14 Wide-Leg Sweatpants We Love Lounging In
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Soft, chic pairs from Alo, lululemon, and our other favorite brands.
InStyle / Alli Waataja
Thanks to celebrities like Katie Holmes, Jennifer Lopez, and Viola Davis, wide-leg denim is everywhere. Baggy bottoms aren’t just ultra-comfortable: “The wide leg is probably one of the most all-around flattering styles for women who have all different types of body shapes,” says feminine adornment coach Joy Asibey-Gabriel. But as plus-size personal stylist Salifya A. points out, when denim trends shift, loungewear follows — which is why it’s no surprise that wide-leg sweatpants are the next bottoms to achieve model-off-duty status.
Equal parts fashion and function, wide-leg sweatpants are a must-have for work-from-home and weekend errand enthusiasts. To find the best pairs, we researched cozy options from dozens of brands. Then, we tapped personal stylists and activewear designers for their advice, including insider shopping tips. As you browse, look for soft materials that will hold their shape, deep pockets, and an adjustable waistband. Whether you’re looking to level up your loungewear or score big on silky-soft workwear, start with our list of the 14 best wide-leg sweatpants below.
Best Overall: Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece High-Waisted Oversized Sweatpants
What We Love: There are tons of sizes and colors to choose from.
What We Don’t Love: Some wearers say these sweatpants run large, so you may want to size down.
With their classic design, deep side pockets, and subtle ankle slit, the Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece High-Waisted Wide-Leg Sweatpants are our favorite wide-leg sweatpants on the market. We love this elevated basic because it comes in neutral and bright colors — plus, you can choose from a wide range of sizes in three different inseam lengths. Available in plus-size and cropped options, these pants also have an adjustable waistband, a feature Kayla Loken, head designer and founder of Apparel Launch, looks for because it helps increase contrast for easier styling.
These sweats are made from brushed fleece that feels soft and fuzzy on the inside, with a matte, smooth exterior that blends in at the gym or on the street. The cotton and polyester fabric is thick enough to help the pants hold their shape, creating a roomy silhouette that looks great on a range of body types. But some people find that they run large, so you may want to order one size down from your usual.
Size: XXS (00)–XXL (20–22) Regular; XS–XXL Short; and XS–XXL Tall | Material: Cotton, polyester | Colors: 13
Best Budget: Old Navy High-Waisted StretchTech Split-Hem Wide-Leg Pants for Women
What We Love: With subtle piping and a matte finish, these lightweight pants are great for the office.
What We Don’t Love: They’re not as warm as some other sweatpants on our list are.
Budget-friendly sweatpants you can wear to work? Sign us up. The Old Navy High-Waisted StretchTech Split-Hem Wide-Leg Pants are made from a lightweight, matte blend of polyester and spandex that pairs perfectly with a sleek blazer. And they don’t skimp on the details: These sweats also have side pockets, piping on each leg, and a slit at the ankle to show off your shoes.
If you’re always on the go, you’ll love these pants’ four-way stretch and moisture-wicking material. We’re also fans of the wide size range, which includes three inseam options ranging from 28 to 33 inches. You could buy one in each color and still spend less than the cost of some of our other top picks — so if you’re looking to spruce up your office uniform, we highly recommend clicking ‘Add to Cart.’ Just note that they’re more of a spring and summer pant since the material is on the thinner side.
Size: XS (0)–4X (30) Regular; S (4)–XXL (20) Tall; and XS (0)–XL (18) Petite | Material: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 4
Best Cropped: Quince SuperSoft Fleece Wide Leg Pants
What We Love: These wide-leg sweatpants are both budget- and eco-friendly.
What We Don’t Love: They only come in one inseam length and they might pill.
For a pair of cropped sweatpants that feels as good as it looks, we recommend the Quince SuperSoft Fleece Wide Leg Pants. We love that these lounge-worthy bottoms are made with eco-friendly dyes and recycled materials. The fleece material feels soft on the outside and fuzzy on the inside, although some wearers have found that the interior is prone to pilling over time.
Still, we like that these pants have an adjustable waistband and side pockets, making them just as functional as they are cute. They’re also budget-friendly, so you don’t have to choose between neutral Heather Grey and pastel Petal Pink. Even better, Quince offers free shipping and free returns for up to a year after your purchase. But we wish they came in more than one length — the 22.5-inch inseam may not suit everyone.
Size: XS (0)–XL (16) | Material: Tencel modal, recycled polyester, spandex | Colors: 5
Best Plus-Size: Girlfriend Collective 50/50 Wide Leg Sweatpant
What We Love: These sweats are just as sustainable as they are chic.
What We Don’t Love: They run slightly short and small.
When it comes to sustainable clothes in a wide range of sizes, Girlfriend Collective is one of InStyle’s go-to brands. The 50/50 Wide Leg Sweatpant is made with recycled cotton that’s biodegradable and can be recycled through the brand’s ReGirlfriend program for store credit. Soft and roomy, they pair well with crew necks, hoodies, and zip-ups (or, try the 50/50 Half-Zip Sweatshirt to create the perfect sweat set).
We like the adjustable waistband, side pockets, and raw hem that gives these a relaxed feel for curling up on the couch on a lazy Sunday. The colors stand out, too, from deep Burgundy to bright Cerulean. Ideal for shorter wearers, the 50/50 Sweatpant tends to run short and small — other shoppers may want to order a size up. But with options from XXS to 6XL, finding the right fit is easy.
Size: XXS–6XL | Material: Cotton, recycled cotton | Colors: 8
Best Tall: Athleta Venice High Rise Wide Leg Pant
What We Love: Breathable and sweat-wicking, these pants were made for workouts, brunch, and everything in between.
What We Don’t Love: Wearers say they run a little large, and the waistband isn’t adjustable.
A 31.5-inch inseam makes the Athleta Venice High Rise Wide Leg Pant ideal for anyone who’s sick of their socks always showing. Sleek and slinky, these breathable sweatpants are made from a blend of nylon and spandex. The Venice Pant is also super stretchy and moves with you, no matter what’s on your schedule for the day. We like that they wick sweat away quickly, so you can focus on your workout (or your brunch order).
With two drop-in side pockets and two zippered back pockets, there’s plenty of room to stash your phone, hair ties, and other essentials. We also love the wide waistband, for some additional support — although we wish it had an adjustable drawstring. Dress it up with a chunky sweater or layer a crop top underneath a zip-up sweatshirt for easy weekend wear.
Size: XXS–3X Regular; XS–XL Tall; and XXS–L Petite | Material: Nylon, spandex | Colors: 4
Best Petite: Spanx AirEssentials Wide Leg Pant
What We Love: These sweats offer great movement, and they come in a cropped version that’s ideal for shorter wearers.
What We Don’t Love: They’re pricey and they don’t have pockets.
For wide-leg sweatpants you don’t have to swim in, we recommend the Spanx AirEssentials Wide Leg Pant. They’re available in three lengths, with a 28.5-inch option that’s ideal for anyone who’s 5 feet, 4 inches tall or shorter. There’s also a cropped version that ranges from 23.5 to 28.5 inches long, for even more inseam options to choose from. With a silky soft feel and great drape, they were made to keep you cool and comfortable just about anywhere.
Like some of our other top picks, these pants have a four-way stretch and an adjustable drawstring in the waistband. We especially love how flattering they are, with minimal seams in all the right places. Spanx makes styling these pants easy, with a line of matching AirEssentials tops (including the Half Zip and the Turtleneck Tunic). But considering how pricey these sweats are, we wish they had pockets.
Size: XS (0)–3X (28) | Material: Modal polyester, elastane | Colors: 5
Best Low-Rise: FP Movement Settle The Score Pants
What We Love: These bottoms have lots of pockets and sporty seams in unexpected places.
What We Don’t Love: They run large and they only come in one inseam length.
Slouchy and low-rise, the FP Movement Settle The Score Pants are some of the coolest wide-leg sweatpants we’ve found. We love that they have five pockets — one on each leg and three in the back — plus sporty seams across the legs that set them apart from our other picks. A basic that’s anything but basic, these pants also have an adjustable waistband that makes them ideal for layering over almost any activewear.
Available in black, taupe, or bright cobalt blue, these sweats sit low on the hips and have a shorter, 25-inch inseam (so you don’t have to worry about them dragging on the ground). They’re 100 percent cotton for maximum coziness and have plenty of room in the legs for a baggy feel. Throw them on with sneakers or the ever-popular Birkenstock Boston Clogs for a foolproof athleisure look any day of the week.
Size: XS (0)–XL (18) | Material: Cotton | Colors: 3
IUGA Wide Leg Yoga Pants
What We Love: They’re budget-friendly, and you can trim them if they’re too long.
What We Don’t Love: The waistband may be too high-rise for some people.
Amazon has long been an InStyle favorite for high-quality, budget-friendly activewear, like the IUGA Wide Leg Yoga Pants. With an extra-wide, adjustable waistband and flattering seams in the back, they combine style and comfort for a wear-anywhere appeal. Made from nylon and spandex, they rival our other top picks in terms of stretch and breathability. Whether you’re walking the dog or taking a coffee break, these pants will move with you.
Two side pockets offer plenty of room for your cards, keys, and other necessities. We also like that there’s a range of neutral shades to choose from, including Khaki, Dark Gray, and Forest Green. Wearers love the silky soft fabric, which is super stretchy and can be trimmed to fit if the 31-inch inseam is too long for you. Just keep in mind that they’re very high-rise.
Size: X-Small–3XL | Material: Nylon, spandex | Colors: 6
Best Investment: Alo Cashmere High-Waist Jet Set Wide Leg Pant
What We Love: These wide-leg sweatpants are seriously soft and cozy.
What We Don’t Love: We wish they came in more sizes, and they run large.
Cashmere isn’t just for sweaters anymore: The Alo Cashmere High-Waist Jet Set Wide Leg Pant takes this luxurious knit to the next level. With an adjustable high-rise waistband we love, these bottoms are just as lush as they are chic. The loose fit and ribbed detailing lend an upscale look to your usual weekend ensemble or airport outfit.
Although they’re a splurge, these pants are in their own league (and can you really put a price on comfort?). But considering how expensive they are, we’d like to see more sizes. Also, some wearers find that they run large — you may want to size down for a better fit. Add the matching Cashmere Jet Set Bra and Cardigan for a ‘fit you’ll never want to take off. Just remember to always hand-wash your cashmere or take it to the dry cleaners for the experts to handle.
Size: XXS (00)–L (14) | Material: Cashmere | Colors: 3
Best White: lululemon Swift Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Pant Full Length
What We Love: These pants are double-lined for better coverage, and the drawstring is tucked inside the waistband.
What We Don’t Love: They’re pricey and the size range is pretty limited.
You don’t have to be a lululemon fanatic to appreciate the Swift Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Pant (although we’re admittedly big fans here at InStyle, along with Taylor Swift). Made from four different activewear fabrics, these pants are lightweight, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying. We also love that they have a four-way stretch, like some of our other top picks.
These are our favorite pair of white sweats because they’re double-lined to prevent your underwear color or pattern from showing through. They also have deep, zippered side pockets, a hidden card sleeve, and an internal drawstring — no more annoying lumps and bumps underneath your shirt. When it’s time for a refresh, we like that you can toss these pants in the washer and dryer. We only wish they came in more sizes, considering they’re one of the pricier pairs on our list.
Size: 0–14 | Material: Polyester, recycled polyester, elastane, nylon, Lycra elastane | Colors: 7
Best Gray: Gap Vintage Soft Wide-Leg Sweatpants
What We Love: These sweats are pre-washed for a soft feel.
What We Don’t Love: They run large and the fabric is pretty thick.
If you’re embracing gray this year (like Jennifer Garner is), you’ll definitely want to grab a pair of the Gap Vintage Soft Wide-Leg Sweatpants. We like that they come in Regular, Petite, and Tall inseam lengths for the right fit — plus, they have deep front pockets for your phone, wallet, and keys.
Made from cotton and polyester fleece, these sweats are pre-washed for a super soft feel. A mid-rise waistband and sleek vertical seams give these some serious daily wear potential. But it’s worth noting that they run large, and they don’t have an adjustable drawstring. The fabric is also pretty thick, meaning these are best for bundling up in chilly weather. Throw a T-shirt and the coordinated Vintage Soft Hoodie on top for a simple matching set that can take you from the Pilates studio to the farmer’s market.
Size: XXS–XXL Regular; S–XXL Tall; and XS–L Petite | Material: Cotton, polyester | Colors: 2
Best Pink: Universal Thread Women’s High-Rise Wide Leg Sweatpants
What We Love: These sweatpants are budget-friendly and have a thin waistband that won’t dig in.
What We Don’t Love: The waistband isn’t adjustable.
The Women’s High-Rise Wide Leg Sweatpants from Universal Thread come in a punchy pink shade that Barbie would definitely wear around her Dreamhouse. This Target brand has long been an InStyle favorite for cozy winter ‘fits, and these sweats are no exception. Made from a soft blend of cotton and recycled polyester, they have a 30-inch inseam length that’s ideal for curling up on the couch or taking a late-night trek to the grocery store.
Side pockets make these sweatpants functional, while the thin, elastic waistband makes them ultra-comfortable. Although we wish the waistband was adjustable, we like that they’re one of the most budget-friendly options on our list. Not sure which size you are? No problem — you have a year to return them, so feel free to try a few options before you buy.
Size: XS (0)–XXL (17) | Material: Cotton, recycled polyester | Colors: 3
Best Patterned: Adidas Originals Leopard Luxe Wide Leg Adibreak Track Pants
What We Love: The bold, retro-inspired design is a magnet for compliments.
What We Don’t Love: These sweatpants can’t go in the dryer.
Turn heads and make a streetwear-inspired statement with the Adidas Originals Leopard Luxe Wide Leg Adibreak Track Pants. We love the bold, retro-inspired stripes and snaps that run up each leg. With a dramatic silhouette and a loose fit, they add plenty of interest to your usual warm-weather wardrobe.
These lightweight, silky sweats contain recycled polyester and viscose. A drawstring in the elastic waistband and spacious side pockets make them easy to wear. Not to mention their styling potential: Add the matching sweatshirt and sneakers for a sporty look, or grab heels and a sweater to stand out at the office. Choose from neutral beige with pink accents or bright red with pops of black and white. We just wish they were easier to care for — you’ll need to wash them on a cold delicate cycle and hang them to dry.
Size: 2XS (00)–2XL (20) | Material: Recycled polyester, viscose | Colors: 2
Best Men’s: Nike Sportswear Tech Fleece Reimagined Men’s Loose Fit Open Hem Sweatpants
What We Love: These pants have tailored details that resemble trousers, for a polished look.
What We Don’t Love: They run large, so you’ll want to order a size or two down from your usual.
Sweatpants that look like trousers seemed too good to be true — until we found the Nike Sportswear Tech Fleece Reimagined Men’s Loose Fit Open Hem Sweatpants. These have subtle details that resemble tailored pants, including vertical seams on each leg and a zippered fly in the front. We also love that they have an adjustable waistband and two side pockets, plus a third pocket in the back that snaps closed.
The fabric contains cotton and recycled polyester, for a lived-in feel. Unlike traditional fleece, this material feels silky smooth on both sides. These sweatpants have a roomy fit that runs large, so you may want to order at least one size down from your usual. Choose from neutrals, like Black and Baroque Brown, or branch out into Mineral, a sea glass green. Wondering what to wear on top? We recommend starting with the matching shacket.
Size: XS–3XL | Material: Cotton, recycled polyester | Colors: 7
What to Keep In Mind
Materials: For lounging at home or running errands, look for wide-leg sweatpants made with cotton, polyester, or spandex, Salifya suggests. But if you’re dressing up, opt for a pair that has modal, rayon, or Tencel — they’ll feel softer, although you may have to spend a little more, says athleisure designer Bryn Gorberg. In general, look for a medium-weight fabric that doesn’t hug your hips. The added structure will help your sweatpants keep their shape so they don’t venture into pajama pant territory, Loken says.
Fit: Look for a drawstring so you can adjust how your sweatpants fit as needed, Loken suggests. She prefers a 1- or 2-inch wide waistband, but Salifya notes that wider options can add support around your middle if that’s more comfortable for you. Gorberg also recommends checking the rise (the distance from the waistband to the crotch area). If it’s too long, your sweatpants can feel frumpy rather than casual cool, she says.
Inseam Length: Full-length sweatpants should graze the ground or at least cover most of your sneakers, Gorberg says. For most people, this translates to a 30- or 31-inch inseam length, according to Loken. Just make sure they don’t pool on the floor, or you could trip, Asibey-Gabriel adds. Cropped pairs should hit the middle of your calves, Loken says.
Pockets: “I want every pant that I put on to have pockets,” says Gorberg — and we agree. The best pockets are deep, well-constructed, and won’t sag when you tuck your phone inside, Asibey-Gabriel says. Aside from traditional side pockets, a back pocket can add some visual interest, Gorberg explains. FYI: If your wide-leg sweatpants aren’t looking as sophisticated as you’d like, the pockets may actually be to blame. Pairs without pockets tend to have a more streamlined silhouette, Asibey-Gabriel explains, which can be the key to finding sweatpants that will fit in at the office.
Your Questions, Answered
Who makes good-quality sweatpants?
You can find high-quality sweatpants from a wide range of brands at different price points. Our experts love brands like Spanx, Nike, Champion, Adidas, lululemon, Skims, and Anthropologie. If you’re searching for new labels to shop at, Loken recommends Twenty Montreal, a Canadian brand that makes luxurious knitwear, and Daughter Lessons, a New York City-based activewear brand.
How do you wear wide-leg sweatpants?
We love how versatile wide-leg sweatpants are — you can wear them almost anywhere, depending on how you style them. On top, you can opt for a more feminine silhouette by layering a turtleneck top underneath a cropped puffer jacket, Salifya says. Or, add a sweatshirt in the same color to create a matching sweatsuit. When you want to dress them up, we recommend adding a structured wool sweater or an oversized button-up.
What shoes should I wear with wide-leg sweatpants?
For a casual look, Salifya and Asibey-Gabriel recommend pairing your sweats with high-top or Nike Air Jordan sneakers. At the office, we feel you can’t go wrong with an elegant loafer. Want to look more polished? Try adding ankle boots or your favorite ballet flats.
Why Shop With Us
Contributing commerce editor Sarah Felbin lives in wide-leg sweatpants, whether she’s moving through a yoga flow or working from home. Her favorite pairs come from Athleta and Old Navy. When she shops for new sweatpants, she looks for deep side pockets, an adjustable drawstring, and soft, lightweight fabric.
For this story, she consulted different experts to learn insider shopping tips on how to find the best wide-leg sweatpants.
Salifya A. is a plus-size personal stylist.
Bryn Gorberg is an athleisure designer based in New York City.
Joy Asibey-Gabriel is a feminine adornment coach.
Kayla Loken is the head designer and founder of Apparel Launch.
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Read the original article on InStyle.
