Joggers vs Track Pants: What’s the Difference?

Joggers vs Track Pants

Summary: Joggers and track pants both offer comfort and function, but serve different needs. Joggers feature a tapered fit, cuffed ankles, and cotton or fleece fabrics, making them stylish for everyday wear. Track pants, with their looser fit and lightweight, moisture-wicking materials, are designed for athletic performance. Choose joggers for athleisure style and track pants for workouts; both deserve a spot in your wardrobe for different occasions.

When it comes to comfy yet functional bottoms, joggers and track pants are two styles you’ll spot everywhere, from gym floors and airport looks to streetwear edits and everyday errands. 

But even though they may look similar, joggers and track pants are not the same. In fact, they serve different purposes and bring unique elements to your wardrobe.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether to choose joggers for women or opt for track pants, you’re not alone. The rise of athleisure has blurred the lines between fitness wear and fashion, making it harder to tell them apart.

Wondering what sets joggers apart from track pants? Let’s walk you through the key differences.

What Are Joggers?

A women doing yoga by wearing Joggers and Sports Bra

 

Joggers are a modern, tapered version of sweatpants that are designed to offer a sleek, sporty, and stylish look while still being ultra-comfortable. 

They're typically made of cotton blends, jersey, or fleece, and have become a fashion essential in the athleisure space.

Key Features of Joggers:

  • Tapered legs that narrow towards the ankle
  • Elastic or cuffed hems at the ankle
  • Drawstring waistband for adjustable fit
  • Often come with zippered or slant pockets
  • Designed for movement, style, and ease

Joggers started off as running pants, but their versatility has made them a wardrobe staple well beyond workouts.

You can wear joggers to brunch, on a flight, or even dress them up with a blazer and sneakers.

Fashion tip: Opt for a neutral-toned jogger in fleece or cotton to pair with everything from sports bras to oversized hoodies.

What Are Track Pants?

Track Pants for women

 

Track pants are traditionally performance-focused bottoms worn for training or athletic activities. 

They were originally designed for track and field athletes, hence the name. Made from synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, track pants prioritize breathability and quick-drying performance.

Key Features of Track Pants:

  • Made from lightweight, moisture-wicking materials
  • Usually have a looser, straight-leg fit
  • May include side stripes or piping for a sporty aesthetic
  • Features an elastic waistband, often without a drawstring
  • Sometimes have zippered ankles or ventilation panels for breathability

Track pants are ideal for actual workouts or warm-ups, especially when you want to stay cool and mobile.

They’re less about style and more about athletic function, though modern versions for women have gotten more trend-forward over time.

Style tip: Pair track pants for women with a racerback tank and lightweight sneakers for a true training-ready outfit.

Key Differences Between Joggers and Track Pants

Now that you know the basics, let’s compare joggers vs track pants side by side. While both offer comfort and mobility, their fabric, fit, styling, and use case are quite different.

Feature Joggers Track Pants
Fabric Cotton, fleece, jersey Polyester, nylon, synthetic blends
Fit Tapered, snug at the ankle Loose, straight-leg, or relaxed
Ankle Hem Elastic cuffs or ribbed hems Open hem or zippered ankle
Style Intent Athleisure, casual fashion Sportswear, training use
Pockets Often includes side pockets May or may not have pockets
Moisture-Wicking Not typically moisture-wicking Often designed to wick sweat
Best For Lounging, errands, casual wear Running, training, and warm-ups

How to Choose the Right One for Your Needs

Choosing between joggers and track pants comes down to your activity level, style preferences, and comfort needs.

Choose Joggers If:

  • You’re looking for stylish, everyday comfort.
  • You love a fitted, streamlined silhouette.
  • You want something that can transition from workout to errands.
  • You’re creating a layered athleisure look.
  • You want to feel cozy while still looking put together.

Try this: Joggers from amanté for women come in fleece-lined styles that feel luxe yet functional, perfect for travel, lounge days, or a walk in the park.

Choose Track Pants If:

  • You’re into high-intensity workouts or team sports.
  • You need lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric.
  • You prefer a looser fit for breathability and ease of movement.
  • You plan to wear them over gym tights or shorts for warm-ups.
  • You want something that’s easy to slip on post-gym or pre-workout.

Try this: Pair your track pants with a matching jacket or zip-up for a full-blown throwback track suit vibe that’s functional and fun.

Conclusion

At a glance, joggers and track pants might seem interchangeable, but once you dive into the details, they serve very different purposes.

Joggers are all about blending style with comfort. They’re fitted, fashionable, and can be dressed up or down.

Track pants, on the other hand, are made for movement and performance, ideal for running or warming up before a workout.

Both deserve a place in your wardrobe, just for different reasons. Whether you’re curating your off-duty style or searching for the right workout gear, knowing the difference between track pants vs joggers helps you make smarter (and more stylish) choices.

FAQ

Are track pants and joggers the same?

No, they’re different in both design and purpose. Joggers are usually made from cotton or fleece with a tapered, cuffed fit. Track pants are made from synthetic, performance-focused fabrics with a looser, straight-leg fit. Joggers are more about style and comfort, while track pants are geared toward athletic use.

Are track pants good for running?

Yes, track pants are excellent for running, especially in cool weather or for warm-ups. They’re made to be breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying, which makes them perfect for workouts or outdoor activities.

Which is better for gym workouts: Joggers or Track Pants?

It depends on your preference and the type of workout.

  • Track pants are better for cardio, running, and high-movement exercises because they’re built for breathability.
  • Joggers are great for weight training, yoga, or stretching, where you want more coverage and comfort without overheating.

 Check out our other blogs:

How to Choose Jogger Pants for Women for Home Workouts?

How to Style Joggers for Ladies and Funk It Up!

Yoga Pants vs Leggings: What Are the Key Differences?

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