The best bike shorts with pockets

For multi-tasking women, life’s make-or-break moments can come down to the little things – like having pockets in your activewear. Not only are these styles fashionable, they’re also highly functional thanks to roomy pockets that will mean you can leave your handbag at home.

There’s something luxurious about leaving the house with both hands swinging free.

While men have long enjoyed this freedom thanks to there being pockets in every pair of men’s pants and shorts ever created, women’s clothes are often impractically pocket-free. Handbags are handy, sure, but when you’re carrying the bare minimum while running errands or dashing to the gym, even an over- the-shoulder bag seems superfluous.

The answer? Pockets in the most practical form of fashion: activewear. Leggings are increasinlgy being designed with side pockets – which are larger and more accessible than the small pocket commonly found at the waistband – but now bike shorts are getting in on the action, too.

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As founder and co-owner of Sydney studios Lean Bean Fitness, a Pilates teacher, and mother of two children, Lizzie Bland is a big fan of anything that makes life more streamlined.

“When you’re busy between tasks, having a bag swinging around isn’t ideal,” she tells Body+Soul. “So when I’m walking the dog, carrying the kids down the stairs, running into a class with a bottle of water in hand or teaching, I’ll have my phone and AirPods in the side pockets.

“In winter, you’ve always got a coat with pockets but as it gets to summer, having pockets in your activewear is a game changer.”

Productivity hacks to ensure you’re ready for anything

Lizzie Bland, founder of Lean Bean Fitness and a mum of young children, knows a thing or two about multi-tasking. She shares her top hacks to ensuring she can take on the day with two free hands.

1. Use a digital wallet

Get an Apple Watch [or similar] that you can add your bank cards to, so you never have to carry a purse or your bank card.

2. Declutter your keys

There’s definitely a rogue key you don’t use that’s only adding to their weight.

3. Opt for pockets

Wear leggings with pockets in the sides – not the back, as the zip can stick out and be uncomfortable when you’re working out.

4. Try before you buy

When shopping for activewear, do some squats and swing your arms around in the changing room. If you need to pull the shorts or pants up straight away, it’s not going to be a comfortable option when you exercise. The less you have to think about or adjust your activewear, the better.