Joggers vs Tracksuit Bottoms vs Sweatpants: What Is the Difference?

People use these three words as if they mean the same thing. In the UK they overlap a lot, but there are real differences.

Joggers

Joggers are tapered trousers with a cuffed or elasticated ankle. They are usually softer and more fitted through the leg, and they were designed for running and light exercise. Today they are an everyday wardrobe staple.

Tracksuit bottoms

This is the British term for the trousers that match a tracksuit top. They can be cuffed or straight and are often made from smoother, lighter fabric than sweatpants. The look is sportier. See tracksuit history.

Sweatpants

Sweatpants are the thicker, softer, heavier option, made from sweatshirt style fabric. They are usually looser and often have a straight leg. In the UK many people say sweatpants and joggers to mean the same thing.

Which is best for what

Joggers suit errands, casual days and gym trips. Tracksuit bottoms suit a matching set. Sweatpants suit lounging and layering with a hoodie, and can also be styled smart. See how to style sweatpants smart.

The UK vs US wording

In the US sweatpants is the common word. In the UK, joggers and tracksuit bottoms are used more, which is also what people search for most.

How to choose

Look at the fabric weight, the leg shape and how it feels when you move. A heavier fabric weight feels more substantial, and a tapered leg looks sharper.

Quick answers

Are joggers the same as sweatpants?

Not exactly. Joggers are tapered and cuffed, sweatpants are looser and thicker.

Are tracksuit bottoms and joggers the same?

Often, but tracksuit bottoms usually match a top and have a lighter feel.

Which is more comfortable?

Sweatpants usually feel softest, joggers feel the most flexible.

Browse sweatpants and hoodies. 🖤