Which men’s lounge pants are best?
If you’ve been chilling at home a lot more these days, you’re probably not wearing jeans or slacks on the couch. Men’s lounge pants are an extensive category of casual wear for just hanging around the house and can include pajama bottoms, sweatpants, track pants, or shorts. Comfort is king when it comes to lounge pants for men. Before you buy a pair, read this buying guide that covers all you need to know about selecting the comfiest ones for you.
What to consider when choosing men’s lounge pants
Styles
- Shorts: Lounge shorts are great for warmer weather when full-length lounge pants are too warm. This versatile style can be used for sleeping and often for exercise as well. In general, lounge shorts are a cross between boxer shorts and athletic shorts.
- Pajama bottoms: Many men wear pajama bottoms as lounge pants. PJ bottoms are comfortable to chill and sleep in and feature a fly, which most lounge pants don’t. However, they’re the least versatile of lounge bottoms because they’re not designed for stepping out of the house or working out.
- Sweatpants: One of the most versatile lounge bottoms are sweatpants, which are characterized by their material, which is soft and fuzzy on the inside and smooth on the outside. They have elastic or drawstring hems. Thicker than other lounge pants, they can be used for exercise or sleep, but they’re not ideal for warm weather.
- Joggers: A cousin of sweatpants, joggers are distinguished by their ribbed ankle cuffs (sweatpants just have elasticized or open ankle hems). They have a more tapered, fitted look. Generally, they’re made of the same cotton-polyester materials as sweatpants, but some joggers are made from less casual materials and can pass for more formal pants if you need to run errands.
- Track pants: Some men prefer to hang out at home in track pants, which are made from polyester materials and are less breathable than pajama bottoms and sweats. They have a loose, open fit and are designed for athletic purposes.
Materials
Cotton and cotton blends are the most lightweight and breathable material. However, they may shrink in the wash. Polyester holds up well in the wash and doesn’t shrink but isn’t very breathable as a synthetic fiber. Flannel and fleece are soft and warm for colder seasons; however, these materials are prone to shrinking and deteriorating from repeated washing.
Men’s lounge pants features
Waistband
Elastic waistbands are extremely comfortable because the elastic stretches with your body and doesn’t cut into your waist. These flexible waistbands also are easy to pull on and off. The drawback is that elastic can deteriorate over time and lose its shape. Drawstring waistbands allow for an adjustable waist size, which is helpful if your weight fluctuates or if you want to layer under your pants. However, the string itself can slip out or get caught in the washing machine. Hybrid waistbands that combine elastic and drawstring options are also available.
Pockets
Some lounge pants feature side and/or back pockets. Be aware that these pockets are often more for style than function. Because lounge pants are made from lightweight materials, the pockets might not have enough structure to hold heavier objects like keys or your phone, which can weigh down your pants and cause unintentional sagging.
Price of men’s lounge pants
Expect to pay between $12 and $65 for a pair of lounge pants. Mid-range lounge pants made of quality material that holds up to repeated washing cost between $25 and $40.
Men’s lounge pants FAQ
What are “no-pill” materials that I see advertised by some manufacturers?
A. Pilling happens when the fibers of material pull away from the surface to form tiny balls of fluff that give an unwanted textured and grainy appearance. While pilling is inevitable for many fabrics, opting for a “no-pill” material may help slow the process.
What’s the best way to wash lounge pants?
A. Follow the care instructions on the tag. For cotton and cotton blends, wash in cold water and dry on low heat. Using a color-safe detergent and avoiding fabric softener is also recommended for all fabrics to prevent fading and deterioration.
Best lounge pants for men
Top men’s lounge pants
What you need to know: A 100% cotton pajama bottom that offers pockets and a relaxed fit.
What you’ll love: These are regular, classic-fit pajama bottoms. Over a dozen patterns are available. The waist is a hybrid drawstring-elastic, and the button fly is included.
What you should consider: The cotton material can shrink in the wash.
Top men’s lounge pants for the money
Hanes Men’s EcoSmart Open-Leg Fleece Pant with Pockets
What you need to know: You can get these classic sweatpants with a relaxed, open hem for under $20.
What you’ll love: They feature a drawstring and side pockets. They are comfortable, casual and lightweight.
What you should consider: These lounge pants run long, so check the inseam before buying.
Worth checking out
Polo Ralph Lauren Supreme Comfort Knit Sleep Shorts
What you need to know: A quality lounge short that’s cool and comfortable enough for sleeping.
What you’ll love: The cotton and modal blend is very soft. An elastic waistband with a drawstring front keeps a proper fit that lasts over time. The shorts feature deep pockets.
What you should consider: Seams may unravel sooner than expected. They’re also technically shorts rather than pants (though still great for lounging).
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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