Life is too short for uncomfortable trousers. Nobody wants to face the wrath of jeans in the gym or when relaxing at home. So, ditch the denim for a more comfortable alternative and improve your gym clothing selection with the best jogging bottoms.
Karl Lagerfield's famous quote that 'sweatpants are a sign of defeat' is a distant memory, as joggers have become the hero of casual gym clothes, alongside upper pieces like sweatshirts. These versatile bottoms provide a cosy fit with elasticated waistbands and tapered ankles, giving your legs freedom without compromising on a sleek appearance.
The best jogging bottoms, at a glance
• Best overall jogging bottoms for men: Gymshark Crest Joggers - View on Gymshark
• Best overall jogging bottoms for women: Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece Tracksuit Bottoms - View on Nike
• Best men's jogging bottoms for a loose fit: Nike Sportswear Club Fleece Men's Trousers - View on Nike
• Best women's wide-leg jogging bottoms: TALA Wide Leg Club Jogger - View on TALA
How to style jogging bottoms
Perhaps the easiest (and unisex) way to style jogging bottoms (and still look put together) is by acquiring the matching hoodie to the set. Say you've got a pair of grey joggers; a matching grey hoodie will transform your Netflix-binge look into cool, casual streetwear. Pair with a staple coat and a chunky scarf, and you've got a chic ensemble.
For women, another way to style jogging bottoms is with a good old white t-shirt. Everyone has one of these bad boys in their wardrobe, and by pulling on a crisp white t-shirt, you're automatically elevating the more casual bottoms. Add a chunky gym trainer and a soft jumper over your shoulders for a more polished look.
Finally, if you want to style jogging bottoms for the gym, you could wear a gym t-shirt (one made out of a breathable material), or a tank top. Usually, jogging bottoms aren't the usual go-to for the gym. Instead, it might be a pair of shorts or leggings, but if you prefer the full-length trouser feel for the gym, this might be your best option.
Whether you're a sprinting enthusiast or a professional couch potato (we don't judge), we've scoured the activewear universe to bring you the best jogging bottoms for both men and women.
SHOP: Our pick of the best jogging bottoms
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall jogging bottoms for men
uk.gymshark.com
It wouldn't be an article on the best jogging bottoms without starting with a classic pair of grey joggers. The tapered fit and elasticated cuff of these are as flattering as it is comfortable. You can wear them to the gym, but you can also wear them when lounging. The blend of cotton and polyester provides a cosy fit, while the drawcord waist cinches in for a snug fit.
Pros
- Brushed-back fabric for comfort
- Side pockets and popper button back pockets for added storage
- Great selection of colours available
Cons
- Some colours fade after extreme use
Best overall jogging bottoms for women
redirect.viglink.com
Although on the pricier side of things compared to others on our list, we think these Nike tracksuit bottoms are worth it. The high-waisted design not only adds a touch of retro flair but also promises a flattering fit that's as comfortable as it is stylish. The oversized silhouette adds an edge of cool, while the fleece fabric cocoons you in warmth.
Pros
- Oversized fit for a baggy, spacious feel
- High-rise waistband with drawcord for an adjustable fit
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- No zipped pockets
Best men's jogging bottoms for a loose fit
redirect.viglink.com
Emblazoned with the iconic Nike Swoosh, these jogging bottoms make a subtle declaration of your commitment to style (but also the gym). The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawcord ensures a customised fit and adds a little sporty touch. The great thing about this pair of jogging bottoms is that although they're fleece, they don't make you overheat, which is a massive bonus if you wear them in the gym.
Pros
- Brushed-back fleece fabric for a soft feel
- Elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord
- Not a skinny fit, but also not too oversized
Cons
- Some reviewers found the pockets don't hold things in them well
Best women's wide-leg jogging bottoms
www.wearetala.com
Step into comfort with a touch of retro charm with the TALA Wide Leg Club Joggers. The relaxed, wide-leg fit not only brings a more laid-back look but also offers a modern twist on classic loungewear. Made with sustainability in mind, TALA is a great athleisurewear brand to go to if you're a more environmentally-conscious fitness enthusiast. So, with that in mind, these jogging bottoms are crafted from 85% organic cotton and 15% recycled polyester.
Pros
- Wide leg with side slits
- Consciously made from 85% organic cotton
- Matching hoodie available
Cons
- The leg measures 31 inches, so these joggers would probably be too long for anyone under 5 foot 4 inches
Best men's jogging bottoms with zip pockets
www.adidas.co.uk
Made by the iconic sportswear brand Adidas, these joggers feature the timeless Trefoil logo, a symbol of authenticity and athletic heritage. These jogging bottoms are also made from more sustainably sourced cotton as part of an Adidas initiative called Better Cotton. The best part of the jogging bottoms are the zip pockets, which are hard to come by. This means you can keep your little essentials safe while working out.
Pros
- Zip pockets to keep essentials safe
- Embroidered Trefoil on the front
- The cotton in these tracksuit bottoms is sourced through Better Cotton
Cons
- Some sizes are often out of stock due to popularity
Best high-end women's jogging bottoms
redirect.viglink.com
Although the Alo Yoga Accolade Sweatpants may be on the more expensive side of things, the heavy French terry fleece does the talking. With a smooth feel on the outside and a fleecy feel on the inside, these joggers feature an elastic waistband and cuffs to give you that skin-like feeling. Another great thing about the Alo Yoga jogging bottoms is that they're unisex. So, if you prefer a less slouchy look, it might be a good idea to size down.
Pros
- Made from French Terry material that's smooth on the outside and fleecy on the inside
- Unisex style
- Matching hoodie and crew neck jumper are available
Cons
- Can be difficult to get hold of due to popularity
Best budget men's jogging bottoms
www.marksandspencer.com
Made to fit oversized, these M&S budget joggers feature a convenient elasticated waist with a simple drawstring and snug cuffs for added warmth. The soft brushed-back jersey material also provides a gentle touch on your skin. The only downside is these jogging bottoms are unlined, meaning if you're looking for a pair of joggers that are waterproof or thicker for the colder months, these might not be for you.
Pros
- Oversized fit
- Made from brushed-back jersey fabric that feels cosy against the skin
- Part of the Better Cotton sourced scheme
Cons
- Unlined, so might not be the best choice in the colder months
Best retro women's jogging bottoms
www.adidas.co.uk
It would be these if athletic elegance were a pair of jogging bottoms. The iconic Adidas three stripes along the sides add a sporty touch, while the elastic waist ensures a snug fit. Another great element of these joggers is that they contain a minimum of 70% recycled and renewable content, so you can feel great while looking great.
Pros
- Cool but practical retro design
- Contains a minimum of 70% recycled materials for the more environmentally-conscious fitness enthusiast
- Side pockets for your essentials
Cons
- Only available in one colourway
Best men's jogging bottoms for warmth
www.underarmour.co.uk
The Under Armour Men's Armour Fleece joggers are a great choice for individuals who exercise outside during winter. This is because UA's Armour Fleece is light, breathable and stretchy for warmth that still lets you move. Also, these jogging bottoms are engineered with a soft inner layer that traps heat so you stay cosy for the foreseeable. Unfortunately, these jogging bottoms only have open hand pockets, but they do have an encased elastic waistband for a secure fit.
Pros
- Armour Fleece is light, breathable and stretchy for warmth
- Soft inner layer traps heat
- Open hand pockets and right-side back pocket
Cons
- Some colours are out of stock
Best women's trendy jogging bottoms
adanola.com
If you're looking for a pair of on-trend jogging bottoms, these Adanola ones should be your go-to. Whether you're unwinding at home or stepping out for a leisurely stroll, these jogging bottoms are wardrobe essentials, embodying the perfect balance between fashion and comfort. Made with 100% organic cotton fleece-back, these joggers will have you reaching for them repeatedly.
Pros
- Hidden inside drawstring
- Great variety of colours to choose from
- 420GSM medium weight so you don't overheat
Cons
- The fit comes up quite oversized, which isn't for everyone
The best jogging bottoms: FAQs
What is the best material for jogging bottoms?
As you may have noticed, most jogging bottoms are made from two materials - a blend of cotton and polyester. This dynamic duo combines the breathability of cotton with the durability and moisture-wicking properties of polyester. The two materials result in a comfortable and versatile fabric that adapts well for various activities. Whether that be a leisurely stroll or a 10K run.
What is the best fit jogging bottoms for running?
Jogging bottoms may not be your first choice when you think of your running gear. It's probably leggings or shorts. Saying that, if you do like running in joggers or live in somewhere with a particularly cold climate where jogging bottoms are a must, there are benefits to wearing them for running. For a good fit, opt for a pair that fits you well without being overly tight. Look for designs with a tapered or slim design around the ankles to prevent any unwanted tripping hazards. For example, although we've included wide-leg jogging bottoms on our list, and for running, they may not be the best trouser option to wear compared to a more tapered jogger.
Ultimately, the best jogging bottoms should feel like a second skin. And they should allow you to focus on the rhythm of your run rather than readjusting your trousers.
Should you size up or down in joggers?
If you're looking for a laid-back look, one you can wear in your living room, sizing up will grant you that effortless oversized look. For workouts and going to the gym, sizing slightly down might offer a more tailored fit, meaning you won't have to worry about excess material flapping. It's a tricky task, deciding what size to opt for, but whichever you decide on, make sure you can move freely in them.
Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness Writer for What's The Best. From understanding nutrition to practising yoga and Pilates to delving into the psychology of motivation. She enjoys demystifying the latest fitness trends and staying on top of the dynamic health landscape, whether that's the best gym leggings, fitness trackers or the benefits of yoga.
When Gemma’s not writing, she can be found attending Pilates, yoga and Zumba classes. She’s also a bit of a home workout aficionado, constantly trying out new ways to keep her moving at home. Between writing, exercising and shopping, there’s nothing she loves more than hopping on a plane and exploring new cultures.
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