Athleta leggings with pockets have become a go-to for active women who want both function and fashion. But with their popularity comes the rise of counterfeit or misleading knockoffs—especially when shopping through third-party sellers. Knowing how to identify genuine Athleta leggings helps you get the quality, durability, and performance the brand is known for. Below is a detailed guide to help you spot authentic Athleta leggings with pockets by focusing on key details in fabric, fit, design, and tags.
1. Check the Fabric and Feel
What to Look For:
Authentic Athleta leggings use high-performance fabrics like Powervita™, SuperSonic™, or Lycra-blended fibers. The material should feel soft yet durable, offering stretch and compression without being see-through.
Red Flags:
- Itchy, stiff, or overly shiny fabric
- Thin material that turns sheer when stretched
- Excessive piling or loose threads even when new
2. Inspect the Stitching Quality
What to Look For:
Genuine Athleta leggings feature flatlock seams that minimize chafing and offer a smooth finish. The stitching should be even, secure, and clean, with no skipped stitches or unraveling ends.
Red Flags:
- Bulky seams or uneven thread tension
- Frayed hems or asymmetrical panels
- Crooked lines or visible loose threads
3. Verify the Pockets
What to Look For:
Athleta’s pocket designs are functional, deep, and well-integrated. You’ll find:
- Side stash pockets large enough for a phone
- Hidden waistband pockets for keys or cards
- Occasionally, zippered back pockets in performance styles
Red Flags:
- Pockets that are shallow, fake, or stitched shut
- Pocket openings that stretch out or sag
- Sloppy pocket linings that shift or bunch
4. Examine the Logo and Branding
What to Look For:
Authentic Athleta leggings will have a small lotus flower logo either printed or heat-sealed near the back waistband or on the leg. The logo should be:
- Symmetrical and well-centered
- Smooth to the touch and cleanly applied
Red Flags:
- Faded or off-center logos
- Misspelled brand names or generic labeling
- Embroidered logos (Athleta doesn’t use embroidery on leggings)
5. Review the Interior Tags
What to Look For:
Inside the waistband, authentic Athleta leggings will feature:
- A main tag with the Athleta logo, size, and product code
- Care and fabric content tags that list specific fabric blends
- A style number that you can search online to verify authenticity
Red Flags:
- Tags with blurry or inconsistent fonts
- Missing style numbers or brand name
- Typos, off-brand fonts, or incorrect washing instructions
6. Look at the Waistband Construction
What to Look For:
Most real Athleta leggings offer a high-rise waistband that stays put. The waistband should feel structured but flexible, with some styles offering mesh lining or inner compression panels.
Red Flags:
- Waistbands that roll, twist, or feel flimsy
- Uneven or bunchy waistband seams
- No hidden pocket in waistband (common in many authentic styles)
7. Cross-Reference the Style Online
What to Do:
Before buying from a reseller or secondhand platform, search for the product using the:
- Style name or number
- Product description or color name
Compare photos and features with the listing to ensure they match. Athleta’s website or official retailer pages can help you verify product authenticity.
8. Purchase from Reputable Sources
Best Practices:
To avoid counterfeit or knockoff leggings:
- Buy directly from Athleta.com, Gap Inc. stores, or certified retailers
- When shopping resale (like Poshmark or eBay), look for sellers with high ratings and detailed photos
- Ask for close-ups of logos, tags, and pockets if authenticity is unclear
Final Thoughts
Athleta leggings with pockets are crafted with thoughtful details, premium fabrics, and functional designs. Spotting the real deal means examining everything from the feel of the fabric to the precision of the stitching. Use this guide as a checklist to make confident purchases and avoid counterfeits. Investing in authentic Athleta means getting leggings that last, perform, and feel as good as they look.
