The 13 Best Workout Pants for Men, According to the Guys in Our Lives

Name: Tracksmith Bislett Pants
Brand: Tracksmith
Price: 198 USD

for running, golf, hiit and everything in between

By Abby Hepworth

•

Published Jan 12, 2024

Additional reporting by

Olivia Dubyak

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.

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When trying to start up (or maintain) a workout routine, it helps to have the right gear. If you already have a favorite pair of workout pants then you’re more likely to feel prepped and ready to hit the track or gym or yoga studio. So why not set your guy up for success in the same way you would yourself? We polled guys of all fitness levels to learn what they deem to be the best workout pants for men, whether he’s hoping to break his 5k PR, improve his balance and stability or simply wants to get in some extra reps with a barbell. Read on for the top 13 picks that earned the PureWow seal of approval.

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The Best Workout Pants for Men at a Glance

Best Overall

lululemon ABC Jogger

Buy It ($128)

Most Versatile

Rhone Versatility Pants

Buy It (~~$118;~~ $71)

Best for Running

lululemon Surge Jogger

Buy It ($118)

Most Comfortable

Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger

Buy It ($98)

Best for Golf

G/Fore Tour Pants

Buy it ($165)

How We Chose the Best Workout Pants for Men

To determine the best workout pants for men, we reached out to guys of all fitness levels to hear what they had to say. But, of course, we didn’t just take their word for it—we also combed through hundreds of reviews, watched video reviews and read up on the brands that make each of the 13 pairs listed below. So you can feel confident that these picks will get the job done, no matter what type of exercise he prefers.

lululemon

Best Overall

1. lululemon ABC Jogger

What We Like

select colors go up to size 5XL
three inseam lengths available
machine washable and dryer safe

What We Don’t Like

may be too short for taller frames

lululemon

This specific lululemon jogger was recommended by almost all of the men we polled, and based on the tapered fit and quick-drying, stretchy and sweat-wicking material, we’re inclined to agree. “My husband is obsessed with these joggers (he has multiple pairs),” says PureWow’s associate design director Victoria Parrotta. “He wears them to the gym but also casual events.” The tapered fit is flattering, but still allows for full range of motion so he can get those squats in without need to readjust after every set. The material is also sweat wicking, sweat-resistant, durable and totally opaque.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to 4XL
Length: 28, 30 and 32 inches
Material: 52 percent recycled polyester, 48 percent Elastomultiester
Activities: gym, HIIT, everyday wear

Buy It ($128)

Rhone

Most Versatile

2. Rhone Versatility Pants

What We Like

built-in UPF 50+
lightweight material
adjustable waistband

What We Don’t Like

not dryer safe
limited color options

Rhone

It says it right there in the name, these versatile workout pants can be worn for just about anything—from HIIT gym sessions to long runs to yoga. They even look good enough to wear around town on rest days. PureWow CEO Ryan Harwood is a fan of Rhone for exactly that reason. The lightweight material has four-way stretch to move with him through any workout and the waistband has a hidden adjustable drawcord. The fabric also has built-in UPF 50+ (for added sun protection) and Goldfusion anti-odor technology to prevent bacteria build-up over time. As for storage, there is one smaller pocket in back and two side pockets, one of which has a secret secure compartment just the right size for a phone.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to XXL
Length: 29 inches
Material: nylon/spandex blend
Activities: gym, running, hiking, HIIT, yoga, golf

Buy It (~~$118;~~ $71)

lululemon

Best for Running

3. lululemon Surge Jogger

What We Like

three inseam lengths available
partially made of recycled materials
four-way stretch

What We Don’t Like

only one secured pocket

lululemon

These stretchy pants are designed for running, and according to commerce editor Olivia Dubyak’s husband, they’re an absolute must-have. “They’re super breathable, and on colder days outdoors I throw on a pair of dri-fit tights underneath for extra warmth,” he says. The ankles each have a zipper so he can pull them on or off without taking off his sneakers, and the slimmer fit eliminates excess fabric for less bunching. As for pockets, there are two open side pockets and one secured back pocket for his keys or ID. They also come with reflective details built-in for added safety when running on sidewalks or roads.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to 5XL
Length: 27, 29 and 31 inches
Material: 79 percent recycled nylon, 21 percent lycra elastane
Activities: running

Buy It ($118)

Vuori

Most Comfortable

4. Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger

What We Like

machine washable and dryer safe
material is super soft
adjustable drawstring waist

What We Don’t Like

frequently sell out
may be too short for taller frames

Vuori

Senior editor of branded content and Royally Obsessed co-host Roberta Fiorito as well as executive managing editor Catrina Yohay both have partners who rave about these joggers. “He says they’re comfy, but that’s the only feedback I’ve gotten besides seeing him wearing them every day,” Fiorito jokes. The technical knit fabric is made for movement, and the relaxed fit and stretchy material makes them a great pick for both working out and hanging out. And the streamlined fit with a tapered ankle means less bulk (which in turns means less bunching or friction) as he runs. There is also an adjustable drawstring waist, plus two zippered pockets, one on the thigh and one in back.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to XXL
Length: 28 inches
Material: 88 percent polyester, 12 percent elastane
Activities: running, gym, everyday wear

Buy It ($98)

G/Fore

Best for Golf

5. G/Fore Tour Pants

What We Like

five pockets
four-way stretch
machine washable and dryer safe

What We Don’t Like

high price point
reportedly run a little small

G/Fore

Golf pants need to be sleek, stretchy and able to hold up in any kind of weather, and this G/Fore style excels in all three categories. The material has four-way stretch to move with him through his full swing and not get bunched up when he squats to set a tee. But it also looks sturdy and chic, with anti-wrinkle technology built right in. There are also five pockets offering plenty of storage, and reviewers note that even when all the pockets are in use, the pants don’t feel tight or uncomfortable. Some reviewers did find that these run a bit small in the thighs, so if your guy has particularly muscular legs, he may prefer to go up one from his usual size.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: US 30 to 42
Length: 30, 32 or 34 inches
Material: 100 percent polyester
Activities: golf, everyday wear

Buy it ($165)

ALO

Best for Yoga

6. ALO Co-Op Pants

What We Like

machine washable and dryer safe
water repellant
zippered side pockets

What We Don’t Like

high price point
few color options

ALO

For the yoga obsessed, we highly recommend these lightweight joggers. The ribbed hems and waistband have a secure fit that won’t ride up or down as he moves, but that also won’t pinch or feel too tight. The material is also water repellant, a major bonus for staying comfortable while sweating up a storm during hot yoga sessions. The side pockets can be secured with zippers if he prefers to keep his belongs on him during his flow, and the seams throughout are strategically placed to minimize chafing. “Super soft and well cut. The fabric flows with your movements,” raves one reviewer.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: S to 2XL
Length: 31 inches
Material: not listed
Activities: yoga, Pilates

Buy it ($138)

PrAna

Best for Climbing

7. PrAna Stretch Zion Straight Pants

What We Like

built-in UPF sun protection
adjustable waistband
adjustable hem

What We Don’t Like

some reviewers reported issues with the button

PrAna

For the climber, backpacker and boulder enthusiasts, these PrAna pants come highly recommended by outdoorsmen of varying levels. The material is reportedly super durable—a must when you spend your afternoon scraping up against rock—and has built-in UPF sun protection in addition to being water repellant. There are also snaps at the hem so he can adjust the length to fit right where he needs it, and there are multiple zippered pockets to hold all the essentials. “These are the best pants I have ever worn,” writes one long-time fan. “When they were discontinued for the new model (different material), I was forced to try several other brands, but there’s just no comparison. When I saw the original Stretch Zion was available again I couldn’t get an order in fast enough! So happy!!”

FAST FACTS

Size Range: US 28 to 42
Length: 30, 32 or 34 inches
Material: 97 percent nylon, 3 percent elastane
Activities: hiking, climbing, bouldering, outdoor activities

Buy it ($95)

Under Armour

Best Base Layer for Hot Weather

8. Under Armour HeatGear Leggings

What We Like

lots of color options
two inseam lengths available
dryer safe

What We Don’t Like

waistband is not adjustable

Under Armour

These tights are great for runners and gym goers who like full coverage and compression, with no risk of overheating. They’re made with UA’s proprietary HeatGear fabric, which wicks away excess moisture and is super-breathable to keep him feeling cool and comfortable, even on the hottest summer days. They also layer well under shorts or thicker pants if he wants some extra coverage or on cooler days. There is a sleek side pocket for stowing his phone, and a wide waistband. Because they are designed as compression pants, they are very fitted, but reviewers still suggest they run true to size.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to 4XL
Length: 28 or 30 inches
Material: 79 percent polyester, 21 percent elastane
Activities: running, gym

Buy It ($35)

Tracksmith

Best Base Layer for Cold Weather

9. Tracksmith Turnover Tights

What We Like

available both lined or unlined
durable material

What We Don’t Like

high price point
not dryer safe

Tracksmith

These cozy leggings are ideal for cold-weather runs, winter hikes and even under snow pants while skiing or snowboarding. The Inverno Blend material from which they’re made has a super-soft, slick outer face to best help his legs glide past one another while running, and a brushed inner face that’s incredibly soft for maximum comfort. “They may be a bit pricy,” admits Thomas Slattery, a professional marathoner, “but these Tracksmith leggings are just so good. They’re brushed on the inside, almost like fleece, but they still dry fast and don’t feel heavy or too thick.” There’s also a zippered pocket at the back of the waistband large enough to hold most cellphones and it’s perfectly placed to reduce bouncing.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to XXL
Length: not listed
Material: 80 percent nylon, 20 percent elastane
Activities: running, hiking, skiing, snowboarding

Buy it (from $128)

On Cloud

Best Top Layer

10. On Cloud Track Pants

What We Like

machine washable
adjustable ankle drawcord
four-way stretch material

What We Don’t Like

not dryer safe
limited color options

On Cloud

According to senior food editor Katherine Gillen’s husband, these pants are great for running, hiking and other outdoor activities. But the real boon of these pants is the fact that they easily layer over tights or shorts, making them ideal for cold-weather activities or for wearing during his warm-up routine. The ankles have a drawcord to cinch for a jogger-like fit that can keep out gusts of wind, and there is a zipper from the ankle all the way up to the knee so he can slip this pants on and off without taking off his sneakers. There’s also a small back pocket for his keys, and two zippered front pockets for other small essentials, like his phone. (P.S. You can also score last year’s version, in multiple colors, on sale for just $70, down from $130.)

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to XXL
Material: 100 percent polyester
Activities: running, hiking, gym

Buy It ($130)

Under Armour

Best Sweatpants

11. Under Armour Vital Woven Pants

What We Like

under $50
two inseam lengths available
zippers at the ankles

What We Don’t Like

few color options

Under Armour

Whether he’s on the hunt for a cozy layer to wear over his gym shorts while warming up, or if he simply prefers working out in a classic sweatpant, this UA pair is sure to check all of his boxes. There are hidden zippers on the ankles to make it easier to pull these pants on or off over his sneakers, and the material is lightweight, so he won’t feel bogged down by too much fabric. Per one reviewer who owns a whopping eight different pairs, “I play outdoor pickleball in the spring, summer and fall and needed additional sun protection. I wear the light gray pants with a UPF 50 long-sleeve shirt and it does the job. The mesh lining is great.” These pants are also wind-resistant and reportedly very durable.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to 4XL
Length: 32 or 34 inches
Material: 100 percent polyester
Activities: gym, basketball, running, everyday wear

Buy It ($40)

Nike

Best Fleece Pants

12. Nike Dri-FIT Fleece Pants

What We Like

two inseam lengths available
adjustable hems
made partially from recycled materials

What We Don’t Like

may be too warm for indoor workouts

Nike

These sweats are stylish and practical for indoor or outdoor workouts. “I like that the pockets are zippered, so when I wear these for my workouts I don’t have to worry about my card or phone slipping out,” says one reviewer. They’re also fleece-lined for extra warmth when working up a sweat outdoors, and come in both regular and tall lengths. There are drawcords on the hems so he can adjust the fit on the fly, and the ribbed material has a more elevated look than your classic smooth sweatpants.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to 4XL
Length: not listed
Material: 100 percent polyester
Activities: gym, basketball, running

Buy It ($90)

Tracksmith

Editors’ Pick

13. Tracksmith Bislett Pants

What We Like

good for cold weather
stirrups prevent riding up
water repellant

What We Don’t Like

not dryer safe
high price point

Tracksmith

PureWow editors truly can’t get enough of Tracksmith’s running gear, despite the sometimes high price point. And that includes this old-school sweatpant with highly technical materials that’s ideal for working out in cold weather. “The Tracksmith Bislett pants are the bomb for both fleecy comfort and stirrup-enabled staying in place,” raves senior editor Dana Dickey. “My boyfriend wears them when Nordic walking on brisk mornings—the fleecy lining is so cozy, which I know because I have a pair too.” Plus, there is a seven-inch-long zipper on each hem to make it incredibly easy to slip these on or off over sneakers, and the innovative material is water repellant to keep him dry and comfortable even in inclement weather.

FAST FACTS

Size Range: XS to XL
Length: not listed
Material: 63 percent nylon, 31 percent polyester, 6 percent elastane
Activities: warm ups, running, outdoor activities

Buy it ($198)

What Pants Are Best for Exercise?

Workout pants should be comfortable, breathable and flexible enough to move with your body. The material and style will vary based on the kind of workout—for example, a runner may opt for tr a ck pant or dri-fit tights to help with performance, while an avid weightlifter may want a stretchy, lightweight jogger with sweat-wicking capabilities.

What to Look for in Workout Pants for Men

Activity Specific Designs. As with most athletic gear, opting for something that was specifically designed for one activity—running, yoga, basketball, climbing, etc.—is likely to better fit your needs than a more general item. This is because the designers are honed in on the exact needs of, say, a runner, and can best address any pain points to ensure the pants work exactly as they’re intended.

Sweat-Wicking Materials. To prevent overheating and potential discomfort, it’s important to seek out workout clothing that’s made with sweat-wicking technology. A good workout pant won’t allow for any, ahem, swampy situations and should dry quickly, even after your sweatiest workouts.

Adjustable Fit. It’d be great if your pants fit perfectly right out of the box, but it’s much more likely you’ll need to do some adjusting to have them sit correctly on your frame. Look for workout pants with adjustable waistbands or drawcords on the hems so you can tweak the fit to your liking.

Abby Hepworth

Editor

Covers fashion, trends and all things running
Received certification as an RRCA run coach
Has worked in fashion for over a decade

read full bio

Olivia Dubyak

Commerce Editor

Covers commerce content, including personal and collaborative reviews and product roundups across beauty, home, fashion and family verticals
More than 5 years of professional experience in journalism
Studied journalism at Duquesne University

read full bio

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