Fashionable Sweatpants? Our 15 Picks Prove They Exist

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IN TODAY’s fast-paced world where comfort meets style, the best men’s sweatpants have finally broken through the shell of simple loungewear or workout clothes and become the go-to pants for men in various settings.

“Sweatpants are a versatile type of casual bottomwear that are typically made from soft and comfortable fabrics like cotton, fleece, or jersey,” says Dmitriy Mirosh, owner of fashion marketplace styletyx.com. People usually wear these loose-fitted trousers during exercise to induce perspiration, hence the name. “They are designed to provide comfort and ease of movement, making them a popular choice for relaxation, exercise, or even running errands,” adds Mirosh.

As comfort clothing, the best sweatpants for men will come with an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring and usually cuffs at the ankles to allow for a relaxed yet flexible fit. Also, the best men’s sweatpants should have stretch and a roomy fit to be easy to move in. In addition, they need to be made in a soft, smooth fabric that provides a plush, snug feeling that wraps you in warmth and relaxation.

Most importantly, the best men’s sweatpants are versatile enough for lounging, hitting the gym, or stepping out for a casual outing. So we spoke to a panel of style experts as well as hands-on tested over 16 options to find the best sweatpants for men you can buy online.

ABC Jogger

Thanks to the synthetic, workout-friendly fabrics that fight odor and sweat, these sweatpants will let you breathe in the deepest sense. Sure, the lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric is perfect for workouts, but the streamlined style is also ideal for elevating everyday wear.

The bestselling ABC Jogger also has a four-way stretch for comfort on-the-go, and a performance build that is quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant. "ABC means anti-ball crushing which means the pants allow breathing space for the crotch area," says Marcos Martinez, a lifestyle blogger. "The pants have a classic taper look which gives a classy look. The pants have a zipper back pocket which allows you to carry your wallet and other items." In our testing, we also found that the lightweight fabric was able to retain its shape well.

What Do Other Experts Say? "For a sporty fit, we love the Lululemon ABC Jogger. This jogger is tapered and features a lightweight fabric that is machine washable and quick drying. It’s great for those on-the-go days where you’re maybe slightly more active," says Huw Collins, Co-Founder of WHEAT and actor from Pretty Little Liars.

Midweight Terry Slim Sweatpant

Tom Ellis, the Lucifer actor, has a soft spot for these sweatpants that are part of his go-to casual wardrobe. Having tested these on Ellis as well as in our fashion closet, we love that they’re crafted from super tough terry cotton that lasts. Additionally, they’re built to handle the toughest workout routines. The flatlock seams ensure comfort on the inside, and the soft fabric feels like your second skin. And the slim fit is athletic-friendly: roomy for your quads but with a tapered leg.

What Do Experts Say? "These sweatpants are distinguished by their reinforced seams, subtle taper, and wide waistband with a thick rope drawstring. The Canadian-made fleece is robust on the outside and brushed soft on the inside, offering a perfect blend of durability and comfort," says Anastasios Moulios, men's grooming expert and founder of beardlong.com.

Brushed Loopback Trouser

As sharp as they are cozy, these French terry, shrinkage-resistant, heavenly soft sweats are the cure for the common sweatpants. In fact, they’ve even earned the co-sign from actor Adam Shapiro. "During the last couple years, like many, I have become something of a sweatpants connoisseur… Constantly in search of the perfect set, one that’s super soft and comfy for chilling, but with a structure, sturdiness, and style that can be worn anywhere. AND WITH POCKETS,” says Shapiro. “And just like that, I’ve found it: the Buck Mason Interloop. It’s super soft, really well made, sturdy, and the kind of heavy-duty sweatpants that I know I’m going to be able to wear for a really long time."

The ReTrack Sweatpant

The ReTrack Sweatpant from Everlane has a luxe, versatile look that can take you from day to night. Whether you're running errands in your neighborhood or bar-hopping on the weekend, the ultra-soft pair embodies casual chic style. Also, it has a slim, tapered fit, a comfy elastic waistband and handy side pockets. They feel like a pair of sweatpants, but nowhere as heavy; more of an elevated jogger kind-of-vibe.

What Do Experts Say? "These Everlane sweatpants are great because they are 100% organic cotton and a lot of my clients really want to wear fabrics that are kinder to the planet... They're soft and easy to wear," says Celebrity Stylist Warren Alfie Baker.

Ponto Performance Pant

“Vuori offers anytime, anywhere clothing to keep you on the move. This is the biggest goal an expedition leader, like myself, can have,” says Shawn Richards, an outdoor adventure expert at Ultimate Kilimanjaro. Case in point: their bestselling performance sweatpants, which feature a modern cut and super soft DreamKnit fabric that's perfect for working from home, or trekking to the airport. Equipped with four-way stretch, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying fabric, a relaxed fit with a tailored leg, these stylish sweatpants with zipper pockets can be worn to the gym, to grab a beer with friends, or both—no need to choose. “These pants function in a way that is both tactical and relaxed… The ability to be versatile and at ease is what separates these sweats from the rest,” adds Richards.

Midweight Slim Jogger Sweatpant

Our favorite part of these Todd Snyder x Champion sweatpants is its softness and comfort. The 100-percent cotton French terry fabric has a luxurious feel but is garment-dyed for a lived-in look and texture, meaning you can easily wear it to lounge indoors or to run errands outside. Besides how soft-to-the-touch it is, we also love the tailored, slim fit that’s flattering on our testers of different body types. The two front slash pockets and one back patch pocket make for a reliable pocket system for everyday carry as well. Coupled with the nice jogger style, it also looks elevated enough for weekday outings.

What Do Experts Say? "Todd does it right all the time. I have quite a few of the Champion by TS and TS joggers. Love them all because they are the most versatile. Wear them anywhere you like, and they work. Always stylish in Todd Snyder," says John Gallagher, fit model and Founder of Blackthorn Denim.

Scholar Straight Leg Sweatpant

The Scholar Straight Leg Sweatpant from Alo is separated from the pack—thanks to its streetwear-inspired heavyweight knit. Aside from its Saturday lounge-ready aura, the warmth and wearability can take you anywhere beyond home. The relaxed pant incorporates a ribbed waistband, external drawcords, and side zippered pockets to add functionality. The only gripe we have is this option is designed for a slightly oversized look, so you may have to size down to ensure a closer fit.

Sportswear Club Fleece

Whether you're spending your weekend crossing off your list of to-do's or hanging out with friends, the sweatpants effortlessly combine function and fashion that you can wear daily in non-sport settings. Plus, they have an adjustable drawcord for a personalized fit and an open hem, which rests neatly over your shoes. It's no wonder they're highly-rated by Nike's audience.

EcoSmart Non-Pocket Sweatpant

Made from plastic bottles, these Hanes sweatpants lower their carbon footprint and reduce waste. Make no mistake: they're still burly and tough on the outside to beat the cold in the wintry months. For an athletic look, this option has a relaxed silhouette and cinched cuffs.

ACE Sweatpant

Remember when comfortable sweatpants meant bearing the brunt of being weighed down? Mack Weldon’s uniquely designed fabric addresses that very issue with its micro-brushed French terry that’s as snug as it is flexible and, naturally, fit for any purpose. Style-wise, the Ace is basic, but in a good way: its tapered fit with back-ribbed ankle cuffs and hidden zippered side pocket (perfect for stashing your small daily gear) means these sweats will look rather tapered on you and thus look elevated enough for casual outings. Aside from the extra soft fabric, we also love its nice stretch for shape retention as well as traveling.

What Do Buyers Say? "Love the cut, weight of the material, and the finish details that allow for wearing as a casual pant... I like the fabric specifically. It feels very good on my skin. I also like how it wears. Not too baggy and not too tight after wash, just decently right," says one customer.

All Day Every Day Pant

These travel sweatpants pants are our testers' perennial favorites: we found that these pants feel like your favorite pair of soft, cozy sweatpants for flights or lounging but look like your Monday office bottoms and work like your go-to workout pants.

Personally, I've worn these Public Rec pants for a long travel day that included multiple flights and layovers, from NYC to Denver. My testing shows that they're truly the all-powerful trousers since they're made with a unique blend of nylon and spandex that feels like a second skin but also offers a natural combo of four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and breathability.

What Do Buyers Say? "These pants look dressy and casual depending on what you wear with them. That’s cool. The biggest most important factor is that these are the most comfortable pants EVER! They feel so good on and everyone tells me they look great," says one customer.

Powerblend Fleece Sweatpants

Champion’s sweatpants are true comfy style classics. The brand’s robust double-needle stitching ensures the pants last. I love how the soft elastic waistband with outer drawcord provides a snug fit that I can cinch up and secure, and how the classic style is versatile for pretty much any casual occasion. Made from Champion’s signature 9 oz. fleece that’s resistant to pilling and shrinking, the fabric feels divinely soft and provides all-season warmth. Perfect to relax in or go out and about with comfort. With open ankles, these sweatpants lean more relaxed in style.

What Do Experts Say? "These sweatpants are budget-friendly and excellent for everyday use… They are not only comfortable but also hypoallergenic. You can never go wrong with this pick, as this clothing item will never go out of style," says Nicole Bolton, a fashion designer and the co-founder of Iconic Celebrity Outfits.

R&R Sweatpant

These from Allbirds are made from a Pima cotton, hemp, and TENCEL™ Lyocell to make them as durable and comfortable as they are performance-friendly. "Personally, I’m a huge fan of the R&R sweatpants! I like my sweatpants to be stylish yet functional. I feel like I can work out in them, and also mix them in for a fashionable outfit. The R&R definitely crosses off those boxes," says James Ro, founder of, Atlanta Run Club. That means besides feeling like a cozy blanket as pants, these sweats are also great for jogs or just lounging around.

Essentials Training Sweatpant

These no-frills yet versatile sweatpants are perfect for throwing on for a brisk morning run, commuting to the gym, or running errands. Made with a classic tapered fit and high-quality recycled fabric, you can break a sweat in them before going back to loafing about your house. Their softness and durability will impress you. We love how potent its fabric is at breathing, stretching, quick drying, and moisture-wicking, and we found it great for gym and outdoor activities. The classic relaxed, loose fit lets our legs feel roomy and easy, and thus we love wearing these sweats for lounging and casual outings too.

What Do Buyers Say? "This pair right here checks all the boxes; great athletic fit, warm enough for Colorado mornings, breathable enough for a tough leg day... The material seems to be holding up to all of my workouts and the bumps and scrapes of a personal training job," says one customer.

LA Tapered Cotton-Jersey Sweatpants

John Elliot’s LA sweatpants are an excellent buy when it comes to sweatpants for men,” says Jessica Kats, e-commerce and retail expert at Soxy. "These sweatpants stand out from all others because they’re not only restricted to gym wear. The cut of these sweatpants is super stylish. This makes them a go-to clothing option for dressing casually.” The even better part about these sweats is their fit that’ll only get better with age and wear. In fact, these sweatpants look like a fashion statement whenever you put them on.

Loopback Sweatpants

These sweatpants are truly worth the splurge for your coins and lifestyle because they’re just too comfortable. “They wear more like OG sweatpants—tapered to the ankle with side pockets and a drawstring,” says Matt Hranek, style expert and founder of WM Brown Magazine. Crafted from an extra soft and warm loopback fabric, we found that these pants also have a nice athletic fit for big quads. “I like the familiarity of the design and the fact that they are not being disguised as a trouser, even though I will admit on a frosty morning I will keep them on to spin the dog around the block, buy a coffee, and head right back inside to continue my lounging activity," adds Hranek.

Classic Sweatpant

If you looking for something that can transcend different moments of your day-to-day life—from lounge to work to travel, feast your eyes on these classic sweatpants from American Giant. Made in Middlesex, North Carolina, your favorite college sweats got updated with a channeled waistband and double needle straddle-stitching. Moreover, the structured fleece fabric feels exceptionally smooth and cozy as soon as you slide the pants on, and the fit is perfect for a relaxing day. They'll become your second skin in no time.

Basic Active Fleece Jogger Sweatpants

More than 53,000 shoppers have awarded these Southpole sweatpants with a four-star-or-higher rating, so it's safe to assume they'll deliver the comfort, fit, and style you seek. Not only are these stylish in their fit, avoiding the extremes of being too tight or too loose, but they also embrace you with a fleece warmth. Perfect for lounging and relaxing at home, they’re a straightforward, no-frills style with big pockets, durable fabric that stays soft over time, a relaxed fit, and some weight.

What Do Experts Say? "These trousers are the embodiment of practicality and affordability; they're the reliable old friend you call on every day. These pants whispered a promise of comfort, and it's a vow they kept," says Andhi Ermawan, professional product tester and founder of MyProsAndCons.com.

Sweatpants with Zipper Pockets

Made with a blend of polyester and spandex, these sweatpants multitask as workout pants as well as travel pants. The fabric feels soft and has a four-way stretch to up the range of motion and your comfort on the go. The materials also render the fabric moisture-wicking and quick-drying, making these sweats equally great for hitting the gym. The tapered leg meets roomy fit at the thighs making for a flattering fit on anyone. Plus, the zippered pockets will provide a secure everyday carry system.

What Do Experts Say? "These pairs come with zipper pockets and an adjustable drawstring waistband. Versatility won't be an issue either, you can use them for most sports and leisure activities and even just staying at home," says Brandon Chopp, an expert from festival fashion retailer iHeartRaves.

LA Tapered Cotton-Jersey Sweatpants

“John Elliot’s LA sweatpants are an excellent buy when it comes to sweatpants for men,” says Jessica Kats, e-commerce and retail expert at Soxy. "These sweatpants stand out from all others because they’re not only restricted to gym wear. The cut of these sweatpants is super stylish. This makes them a go-to clothing option for dressing casually.” The even better part about these sweats is their fit that’ll only get better with age and wear. “Made from authentic French terry cotton, the fabric is super comfortable. And these sweatpants look like a fashion statement whenever you wear them,” adds Kats.

How to Choose Sweatpants for Men

Materials: Cotton blends are a popular choice, providing a gentle feel against the skin and allowing air circulation that prevents overheating. Sweatpants crafted from fleece or French terry materials also excel in the comfort department. These fabrics provide a plush interior that keeps you cozy, making them ideal companions for relaxed activities or chilly days.

Overall, Mirosh recommends sweatpants made from “soft and breathable materials like cotton, fleece, or a cotton blend.” For instance, polyester and nylon sweatpants will wick away sweat and keep you cool, and added spandex will provide stretch for you to move freely in sweatpants. Additionally, an outer layer with a smoother texture can prevent pilling and maintain a polished look.

Fit: “Sweatpants should be looser around the crotch and thighs for comfort but taper through the legs for a modern look,” says Moulios. Mirosh also echoes: “Opt for a fit that is relaxed yet not overly baggy. A slim fit or tapered leg can add a stylish touch while maintaining comfort.”

Ankle cuffs: “Ankle cuffs with adjustable closures or elastic bands can help customize the fit around your ankles, preventing the sweatpants from riding up during physical activity,” says an expert from gymwear brand Squatwolf. However, for lounging, relaxing, or just casual outings, sweatpants with open-leg cuffs will provide more comfort at the ankle.

Weight: “Look at the weight of the fabric and the way it drapes,” says Kimberley Acevedo, Head of Design and Merchandising at State of Matter. “If you're buying something to lay around in the house, go heavier and softer. If you’re looking for something you can dress up and down, go for sweatpants with a fabric that drapes well and is lighter weight to move between environments.”

Details: Features like hidden zippered pockets enhance functionality, especially for travel. “Pay attention to details like pockets, drawstrings, and cuffs. Minimalist designs can be versatile, while cargo-style pockets or unique stitching can add flair,” Mirosh adds.

How to Style Sweatpants for Men

If you’re wondering how to wear sweatpants outside of your apartment, the easiest option is to pair joggers with a slim-fitting T-shirt. Leaner cuts will keep you from looking like you’re cruising around in pajamas. Another great option is to wear pants made from formal materials like wool, cashmere, and thick cotton. That means your baggy weekend sweats probably won't work.

When considering sweatpants for work, darker is safer because it's more formal. Just pair them with a sweater, polo shirt, denim jacket, or an untucked button-up to cover the elastic waistband—a dead giveaway that you’re too cozy for your cubicle. For footwear: most of the best men's sweatpants pair nicely with classic white sneakers. Though if you're more dressed up on top, loafers work as well.

What's the Difference Between Sweatpants and Joggers?

Fit: “Sweatpants tend to have a looser fit throughout the leg, while joggers feature a more tailored or tapered fit,” says Mirosh. This means the legs of joggers will often touch your skin and feel a bit tight if you’ve got beefy calves.

Materials: Traditional sweatpants are often made from thicker materials like fleece and have a casual appearance, while joggers can be made from a wider range of materials, including activewear fabrics like nylon or polyester.

Ankle: Joggers have ribbed cuffs at the ankles and a sportier appearance compared to the relaxed vibe of traditional sweatpants, whereas sweatpants can have either an open design or ribbed cuffs.

Style: Sweatpants have a more relaxed and traditional look, while joggers are designed with a sporty aesthetic, often featuring modern details like zipper pockets and paneling, says Mirosh. And because of the difference in ankle cuffs and fit, sweatpants look more casual, whereas joggers look more elevated and sleek.

Function: Joggers are versatile for both athletic and casual wear, while sweatpants are primarily associated with casual lounging and relaxation.

Occasion: Sweatpants are ideal for cozy indoor activities, while joggers can transition from the gym to casual outings due to their sleeker appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Brands Have the Best Sweatpants?
For everyday comfort at home, affordable brands like Champion, Gildan, and Southpole make classic, durable fleece sweatpants that still offer great quality. For stylish, versatile sweatpants that you can travel in, brands like Mack Weldon, Buck Mason, Reigning Champ, and Public Rec offer style, functionality, and comfort in their sweatpants. For athleisure styles and athletic guys, Lululemon, Vuori, and Rhone make sweatpants that you can work out and sweat a bucket in. For sweatpants that are high-quality and score high in long-lasting comfort, we found that Sunspel and R&R are the ones to beat.

Can I Wear Sweatpants in Public?
Yes, absolutely! Sweatpants have evolved beyond just loungewear and athletic wear and are now considered a versatile fashion choice. Meaning sweatpants should no longer be confined to your home or your gym. The best sweatpants are versatile enough to be dressed up and down and worn outside. Many brands now offer handsome sweatpants for various casual outings, running errands, or even dressing up for a relaxed yet fashionable look. Just opt for well-fitted sweatpants for a more put-together fit that’s not lazy or sloppy.

How We Tested and Selected Sweatpants

To find the best sweatpants for men, our editors and writers have personally tried 40 options since 2020 and tested each of them for at least two weeks and at least six hours per day, such as attending casual weekend hang-outs in Public Rec’s and Champion’s sweatpants, commuting in the city and traveling during vacations in sweatpants by Mack Weldon and Lululemon, or working out and jogging in Vuori’s and Rhone's sweatpants, and etc. In addition, we also considered sweatpants tested and recommended by a panel of style experts we’ve interviewed and trust. Lastly, we also combed through Reddit reviews like this and this to consider the real-life, hands-on experience of people wearing and testing out different sweapants.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

To get a feel for how these sweatpants for men really felt and how they held up, we vetted our options by taking notes of their fit, comfort, fabric, versatility, and performance such as stretch, moisture-wicking, and breathability. We examined whether they fitted well and true to size, whether their fabric could withstand hours of movement, and whether they could be worn for more than one occasion.

Comfort Test: We meticulously evaluated the fabric and materials of each sweatpant. We examined whether it’s stretchy or has four- or two-way stretch, whether the fabric could wick away sweat and dry quickly, how thin or thick it is, as well as how breathable and soft it is against the skin.

Durability Test: To see if the sweatpants could last and withstand wear and tear over time, we put each through at least six cycles of wash and dry cycle, wear-tested for at least six hours per day over a duration of two weeks, as well as examined the stitching and overall construction to ensure their durability.

Fit Test: To see if the sweatpants are true to size and will fit well on big thighs, we paid attention to the seat and thigh areas to see if they’re roomy enough, and wear-tested each sweatpant to see how the tapered leg fits as well. In addition, we examined the elastic waistband and drawcord to see if they were able to help ensure a personalized, secure fit.

Versatility Test: We meticulously assessed whether the sweatpants could be worn for different occasions such as lounging, training, jogging, traveling, outdoor activities, casual everyday wear, etc. In addition, we scrutinized features—such as pockets—to ensure they meet the demands of everyday carry.

This article was updated in September 2023.

Why Trust Us

At Men’s Health, our testing editors and writers always make sure to actually test and use the products ourselves before considering whether to include them. Therefore, rest assured that our product recommendations derive from first-hand experience, and you can read more about our testing process here.

In addition, we have a whole fashion closet in our NYC office dedicated to calling in, trying out, and selecting the best and newest menswear products. We put them on stylish, fit guys to hear their opinions and see how the items look on them before making our final decision. And as style editors, we constantly go into the fashion closet to test out the products.

Lastly, you can trust our opinions on shopping recommendations, whether it’s the products, styling tips, or trends. Not only do we have Fashion Director Ted Stafford and Deputy Editor, Commerce Christian Gollyan, but we also have a panel of style experts—including stylists, fashion influencers, designers, etc.—whom we regularly seek shopping guides from.

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