Prior to 2020, I practically lived in jeans. As an elder millennial, that meant skinny jeans — the hallmark of my generation. I squeezed into this snug denim daily, even on flights (I know). It wasn’t until the athleisure trend exploded in the early 2020s that I ditched my restricting denim for something softer, stretchier, and more comfortable, allowing for greater movement and flexibility on all my travel adventures. I’m talking about leggings. 

What started as an impulse sale purchase at Amazon quickly turned into a wardrobe staple — and one that I’ve since bought in four more colors. When I say I reach for these $25 Colorfulkoala leggings daily, I’m not exaggerating. In fact, I’m wearing them as I type this. The high-waisted design offers comfortable tummy control, and the 7/8 length is perfect for my petite frame. It’s even gotten to the point where I wear these more than my pricier, name-brand leggings. 

Colorfulkoala High-waisted Leggings With Pockets

As a shopping editor, I know that not all leggings are made equally, and I consider several elements before adding a pair to my everyday rotation. I look for a few things: buttery-soft fabric, breathable material, adequate stretch, a seamless, high-rise waistband, and a sculpting silhouette. The Colorfulkoala leggings check all the boxes. Thanks to their spandex blend, they’re both flexible and squat-proof, meaning they stay in place when you move and are, thankfully, not see-through. Plus, they wick away moisture, ensuring I stay cool and dry no matter where my adventures take me.

They also have the most underrated feature that, quite frankly, I can’t believe I wasn’t prioritizing before: side pockets. Two pockets — one on each side — are now a requirement in leggings for me. The spacious pockets are perfect for storing my phone, cards, or keys when I’m out and about and don’t want to dig through my bag. They’re particularly convenient for staying hands-free on walks and swiftly maneuvering through the airport with my coffee and carry-on bag — I can confirm that my phone didn’t budge when I sprinted from terminal to terminal at the world’s busiest airport.

These leggings are not only an everyday favorite but also an essential part of my travel wardrobe. I’ve taken them on countless journeys, from exploring Walt Disney World Resort to visiting California and New York City. They’ve accompanied me on numerous flights, hikes in national parks, strolls along the beach, and road trips through the Southeast. Plus, the Colorfulkoala leggings look just as good with a comfy T-shirt as they do with a crewneck pullover, oversized sweater, or boyfriend-style button-down — meaning they transition seamlessly with my changing itineraries and work perfectly year-round.

Colorfulkoala High-waisted Leggings With Pockets

I was spending over $100 on leggings that snagged easily, pilled in the gusset area, and lost their elasticity over time. The Colorfulkoala leggings? Let’s just say they’ve been machine-washed at least once a week for the last two years and still look — and feel — brand new. I now own four pairs that I lovingly rotate throughout the week. Everyone needs a classic black pair, but I also love dusty red, which is surprisingly neutral, as well as navy, charcoal grey, dark teal, and army green. There are 26 colors and patterns to choose from, so you can grab the hues that suit your style and aesthetic.

I’m not alone in my love for these Colorfulkoala leggings. In fact, the comfy pants have received over 38,800 five-star ratings at Amazon, with shoppers praising their fit, quality, softness, and impressive value. One repeat shopper called them a “staple for travel.” Another reviewer noted that the leggings “fit my iPhone X Max with a hard case and PopSocket in one pocket and my small wallet and passport in the other.” The pocket feature received even more praise from an additional repeat buyer who said, “I can put my ID and phone in my pocket and not have to mess with sliding them in and out of luggage.”

I also have to call out this fellow Colorfulkoala fan: “I bought extra so I always have a clean pair to wear.” I couldn’t relate more.

Colorfulkoala High-waisted Leggings With Pockets

Love leggings for travel, too? Amazon is overflowing with comfy, high-waisted leggings under $35. Shop these top picks from The Gym People, Crz Yoga, and more. Bonus: Most of them have pockets.

More Leggings to Shop at Amazon:

The Gym People High-waisted Leggings With Pockets

Iuga High-waisted Leggings With Pockets

Crz Yoga Butterluxe High-waisted Leggings

Dragon Fit High-waisted Leggings With Pockets

Heathyoga High-waist Leggings With Pockets

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