Joybuy Insights

Buying sweatpants: how to choose joggers to suit the way you use them

Choosing a pair of sweatpants may seem simple: check the colour, select your size and add the trousers to your basket. Yet many disappointing purchases are caused by the wrong fit, a fabric that does not suit the intended use or an unclear size chart. If you want to buy sweatpants for lounging at home, everyday wear, streetwear or sport, it is worth checking a few key points first.

Common pitfalls when choosing joggers

1. “Comfortable” without any information about the fit

Comfortable joggers can have a slim fit, regular fit or loose fit. You notice the difference particularly when sitting, cycling, walking and exercising. Slim-fitting trousers with ribbed cuffs look smart, but offer less room around the thighs and knees. Loose sweatpants allow greater freedom of movement, but may be less suitable if you are looking for a streamlined outfit.

Always check:

  • the stated fit: slim, regular or loose;
  • the leg finish: straight leg, tapered or ribbed cuff;
  • the inside-leg length, if provided;
  • the size chart for the specific brand.

2. Choosing a warm fabric for intensive exercise

Fleece joggers or a style with a soft inner lining are comfortable on cold days, when travelling and when relaxing at home. During intensive training, however, a heavy cotton fabric can feel warmer and take longer to dry than a lightweight sports fabric.

A pair of sports trousers or polyester training trousers may instead be designed with a smooth outer surface, soft inner side and quick-drying properties, according to the product description. This makes such a style a practical choice for warm-ups and light training. Claims about moisture wicking or odour control should be understood as product claims made by the brand; they are not a guarantee for every wearer.

3. Looking only at the colour

Black sweatpants are easy to style, but colour tells you nothing about the pockets, waistband finish or fabric. Check whether the trousers have a drawstring, whether the pockets are large enough and whether the fabric may appear see-through when stretched. With dark clothing, it is also advisable to follow the washing instructions for dark colours.

Important features to check before buying sweatpants

Material: cotton, fleece or polyester

The fibres largely determine how the trousers feel and what they are best suited for.

  • Cotton or a cotton blend: often soft and suitable for leisurewear. One example is a cotton pair of joggers made from 70% cotton and 30% polyester.
  • Fleece: a knitted or brushed fabric with a warm, soft inner side. Suitable for colder days, but check the drying instructions.
  • Polyester: lightweight and practical for training trousers. The product information for some styles mentions a smooth surface, quick drying and moisture wicking.
  • Cotton with elastane: may provide extra freedom of movement. Always check the exact percentage on the product page.

Also look out for contradictions in the description. If a title mentions “ultra heavy”, for example, but the product specifications show a different fabric composition, give greater weight to the formal material information and care label than to the marketing name.

Waistband and freedom of movement

An elasticated waistband with a drawstring is practical when you want to adjust the fit. Also consider the position of the waist: mid-rise fits differently from a low-rise or high-rise style. For sport and warm-ups, ribbed cuffs are useful because the trouser leg is less likely to slip over your shoe. For wearing at home, a straight leg may be more comfortable.

Checking the sizing

Sizes vary between brands and collections. Men’s joggers may, for example, use EU sizes 46 to 54, while women’s joggers may be linked to EU sizes 36 to 46 and include separate waist and hip measurements.

Measure at home:

  1. your waist where the waistband will sit;
  2. your hip measurement at the widest point;
  3. the inside-leg length from the crotch to the ankle.

Compare these measurements with the chart on the product page. Do not rely solely on S, M, L or XL. Urban Classics may show international and European size notations side by side, while Under Armour lists waist and hip ranges, among other measurements.

Our recommendations for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Urban Classics Fluffy Sweatpants Trousers - Sweat Black M

Urban Classics Fluffy Sweatpants Trousers - Sweat Black M

Why it suits this profile: This black style is designed for leisurewear and streetwear, with an elasticated waistband, pockets and a 70% cotton and 30% polyester blend.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric composition and basic features are clearly stated, so you do not have to rely solely on the word “comfortable”.

Key benefit & advantages

Elasticated waistband, practical pockets and a black colour that is easy to style.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Why it suits this profile: The slim fit, fleece fabric and stitched Trefoil details work well with a smart casual outfit for everyday wear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the slim fit, fabric composition, drawstring waistband and care instructions separately.

Key benefit & advantages

70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester fleece; side pockets and ribbed cuffs.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Under Armour Men's Tricot Jogger Green Sportstyle Collection L

Under Armour Men's Tricot Jogger Green Sportstyle Collection L

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this style is intended for training, warm-ups and everyday wear, with a tapered leg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page gives specific details about the 76 cm inside-leg length, fit, pocket layout and care instructions.

Key benefit & advantages

100% polyester, multiple pockets, drawstring and ribbed cuffs. According to Under Armour, the description also mentions moisture wicking and quick drying.

How to keep your joggers in good condition for longer

Wash the trousers according to the care label and turn dark styles inside out. Do not use bleach if this is not recommended. Some styles can be tumble-dried at a low temperature, while others should only be line-dried. Fabric softener is not recommended for various sports styles. Proper care helps preserve the fit, colour and fabric for longer, but the lifespan also depends on how often and how intensively you wear the trousers.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying sweatpants

What is the difference between sweatpants and training trousers?

Sweatpants are usually made from cotton, fleece or a cotton blend and are designed for comfort and leisurewear. Training trousers are more often made from polyester or a lightweight technical fabric. The exact features vary by style, so always check the material description.

Which joggers are suitable for cold days?

Choose a style with a soft or brushed inner side, such as fleece. Also look for ribbed cuffs and an adjustable waistband. A thicker fabric is not automatically more suitable for sport; for intensive movement, a lightweight fabric may be more practical.

How can I stop my joggers from shrinking after washing?

Follow the care label, wash at the recommended temperature and do not use an excessively hot programme. Allow the trousers to air-dry if tumble drying is not recommended. Also check the composition before buying: cotton may react differently from polyester.