What’s in this Article
- What the Butterluxe fabric actually feels like
- The pockets: what fits, what stays put
- The full review
- Alternatives to consider
- FAQ
- My bottom line
- Your next steps
If you love that second skin feel but need real pockets that hold a phone without bouncing, this review is for you. We spent weeks wearing CRZ Yoga Butterluxe leggings with pockets for yoga, lifting, runs, errands, and travel days. We tried multiple lengths and rises so we could compare how they behave on different bodies and in different workouts.
The core problem with buttery leggings is trade-offs. Soft often means less compression. Pockets can stretch out or shift. Waistbands might roll when you actually sweat or move. We set out to see where Butterluxe lands on that spectrum and who will be happiest in them.
We looked at five things closely: pocket security with a full-size phone and keys, waistband stay-put power during squats and runs, opacity in daylight, sweat handling, and how the fabric holds up after repeated washes. We also paid attention to pet hair cling and color transfer with lighter shades, since that matters in real life.
Quick heads-up on limitations. Butterluxe is not a high-compression training tight. If you want a corset-level hold, this is not it. In very light colors, you still need skin-tone underwear and a daylight squat test. The brushed finish can pick up lint if you have pets.
Do this first before you order. Grab a soft tape, measure waist and the fullest part of your hips, and check the brand’s size chart. If you’re between sizes, think about your main use. Yoga and lounging, choose your usual. Running or HIIT, consider the snugger fit for better pocket stability. When your pair arrives, put your phone in the side pocket, jog in place for 30 seconds, and do a deep squat in front of a window. That quick check will tell you if the size and rise are right.
What the Butterluxe fabric actually feels like
Softness vs support
Butterluxe lives up to its name on touch. It is smooth and brushed with a glide that makes lunges and flows feel easy. On the body, the fabric leans more toward comfort than firm compression. We felt gentle contouring through the hips and thighs, but not a squeeze. If you prefer a hugged-in waist for sprint intervals, you may want to lean snugger on sizing or save these for yoga, Pilates, and strength days.
Breathability and sweat
In temperate studios and air-conditioned gyms, the fabric breathes well. During hot yoga and garage workouts, it feels warm by minute 20. The knit seems to trap a bit of heat compared with slick, mesh-backed performance tights. Sweat shows a little on mid-tone colors, especially around the waistband and back of knees, then dries at a moderate pace. Darker colors hide it best. For outdoor summer runs, we got warm quicker than in a finer, cool-touch fabric.
Stretch recovery and pilling
Four-way stretch is excellent. We saw no bagging at the knees after full lower body days, and the waistband stayed elastic after repeated classes. After several washes on gentle and hang-dry, seams stayed flat and the fabric stayed smooth. On the negative side, the brushed face can attract lint in darker shades. A quick lint roller pass before heading out solves it. We did not see pilling on inner thighs during our test window, but if you have significant thigh rub on long runs, keep an eye on friction spots.
The pockets: what fits, what stays put
Phone and keys test
Each leg has a side pocket that swallows a full-size phone. Depth is enough that the top edge of the phone sits below the opening, which helps with security. We did a bend, lunge, and stair test with a phone plus a flat key. No sliding. Cards fit too, but we preferred a small card sleeve so edges do not press through the fabric. If you carry a bulky fob, place it in the pocket opposite your phone for balance.
Bounce and chafe during runs
On easy runs up to 5 miles, the pockets kept the phone steady with only mild bounce. The waistband did not roll when the size was right. On faster intervals, we noticed the phone move a touch more, which is expected with softer fabrics. No chafe from pocket edges, and flat seams help. If you run longer or sprint often, consider placing the phone closer to the hip bone rather than mid-thigh. That spot minimized movement for us.
Everyday carry and travel
For errands and travel days, these pockets shine. Boarding pass, phone, and a lip balm fit without bulging. Sitting for long stretches was comfortable, and the phone did not dig into the quad on planes when we slid it higher in the pocket. For dog walks, a roll of bags and treats tucked in fine. If you plan to lift heavy, remove hard items before sets to avoid pressure marks against the bar or bench.
The full review
Buttery-soft, ultra-stretchy leggings with gentle compression for yoga or training. High-rise no-dig tummy-control waistband; 7/8 length, side pockets. Explore colors/sizes.
$32.00 on Amazon
Price and availability are accurate as of 02/23/2026 05:11 pm GMT and are subject to change.
Setup and first impressions
We pulled these on the second they arrived because everyone raves about the Butterluxe feel. The first touch is a little wow. The fabric is velvety and cool, with a slick-brushed finish that feels like a soft hug. If you love that barely-there sensation where you forget you are wearing leggings, this checks the box.
The high rise sits above the belly button on us and smooths without squeezing. The pockets are set low enough to be useful but high enough that a phone does not jab into the hip crease when we sit. Stitching looks clean and the interior feels smooth. No scratchy tags. No plastic-y shine. They look like premium studio leggings but feel like lounge pants.
On first try-on they have light to medium hold. They contour without that locked-in, runner-tight squeeze. If you prefer a compressive fit for cardio, you may want to manage your expectations. For yoga and all-day wear, the balance of softness and stretch feels just right.
Performance in real use
We wore these for slow flows, mat Pilates, strength, and errands with a stroller. For yoga they are a dream. There is enough stretch for deep lunges and twists. Fabric glides as you move, so there is no catch at the knees or hips. The waistband stays put through sun salutations and seated folds. No digging during boat pose which is a big win.
On strength days they handle squats, split squats, and hip hinges without shifting. In darker colors we did not spot sheerness at full depth. If you go for lighter shades, stick to neutral undergarments, just to be safe.
For running, they are fine for an easy mile or warmup jog, but not our favorite for long or fast efforts. The fabric is soft and breathable, though it does not lock down the core the way a true performance tight would. The pockets hold a phone securely while walking or lifting. During faster runs you may feel a bit of bounce. Sweat dries at a reasonable pace, but if you run hot, you will likely see darker patches in light colors.
All-day comfort is where these shine. We wore them to work at a standing desk, on the floor with kids, and lounging after. The fabric moves silently, does not bag out at the knees, and feels kind to the skin for hours. After several wears and washes, the softness holds up. Expect some lint if you live with pets. A quick lint roll solves it.
Usability and ergonomics
Pockets are the headline, so let’s talk specifics. A full-size phone fits flat against the thigh. The opening has just enough tension to keep it from popping out when we bend over or get in and out of a car. Keys and a slim card case ride well too. For jump squats or sprints, we move the phone to a belt, but for everything else the pockets are clutch.
The waistband is wide and smooth. It hugs without creating a line across the stomach. We did not experience rolling while lifting or stretching. In fast, bouncy workouts we felt a slight inching at the front, which is normal for very soft fabrics. If you like to lock your leggings in place for cardio, you may miss a drawcord. The rise is generous, so most of us could fold it once on hot days and it still stayed put.
Seams are low profile and we did not notice chafing. The front rise is friendly, but if you are super sensitive to front seams, know that ultra-brushed fabrics can show more of what is happening underneath. Choosing the right size and underwear with a flat edge helps a lot.
Care is simple. We wash cold, inside out, and lay flat or hang to dry. That keeps the brushed surface looking fresh and slows pilling. Avoid rough surfaces and long rubs with backpacks or abrasive benches to keep them pristine.
What I’d change
- A touch more compression through the waistband would make these friendlier for runs and jumpy circuits.
- An optional internal drawcord would be perfect for women who want extra security without sizing down.
- A sweat-diffusing panel or slightly different finish in high-sweat zones could help lighter colors hide moisture.
- A pocket flap or firmer edge on one pocket would give runners more confidence with a phone.
None of these are deal breakers for yoga and daily wear. They would just widen the use case into true cross-training.
Who should buy it
- Yogis, Pilates fans, barre lovers, and walkers who want leggings that feel like a second skin
- Anyone who prioritizes softness and all-day comfort over high compression
- People who need real, usable pockets for a phone and keys during errands or school drop-off
- Strength train three to four days a week and want leggings that move quietly and stretch deep
- Those who prefer a high rise that smooths without squeezing
Who should skip it
- Runners who need locked-down support and a drawcord for speed or distance
- HIIT devotees who do lots of burpees, box jumps, and sprints
- Anyone who wants strong shaping or tummy control from their leggings
- If you live in very hot, humid conditions and choose very light colors, you may prefer a faster-drying, slick fabric instead
Verdict
If you are looking for the softest leggings with pockets that you will reach for again and again, these deliver. They shine in yoga, Pilates, strength, and everyday life. The pockets are truly useful. The rise is flattering and comfortable. The fabric is the star. It feels luxe without the fuss.
They are not built for PR-chasing runs or high-impact circuits. Light compression and a brushed face mean a little more sweat show and a little less lockdown. For most of us, that trade is worth it because the comfort is unmatched.
Bottom line. If your week is a mix of studio classes, dog walks, light lifts, and school pickups, this pair earns a top spot in the drawer. Keep a darker color for sweaty days, treat them kindly in the wash, and enjoy that buttery feel every time you pull them on.
Alternatives to consider
Buttery-soft, super-stretchy leggings with gentle compression. High-rise, no-dig waistband, ankle length, plus side pockets for your phone. Curious to see more?
$32.00 on Amazon
Price and availability are accurate as of 02/23/2026 05:25 pm GMT and are subject to change.
We pick this when we want a snugger, more compressive feel for runs and jumpy circuits. If Butterluxe reads a bit too soft or relaxed on you, this feels more secure from warmup to cooldown, phone included.
Butter-soft, ultra-stretchy leggings with gentle compression, a seamless high-rise waist that flatters, and two side pockets—perfect for yoga or training. Ready?
$28.00 on Amazon
Price and availability are accurate as of 02/23/2026 05:32 pm GMT and are subject to change.
We grab this for hot gyms and summer miles. It brings a sleeker, cooler hand that glides when you sweat and tends to shrug off lint and pet hair better than brushed textures.
Buttery-soft, ultra-stretchy shorts with gentle compression, a smooth high-rise fit, and phone-ready pockets—great for yoga, runs, and everyday wear. Worth a look.
$26.00 on Amazon
Price and availability are accurate as of 02/23/2026 05:33 pm GMT and are subject to change.
On chilly mornings or when we want extra coverage, this cozy pick makes more sense. It smooths without a squeeze and feels great for yoga, Pilates, and long errand days.
FAQ
Durability and care
Q: How durable are the Butterluxe leggings with pockets, and how should we care for them?
A: The soft, brushed knit feels amazing but is more delicate than slick compression. We do see light pilling where thighs rub or if they meet rough benches and bags. Seams and pockets hold up well with normal use. Wash cold, inside out, on gentle. Skip fabric softener, avoid heat, and line dry. Keep them away from Velcro and abrasive gear.
Compatibility and use
Q: Are they compatible with high-intensity workouts and large phones in the pockets?
A: They shine for yoga, Pilates, lifting, walks, and daily wear. For HIIT or long runs, the lighter compression can allow some bounce, especially with a heavy phone. The pockets fit most large smartphones plus a card or key. For sprints, use one pocket only or switch to a belt. For barbell work, a slicker fabric slides better on knurling.
Fit and dealbreakers
Q: Is there a learning curve to getting the right fit?
A: A small one. Measure waist and hip and follow the chart. Between sizes, go up for comfort or down for more hold. Pull them on like tights, not jeans, and set the gusset fully before class to reduce ride up and sheerness. Pick an inseam that matches your height to avoid ankle bunching.
Q: Any dealbreakers we should know?
A: Skip these if you want firm sculpting or a drawstring for long runs. The brushed finish attracts lint and pet hair. Light colors can show sweat and dark underwear. If you need abrasion resistance for rucks or obstacle races, choose a tougher, slick fabric.
Here is where we landed. The Butterluxe with pockets are the leggings we actually reach for on busy days when comfort matters as much as function. The fabric is soft, drapey, and easy to live in. The pockets hold a phone without bouncing during walks, strength sessions, and studio work.
Buy them if you want second-skin comfort, real pockets, and a flattering waistband that stays put. They shine for yoga, Pilates, strength training, long walks, travel, and everyday wear.
Skip them if you need firm, locked-in compression for sprints or HIIT, or if you prefer a slick, cool-touch fabric for very hot workouts. Also think twice if you are tough on fabric with barbells or velcro. Brushed knits are not abrasion proof and can collect pet hair.
Two easy next steps today: measure your waist and hips so you can pick the right size, then choose an inseam based on your height and how much ankle you want to show. If you are between sizes, order two to compare and return one.
My bottom line
Decision recap in one minute
- You want buttery softness and pockets for real-life carry. Choose the Butterluxe with side pockets.
- You prefer a barely-there feel and low to medium compression. Stay with Butterluxe.
- You run hot or sprint hard. Consider a sleeker, cooler fabric instead of brushed Butterluxe.
- You do lots of barbell work or trail scrambles. Save these for studio days and daily wear to preserve the fabric.
- Inseam cheat sheet:
- Minimal coverage for hot studios: go shorter or capri.
- Cropped but not capri: pick a 23 to 25 inch range.
- Everyday full length on most: around 25 to 28 inches depending on height.
- Tall or want full ankle cover: go longer, near 28 to 30 inches.
If comfort is the priority
Butterluxe wins when we want leggings we forget we are wearing. The waistband is friendly on the stomach, the fabric moves like a second skin, and the pockets sit flat enough to stay out of the way on the mat.
When to look elsewhere
If you want a compressive, slick, gym-proof tight for sprints or cross-training, a nylon-heavy, high-compression legging will serve you better. If sweat marks bug you, stick to mid or darker shades in Butterluxe, or wear them for lifts, yoga, or walks where sweat is moderate.
Your next steps
Quick size and style picker
Use this simple checklist before you buy:
- Grab a soft tape and measure your natural waist and fullest hip. Compare to the size chart and your usual size.
- Decide your phone plan. If you carry it, choose the side-pocket style. If you do a lot of supine work and want zero seams under your hip, consider a pocket-free pair for those sessions.
- Pick your inseam. Shorter if you run warm or want minimal coverage, cropped for spring and indoor workouts, full length for cooler temps or travel days.
- Choose color with purpose. Darker for sweat-heavy sessions and pet hair. Lighter for casual days and low-sweat workouts.
- Between sizes. Size down for a snugger fit, size up for maximum lounge comfort. If curves are your thing, consider staying true to size for hip room without waistband dig.
At-home fit test in 5 minutes
- Pull them on and do 10 bodyweight squats. Waistband should not roll or slide.
- Load a phone in the pocket and walk up and down a hallway. It should sit flat without bounce.
- Bend, lunge, and sit cross-legged. Check for sheerness in good light. If in doubt, test outdoors.
- Do a core series on your back. Make sure pocket seams do not bug you.
- Wash cold and hang to dry the first time to confirm colorfastness and fabric hand.
Care and caveats to make them last
- Wash with similar fabrics, inside out, cold water. Skip fabric softener.
- Air dry to keep the brushed hand soft and reduce pilling.
- Keep them off velcro, rough benches, and bar knurling. That is how brushed knits get fuzzy.
- Pet hair magnet. Keep a lint roller by the door if you have a floof at home.
This is a simple choice. If you want pocketed leggings that feel like a hug and you live in athleisure from studio to school pickup, grab the Butterluxe with pockets. If you train hot and fast or need armor-level compression, pick a slicker, more compressive fabric for those days and keep Butterluxe for everything else.
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