Hip belt pockets are genuinely handy if you spend long days touring and want quick access to snacks, your phone, sunscreen, or a small camera without stopping to take off your pack. They keep essentials right at your fingertips while you're skinning up or taking a quick break on the ridge.
The trade-off is that they add a bit of weight and bulk to the belt, and reaching the pockets can be awkward if you're standing in skis—you may need to twist or unbuckle to get to them. They're also overkill if you mostly do short resort laps where you're not grazing on the go.
If you're a dedicated tourer who likes having fuel and small items accessible on the move, hip belt pockets are worth it. For resort skiing or quick half-day tours, a standard padded or removable hip belt is the simpler choice.