Mesh Panel Pocket Leggings

High waist mesh panel leggings for women with a side phone pocket. A diagonal striped mesh panel runs from the outer thigh to the ankle for targeted ventilation and a sleek visual line. Four-way stretch, moisture-wicking performance fabric available in six colours. Functional, flattering and considerably more interesting than a plain legging.

The diagonal mesh panel is the detail that separates these from a standard performance legging. It runs from the outer thigh all the way down to the ankle in a diagonal stripe pattern, providing genuine targeted ventilation through the thigh during high-intensity activity while adding a sharp visual line that gives the leggings a more structured, considered look than a plain fabric alternative. The mesh stripe design is a common feature in premium activewear precisely because it works on both levels: it does a functional job and it looks intentional.

The rest of the construction backs it up. A wide high-rise waistband that holds flat without rolling. A side phone pocket built into the outer thigh above the mesh panel. Four-way stretch fabric with moisture-wicking technology throughout. Six clean colours: black, bean paste, dark grey marl, light grey, navy blue and deep red. At £14.99 with free UK delivery, these deliver a level of design and construction detail that you would expect to pay considerably more for.

The Diagonal Mesh Panel

The mesh panel is the standout construction feature of these leggings. It sits on the outer thigh panel and runs diagonally from just below the hip seam down to the ankle hem, covering a broad band of the outer leg. The mesh itself is a fine striped construction: parallel diagonal lines of breathable mesh fabric separated by solid strips, giving the panel a visible texture and pattern that adds depth to the overall design.

The function of the mesh panel is targeted ventilation. The outer thigh is one of the main areas where body heat builds during sustained training, and a breathable panel in that zone allows airflow in and heat out during high-intensity sessions in a way that solid fabric cannot. This is the same principle used in premium sportswear at significantly higher price points, where mesh panels are positioned at specific anatomical zones based on heat mapping of the body during exercise.

Visually, the diagonal angle of the panel creates an elongating effect down the outer leg. The diagonal line naturally draws the eye downward along the length of the leg, which gives the leggings a slimming quality beyond what a purely horizontal or vertical seam line would achieve. The solid front and back panels remain completely opaque, so the mesh is a design and ventilation feature rather than anything that affects coverage or modesty.

Available Colours

All six colours use the same construction and sizing. Select your preferred colour when adding to basket.

Features

These Leggings vs Standard Performance Leggings

Fabric and Performance

The main body panels use a polyester and spandex performance blend that is soft, smooth and quick-drying. Polyester provides the structural base that keeps the leggings holding their shape wash after wash, while spandex delivers the four-way elasticity for unrestricted movement and sustained fit. The moisture-wicking finish pulls sweat away from the skin and works alongside the mesh panel to manage heat and airflow during harder sessions.

The mesh panel itself is constructed from a fine striped mesh fabric matched in colour to the main body. The mesh panels have the same stretch quality as the main fabric so there is no resistance or tightness at the panel seam junctions during movement. The full construction moves as a single piece rather than feeling like two different fabrics stitched together. For more on how the polyester and spandex blend performs in activewear, see our guide to spandex blend performance fabric.

The Waistband

The wide high-rise waistband sits flat across the lower abdomen without cutting in, rolling down or losing its grip during training. It covers a wider band than a standard legging waistband, which distributes the hold more evenly and is what prevents the rolling that affects cheaper leggings during exercise. The high-rise position gives a clean silhouette under fitted tops and keeps the leggings securely in place through running, yoga, squats and extended casual wear. It moves naturally with the body as a single-construction piece rather than feeling like a separate rigid panel at the waist.

What Are They Good For?

HIIT and intense training: The mesh panel comes into its own during high-intensity sessions where body heat builds quickly. The outer thigh ventilation helps regulate temperature during circuits, intervals and compound movements, keeping you more comfortable through a full session than a solid-panel legging would.

Gym workouts: Four-way stretch, squat-proof solid panels and a phone pocket that stays put make these a practical gym legging. The mesh panel adds a design dimension that makes these look more considered than a standard plain pair.

Running: The side phone pocket removes the need for an arm band. The moisture-wicking fabric and mesh ventilation manage sweat and heat during sustained outdoor effort. The close ankle-length cut stays in place over longer distances. For more on finding the right legging fit for running, see our guide to choosing comfortable leggings.

Yoga and pilates: Full four-way stretch in every direction handles deep poses and floor work without restriction. The wide waistband holds in place through inversions and forward folds without shifting.

Casual wear: The mesh panel detail gives these a slightly more fashion-forward quality than a plain legging. They work as everyday trousers, particularly the navy, bean paste and deep red colourways which transition out of the gym context more naturally.

How to Style Them

• Black: Plain white or grey top for gym use. For casual wear, an oversized neutral sweatshirt or fitted top works equally well. The mesh panel catches light subtly against the black and adds a sleek visual dimension.
• Bean Paste: White or cream top for the clearest colour match. The warm dusty mauve also pairs well with soft grey and nude tones. A stronger colour choice than black while remaining easy to wear.
• Dark Grey Marl: White or pale blue top brings out the cool undertone in the marl. The heathered texture gives this colourway more visual interest than a flat grey and works well in both studio and street contexts.
• Light Grey: Works with almost any top colour. A neutral that reads as cleaner and softer than black for daytime or low-key training sessions.
• Navy Blue: White top for a clean classic combination. Navy also works well with pale yellow, light blue and grey. A strong colour choice that is as versatile as black but with considerably more personality.
• Deep Red: White or black top. The bold colour carries the look on its own. Avoid other strong colours alongside it. Works in both gym and casual social settings where a colour statement is the intention.

Product Specifications

Size Guide

Measure your natural waist at the narrowest point and your hips at the fullest point before ordering. All measurements are in centimetres. Sizing is consistent across all six colours.

Allow up to 2cm variation due to manual measuring. For a tighter, compression-style fit choose the smaller size. For more room around the hips go up a size.

Care Instructions

The mesh panel needs a little extra care to maintain its structure and prevent snags over time. See our guide to caring for polyester clothing for full details.

• Machine wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle. The gentle cycle protects the mesh panel from abrasion during washing.
• Turn inside out before washing. This protects the mesh panel from snagging on other garments in the wash and reduces friction on the fabric surface.
• Wash in a mesh laundry bag if possible. This is particularly recommended for the mesh panel to prevent it catching on zips or hooks from other garments.
• Do not use bleach. Bleach damages the spandex fibres and weakens the mesh construction over time.
• Do not use fabric softener. It coats the polyester fibres and reduces moisture-wicking performance.
• Hang to dry at room temperature. Tumble drying degrades the spandex content and can distort the mesh panel with repeated heat exposure.
• Do not tumble dry on high heat.
• Do not iron directly on the mesh panel. If pressing the main body panels is needed, use a cool iron with a cloth between the iron and the fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions