The 14 Best Sweatpants to Lounge and Live in, According to Experts

"Turns out Kim Kardashian knows how to make a damn good pair of sweatpants," says Fashion Features Editor Emma Childs. "These best-selling cozy sweats have been all over Instagram, but they also work IRL. And I know that from personal experience: I wore these gray bottoms on a recent flight and was as laidback and cozy as can be—which is no easy feat for me, considering all aspects of traveling give my already anxious brain even more things to stress about. But these cotton-wool blend bottoms soothed my brain and ensured I had a restful flight." 

File this wide-leg style under 'sweatpants that look like real pants.' Made of a soft double-knit cotton fabric, Everlane's The Dream Pant is just as comfy as any other style on this list, but thanks to the silhouette, they're 100 percent office-appropriate. One enthused customer writes, "these are my go-to pants when I want to be comfy at the office—like jammie level comfy—but still look super put together. I also love the thickness of the fabric," they add," [as it] feels like they'll last a long time."

"This pair of sweats might just be the softest item I own," Gabrielle Ulubay, E-Commerce Writer postures. "These joggers are lined with fleece for optimal comfort and softness that truly feels cloud-like. However, they're also lightweight enough to keep my legs from overheating." The shopping guru adds that these fleece-lined joggers are perfect for a coordinating athleisure style moment: "I anticipate absolutely living in these all winter and have already picked up the matching fleece hoodie to complete my cozy look."

Universal Standard's Martin says one of his all-time favorites is the Hathaway Jogger. "These I love because of the weight of the fabric. The lighter terry means you'll never overheat in them—so zero excuses ever to take them off!" And with over 150 reviews and an average rating of five out of five stars, they're clearly a universally beloved pair, too. "The Hathaway jogger is simply the best," writes one Universal Standard reviewer. "The length is long enough, the waistband doesn't curl, and the fabric is sleek enough to be out and about in the real world."

"Bury me in these sweatpants. (Is this legally binding? I hope so.)," Jenny Hollander, Director of Content Strategy, enthuses. "I invested in a pair of Aviator Nation sweatpants during COVID-19 lockdown after I heard other editors say they were living in theirs, and what do you know—now I live in mine. These soft sweats have a worn-in feel that only gets better as they age—mine are three years old and going strong—and the embroidered rainbow pattern is a cute touch. Two notes: They don't have pockets, in case you need pockets with your favorite sweats; and they run small, so size up (I wear a M, though I'm usually a S)."

If you want heavy-duty thermal bottoms, you turn to Uniqlo and its industry-renowned HEATTECH gear. These roomy sweatpants are lined with the brand's signature heat-trapping material, so rest assured, your legs will be freeze-proof all winter long in this pair. "I have purchased these in just about every color," writes one Uniqlo reviewer, adding that these are the "best pants for Chicago winter," which is quite the cold-weather seal of approval. "They are so warm and comfortable, and unlike other lined pants, they don't leave you sweaty," they add.

"Sweatpants may not seem like the most luxurious fashion buy, but once you find a good pair, they can be life-changing," says Marie Claire Editorial Fellow, Brooke Knappenberger. "This is that pair for me! These joggers from Gergana Ivanova are next-level comfy—I immediately want to curl up on my couch with a good book when I'm wearing them. I especially love how they have three pockets and are made from recycled fabrics and biodegradable cotton. Plus, the quality feels so top-notch, I don't mind stepping out of my apartment in them, especially when I throw on the matching hoodie and a leather jacket."

Pretty much everything Alo makes is softer than soft, including these rib-knit joggers. Go for the matching hoodie, and congratulations—you've found your new favorite work-from-home (and, let's be honest, weekend) outfit. "These are the most comfortable pants I've purchased in a long time," writes a Bloomingdale's customer. "I have the matching top as well. The ribbed fabric is super soft and gives a little more texture, [making the sweat set] nice enough to wear around the house or outside in public."

"Quality, eco-friendly loungewear does not always have to come with a heavy price tag," says Tanya Benedicto Klich, Senior Editor of Money & Career. "Noize is known for outerwear that is also vegan and cruelty-free, as well as loungewear pieces that are made of both cotton and recycled polyester. Take, for instance, its Reese Long Length Joggers, which have a midrise and adjustable drawstring waist that leaves room for both comfort and style." Plus, these easy-to-wear joggers are on sale for 40 percent off—add them to your cart STAT before they inevitably sell out.

These sherpa-lined sweatpants will become the hero piece of your winter wardrobe—perhaps even ranking higher than your all-terrain snow boots. Take it from Jenny Hollander, Marie Claire's director of content strategy: "I bought these super-soft sherpa-lined joggers for winter days and nights spent walking the dog, and let me tell you—it's like walking in a cloud. They're thick and heavy, so they're definitely joggers that you'll put away for spring and summer, but come winter, they'll be the only sweats you wear."

Not even the fanciest person in the world can resist oh-so-soft cashmere sweatpants. These luxe Quince joggers are practically made for curling up and living your best Nancy Meyers life—even if you’re in a studio apartment. They're one of the affordable cashmere brand's best-sellers, too, with almost 1,000 reviews and an average 4.8 reviews to prove it. "These joggers are such an outstanding quality, and they are super comfy," writes a Quince customer. "They’ve quickly become my favorite 'Happy Pants!'"

Tanya Benedicto Klich, Marie Claire's resident enthusiast of cozy wares also loves this pair of sweats. "If you want sweatpants that deliver warmth for those wintry power walks or something to layer over yoga pants, turn to Sweaty Betty for its fleece joggers," she says. "This female-founded and led brand focuses on performance and sporty style. These sweatpants are structured like trousers with a high-rise waist and discreet side pockets. Although its navy blue and black options clock in at $118, its plum red is currently on sale for $47."

"Ok, I know what you're thinking. At just $13, how can these be considered "the best?" I promise you will be pleasantly surprised with this Amazon pick," assures  Brooke Knappenberger. "I purchased these one winter when I needed another layer to throw on for my daily walk to the gym, and they did not disappoint. They are warm enough to work as a winter layer without being too sweltering, plus they come with pockets and a drawstring waist for easy adjustment. I especially love the Men's option as they are not too form-fitting. If you need a quick, throw-on type of pants, these are not a bad option."

"I get lost watching dance choreography videos on YouTube," admits E-Commerce Editor Julia Marzovilla," and I often notice that dancers practice in baggy sweats and crop tops. While I can't dance to save my life, I can steal their style! I got myself a pair of these baggy sweats on Amazon to hang out in while I watch other people dance." The market editor isn't alone in her love for this pair; These roomy sweatpants boast almost 11,500 reviews with an average rating of four out of five stars. Not too shabby at all.