pockets: Love them or hate them?

You know that moment when someone compliments your dress, and you light up, grin, then dramatically announce "Thanks, it’s got POCKETS!" (with a demonstration of course). And suddenly, everyone around you is sold on the entire outfit?

There’s a reason that moment is so universal. Pockets are revolutionary. But do they belong on yoga leggings? Let’s dig deeper into this debate (pun intended).

The Case Against Pockets on Leggings

1. They ruin the sleek silhouette. Yoga leggings are meant to be smooth, contouring, sculpting. Pockets? They add bulk, they interrupt the lines, they make you look… lumpy?

2. What are you even carrying? Yoga is about presence, mindfulness, and connection to the moment. Do we really need extra things weighing us down? Shouldn't we be free of distractions, floating through life unencumbered?

3. They stretch and sag. Ever stuffed your phone into a pocket, only for it to bounce around like an unruly toddler? It’s unsettling, it’s annoying, and let’s be honest— every step feels off-balance.

So, there you have it. Pockets on leggings? Overrated. Case closed.

...

Until you actually need one.

The Case FOR Pockets on Leggings

Here’s the thing - if pockets are so unnecessary, why do we feel an electric jolt of joy every time we discover them?

I used to be a purist about my morning walks. Just me, the fresh air, and the rhythmic sound of my breath and footsteps.. and my keys. I’d awkwardly tuck it into my sports bra (uncomfortable, sweaty, and occasionally stabby) or clutch it like a delicate treasure the entire time. Not exactly the embodiment of ease.

Then one day, I slipped on a pair of leggings with pockets. Just for fun. Just to see. I slid my key inside, felt the reassuring weight of it securely held - and everything changed. My walks became a chance to be fully present in my body, to move without any distractions. No more fumbling with my keys or clutching them awkwardly. I could feel the rhythm of my breath, the ground beneath my feet, and truly connect with the moment.

As for leggings without pockets? I never went back.

And for those worried about ruining the aesthetic...

I hear you. Now, let me introduce you to strategic pocket placement. The right design means no bulk, no sagging, and a seamless fit that still looks sleek while being infinitely more practical.

It’s not just about keys

It’s about having a place to keep your essentials safe. A spot for your phone when you’re listening to your favourite podcast. A place for your card when you grab a post-class smoothie. A safe pocket for a lip balm or a tissue on colder days. The small conveniences add up, making your leggings work for you, not against you.

The Final Verdict?

Pockets win. Every time.

So if you, too, want to experience the absolute joy of discovering that yes, your yoga leggings can be that much better - check out the ZONE by Lydia range of eco friendly activewear. Their hemp bike shorts and sustainable leggings come with pockets designed to hold your essentials without compromising on style, fit, or function.

And when someone inevitably compliments your leggings? You know what to do. 

About the Author - Amy Fraser

I’m Amy - founder of Yogaroo Photography & Yogi Web design with 550 hours of yoga teacher training under my belt and thousands of hours spent on the mat, both in my own practice and in classes. Over the past few years, I’ve traveled all over, testing out countless studios (and leggings) along the way. Now, I get to bring that experience into my work with ZONE by Lydia—first as their photographer, and now through creative projects like this. Safe to say, I know good yoga gear when I see (and wear) it.