There was a time when “leggings” and “pockets” rarely appeared in the same sentence. That’s changed — and for good reason. Whether you’re heading out for a run, a hike, or just a busy day that starts at the gym, pockets have gone from a nice extra to a genuine deciding factor when choosing activewear. Here’s why, and what actually makes a good pocket design.

Why Pockets Matter More Than You’d Think

Think about what you actually need within reach during a workout: your phone (for music, tracking, or safety), keys, a card, maybe lip balm or a small snack. Without pockets, all of that either stays locked in a locker, gets stuffed awkwardly into a sports bra, or requires carrying a separate bag or armband — all of which add friction to getting out the door and actually moving. Pockets remove that friction entirely.

Not All Pockets Are Created Equal

A pocket that looks good in a product photo but doesn’t work in practice is worse than no pocket at all. Here’s what separates a genuinely useful pocket from a decorative one:

• Secure closure or snug fit: Side pockets should hold a phone snugly enough that it doesn’t bounce out during a run or fall out when you sit down.
• Placement that doesn’t dig in: Pockets positioned directly over the hip bone or thigh muscle can become uncomfortable during squats or lunges — well-placed pockets sit slightly further back or use stretch panels around the opening.
• A hidden waistband pocket for essentials: A small, zippered or snug pocket built into the waistband is ideal for a key or card — small enough to stay put, accessible enough to reach without stopping.
• Fabric that doesn’t bulk or dig: Extra fabric layers for pockets can create bulk or an uneven silhouette if not constructed carefully. Good pocket construction lies flat against the body even when empty.

Do Pockets Affect Squat-Proof Performance?

It’s a fair question — extra seams and layers could, in theory, weaken opacity. Well-designed pocket leggings account for this by reinforcing the fabric around pocket openings and keeping the main stretch zones (seat and thighs) free of unnecessary seams. If a pair of pocket leggings goes sheer specifically around the pocket area during a squat, that’s a sign of poor construction, not an inherent tradeoff you have to accept.

Side Pockets vs. Waistband Pockets

Most leggings use one of two pocket styles, sometimes both together: side pockets, sized for a phone and positioned along the outer thigh, and waistband pockets, smaller and typically hidden in the fold of the waistband — better suited to keys, cards, or a small amount of cash. Having both gives you flexibility depending on what you’re carrying that day.

What This Looks Like at Njálla

Right now, only two of our art prints come with pockets: our Polar Night – Skábma leggings and our Forest leggings. Both come with side pockets and a hidden waistband pocket, so you can head out the door with your phone, keys, and card without needing a bag or armband. They’re built with the same squat-proof, four-way stretch recycled polyester fabric as the rest of our collection, so the pockets add function without sacrificing fit or coverage.

If carrying your essentials shouldn’t mean carrying a bag, it’s worth trying a pair built the right way. Shop our Polar Night leggings with pockets and see what a genuinely useful pocket feels like.