A good pair of sweatpants should feel comfortable during a day working from home, a train journey, a walk or a relaxing evening. Yet jogging bottoms often look better in product photos than they do in real life. Fabric that is too thin, an elasticated waistband that stretches or pockets that let your phone fall out can quickly make a purchase less appealing.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I therefore focus mainly on verifiable product information: material, fit, waistband, pockets and care. Below, you can read what to look for in women’s jogging bottoms, men’s jogging bottoms, lounge trousers or sports trousers.
The terms “fluffy” or “soft” usually describe how the fabric feels, but they do not automatically tell you how warm, heavy or hard-wearing the trousers are. So check the fabric composition and, where stated, the weight per square metre.
Cotton sweatpants often feel natural against the skin. Polyester can make the trousers lighter and simplify care. A cotton-polyester blend is therefore not necessarily less suitable; the ratio helps determine how the trousers feel and perform.
Jogging bottoms with an elasticated waistband do not always fit well without a drawstring. When sitting or moving for long periods, the waistband can dig in, slip down or become less secure. So look for:
Bear in mind that size guides vary from one brand to another. An M in Urban Classics sweatpants is not automatically the same as an M in Under Armour or Skechers.
Streetwear trousers can be perfectly suitable for everyday wear, but less practical for intensive training. Check whether they are made from lightweight polyester, French terry, heavyweight cotton or another construction. Pockets also vary: open hand pockets are useful at home, while zipped pockets can be more practical when walking or travelling.
For comfortable jogging bottoms, the following properties are relevant:
A brand’s moisture-wicking claim should be considered in context. According to Under Armour’s own product information, the material is designed to draw sweat away from the body and dry quickly. Treat this as a product specification from the brand, not as a universal guarantee for every wearer or activity.
A relaxed fit provides more room for movement and works well for loungewear. A regular fit generally has a straighter silhouette. Elasticated cuffs at the ankles keep the trouser legs in place and create a sporty look. Straight legs without cuffs may be a better match for a casual outfit.
For streetwear, side panels, contrasting piping or a slightly roomier cut are interesting details. If you are mainly looking for lounge trousers for wearing at home, a soft fabric, practical waistband and enough room around the hips and thighs are often more important.
Always follow the care label, as the general product description may differ from the instructions on the garment. For many of the models mentioned, the guidance is to wash cold with similar colours, avoid bleach and tumble-dry at a low temperature or hang to dry.
Trousers will generally keep their shape for longer if you:
Why it suits this profile: These black jogging bottoms combine a casual cut with an elasticated waistband and pockets. The black colour is easy to pair with a hoodie, T-shirt or trainers.
The product information clearly states a cotton-polyester blend of 70% cotton and 30% polyester, as well as two pockets and an elasticated waistband.
70% cotton, 30% polyester; elasticated waistband; pockets; suitable for leisurewear and streetwear.
Why it suits this profile: The heavyweight cotton construction is aimed at shoppers looking for sturdier, thicker sweatpants for everyday wear and a streetwear look.
The product listing states 100% cotton and a fabric weight of 460 g/m². This gives you a clearer idea of what to expect from the fabric thickness than a vague description such as “thick”.
100% cotton; 460 g/m²; available in various sizes; suitable for casual wear and streetwear.
Why it suits this profile: These women’s jogging bottoms have a regular fit, drawstring, open pockets and elasticated cuffs. They are suitable for warm-ups, travelling and relaxing.
The drawstring means you are not relying on elastic alone. According to Under Armour’s own product information, the fabric is French Terry with 80% cotton and 20% polyester.
Regular fit; adjustable drawstring; open hand pockets; elasticated cuffs; 80% cotton and 20% polyester.
Why it suits this profile: These black sports trousers are designed for training and everyday movement. The product information states a regular fit, drawstring, zipped pockets and hand pockets.
The combination of a drawstring and secure pockets makes these trousers more practical on the move than a model with open pockets only.
Regular fit; drawstring; zipped pockets and hand pockets; black colour; nylon according to the product information.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
In everyday Dutch, the terms are often used interchangeably. Sweatpants usually refers to soft, casual trousers made from cotton, polyester or a blend. Jogging bottoms can also be a sportier style made from lightweight polyester, with a drawstring and zipped pockets. The fit and material are more important than the name.
Measure your waist and compare it with the size guide on the product page. Also consider the fit you want. With a relaxed style, your usual size may be sufficient; if you want extra room, do not automatically choose a size larger, as the trouser legs may also be longer. Always check the brand’s specific size guide.
Wash the trousers according to the care label, avoid bleach and do not use an unnecessarily high drying temperature. Avoid pulling the drawstring too tightly, and washing the trousers inside out can help keep the colour, fabric and waistband looking good for longer.