Joybuy Insights

Choosing men's sportswear: how to find comfortable pieces for sport and everyday wear

A T-shirt that loses its shape after a few washes, joggers with an awkward waistband or sports trousers with nowhere to keep your phone when you're out and about: when buying men's sportswear, it's not just about the brand and colour. The fit, fabric, care instructions and intended use all determine whether a garment will be practical.

If you're in the Netherlands and looking for sportswear for training, working from home, travelling or a casual outfit, you'll often come across the same pitfalls. Read on to find out what to look for and which styles suit different types of wearer.

Common pitfalls when buying men's sportswear

1. Focusing only on the brand

A familiar logo doesn't tell you whether the fit is right for you. A slim-fit style feels different from a relaxed or oversized one. So always check the size guide, chest or waist measurements and fit description.

For example, a men's cotton T-shirt can feel soft, but a slim cut may give you less room to move. A relaxed style leaves more room around the body, while an oversized T-shirt has a noticeably looser fit.

2. Assuming “comfortable” means suitable for every activity

Cotton often feels good for everyday wear, but it isn't automatically the right choice for intense training. For sports, polyester fabrics or technical blends may offer features such as quicker drying or moisture management, according to the product description. Always check what's actually stated on the product page: general marketing terms don't guarantee a particular experience.

3. Skipping the care instructions

How long sportswear lasts depends in part on how you wash and dry it. Some items shouldn't go in the tumble dryer, while others can be tumble-dried at a low temperature. Dark joggers may also transfer colour if you don't wash them with similar colours.

Check the care label, use a mild detergent and don't iron directly over prints. This helps prevent unnecessary wear to the fabric, logos and print.

Important specifications to check before you order

Fit and size

Use the size guide for the specific product rather than automatically choosing your usual size. Sizing can vary between brands.

  • Regular or classic fit: a good choice if you want room to move.
  • Relaxed fit: looser around the body and often a practical option for casual menswear.
  • Slim fit: follows the shape of your body and looks smarter, but offers less extra room.
  • Oversized fit: noticeably looser; pay particular attention to the length and shoulder width.

The product information for the Nike Sportswear Club T-shirt describes it as a classic fit. For size M, it gives a chest measurement of 95–104 cm. If you're between sizes, the product information recommends choosing a smaller size for a closer fit or a larger one for a looser fit.

Fabric and intended use

Check the fabric composition, not just the name of the garment.

  • 100% cotton: soft and suitable for everyday wear, casual outfits and layering.
  • Cotton-polyester blend: can combine comfort with different textures and care properties.
  • Polyester: often used in training clothes; check the specific features of each product.
  • Fleece: feels warmer and softer, making it a sensible choice for men's joggers in cooler conditions.

The Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants are made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester fleece. That's a different fabric choice from a lightweight cotton T-shirt, and is particularly suited to leisurewear, travelling and warming up.

Practical details

Check whether trousers have an adjustable drawcord, an elasticated waist, side pockets and cuffs. A zipped or internal phone pocket is handy when you're out and about, but not every style has one.

Care is also important for black men's sportswear. Wash dark colours according to the care label and don't use bleach. Check the leg length too: joggers with ribbed cuffs fit differently from straight-leg sports trousers.

Recommended choices for different types of wearer

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Nike Sportswear Club T-shirt, black, size M

Nike Sportswear Club T-shirt BLACK size M

Why it suits this type of wearer: A simple cotton T-shirt for everyday wear, casual outfits and a sporty wardrobe staple.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies 100% cotton, a classic fit and chest measurements for each size. That means you don't have to rely on the brand name alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Lightweight cotton, a classic fit and an embroidered Futura logo on the chest.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
The North Face men's T-shirt, white, size S

The North Face Men T-Shirts NF0A8E4E White Dune S

Why it suits this type of wearer: A roomy staple for city wear, travelling and outdoor activities where freedom of movement is important.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The description specifies a relaxed fit, 100% cotton and a size chart with chest, waist and hip measurements. That lets you check the roomy cut before you buy.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton, a crew neck and a relaxed fit, with a back print according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific activities & intensive use
Under Armour Men's Tricot Jogger, green, size M

Under Armour Men's Tricot Jogger Green Sportstyle Collection M

Why it suits this type of wearer: Designed for warming up, training and everyday wear, with pockets for small essentials.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies a waist range of 79–86 cm, an inside leg of 76 cm and multiple pockets. According to the brand description, the fabric also has moisture-wicking properties; check the product page if this is an important feature for you.

Key benefit & highlights

100% polyester, an adjustable drawcord, tapered legs and an internal phone pocket.

Suitable for: Streetwear fans
Urban Classics Heavy Oversized Tee, summerblue, size M

Urban Classics Heavy Oversized Tee summerblue M

Why it suits this type of wearer: A loose-fitting Urban Classics T-shirt for streetwear, warm days and layering with jeans or cargo trousers.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly specify an oversized fit, 100% cotton and a fabric weight of 240 gsm. So the looser shape won't come as a surprise when it arrives.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton, 240 gsm single jersey and an oversized silhouette.

How to put together a practical outfit

For a versatile wardrobe, you could start with two or three men's T-shirts in neutral colours such as white, black or grey. Pair them with a fleece pair of trousers for home and leisure, and a technical pair of joggers for training or travelling.

For example, men's Adidas joggers with a slim fit, elasticated waist, drawcord, side pockets and ribbed cuffs work well in a smart-casual outfit. The product information lists the composition as 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester fleece. For this style, follow the instructions to wash cold on a delicate cycle and avoid tumble-drying.

Check the full product page for every item: available sizes, colour, fabric, returns policy and current price. This helps you compare products based on verifiable features rather than appearance alone.

Looking for more options?

We've put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men's sportswear

Which fabric is suitable for men's sportswear?

It depends on how you plan to use it. Cotton is often comfortable for everyday wear and casual clothes. For training, polyester or a blended fabric may be more practical if the product description mentions features such as quick drying. Always check the exact composition and care instructions.

How do I choose the right size for a T-shirt or joggers?

Measure your chest or waist and compare it with the size guide for the style you've chosen. Check the fit too: relaxed and oversized styles are looser, while slim fit sits closer to the body. If you're unsure, use the product information to decide whether a smaller or larger size will give you the look you want.

How can I stop sportswear wearing out quickly?

Wash garments according to the care label, sort dark colours, avoid bleach and use a low drying temperature when tumble-drying is allowed. Some garments, such as fleece trousers, keep their shape better when line-dried. Always check the specific instructions for each product.