The evolution of types of sweatpants has been nothing short of a wardrobe revolution—no longer just for laundry day! Track their journey from early gym days to trendy street style. Understanding this shift helps you connect with more consumers and boost product relevance.
Today’s choices feature performance designs for serious squats and stylish joggers. These joggers are perfect for coffee runs or brunch dates. There’s a style for every moment—and every mood.
As a sportswear manufacturer, matching these styles to audience needs lets you boost sell-through, strengthen brand loyalty, and drive higher-margin sales. Provide the right pair for every need. You’re not just selling sweatpants; you’re giving customers a boost in comfort and sales.
Table of Contents
Main 7 Types of Sweatpants
| Type | Materials | Customization Options |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Sweatpants | Cotton fleece, cotton-poly blends | Logo placement on hip/thigh, elastic waistband branding |
| Joggers | French terry, premium cotton blends, performance polyester | Multiple logo placements, contrast stitching, custom drawstrings |
| Athletic/Tech Sweatpants | Moisture-wicking polyester, spandex blends, performance fabrics | Sublimation printing, reflective details, mesh inserts |
| Track Pants | Polyester tricot, nylon, lightweight synthetics | Side stripe customization, snap buttons, zippered pockets |
| Fashion Sweatpants | Premium cotton blends, sustainable fabrics, specialty textiles | Custom washes, distressing, specialized hardware |
| Cargo Sweatpants | Cotton-canvas blends, ripstop fabrics, heavyweight cotton | Multiple pocket customizations, utility features, reinforced panels |
| Flared Sweatpants | Cotton-spandex blends, brushed fabrics | Custom waistband options, flare width customization, decorative elements |
1. Traditional Sweatpants
Traditional sweatpants are the ORIGINAL style of casual pants, designed to offer maximum comfort and function.
Key Features of Traditional Sweatpants:
- Soft and flexible fabric: These types of sweatpants were first made from jersey knit, starting with wool and later mostly cotton. They feel soft on your skin and stretch easily.
- Excellent moisture management: They wick away sweat fast, keeping you dry and chafe-free.
- Elastic waistband and cuffs: This secure fit keeps the pants in place during all kinds of physical activities.
- Durability: Designed to handle frequent washing and rough use without losing shape or comfort.
Practical Benefits for You
- You get pants built for comfort and freedom of movement, whether training, running errands, or just lounging.
- Their moisture-wicking ability means you stay comfortable longer during physical activity.
- The stretchy and durable nature makes them a reliable, long-lasting option.
- These sweatpants have a long history of trust. Athletes and everyday wearers both choose them. They’re a smart option for versatile clothing.
2. Joggers
Joggers are one of the most popular categories in the types of sweatpants, known for their lightweight and breathable design that balances comfort and style.
Types of Joggers You Can Choose
- Skinny Fit: Slim legs with fitted ankles create a sleek, trendy look perfect for casual occasions.
- Relaxed Fit: These offer a looser feel with adjustable waistbands, focusing on comfort.
- Cargo Joggers: These joggers have extra pockets and straps. They offer more functionality and a stylish, utilitarian vibe.
- Baggy Joggers: Wide from hip to ankle, great for lounging or laid-back days.
- High-Waisted Joggers: These sit higher on the waist for a flattering fit and a fashionable edge.
Why Joggers Work for You
- A popular choice for many, joggers suit a wide range of activities: from light workouts and running errands to travel and social events.
- The variety in fits means you can pick the style that best matches your body type and purpose, whether that’s slim for style or relaxed for comfort.
- Joggers are generally 20–40% lighter than classic sweatpants, thanks to their thinner, more breathable fabric. This makes them ideal when you want something less bulky but still cozy.
Market Trends and Value
- Interest in joggers is growing fast. Global reports show the jogger market grew by over 15% from 2021 to 2023.
- Big brands like Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon offer joggers ranging from $35 to $120 USD, depending on quality and materials.
- Joggers are especially popular with people aged 18 to 35. They’ve moved beyond just gym wear and are now a streetwear essential. Influencers and celebrities love them for easy “off-duty” outfits.
3. Athletic/Tech Sweatpants
Athletic and tech sweatpants combine advanced fabrics and smart design to give you comfort and performance, whether you’re at the gym or out running errands.
Performance Fabrics and Key Features
- These sweatpants are made with recycled polyester, elastane, and spandex. They stretch easily and keep their shape.
- Moisture-wicking fabric helps keep sweat away, so you stay dry even during intense workouts.
- Many styles feature hidden or zippered pockets to store your phone or keys securely.
Top Models to Consider
- Lululemon ABC Jogger ($128): Classic-tapered fit, four-way stretch, odor-resistant, and made from 52% recycled polyester. Comes in 10 colors with sizes XS to 3XL. A favorite for lasting freshness through heavy sweat sessions.
- Vuori Ponto Performance Pant ($98): Uses soft DreamKnit fabric with performance stretch, moisture-wicking, and a zippered thigh pocket. Great for yoga, basketball, and light workouts.
- Champion Sport Sweatpants (~$40): Lightweight with moisture-wicking fabric and side slits for extra movement. Perfect for workouts and casual wear.
- Athletic Works Knit Joggers (<$30): Relaxed fit with elastic waist and extended sizing, ideal for light to moderate activities.
- Layer 8 Tech Knit 2.0 Joggers ($35): Athletic fit using a cotton-polyester blend, medium weight, machine washable.
Fit and Size Options
- You’ll find different fits: classic-tapered, tailored, relaxed, and athletic. Each one meets unique needs and preferences.
- Sizes range broadly from XS to 5XL, with inseam lengths from 28” to 32”, accommodating many body types.
4. Track Pants
Track pants are a key player in the world of sportswear that has smoothly crossed over into everyday fashion.
Styles and Fits to Consider
- Classic Track Pants: These come with a looser fit and straight or slightly relaxed legs. If comfort and freedom of movement are your priority, especially for warm-ups or lounging, these are ideal.
- Tapered and Slim-Fit Track Pants: Narrowing at the ankle, these offer a modern look without sacrificing mobility. They work great for running and gym training, striking a balance between style and function.
- Straight-Leg Track Pants: These types of sweatpants have a consistent width down the leg. They offer casual comfort, perfect for streetwear or light activities.
Performance Features
- Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: These pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry even during intense workouts. A specialty that many Cambodia apparel manufacturers have perfected in their athletic wear lines.
- Lightweight Design: Reduced bulk means better mobility, which is essential for high-agility sports like running.
- Ankle Zippers: A smart feature that lets you put on or take off your pants without removing your shoes.
- Breathable Mesh Panels: These boost airflow, helping you stay cool in hot or humid conditions.
Expert Advice: For maximum customer appeal, consider offering track pants with reflective details or secure pockets. These small additions boost safety and practicality. They make this option great for workouts and city commutes.
Andy Wong, Garment manufacturer
5. Fashion Sweatpants
Fashion sweatpants have transformed the wardrobe by blending comfort and style like never before.
Popular Styles and Trends
- Jogger Sweatpants: These remain the top choice, with search interest hitting a peak in late 2024. Joggers fit well, offering a modern silhouette that works for running errands or casual meetups.
- Cargo Sweatpants: Combining fashion with function, cargo sweatpants come with practical utility pockets. They offer you a relaxed, streetwear-inspired look that’s both cool and useful.
- Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants: These lightweight, flowy pants are a hit with women. They’re great for warm weather and give a breezy, elegant style.
- Business-Casual Wide-Leg Trousers: These types of sweatpants blend comfort with a polished look. They’re perfect for work or hybrid settings.
Why Fashion Sweatpants Benefit You
- Focus on Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials and recycled fibers are a major priority. You get to wear sustainable fashion that’s kind to the planet without compromising on durability or style.
- Technology Enhancements: Moisture-wicking fabrics and other innovations ensure comfort. These sweatpants are ideal for extended wear in various climates.
- Strong Market Growth: The global demand for joggers and fashion sweatpants is booming, with a market expected to grow to $10.2 billion by 2035. This means more brands and styles for you to choose from.
- Customizable and Niche Options: Fresh brands offer unique designs and ways to customize. You can express your style with exclusive fashion sweatpants.
6. Cargo Sweatpants
Cargo sweatpants perfectly blend the comfort of sweatpants with the practicality of cargo pants, making them a versatile choice for many.
Key Features and Benefits
- Multiple Large Pockets: Typically, cargo sweatpants have 2 to 4 big patch pockets, but some styles can have up to 8. This helps you carry more without needing a bag—ideal for busy days or travel.
- Relaxed, Adjustable Fit: Most cargo sweatpants come with a loose, relaxed cut for easy movement. They often include elastic cuffs and drawstrings at the waist and ankles, allowing you to customize the fit for comfort or style.
- Durable Materials: Made from cotton blends or fleece, many also use lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics. You’ll enjoy sweatpants that are tough enough for outdoor activities and workouts. They also keep you comfortable.
- Versatility: Cargo sweatpants are great for any occasion. You can wear them at the gym or on casual city outings. Their style, utility, and comfort make them a perfect choice.
Popularity & Market Trends
- A 2023 survey showed over 35% of urban men aged 18-34 own cargo sweatpants, mainly for convenience and casual style.
- Online searches for cargo sweatpants grew by 80% from 2020 to 2023, reflecting their rising demand.
- Classic colors like black, gray, and olive green account for over half of cargo sweatpants sales in 2024. This shows a clear preference for timeless and practical shades.
7. Flared Sweatpants
Flared sweatpants combine style and comfort with a unique wide-leg silhouette that makes them stand out among different types of sweatpants.
Design and Comfort
- Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or blends make these sweatpants feel luxurious. Whether you’re running errands or relaxing at home, they’re perfect for any occasion.
- The elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring provide a great fit. This avoids the tightness of regular waistbands.
- Tailored cuts with precise seams show off your curves. They also allow for easy, unrestricted movement.
Functional Features
- Pockets provide practical storage for essentials like keys and phones, so you stay hands-free.
- Added details like ribbed cuffs and reinforced seams improve durability and style.
- Some versions feature moisture-wicking fabrics. This keeps you dry and comfortable during light exercise or busy days.
Conclusion
Understanding the full spectrum of types of sweatpants is key to unlocking new market opportunities. From the gym to the street, each style meets a specific consumer demand.
Navigating this landscape requires a manufacturing partner who understands these nuances. At LeelineApparel, we turn your vision for custom sportswear into reality. We help you create unique products that truly stand out.
Contact us for a free consultation and quote to create your next successful product line together.
FAQs About Types of Sweatpants
1. How can we ensure our designs are on-trend for the next season?
Work with a supplier that stays updated on fashion trends. They can help you choose popular colors, new fits like loose or tapered legs, and fabrics that customers are looking for.
2. What are the main compliance and testing standards for sweatpants?
Common tests include:
▪ Checking color fading after washing.
▪ Ensuring the material doesn’t shrink too much.
▪ Confirming that no harmful chemicals are in the fabric.
This is especially important for selling in Europe and North America.
3. Can you produce sweatpants with custom branding techniques?
You can choose from embroidery, printed labels, custom tags, and branded drawstrings or buttons. We can help you choose what best fits your brand style.