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Whether you have plans for brunch, are lounging on your couch, or lacing up with your favorite sneakers to hit the gym, a solid pair of joggers may just be your new best friend. Not to be confused with sweatpants, joggers offer a more streamlined look that falls somewhere in the middle of a legging and sweatpants silhouette. The best joggers for women strike a unique balance of comfort, style, and function. The crowning attraction? They can be worn for almost any occasion.
With the growing popularity of athleisure wear, joggers are a staple for any woman's athletic wardrobe. From the material used to the length, function, and cost, there are endless options to choose from. Not sure where to start? That’s where we can help. We have compiled a list of the very best joggers for women along with a complete guide on what to look for when searching for your next pair.
The Best Joggers - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Joggers for Women: Lululemon Scuba High-Rise Jogger
- Best Joggers for Short Women: Lululemon Ready to Rulu High-Rise Cropped Jogger
- Best Joggers for Tall Women: adidas Adicolor Essentials Fleece Joggers
- Best Joggers for Women for Hiking: LIT Beryl Colorblock Loose Joggers
- Best Joggers for Women for Travel: NB Essentials French Terry Sweatpant
- Best Budget Joggers for Women: Leggings Depot Women's Activewear Flex Jogger
- Most Stylish Joggers for Women: Barbell Contour Jogger
- Best Lightweight Joggers for Women: MPG Pursuit High-Rise PinTuck 26” Jogger
- Best High-Waisted Joggers for Women: Dragon Fit Joggers for Women With Pockets
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
Best Overall Joggers for Women - Lululemon Scuba High-Rise Jogger
SPECS
- Size options: 0-20
- Material: Rib, 97% cotton, 5% elastane; body, 70% cotton, 30% polyester; pockets, 95% cotton, 5% elastane
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Full length
- Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low
Described by some users as "life-changing pants," the Scuba High-Rise Jogger hit one out of the park for Lululemon. These joggers combine function, style, and comfort in a pair of pants that can be worn virtually anywhere. Featuring a front pocket with interior card sleeve and a drawcord that can be kept out or hidden on the inside for a flat-waisted look, the Scuba High-Rise Jogger is designed to move with you while maintaining its shape.
The Scuba High-Rise Jogger is available in sizes 0-20 and in 12 different colors and patterns. The popular colors and sizes do sell out quickly, but, with the variety offered, there is likely a pair for you. Reviews report that these joggers run small and recommend sizing up as they may shrink in the wash. Additionally, the inseam may seem short if you are over 5 feet, 9 inches. If that is the case, take a look at our best joggers for tall women selection.
What We Like
- High rise
- Drawstring cord
- Streamlined silhouette
- Interior card holder on pockets
What We Don't Like
- Not suited for tall women
- May shrink in the wash
- Expensive
BUY: Lululemon Scuba High-Rise Jogger
Best Joggers for Short Women - Lululemon Ready to Rulu High-Rise Cropped Jogger
SPECS
- Size options: 0-20
- Material: Body, 92% recycled nylon, 8% lycra elastane; pockets, 100% polyester
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Cropped
- Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low
It’s hard to go wrong with any pair of Lulu joggers, but the Ready to Rulu High-Rise Cropped Jogger is a particularly great pair for shorter women. They are warm yet lightweight and have added Lycra fiber for a four-way stretch and shape retention, making them a good choice to wear in and out of the gym.
The Rulu High-Rise Cropped, as the name alludes, has a cropped length that will hit shorter women at that ideal spot above the ankle. By the same token, they will likely fall too short on taller individuals. The drawcord can be worn in or inside the waistband, creating a smooth waist and overall tapered look. Use the two front pockets with interior card sleeves to carry around essentials on your next outing.
What We Like
- Good length for shorter women
- Lightweight material but warm
- 4-way stretch
- Pockets
What We Don't Like
- Reports of the material pilling
- May not work for taller women
- Expensive
BUY: Lululemon Ready to Rulu High-Rise Cropped Jogger
Best Joggers for Tall Women - adidas Adicolor Essential Fleece Joggers
SPECS
- Size options: XS-XL
- Material: 70% cotton, 30% recycled polyester fleece
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Full length and runs long
- Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, do not dry
Adidas' Essential Fleece Joggers are designed with some extra drape/material in the leg that, while not always appreciated on a jogger, allows taller women to wear them in a way that creates a streamlined look typically seen on joggers. The vast majority of reviews rave over the Essential Fleece Joggers comfort level and, as an added bonus, they are environmentally friendly, made with sustainable cotton and recycled polyester fleece.
These adidas joggers feature side pockets, elastic cuffs, and a drawcord on an elastic waist. They are available in nine vibrant colors and in sizes XS-XL. There are some reports of pilling after washing, but if you follow the care instructions, it shouldn't be a concern.
What We Like
- Cozy fleece
- Friendly to the environment
- Good length for taller women
- Affordable
What We Don't Like
- Runs big
- May pill
BUY: adidas Adicolor Essentials Fleece Joggers
Best Joggers for Women for Hiking - LIT Beryl Colorblock Loose Joggers
SPECS
- Size options: S-L
- Material: 100% polyester
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Full length
- Care: Wash at 104 degrees with like colors, tumble dry low
When you are heading out for a hike and unsure of how to dress for the weather, the LIT Beryl Colorblock Loose Joggers are a wise choice. Made with heavyweight material, these joggers are heat resistant but will keep you warm on cooler days. As you warm up on your next hike, simply unzip them to reveal a mesh lining, allowing for airflow and maximum breathability. The cinched elastic cuffs will also keep your legs in place and prevent unwanted visitors from crawling up them.
The LIT Beryl Colorblock Loose Jogger features a baggy fit with a color block, retro-chic design that moves with you. But, when tackling trails with lots of underbrush, these do have the potential to catch. There are two side pockets as well as two color block design options. Because of the looser fit, these joggers do run big.
What We Like
- Trendy look
- Inner mesh
- Warm material
- Elastic cuff
What We Don't Like
- Not great for tough terrain
- Expensive
- Limited size options
BUY: LIT Beryl Colorblock Loose Joggers
Best Joggers for Women for Travel - NB Essentials French Terry Sweatpants
SPECS
- Size options: XS-3X
- Material: 60% cotton, 40% polyester
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Full length
- Care: N/A
When you are traveling, comfort takes top priority. This is why NB Essentials French Terry Sweatpants take the win as our best joggers for travel. Made with French Terry fleece and a drawstring waist, these joggers are designed with a high-rise ribbed waistband made for maximum comfort while moving. These joggers are available in light gray, navy blue, and black.
The Essentials French Terry pants feature two side hand pockets, ribbed hem cuffs, and the New Balance stacked logo on the thigh. So whether you are traveling by car, boat, train, or plane, these pants will keep you looking and feeling good.
What We Like
- Cozy
- Ribbed waistband and cuff
- Color and size options
- Affordable
What We Don't Like
- Sizing may run small
- May fade after wash, so follow care instructions
BUY: NB Essentials French Terry Sweatpants
Best Budget Joggers for Women - Leggings Depot Women's Activewear Flex Jogger
SPECS
- Size options: S-3X
- Material: 84% polyester, 16% spandex
- Number of pockets: 3
- Length: Full length
- Care: Wash with like colors, tumble dry low
With over 92,000 positive reviews and the praise of several TikTok influencers behind it, the Leggings Depot Women's Activewear Flex Jogger is a high-quality jogger at a price that is almost too good to be true. For less than $17.00, the ActiveFlex Jogger is designed for both everyday wear and the gym, available in a seriously impressive number of colors, and is described by many users as the most comfortable and versatile joggers you will ever own.
Featuring a high waistband, these budget joggers offer enough compression to keep your pants in place while still feeling like a second skin. The Flex joggers are made with a blend of polyester and spandex that feels cool and sleek on the inside, is moisture-wicking, and is held together with interlock stitching to prevent chafing. There are three pockets on these pants—two on the sides and one hidden in the waistband to hold small valuable items. Some reviews recommend sizing up for a looser fit.
What We Like
- Variety of colors
- 30-day satisfaction guarantee
- Wallet-friendly
- Comfortable
- Versatile
What We Don't Like
- May run small
BUY: Leggings Depot Women's Activewear Flex Jogger
Most Stylish Joggers for Women - Barbell Contour Jogger
SPECS
- Size options: XS-L
- Material: 90% polyester, 10% spandex
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Full length
- Care: N/A
Versatile, comfortable, functional, and super-stylish, the Barbell Contour Jogger can be worn lounging around the house, out to lunch, or at the gym. Featuring Barbell's signature Flektek stretchy fabric and a high-rise waistband, reviewers appreciate the tailored athletic fit that looks and feels good. Two side pockets are just big enough to carry some small valuables.
The Contour joggers are available in five colors, all of which are reported to be as pictured on the website. There are a few reviews stating that the waistband fits tight, but the predominant theme among most reviews is the comfortability and fashion-friendly appearance.
What We Like
- Streamlined fit
- Comfortable
- Versatile
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Waistband may feel tight
Best Lightweight Joggers for Women - MPG Pursuit High-Rise PinTuck 26” Jogger
SPECS
- Size options: XS-XL
- Weight: Lightweight
- Material: 82% recycled polyester, 18% spandex
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: 26”
- Care: Wash cold, hang dry
If you are looking for a lightweight jogger with a stylish flare, the MPG Pursuit High-Rise PinTuck 26-inch Jogger may be for you. Made with a blend of recycled polyester and spandex, these pants are breathable, stretchy, and designed with style and performance in mind.
The MPG joggers feature a pin-tuck detail in the front and a cinchable elasticated waistband that provides a comfortable, snug fit. There are two side pockets as well to securely hold smaller items.
What We Like
- Pin-tuck design
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Snug but comfy
What We Don't Like
- Only 2 colors
- May be short on taller women
BUY: MPG Pursuit High-Rise PinTuck 26” Jogger
Best High-Waisted Joggers for Women - Dragon Fit Joggers for Women With Pockets
SPECS
- Size options: XS-XL
- Material: 80% polyamide, 20% spandex
- Number of pockets: 2
- Length: Full length
- Care: N/A
High-waisted, breathable, and stylish, the Dragon Fit Joggers for Women are a value purchase. Found on Amazon for less than $32, these joggers have received over 12,000 positive reviews praising their comfortability, high-waisted flattering silhouette, and price tag. Available in more than 14 styles, the Dragon FIt High-Waisted Joggers are both fashionable and practical.
They feature two side pockets, a breathable fabric, and a skin-friendly/low-friction soft feel, making them a solid choice for both in and out of the gym wear. The crotch area reportedly hangs a bit low, and the overall fit runs a tad large. It is recommended to size down for a more tapered look.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Tapered leg
- Affordable
- 14 colors
What We Don't Like
- Crotch area hangs low
- Runs big
BUY: Dragon Fit Joggers for Women With Pockets
What to Look for in Joggers for Women
When you are on the hunt for a pair of joggers, you first need to determine how and where you plan to wear them. From there, you will want to consider a few fundamental features.
Structure
Joggers are designed to have a streamlined look that is tighter than sweatpants but not as tight as leggings. To get this look, you want your joggers to have some structure but to also enable a good range of motion without being too stretchy. Joggers are meant to be comfortable; if they are too constricting, you likely won't find yourself reaching for them.
Fit
A good-fitting pair of joggers will have a tapered fit from top to bottom ending right above the ankle. You want them to hit at a place where you can still see some sock or skin between the leg of the jogger and your shoe.
Material
This is where it is important to know how and where you plan to wear your joggers. A thicker material is great for hikes on cooler days but not ideal if you want to use them in a sweaty workout session. Consider the thickness of the material when narrowing down your choices based on the intended use.
Rise
This is a matter of preference as some styles offer a higher rise than others. Generally speaking, joggers should hit at or above the waist.
FAQs About Joggers for Women
What is the difference between sweatpants and joggers?
The main differences between sweatpants and joggers are the weight of the material used and the fit. Generally, joggers are made of a lighter material and provide a tapered fit. Conversely, sweatpants usually have a thicker material and looser fit.
Are joggers supposed to be loose or tight?
Joggers are typically snug but not tight. The fit falls somewhere between that of leggings and sweatpants. The level of snugness is a matter of preference and differs between styles.
Are joggers meant for exercising?
Absolutely! Joggers can be great for exercising as they are usually made with sweat-wicking material that is stretchy enough to enable a great range of motion.
About the Author
Kristine has been immersed in the fitness world for nearly 20 years. She has competed in marathons and Ironman races and earned a spot to compete in the 2012 Age Group National Championship Olympic Triathlon.
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