Don’t let your gym class uniform fool you into thinking sweatpants aren’t a laid-back closet necessity—or that they can’t be entirely chic. The once-seen-as-indoor pant only has come a long way since the drawstring days. Now, they’re seen just as functional as they are fashionable.
Contemporary brands like Alo Yoga have proven that the right pair can take you from the couch to the coffee shop, or from a tonal sweater to sleek bodysuit. So, whether it’s in the form of a fleece-lined jogger or a sporty-inspired sweat, we’ve tested countless pairs to find the best in fabric, fit, quality, and longevity, making sure that even your most relaxed fits can still feel refined. No matter if you’re looking for something to catch flights or catch compliments in a new matching set, we’ve got the recommendations for your next comfy, cozy purchase.
Credit: Skims
Materials: 70% Cotton, 30% polyester | Size Range: XXS-4X | Colors: 5
If the “best overall” could also be recognized as “softest, most you-need-to-touch-this” fabric in a sweatpant, Skims would earn that title as well. That’s because these plush, cloud-like fleece pants are incredibly cozy, while still feeling exceptionally expensive, thanks to the subtle embossed logo on the hip. The knitted elastic waistband, the straight-leg silhouette, that baggy all-day fit—perfection! I’m obsessed with how these don’t ride up throughout the day. I even like how they can be rolled down for a more relaxed look.
Byrdie
Credit: Old Navy
Materials: 90% Cotton, 10% recycled polyester | Size Range: XS-XXL, tall and petite | Colors: 12
Made from a cotton blend, these Old Navy sweats have a real old-school vibe, but feature all the modern elements we love about pants, including a high-waist fit that sits a little above the belly button and a relaxed silhouette throughout the hips and thighs. Fashion blogger Hunter Kailey, loves the length of these and says they pair perfectly with a matching sweatshirt. And I agree: I was so impressed to see that these came in petite and tall sizes.
Credit: Alo
Materials: 65% Cotton, 35% polyester | Size Range: XXS-2XL | Colors: 20
After taking a trip this year, I noticed that my fashion envy started inside the airport, even before the flight took off. That’s because a girl was wearing these straight-leg sweats from Alo, paired with the matching hoodie from the TSA line. I said to myself, “That’s it, I need that matching set.” Naturally, I snagged the limited-edition blue (they rotate shades often, but the core neutrals are always there), and I can’t get over how put-together it looks—even though it’s technically loungewear. Alo’s sweats are designed with an oversized fit and a longer inseam, but I stuck with my usual size, and they fit perfectly. Even on my shorter frame, they didn’t swallow me. Instead, they felt cozy, while remaining flattering.
Byrdie
Credit: SET Active
Materials: 100% Cotton | Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 9
Sometimes you put on a set and check the fabric tag and go, Oh. That’s why it feels so soft. And that’s exactly what happened to me when I put on these 100% cotton sweats from the cult-favorite athletic brand, Set Active. The material is soft and luxurious, and for my first time trying the brand, I was impressed with the feel. I loved how weighty these felt on the body, giving a drapey look that doesn’t cling or lose shape after a few wears. The heavier fabric gives them structure and that elevated touch that makes sweats look styled, not sloppy, despite being baggy. I still felt put-together lounging at home—especially with the matching sweatshirt stamped with the brand’s minimalist namesake logo across the front.
Byrdie
Credit: Nike
Materials: 80% Cotton, 20% polyester | Size Range: XS-XXL, 0X-4X | Colors: 9
It would be remiss not to mention the monolith that is Nike when it comes to a sweatpant roundup. And I’ll admit it: With so many new brands to try, I’ve been ignoring the original sweatpants that got me through my youth. But once I slipped into these, I remembered why the label’s name is considered synonymous with the word “sweatpants” itself (“I’m just wearing Nikes!”). This collegiate style is cozy and roomy, thanks to its wide-leg and extra length, making it a great lounging style. But it could also be styled as a streetwear moment for the same reason.
Credit: Amazon
Materials: 46% Cotton, 50% polyester, 4% elastane | Size Range: S-XXL | Colors: 4
Comfy track pants are trending everywhere, so naturally, I had to give in. And after being an (admitted) skeptic about the style, I tried these and understood the hype. They’re an excuse to wear sweatpants without showcasing to the world that, hey, you’re wearing sweatpants. Instead, they feel like a step-up from loungewear, all without trying too hard. Plus, these were under $20, much more affordable than the $200 pair I’d been eyeing, which featured the same mid-rise style with an elastic waist, cinched cuffs, and a side stripe detail.
Byrdie
Credit: Quince
Materials: 68% Lenzing Modal, 27% recycled polyester, 5% spandex | Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 3
These are the kind of sweats that make you realize there’s a real hierarchy in the world of loungewear. The slimmer fit feels polished enough to wear out of the house, but still has that want-to-lounge feeling. I love pairing these with the matching SuperSoft Fleece Mock Neck Pullover—an aptly named hoodie in the same shade—and styling this with a scarf if I’m leaving the house or fuzzy socks if I’m not. The fleece is ridiculously soft, the waistband adjusts for that just-right feel, and the fabric’s made with eco-friendly dyes and recycled materials (so you can feel good while you look good). I also love the wide hem and roomy front pocket—they add a little “I tried” vibe that other lazy-day styles sometimes miss.
Byrdie
Credit: Spanx
Materials: 47% Tencel™ Modal, 46% polyester, 7% elastane | Size Range: XS-3XL, petite and tall | Colors: 6
And for another envy-worthy set to sport around the airport gates, enter the Spanx AirEssentials wide-leg pant. A relaxed fit adds a leg-lengthening effect, even for those who are on the shorter side (like me). Plus, the contoured back of the pants—ahem, there’s no more straightforward way to say this—makes your butt look great. But aside from how they look, they feel great, too. The fabric is light-as-air, while still being temperature-regulating, which is ideal for traveling. I like to say that the best thing you can pair this set with is a suitcase: it’s comfy enough to wear en route to your destination, yet doesn’t feel like an outfit you need to change out of the moment you land.
Byrdie
Credit: Urban Outfitters
Materials: 99% Cotton, 1% spandex | Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 12
Live out your ‘00s dreams in this pair of low-rise pants from Urban Outfitters. We’re obsessed with how these feel reminiscent of Y2K without feeling too costumey. They have a slouchy fit with a wide flare that’s meant to bunch a little at the ankles (they’re the perfect match for Ugg shoes or slippers). The low-rise and drawstring waist offers comfort and a sliver of skin. Made from 99% cotton, they are extremely breathable.
Credit: Cozy Earth
Materials: 95% Premium viscose from bamboo, 5% spandex | Size Range: XS-XXXL | Colors: 8
And for the best sweatpants that could also double as a real pair of pants, may we introduce Cozy Earth’s bamboo lounge bottoms? There is such a supple feel to these, so much so that when I’m wearing them, I beg people to feel the fabric. Because it’s so silky and breathable, it’s to be expected— but plush to a point that makes them feel like butter. These are a solid purchase if you run hot (hand up!) and want a thinner style sweatpant among your thicker fleece lineup, that can still be worn well into the winter months.
Credit: Athleta
Materials: 75% Cotton, 19% polyester, 6% spandex | Size Range: XXS-3X, petite and tall | Colors: 10
Most of my sweatpants get donated or tossed when I realize they’re starting to fray at the bottom. If you know the struggle of being on the shorter side and watching your sweatpants drag and collect dust at the hem (gross, but real!), know that these will not be a concern. When these arrived, I put them on my waistline and automatically sighed in relief: Finally, a pair of pants that will fit my body. I also love how soft these feel, as they’re made of a stretch fleece that has a soft, brushed interior. Plus, they’ve withstood the dreaded dryer test—aka, they kept up that feeling with multiple washes, which is huge, considering how much I want to keep throwing them on.
Byrdie
Credit: Amazon
Materials: 63% Polyester, 37% cotton | Size Range: XS-XXL | Colors: 18
After seeing all the online debate about early Gen Z vs. millennial gym style, I realized my own workout wardrobe could use an upgrade. And so I found these joggers that have the ideal relaxed, baggy fit. They feature an elastic waistband—with enough room to sneak spandex shorts underneath—and cuffed ankles, so you can pair with a gym shoe, like a New Balance sneak.
Credit: Elwood
Materials: 100% Organic cotton | Size Range: XS-XXL | Colors: 15
Cargo pant-style sweats are on the rise, but if you’re not feeling absolutely committed to the deep side pockets, this proportionally oversized sweatpant is a solid in-between. Hannah Baker, a Los Angeles-based writer, calls this pair the “vintage-inspired sweatpant of her dreams.” And that’s because these 100% organic cotton pants deliver on the old-school vibe, whether in an olive or baby blue colorway. A standard fit, brushed terry material, and a garment-washed, made-to-fade finish are all proof that the classic sweat is back.
What to Look for in Sweatpants
- Material: “I think the classic—and everyone’s go-to—is cotton, and for good reason,” stylist Nina Lato tells Byrdie. “It’s soft on the skin, breathable, and perfect for lounging or everyday wear. Cotton allows airflow, which keeps you comfortable all day long.” However, if you’re looking for something other than your standard cotton, fleece (for chilly weather), French terry (for when you want the inside to be lightweight and breathable), and elastance blends (for when you want stretch and recovery), are all stylist-approved options.
- Silhouette: Doesn’t it feel like sweatpants are coming in more shapes than ever? That’s why we tried to test and add an array to this list—because not everyone will have the same preference for a classic, oversized fit. Cuffed styles will taper at the ankle for a jogger look, which is ideal if you have a new sneaker you’d like to show off or just want something that feels more tailored. Wide-leg is more relaxed, but has a drapey edge that feels effortless, while flared versions, like our UO pick, give a subtle nod to the silhouette that was popularized in the 00s by jetting out right at the ankle.
- Fit: The best sweatpants should feel relaxed without looking—well— sloppy. They should sit comfortably at your waist (or hips, depending on the rise) and skim the body without clinging too tightly. The inseam should hit right at the top of your shoe or just below the ankle for a clean, polished line. If they bunch up too much or drag on the ground, they’re likely too long, so opt for a petite version, like from Spanx or Skims.
How We Tested Sweatpants
To find the best sweatpants, I wore dozens of pairs over several weeks—at home, to workouts, on errands, and even while traveling. I evaluated each style for comfort, softness, fit, and how well it held up after multiple washes. I paid close attention to fabric quality and construction (….because no one wants saggy knees or stretched-out waistbands).
I also tested how versatile each pair felt when styled outside the house, whether they worked with day-to-day basics like sneakers and an oversized jacket or could pass for “elevated loungewear” when paired with a new, crisp tee. The sweatpants on this list made the highest marks for feel, shape retention, and overall wearability.
FAQ
-
Sweatsuits have evolved past simply being worn for athletic wear. While sneakers and a crossbody bag may seem like the obvious option, pairing sweats with non-athletic pieces is the way to make a sweatsuit your chic go-to pairing, says stylist Shonda Irving. “Try a preppy look by base layering a collared shirt (such as your favorite white button-up) under the top and letting the hem and cuffs peek out, chunky socks, and loafers for a prep school off-site vibe,” she tells Byrdie. She even mentions “glamming up” a sweat with something unexpected, like a clutch or heels.
-
As far as care, if you have a great fabric, you can throw your cotton-blend sweats in the washer and dryer. (“If they aren’t machine washable, aren’t we losing the plot?” says Irving.) Washing your sweats in cold water will help retain the color. To prevent shrinkage, avoid drying the sweats on high heat.
Meet Our Experts
To find and recommend the best sweatpants, we consulted the following experts:
- Nina Lato is a stylist and celebrity business strategist.
- Shonda Irving is a stylist who specializes in women dressing over 40, but says that personal style “is ageless.”
- Hunter Kailey, also known as @fewfavefinds on Instagram, is a clothing and style influencer.
- Hannah Baker is a Los Angeles-based writer and product tester.
Why Trust Byrdie
Morgan Sullivan is a contributing Byrdie writer covering fashion, beauty, and wellness. She’s tested countless products—from viral hair tools to celeb-approved outerwear—so she knows what’s truly worth your money. With five years in the industry and a wardrobe (and skincare closet) to match, she brings hands-on experience and honest insight to every review.
