Joybuy Insights

Choosing men’s sportswear: a practical guide to comfort, fit and use

Men’s sportswear needs to do more than just look sporty. Men’s sports trousers that keep slipping down, a sports shirt that feels heavy as soon as you start sweating, or men’s underwear that chafes can quickly become frustrating. So if you’re buying Nike sportswear, adidas men’s clothing or an Under Armour jogging bottom, it’s worth looking beyond the brand name and appearance.

In this guide, the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer discusses the key buying criteria, common pitfalls and some popular choices for training, football, fitness and everyday wear.

Three pitfalls to avoid when choosing men’s sportswear

1. Marketing terms without clear product specifications

Words such as “breathable”, “quick-drying” and “moisture-wicking” sound appealing, but they mean little without information about the material and construction. Always check the fabric composition, fabric weight and fit.

The same applies to technologies such as Nike Dri-FIT. According to Nike’s own product information, the fabric is designed to draw moisture away from the skin. This is a brand claim about how it works, not a universal guarantee that every body and every athlete will have the same experience.

2. Choosing the wrong size because of international size charts

An M from one brand may fit differently from an M from another. Waist width, leg length and thigh room can vary particularly between men’s training trousers, men’s jogging bottoms and boxer shorts.

Bear the following in mind:

  • Measure your waist where the waistband will sit.
  • Check whether the chart uses centimetres, EU sizes or international sizes.
  • See whether the model is slim fit, regular fit or loose fitting.
  • Take the elasticated waistband and drawstring into account.
  • For a men’s sports shirt, also compare the chest width and sleeve length.

3. Looking only at the purchase price

A cheap men’s hoodie may seem appealing, but fragile fabric, a hem that quickly loses its shape or difficult care requirements can make it a less practical purchase. Look at the material composition, washing instructions, pockets, seams and intended uses.

For men’s underwear, a multipack is often practical. Reebok boxer shorts are offered as a 3-pack in various product listings. Always check the exact contents, size and composition of each offer.

Which specifications are important?

Material and moisture management

For men’s fitness clothing and men’s football clothing, lightweight synthetic fabrics are often practical. Polyester generally dries quickly and does not crease easily. Cotton feels soft and works well for casual men’s clothing, but it can retain moisture for longer during intense exercise. A blend of cotton, polyester and elastane can offer a good compromise between comfort and freedom of movement.

Example: the Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee is listed in the product details as having a regular fit, short sleeves and a composition of 57% cotton and 43% polyester. The extended description also states 100% polyester. This information is not fully consistent. If in doubt, check the product specifications and care label before ordering.

Fit and freedom of movement

Slim-fit men’s sports trousers sit close to the body, while a regular fit offers more room. A close-fitting style can be comfortable for strength training or walking. For football, warm-ups or everyday wear, extra room around the hips and knees may feel more comfortable.

When choosing men’s training trousers, look for:

  • Elasticated waistband for an adjustable fit.
  • Drawstring to tighten the waist.
  • Ribbed cuffs if you want tapered legs.
  • Pockets for your phone, keys or cards.
  • Inside leg, particularly if you have longer or shorter legs.

Care and durability

Follow the care label. Some sweatpants should not be tumble dried, while other polyester styles can be dried at a low temperature. Do not use fabric softener on sportswear if the manufacturer advises against it; this can affect the properties of synthetic fabrics.

Where possible, wash dark clothing inside out and bear in mind that cotton-rich fabrics may shrink. According to the product information, an adidas Trefoil Essentials pair of trousers is made from 70% cotton and 30% recycled polyester and requires a cold, delicate wash. The manufacturer also advises, among other things, not to bleach or tumble dry it.

Recommended men’s sportswear by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Adidas Trefoil Essentials Pants IY7361 Black M

Why it suits this profile: These fleece trousers are suitable for gentle workouts, travelling and leisure time. The elasticated waist with drawstring makes it easy to adjust the fit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing states the material composition and provides specific care instructions, so you do not have to rely on appearance alone.

Main benefit & key features

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

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Nike Dri-Fit Park 20 Tee CW6952-071 L

Why it suits this profile: A neutral dark-grey men’s sports shirt for football, training and casual outfits. The regular fit offers more room than a close-fitting performance style.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states the colour, size, fit and material. However, check the composition provided, as the description gives two different percentages.

Main benefit & key features

Regular fit; short sleeves; crew neck; style for football and everyday wear.

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

Under Armour Men's Tricot Jogger Green Sportstyle Collection M

Why it suits this profile: These jogging bottoms are designed for warm-ups, training and active everyday wear. The tapered style works well with sporty outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification includes the waist size, inside leg, pockets, drawstring and care instructions. This means you can compare the practical details in advance.

Main benefit & key features

100% polyester; 76 cm inside leg in size M; multiple pockets; ribbed cuffs.

Suitable for: Everyday comfort
Reebok RBK SPORTS TRUNKS MED HINLO-GREY/WHITE/BLACK-M

Reebok RBK SPORTS TRUNKS MED HINLO-GREY/WHITE/BLACK-M

Why it suits this profile: The 3-pack is practical for everyday wear, light training and replenishing your supply of men’s underwear.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated composition of 57% cotton, 38% polyester and 5% elastane provides more useful information than a comfort claim alone.

Main benefit & key features

3-pack; elasticated waistband; cotton blend; suitable for everyday wear and sport.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together 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 men’s sportswear

Which men’s sportswear is suitable for the gym?

Choose a men’s sports shirt with enough freedom of movement and a fabric suited to your training intensity. For demanding fitness sessions, lightweight polyester or blended fabrics are often practical. Pair it with men’s sports trousers or training trousers with a drawstring and pockets.

How can I stop men’s jogging bottoms from losing their shape quickly?

Follow the care label, use the recommended temperature and avoid tumble drying when advised by the manufacturer. Before buying, also check the waistband, seams and material composition. Cotton-rich sweatpants may react differently to heat than trousers made from 100% polyester.

Which is more comfortable: boxer shorts or trunks?

That depends on your preference and what you’re wearing. Trunks have shorter legs and can fit comfortably under sports trousers. Above all, look for an elasticated waistband, enough room around the legs and a fabric containing elastane. Reebok boxer shorts in a multipack are a practical option if you’re looking for several pairs for everyday wear.