What is the difference between joggers and sweatpants?

Joggers have a slimmer fit through the leg than most sweatpants do. And they have an ankle cuff, which only some pairs of sweatpants have. “They’re also pretty universally flattering on a lot of body types. The waistband, the way that they fit on the leg, and the gathering on the ankle—it looks pretty good on pretty much everybody,” Arteaga says.

Are joggers good for exercising?

Yes, joggers are good pants to wear while you exercise. Some even have unique design features that are made for working out: “Sometimes when it’s cold out, I like to wear the ones that go over my heels,” McKenzie says. “I like to train barefoot, so I find that they’re perfect because then I don’t have to wear socks, and my feet can stay warm.” Other pairs, like Libin’s Cargo Joggers, have multiple zippered pockets and are designed for outdoor exercises like hiking.

What size joggers should I wear?

Size ranges can vary by brand, and joggers are no exception. For the most part, your regular pant size should also be your size in joggers. But it also depends on personal preference—some people will order up or down a size to get the fit they like best. Many pairs also have an adjustable waistband, so you can adjust the fit after trying them on.

Is it better to size up or down in joggers?

It depends on what kind of fit and style you like. Some people may order up a size for a roomier, baggier fit or because they want to make sure their joggers will be ankle-length. Others may order a size down for a tighter fit or a cropped look.

Should women’s joggers be tight or loose?

“The classic jogger usually hits right at your belly button or below your belly button. And it should have a very relaxed leg and gather at the ankle,” Arteaga says. Some pairs may be slimmer than others, depending on the brand. But the leg should be loose to allow for movement and to make sure the pants don’t scrunch up when you sit down. As for the waistband, it should be tight enough so that it doesn’t slide down when you move. A drawstring can help you customize how a jogger’s waistband fits.

How long should joggers be?

Most joggers are designed to be ankle-length, but “classically, it looks better if it hits above the ankles,” Arteaga says. Some joggers are also cropped—those should hit about halfway down your calf, depending on how tall you are.

How much should joggers cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere between $20 and $150 for a high-quality pair of joggers. More expensive pants will likely be made with luxe materials, like Ralph Lauren’s Washable Cashmere Jogger Pant , and may also have more pockets. Cheaper pants may be made using thinner, less durable material—making them a decent choice for casual wear, but not as reliable if you plan to wear them while working out. The least expensive pair on our list, Amazon Essentials Women’s Studio Terry Relaxed-Fit Jogger Pant , is often available for under $15. And our top overall pick, Vuori’s Performance Joggers , was $98 when we published this list.

The 18 Best Joggers for Women of 2023

Slouchy, comfortable, and sometimes even compressive, joggers combine the best of what leggings and sweatpants have to offer. Most are made from lightweight, quick-drying fabric that can keep you cool, even during intense sweat sessions. And they can be worn just about anywhere—from low-impact yoga classes to high-impact runs and even to the office in some cases.

When shopping for the perfect pair of joggers, consider: “Is it good for me? Is it good for the planet? And is it something that will last, so I can keep it in my wardrobe?” Marisol Arteaga, fashion designer and founder of the brand Arteaga, says. In general, you should expect to pay between $20 and $175 for a high-quality pair (although some pairs on our list fall outside of this range). Some of our top brands include Vuori, Girlfriend Collective, Gymshark, Under Armour, and Everlane because they’re known for making stylish joggers using soft, breathable materials.

To find the best joggers on the market, we spoke with Arteaga and a certified personal trainer to learn which features every pair should have. Then, we researched dozens of pants from the most popular and trusted brands.

Based on our research, here are the best joggers for women.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Vuori Jogger at Nordstrom

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Amazon Essentials Studio Terry Jogger Pant at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:

Gymshark Training Performance Joggers at Gymshark.com

Jump to Review

Most Comfortable:

Sportiqe Daly Joggers at Sportiqe.com

Jump to Review

Best Size Range:

Girlfriend Collective ReSet Jogger at Girlfriend.com

Jump to Review

Best Compression:

Old Navy PowerSoft Joggers at Gap.com

Jump to Review

Best on Amazon:

THE GYM PEOPLE Joggers at Amazon

Jump to Review

Most Stylish:

Everlane Easy Jogger at Everlane.com

Jump to Review

Best Cotton:

Tentree Pacific Jogger at Tentree.com

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

Ralph Lauren Washable Cashmere Jogger at Ralphlauren.com

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.8

Nordstrom

Pros

Made with recycled materials
Shorter inseam
Wide range of colors

Cons

May pill over time

With a classic silhouette, four-way stretch, and 15 soft, heathered colors to choose from, Vuori’s Performance Jogger is our top overall pick. These pants are comfortable, moisture-wicking, and made with recycled polyester. A 25-inch inseam means they’ll look effortlessly cropped on taller wearers and perfectly full-length on shorter wearers.

Lightweight enough to wear during almost any workout, from Pilates to rowing machines, these joggers can also insulate in cold gyms or studios. The waistband is mid-rise and features stretchy elastic, plus a drawcord that makes it easy to get the right fit. And we love that you can stash your phone and keys in the two front pockets. However, some wearers have found that Vuori’s joggers pill over time.

Price at time of publication: $94

Amazon

Pros

Breathable
Dyed drawstring
Wide range of colors

Cons

Not machine washable
May run large

This pair of joggers from Amazon is our top pick for budget-friendly pants that are casual but still polished. The terry fabric is breathable and doesn’t have a thick lining, so you won’t overheat while you work out. And they’re available in 16 bright colors, so you can find a pair that fits your style.

A thick cuff keeps these joggers in place while you lift, squat, stretch, and even while strengthening your core during a not-so-easy session on a balance board, and we love that the drawstring is dyed to match each pair. But it’s worth noting that Amazon recommends hand-washing these joggers only. Some wearers also find that they run large, so you may want to order one size down from your usual.

Price at time of publication: $13-$35

Gymshark

Pros

Sleek silhouette
Deep pockets
Free returns

Cons

No drawstring
Only comes in one color

If you prefer a barely-there feel, we recommend these silky, ultra-thin Training Performance Joggers from Gymshark. Deep front pockets can hold your phone, wallet, hair ties, and more. And although they only come in black, they’re a great basic that you can easily add to your regular athleisure rotation, just make sure you pair it with the right workout underwear.

While we like these joggers’ sleek and modern design, they don’t have a drawstring—instead, the waistband only has elastic in certain places. This means it may be more difficult to get the right fit. But if you do order the wrong size, Gymshark offers free returns, so swapping for another pair is simple.

Price at time of publication: $54

Sportique

Pros

Lined with soft fleece
Unisex fit
Thick fabric

Cons

May pill over time

The Daly Joggers from Sportiqe are thick and soft, making them our top pick for the most comfortable pair on the market. With a loose, unisex fit, they’re easy to adjust using the thick drawstring in the elastic waist. Available in five neutral colors, this pair can take you from tackling reps to running on your favorite trails.

These joggers come in sizes ranging from small to 3XL, so finding the right fit is easy. And they’re machine washable, so you can throw them in the wash after a particularly sweaty session. They’re also a favorite of Noelle McKenzie, ACE-certified personal trainer and co-founder of Leading Edge Personal Trainers—she loves the fit and material. However, some wearers have noticed that the fabric pills over time, especially between the thighs.

Price at time of publication: $68

What the Experts Say

“It’s soft, it’s really warm and cozy. I feel like it’s loose, but not too loose—I don’t really like super baggy clothes. It has just the right amount of give. It’s easy to put on, so I always wear these when I’m going to take my kids to swim class because I can just throw them on quickly.” —Noelle McKenzie, ACE-certified personal trainer, and co-founder of Leading Edge Personal Trainers

Girlfriend Collective

Pros

Moisture-wicking
Made with recycled materials
Matching top available

Cons

Thin cuffs and waistband

Offered in sizes XXS-6XL, Girlfriend Collective’s ReSet Jogger has one of the widest size ranges on the market. Ideal for warmups, these thin, cozy joggers are made from jersey material that gets its softness in part from recycled plastic bottles. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying, they’re ideal for throwing on over shorts or for hopping on the treadmill.

While we love these joggers’ lightweight feel, they have a thinner waistband and cuffs than others on our list. For those who prefer a snug, secure fit, the ReSet may not be supportive or compressive enough.

If you’re a fan of Girlfriend Collective’s jewel-toned color palette and luxe fabrics, there’s a matching ReSet hoodie available that completes the set. And when you’re ready to move on, you can send it all back to the company to be recycled through their ReGirlfriend program.

Price at time of publication: $78

Old Navy

Pros

Thick, silky fabric
Wide size range
Machine washable

Cons

Fit may be too tight for some

Love the way joggers fit but don’t want to give up the compression of your favorite leggings? The PowerSoft joggers from Old Navy are our top pick for pants that have both. An elastic, high-rise waistband offers plenty of support, while a reflective logo on the back helps you stay safe while exercising outdoors at night.

They’re soft and opaque enough to stay squat-proof, plus they’re machine washable for easy care. Two deep pockets and a size range that includes tall and petite options make these versatile enough for everything from cardio to barre. But since the PowerSoft joggers have light compression, they have a tighter, slimmer fit than other pairs on our list.

Price at time of publication: $40

Amazon

Pros

Budget-friendly
Thick, durable fabric
Wide range of colors and patterns

Cons

Limited size range
May show underwear lines

Amazon boasts an impressive, sometimes intimidating collection of joggers—but these from The Gym People are our top pick. The stretchy, durable material is thick enough to support you through your weightlifting routine, although some wearers note that it may show underwear lines.

The wide waistband and cuffs keep these joggers in place, no matter what’s on your schedule. We love that they’re budget-friendly and available in over 15 colors and patterns, so stocking up is simple. However, they’re only offered in sizes XS-XL.

Price at time of publication: $29-$32

Everlane

Pros

Made from twill for a polished look
Cuffs have snap button closure

Cons

Only comes in two colors

We recommend Everlane’s The Easy Jogger for bottoms that can seamlessly transition from the gym to the office, making it the perfect addition to your quick workouts on your treadmill desk. Made from lightweight twill, these cotton joggers look stylish without sacrificing comfort. We love that the cuffs can close with a snap—a modern detail that gives you two ways to wear them.

A drawstring in the waist lets you customize the fit, while the legs are wide and roomy enough to remain breathable. They’re only available in two neutral colors, but they’re an ideal basic for busy people running from the studio to just about anywhere. At this price point, you may want to pick up more than one pair.

Price at time of publication: $68

Tentree

Pros

Durable
Five pockets
Pocket designed for your phone

Cons

May not have enough stretch for some

If you’re searching for the best cotton joggers, we recommend this pair from Tentree. Durable pants that come in a range of beautiful, neutral colors, the Pacific Joggers have five pockets to hold all of your essentials: Two in the front, two in the back, and a fifth on the thigh that’s specifically designed to fit your phone.

While the mid-rise waistband features elastic and a drawstring, the cuffs only have elastic in the back. It’s also worth noting that these are made with two-way stretch fabric, and some people may prefer a pair that moves with them more. But we like that the inseam varies depending on the size for the right fit.

Price at time of publication: $88

Ralph Lauren

Pros

Soft, cashmere fabric
Machine washable

Cons

Only comes in one color

While they are expensive, this pair of cashmere joggers is our pick for a pair of pants that are worth the splurge. This pair from Ralph Lauren is as soft as you’d expect—without the upkeep of constant trips to the dry cleaners since they’re machine washable.

Ribbed cuffs and two front pockets add to the slouchy jogger silhouette for a pant that’s comfortable and upscale. Although we love the easy wear and care these joggers have to offer, they only come in black. Choose from sizes between XXS-XXL, and use the drawstring waist to help customize the fit.

Price at time of publication: $245

Pros

Quick-drying
Four-way stretch
Thick, ribbed cuffs

Cons

Pockets may not be secure

Lightweight and moisture-wicking, these UA Vanish Joggers are our top pick for a pair that will keep you cool and dry. The material is thin and airy but not see-through. Four-way stretch means they’re comfortable enough to wear whether you’re lifting weights or squeezing in some cardio. And we like the thick, ribbed cuffs, which will stay in place as you move.

We like the elastic waistband, which has a durable drawstring. However, some wearers noticed that the two front pockets aren’t very deep, meaning items may fall out of them during intense exercise.

Price at time of publication: $55

Lululemon

Pros

Wide range of sizes and colors
Three pockets
Machine washable

Cons

Expensive
May run small

For fans of Lululemon Align leggings, these Align High-Rise Joggers have many of the same features in a more relaxed fit pant that’s ideal for yoga. Three pockets, including an interior card sleeve, offer plenty of space for your phone and keys. Like other high-quality Lululemon leggings made from the brand’s signature Nulu fabric, these pants are silky soft to the touch, and durable enough to withstand dozens of sun salutations.

Since these jloggers are machine washable, you can confidently toss them in the laundry pile after your workout. Choose from 12 modern colors in sizes ranging from 0 to 20—but note that they may run small. While these pants are more expensive than most others on our list, their durability and chic design make them a solid investment.

Price at time of publication: $120-$148

Amazon

Pros

UPF 50+
Five pockets
Water-resistant

Cons

May run small

Made from ultra-thin, lightweight fabric, these Libin Cargo Joggers are our top pick for pants that can brave the outdoors. They have five pockets—three with zippers and two with Velcro closures—to securely stash all of your essentials. And they’re water-resistant, so you can walk, run, or hike rugged trails with ease.

We love that this pair features UPF 50+ protection, which shields your skin from UV light and radiation. And they come in over 10 colors, so you can find a pair (or two) that match the rest of your wardrobe. But some wearers have found that they run small, so consider ordering a size up to prevent them from bunching up when you sit down.

Price at time of publication: $33-$34

Athleta

Pros

Zippered pockets
Will not wrinkle
Thick, mid-rise waistband and cuffs

Cons

May run large

Joggers for travel should be stylish, durable, and, most of all, comfortable, like this pair from Athleta. Deep front pockets and zippered back pockets can hold your phone, wallet, ID, and passport. And a thick, mid-rise waistband offers a secure fit, while wide cuffs keep these pants in place no matter what leg of the journey you’re on.

Wearers like that the fabric doesn’t wrinkle—a feature we love, too, since that makes them easy to pack in a suitcase. The Venice Jogger is available in a wide range of sizes, including tall and petite options. But some wearers say they run large, so you might want to order a size down.

Price at time of publication: $98

Lululemon

Pros

Zippered pockets
Four-way stretch

Cons

Expensive

We recommend Lululemon’s Engineered Warmth Jogger because they’re built for exercising in cold temperatures. Specifically designed for the outdoors, they have a merino wool blend exterior with a thick texture that’s ideal for locking in warmth. And even though they’re heavier than other joggers on our list, they’re made of four-way stretch fabric, so they’ll move with you.

Zippered pockets help keep your belongings safe, while thick ankle cuffs make it easy to tuck these pants into winter boots or your favorite shoes to walk on ice, for example. While they’re more expensive than other pairs on our list, we think these rugged joggers are well worth it.

Price at time of publication: $168

L.L. Bean

Pros

Four pockets
Lightweight
Mid-rise waistband

Cons

Limited size range

Available in not just petite but also regular and plus sizes, L.L.Bean’s Ultrasoft Sweats Jogger is our top pick for anyone with a smaller frame. The 27-inch inseam (in petite sizes) and mid-rise waistband will flatter short wearers. And soft cotton fabric makes these comfortable enough to take you from the gym to running errands.

Four function-first pockets offer plenty of storage. We like that they’re lightweight enough to work out in but also cozy enough to wear all day long. However, they’re only available in sizes XS-XL.

Price at time of publication: $60

Gap

Pros

Durable
Soft material
Wide range of colors

Cons

Limited size range
No drawstring

Gap’s silky soft High Rise Vintage Joggers are our top pick for tall wearers. Also available in regular and petite sizes, these pants are made from a blend of cotton and recycled polyester that’s both cozy and durable. Wearers note that they hold up well after repeated washes and also that the fit is loose and ankle-length, even on long legs.

While the size range is limited, these joggers come in neutral, bright, and even neon colors. With a thin waistband and ankle cuffs, they’re casual enough for lounging but still modern and stylish. Note that these don’t have a drawstring, though, so the fit can’t be adjusted.

Price at time of publication: $50-$60

Spanx

Pros

Four-way stretch
Machine washable
Wide size range

Cons

Expensive
No drawstring

If you’re searching for a pair of joggers that can do it all, we recommend these from Spanx. They have a slim fit that’s flattering across body types, complete with adjustable ankle cuffs and gentle, hidden core shaping. Four-way stretch fabric makes these office-ready pants effortlessly comfortable. And we like that they’re slightly slouchy, without being too baggy.

Machine washable for easy care, Spanx’s The Perfect Pant Jogger can be dressed up or down. They are more expensive than other pants on our list, but their functionality makes them a solid investment.

Price at time of publication: $148

How We Selected the Best Joggers for Women

First, we spoke with Marisol Arteaga, a fashion designer and founder of the brand Arteaga, and Noelle McKenzie, an ACE-certified personal trainer and co-founder of Leading Edge Personal Trainers, for their expert advice on which features every pair of joggers should have. They helped us choose pants based on material, fit, and comfort.

Then, we researched joggers from dozens of the most popular and trusted brands. We prioritized price, style, versatility, rise, stretch, and more.

What to Look For in Joggers for Women

Materials

The materials your joggers are made from can have a huge impact on how you wear and care for them. “The most important factors for me are comfort, style, that I don’t have to worry about them shrinking when I put them in the dryer, and durability,” McKenzie says.

Consider what type of exercise you’ll be doing while wearing your joggers—if you tend to sweat or do high-impact activities, opt for lighter materials like Spandex, nylon, or Lycra. For low-impact activities or running errands, a cozier polyester or cotton jogger might be better. Wool and cashmere are other options if you’re looking for warmth, although they’re usually more expensive. “They tend to cost more, but they do a lot for you,” Arteaga says. “They’re more sustainable, and they just feel better.”

Care instructions will also vary depending on the fabric. Some joggers, like Amazon Essentials’ Studio Terry Relaxed-Fit Jogger Pant, are hand-wash only because they’re made from thinner terry fabric. Others, like Sportiqe’s Daly Jogger, are made from thick, soft, machine-washable polyester.

Stretch

If you plan on wearing your joggers to the gym, you’ll want a pair that moves with you. Stretchy joggers are more breathable and comfortable to wear, especially during activities like yoga or weight training. Many pairs, like Under Armour’s UA Vanish Joggers, have four-way stretch fabric that can stand up to stretching and pulling. Some, like Tentree’s Pacific Jogger, only have two-way stretch, which makes them better for walking.

Thickness

While most joggers are made with lightweight materials, they come in different degrees of thickness. Some are thin to promote airflow, but this means your underwear lines may be visible underneath. Others, like Lululemon’s Engineered Warmth Jogger, are designed with layers of warm fabric to keep heat in. Make sure to choose a jogger that has the right thickness, so you don’t catch a chill or overheat while you work out.

Rise

Rise refers to the measurement between the crotch seam and the waistband. Generally, there are three types of rise: low, medium, and high. (Some brands also offer an extra-high rise.) Most joggers are high-waisted, with a thick, wide waistband that will ideally sit at the smallest part of your waist. This provides a more supportive feel, especially during high-impact workouts.

Comfort

You’ll never wear a pair of joggers if they aren’t comfortable. “That’s always an important test for every garment—not just if it’s in style, but if it makes you feel good,” Arteaga says. Look for a pair with a waistband and level of compression that feels right to you (not so tight you can’t breathe, but not so loose that they’re falling off of your waist). Search for quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics that feel good against your skin. And pockets are always a plus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between joggers and sweatpants?

Joggers have a slimmer fit through the leg than most sweatpants do. And they have an ankle cuff, which only some pairs of sweatpants have. “They’re also pretty universally flattering on a lot of body types. The waistband, the way that they fit on the leg, and the gathering on the ankle—it looks pretty good on pretty much everybody,” Arteaga says.
Are joggers good for exercising?

Yes, joggers are good pants to wear while you exercise. Some even have unique design features that are made for working out: “Sometimes when it’s cold out, I like to wear the ones that go over my heels,” McKenzie says. “I like to train barefoot, so I find that they’re perfect because then I don’t have to wear socks, and my feet can stay warm.” Other pairs, like Libin’s Cargo Joggers, have multiple zippered pockets and are designed for outdoor exercises like hiking.
What size joggers should I wear?

Size ranges can vary by brand, and joggers are no exception. For the most part, your regular pant size should also be your size in joggers. But it also depends on personal preference—some people will order up or down a size to get the fit they like best. Many pairs also have an adjustable waistband, so you can adjust the fit after trying them on.
Is it better to size up or down in joggers?

It depends on what kind of fit and style you like. Some people may order up a size for a roomier, baggier fit or because they want to make sure their joggers will be ankle-length. Others may order a size down for a tighter fit or a cropped look.
Should women’s joggers be tight or loose?

“The classic jogger usually hits right at your belly button or below your belly button. And it should have a very relaxed leg and gather at the ankle,” Arteaga says. Some pairs may be slimmer than others, depending on the brand. But the leg should be loose to allow for movement and to make sure the pants don’t scrunch up when you sit down. As for the waistband, it should be tight enough so that it doesn’t slide down when you move. A drawstring can help you customize how a jogger’s waistband fits.
How long should joggers be?

Most joggers are designed to be ankle-length, but “classically, it looks better if it hits above the ankles,” Arteaga says. Some joggers are also cropped—those should hit about halfway down your calf, depending on how tall you are.
How much should joggers cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere between $20 and $150 for a high-quality pair of joggers. More expensive pants will likely be made with luxe materials, like Ralph Lauren’s Washable Cashmere Jogger Pant, and may also have more pockets. Cheaper pants may be made using thinner, less durable material—making them a decent choice for casual wear, but not as reliable if you plan to wear them while working out. The least expensive pair on our list, Amazon Essentials Women’s Studio Terry Relaxed-Fit Jogger Pant, is often available for under $15. And our top overall pick, Vuori’s Performance Joggers, was $98 when we published this list.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness writer, she's passionate about finding products that are of great value and make life easier. She wears her favorite joggers, whether she’s running errands or trying a new yoga class.

After Testing Dozens of Pairs, These Are the 12 Best Leggings on Amazon

Best Overall

Vuori Performance Jogger

Best Budget

Amazon Essentials Women’s Studio Terry Relaxed-Fit Jogger Pant

Best Lightweight

Gymshark Training Performance Joggers

Most Comfortable

Sportiqe Daly Joggers

What the Experts Say

Best Size Range

Girlfriend Collective ReSet Jogger

Best Compression

Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8-Length Joggers

Best on Amazon

THE GYM PEOPLE Women’s Joggers

Most Stylish

Everlane The Easy Jogger

Best Cotton

Tentree Pacific Jogger

Best Splurge

Ralph Lauren Washable Cashmere Jogger Pant

Best Sweat-Wicking

Under Armour Vanish Joggers

Best for Yoga

lululemon Align High-Rise Jogger

Best for Outdoors

Libin Women's Cargo Joggers Lightweight Quick Dry Hiking Pants

Best for Travel

Athleta Venice Jogger

Best for Cold Weather

lululemon Engineered Warmth Jogger

Best Petite

L.L.Bean Women’s Ultrasoft Sweats Drawstring Jogger

Best Tall

Gap High Rise Vintage Soft Joggers

Most Versatile

Spanx The Perfect Pant Jogger