OF ALL the items in his closet, a good pair of men’s pants is the most important. It’s not because he’ll need a lot of them—many guys will wear some of the best pants for men until the crotch blows out or the knee rips through. They’re important because of how often they’re worn. The right pair of men’s pants is a frequent companion, a calling card, and an assistant. The wrong pair is a hindrance. Whether it’s a pair of jeans, khakis, workout pants, or even workwear pants, you’ll be spending a lot of time in them, relying on them to both endure and to make you look like you should.
The best men’s pants fall into categories. We’ve seen plenty, and we’ve assembled our favorites in each. Whether you’re looking for Japanese selvedge denim or high-tech joggers, we’ve got you covered. The hardest part is picking. Wearing them over the coming years is easy.
Read more: Best Clothing Brands for Men
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Sweatpants
The original athleticwear, for years this was as tech as guys would get. They hit heavy bags and drank raw eggs. Times may have moved on, but this piece elicits those old days that bred hard men.
Todd Snyder Midweight Slim Jogger Sweatpant
Menswear designer Snyder took inspiration from New York boxing gyms to overhaul the sleepy Champion brand, but even he couldn’t have imagined how popular the collaboration would get. The Slim Jogger Sweatpant follows a trim line that cuts the bulk out of the traditional cut, and the 18-ounce French terry fabric is so comfortable you’ll want to wear them out. Each season sees new colors, so you can buy a few and rotate them.
Vuori Clothing Ponto Performance Pant
Since launching in 2013, Vuori has been producing versatile pants that you can wear practically anywhere. Case in point: their bestselling performance pant, which features a modern cut and super soft DreamKnit fabric that’s perfect for working from home, or trekking to the airport.
American Giant Classic Sweatpant
No frills, just solid sweatpants: That’s how we’d describe American Giant’s Classic. Cut from thick cotton fleece, they’re generously apportioned and easy to wear, with a timeless look that spans a century.
Mack Weldon Ace Sweatpant
Basic, but in a good way, as in you’ll want to get a pair of these stylish sweatpants in basically every color. Their tailored fit with back-ribbed ankle cuffs and hidden zippered side pocket (perfect for stashing your small daily gear) means they check every box.
Read more: Best Sweatpants for Men
Joggers
At one point, joggers were supposedly for jogging. Now, they’re more athleisure: something you might work out in, but probably never do. They emote a sporty and youthful look, and they’re great for casual days, quick strolls to grab takeout and low-stakes errands.
Wilson Midway Travel Cargo Jogger
While the company may be better known for its tennis racquets and NBA game balls, Wilson’s new Sportswear line of activewear-straddling apparel is a breath of fresh air. The Midway is super light, flexible, and comfortable. It also has clean enough lines to fool onlookers when khakis are the uniform of the day.
Tommy John Luxe French Terry Jogger
Loungewear’s undisputed king has made huge inroads over the last few years as more men worked from home than ever before. Its joggers claim to dry four times faster and keep you seven degrees cooler than cotton, which we can neither confirm nor deny. But they are hella comfortable when enduring your third Zoom meeting in a row.
Public Rec All Day Every Day Jogger
The beauty of the best men’s joggers is that they don’t sacrifice style for comfort. Take Public Rec’s incredibly cozy All Day Every Day Jogger, which is made with a unique blend of nylon and spandex that feels like a second skin, and cut slim for a clean fit.
Richer Poorer Men’s Recycled Fleece Tapered Sweatpant
This lounge pant from Richer Poorer is made with a thick recycled fleece and ribbed cuffs to trap heat. Plus, they look leaner than your stay-at-home sweats, which means you can wear them out in public, too.
Read more: Best Travel Pants for Men
Workout Pants
Just because the summer is gone doesn’t mean you have to start gaining weight like a bear preparing to hibernate. Workout pants allow you to sweat outdoors in the colder weather, while their slim fit stays out of the way. Let is snow—you’ll be ready.
Under Armour UA Vital Woven Pants
For those who prefer bottoms with a looser fit for workouts, Under Armour’s Woven collection includes pants made from a sturdy but light ripstop fabric. The ankle zips add a nice old-school feel to exercise gear.
Brooks Running Source Tights
When it comes to wintertime runs, a pair of tights is essential, and while we feel they’re sufficient on their own, you can also slip them under your favorite shorts for more coverage. Even with their skintight fit, there are two deep side pockets for on-the-go essentials like a smartphone, ID, gloves, and anything else you might need.
Rhone Spar Jogger
Now 50% Off
So you run, CrossFit, play tennis, and more? Then the Guru pant is for you. This Swiss Army Knife of technical trousers is slim but not restrictive and includes hand pockets, a media pouch, and a drawcord to tailor its waistline before or after a holiday feast.
When On was founded in Switzerland, its goal was to transform running gear. The result? Flexible, water-repellent workout pants with UV protection and superb ventilation. Another plus? The unfixed zips and meshes that can be changed for year-round wear.
Read more: Best Men’s Compression Pants
Selvedge Denim
Cuts come in and out of vogue, but great denim is timeless. Every man should own one pair of selvedge denim, in a dark wash, purchased new and then worn until the wheels fall off. It will take weeks of uncomfortable sitting and odd creasing behind the knees. But like a butterfly wriggling out of its cocoon, on the other side of this will be the most comfortable pair of jeans you’ll ever own, since it’s worn in to your specific body. Don’t scrimp, since quality fabric and years of longevity shouldn’t come cheap.
Everlane The Selvedge Slim Fit Jean
Since 2010, Everlane has been producing quality denim that won’t break the bank, and these slim fit jeans are no exception. We love how stretchy and sturdy these pants feel, which means you’ll want to wear them all day, every day.
Buck Mason Japanese Selvedge Full Saddle Jean
Far from the most you can spend on a pair of jeans, Buck Mason’s Full Saddle has a price that’s both affordable and justifiable. The comfortable fit spans decades; the dark wash ensures incredible whiskering over its life. Rivets at stress points bolster durability.
Todd Snyder Slim Fit Lightweight Japanese Selvedge Jean in Indigo
This limited-edition selvedge jean is part of Todd Snyder’s exclusive Small Batch collection. With a slim-fit silhouette and all of the brand’s best features—a shank button fly, chain-stitched embroidery, and oxidized rivets—it’s easily a go-to favorite.
J. Crew Classic Relaxed-fit jean in Japanese Selvedge Denim
Crafted from 100% fine Japanese cotton denim, this selvedge jean is designed to let you choose where you want to jump into the denim break-in process. From dark to well-worn faded, and everything in between, it’s guaranteed to wear with you and only look better over time.
Read more: Best Jeans for Men
Heritage Denim
An American original, blue jeans were once thought of as a valuable Cold War weapon. They’ve become iconic through Springsteen and Dean, emblematic of movements, and blamed for both society’s ills and strengths. The picks in this list pay homage to the style’s history, with a direct tie-in for the guy who sees himself as a continuation of a legacy.
Levi’s Men’s 501 Original Fit Jeans
Now 30% Off
The original. From the company (and the man) who invented the blue jean, the 501 has graced the rears of some of the most iconic men in history, and yet it still looks as good today. A straight leg, zero stretch, and a button fly, these pay homage to the past while taking you into the future.
Calvin Klein Men’s Slim Straight Fit Sustainable Vintage Indigo Jeans
Now 35% Off
Mark Wahlberg embodied an era when he posed in his Calvins. The company does the ‘90s like no other, with classic stonewashes and slim, straight fits. Any guy with an eye toward sartorial history will give you a well-deserved nod.
Lee Men’s Legendary Regular Tapered Jean in Union Fade
Now 20% Off
Few denim brands have the history and heritage cache of Lee. The aptly named “legendary” jean features a regular tapered fit that just works. Plus, at less than $40, it’s hard to beat the price.
Levi’s Men’s 511 Slim Fit Jean
Now 70% Off
Like Lee, Levi’s has been a staple denim for longer than most of us have been alive. Its classic 511 Slim Fit Jean feels comfy and well-worn right off the rack, making it a perfect “daily driver.”
Read more: Pants Style Guide for Men
Flex Denim
Hey, we get it: Sometimes you just want a jean to move with you. So forget about committing weeks of discomfort to a pair of pants before they release; these three jeans are comfy from first wear. With flex enough to run a marathon (it’s been done), they’ll more than get you through a big lunch or a long day with no complaints.
Warp + Weft AMS – SLIM 30″
Some companies may dabble in stretch denim, but Warp and Weft has made it a life calling. Its fits are available in the broadest number of washes we’ve ever seen, while the feel of them is unmatched. They’ve also added some magic in the fabric to ensure that your pants don’t bag out over time.
Bonobos Premium Stretch Jean
Now 54% Off
Bonobos proves jeans can be ridiculously comfortable. Its Premium Stretch Jean looks great and feels even better, thanks to premium cotton blended with polyester and a dash of elastane for the perfect amount of give right where you need it.
Everlane The Relaxed 4-Way Stretch Organic Jean
Everlane’s take on flex denim includes The Relaxed 4-Way Stretch Organic Jean. It’s built to stretch and give in all the right places. Bonus: Organically farmed cotton and ultra-eco-friendly manufacturing make it a solidly green choice.
Mott & Bow Straight Staple Jeans
Designed to be your go-to everyday denim, Mott & Bow’s Straight Staple Jean features soft, medium-weight Italian denim with a solid amount of stretch that moves with you. Also available in Straight and Skinny.
Cargo Pants
The cargo pant was born out of necessity: military men needed somewhere to stow their gear. While they style may have since transitioned to civilian life, its function remains, while its style borrows on the wartime bravery of the past. More casual than khakis, they carry their own history (as well as all your stuff).
Read more: Best Cargo Pants for Men
Abercrombie & Fitch Loose Utility Cargo Pant
Now 15% Off
Form follows function with Abercrombie & Fitch’s Loose Utility Cargo Pant. It’s relaxed enough for a comfortable fit, but straight enough to keep all your pocketable essentials from jangling around.
Wrangler Authentics Men’s Relaxed Fit Stretch Cargo Pant
Wrangler is a go-to favorite of ours for practical, affordable menswear. This stretch cargo pant features a relaxed fit, a soft, mostly cotton construction, and a sub-$30 price tag. What’s not to love?
Alo Yoga Highline Cargo Sweatpant
Sweatpants or cargo pants? Why not both? Alo Yoga’s Highline Cargo Sweatpant features a buttery soft diagonal French terry so it already feels like your favorite sweats. But zippered pockets on either side add all the utility of a traditional cargo pant.
Banana Republic Heritage Cargo Pant
Now 73% Off
The most “old-meets-new” cargo on this list, it’s cut straight out of a washed organic cotton fabric that feels like it’s already got a few good stories to tell.
Khakis
In days past, it was hard to wow with khakis. They were a staple, and a boring one. Then makers incorporated flexible fabrics, brighter colors, and better fits. Suddenly, you can see yourself wearing khakis even if you didn’t have to. If you’ve been dragging your heels, they’re more affordable than ever before.
Read more: Best Men’s Pants for Spring
Lululemon ABC Classic-Fit Pant
Second to its underwear, the ABC Pant was, for many men, the gateway drug to the intoxicating world of Lululemon. An acronym for Anti Ball-Crushing, these synthetic, stretchy khakis feel like a sweatpant but look as put-together as a religious holiday. They’ve remained a favorite for business casual and golf outings for years.
Flint and Tinder 365 Pant – Straight
Flint and Tinder’s 365 Pant combines the cut and fit of your favorite jeans with the timeless style of a pair of chinos and the stretch of performance pants. Classic, casual, and comfortable.
Paige Lennox – Clean Khaki Twill
This slim pant from Paige is a step up from your ordinary denim that’s designed to be dressed up or down—your call. The midweight sateen fabric is ultra-soft with just the right give, so they’re comfortable enough for all day wear, no matter what you’re getting into.
Bonobos Stretch Weekday Warrior Dress Pants
Take the guesswork out of those lazy workday “What to wear?” decisions. Bonobos’ Stretch Weekday Warrior Dress Pant is the perfect daily driver with wrinkle-resistant, easy-care cotton that looks great any day of the week.
Chinos
One of the maxims in menswear is that chinos are really just beat-up khakis. The implication is clear: Your favorite chinos are less tidy, more comfortable, and a tick or two more relaxed than what you might wear in a buttoned-up office.
Read more: Best Chinos for Men
Ben Sherman Everyday Slim Fit Chino Pant
Now 50% Off
Ben Sherman’s upgraded take on its basic chino is anything but. The latest version blends nylon and performance cotton for a soft, comfortable fit. Plus, it’s available in five solid colors—all for just $60.
Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pant in Chino
Alex Mill’s take on the classic chino incorporates subtle pleats and a stretchy, midweight fabric for extra roominess and comfort. Plus it’s garment-dyed for a subtle, handsome color.
Goodthreads Men’s Slim-Fit Washed Comfort Stretch Chino Pant
Goodthreads proves you needn’t spend north of $100 on a good pair of chinos. This slim-fit washed comfort stretch pant is versatile enough for any casual or dressed-up occasion.
Charles Tyrwhitt Ultimate Non-Iron Chino
Now 30% Off
Getting ready in the morning shouldn’t be a chore. This non-iron chino pant from Charles Tyrwhitt is guaranteed to always look its best, even with minimal care. Just wash, wear, and be on your way.
Work Pants
Every guy needs a pair of pants reserved for dirty jobs. Maybe you’re rebuilding a transmission; maybe you’re just changing your oil or completing home improvement projects. Regardless of your expertise, a pair of work pants will save your nice pants for the night out.
Read more: Best Work Pants for Men
Carhartt Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit Canvas Work Pant
Now 10% Off
Carhartt’s been synonymous with reliable workwear that lasts a lifetime. Take this canvas work pant, which is made with wrinkle-resistant, triple-stitched fabric for extra durability, and reinforced slash pockets to store your EDC.
Dickies Men’s Loose Fit Double Knee Twill Work Pant
A classic for a reason, Dickies are both super affordable and have a classic silhouette that’s become very, very popular among skateboarders. They’re wrinkle- and stain-resistant, durable, and a popular in the trades for 60 years.
Wolverine Men’s Steelhead Stretch Pant
This work pant is designed to be damn-near-bulletproof. It features eight pockets, wide, boot-friendly leg openings, and just the right amount of stretch throughout.
Wrangler Riggs Workwear Ranger Work Pant
Now 36% Off
This Wrangler work pant features a durable, 10-ounce cotton construction that’s built to last. A gusseted crotch, reinforced design, and plenty of pockets add versatility and utility for any jobsite.
Deputy Editor, Commerce
As Men’s Health’s Deputy Editor, Commerce, Christian Gollayan oversees all shopping content on menshealth.com. He relocated back to New York by way of Portland, where he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian’s work has also been featured in InStyle, Food & Wine, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He’s kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South Africa, and survived a near-miss great white shark attack in Mexico. His travel advice has appeared on the websites for Forbes, Travel + Leisure, CNET, and National Geographic. He loves the great outdoors and good bourbon, and (usually) calls Tulsa, Oklahoma home. Mike also enjoys speaking in the third person.
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