Joggers: The Modern Man’s Alternative to Real Pants

Joggers are the glorified sweatpants of our times, and are now widely available from a variety of retailers. The question is – should you pick up a pair? It depends.

Wearing them with an over washed t-shirt and the worn out sneakers you semi-regularly go running in, you’ll look like you’re headed to your 8am Psych final, and not looking good doing it.  Amping up on the details though, and what we can presume to be comfortable pants, can look more like stylish weekend wear instead of jammies.

Also: This Season’s Best Eyewear

Where’s the line? First off, they have to fit. The definition of joggers is a fitted waist, baggier legroom, and a cinched ankle. These are not meant to be your over-sized sweats you sleep in, so buy them in the size that fits, not the one that makes them hit below your hips and not at your waist. 

Secondly, pick your material appropriately. For instance, grey fleece – you can buy ’em, but will likely keep ‘em on the shelf for anything other than watching football on the couch. Tailored twill on the other hand, in a suite of rich colors (khaki, forest green, navy and black all work), make the style public, out-of-the-apartment appropriate.

And thirdly, pair smartly. Simple works, but again – over-sized doesn’t. Try a plain fitted tee. Interested in upping the style ante? Layer. Take that plain tee, plus a collared button down, and add on a light sweater or even a fitted suit jacket. For the finishing touch, the reality is that while the pant can be versatile, the shoes which can be partnered with them really aren’t. Any kind of dress shoe is never going to work, and all flip flops should be destroyed regardless. Sneakers are not your enemy. Sneakers are your friend. 

Ready to take the plunge? Here are our picks for the best joggers presently on the market.