With the rise of athleisure and loungewear over the past couple years, the selection of relaxing pants for men has exploded. While this significant influx provides buyers with a wide variety of styles, colors and fabrics, it can also feel overwhelming to sift through. Acknowledging the plethora of options available, we put in the work to carefully evaluate this booming segment. This hands-on guide reviews some of the most well-reviewed and top-rated men's lounge pants on the market to help you discover your ideal pair for relaxing in total comfort.
While lounge pants are similar to athleisure and sleepwear, there are distinctive qualities that make a true pair of loungewear stand out. Considering the following factors is crucial when shopping to find pants designed for pure relaxation. We've highlighted the top five things to have on your mind during your search.
Fabric Composition: The materials used in construction will significantly impact the overall quality and feel. Popular options include pure cotton (especially French Terry weaves), cotton-poly blends for added stretch, recycled fabrics, innovative layered designs, and even cutting-edge performance fabrics. Choosing a pair made from breathable, comfortable fabrics is key.
While the primary fabric is most important, don't overlook a pair's secondary construction details. Some pairs solely use one material inside and out. However, many introduce thoughtful secondary elements like interior linings of acrylic, jersey or fleece for added comfort. Others implement waterproof yet breathable membranes. With so many styles to choose from, there is a pair for every individual taste.
Lounge pants come in various silhouettes from slim tapered to roomy and relaxed. Along with shaping in the thighs, calves and ankles, look for details like stretch properties which significantly influence movement and fit comfort. No one fit works for all, so assess what cut best suits your needs and preferred style.
When buying loungewear, nothing matters more than how comfortable a pair feels. While materials and shaping impact this greatly, subtle elements should not be overlooked. Pants with brushed or micro-brushed surfaces, stretch, breathability and sweat-wicking translate to exceptional comfort. Pay attention to the fine details as much as overarching construction when assessing comfort level.
Crafted Cozy Comfort: Buck Mason Pima Pajama Pants
Buck Mason’s Pima Pajama Pant epitomizes comfort and relaxation. Made from premium Supima cotton grown in America, the relaxed fit features an elastic waistband, adjustable drawcord and extra spacious seat for full mobility. Beyond the quality materials, Buck Mason also produces these pants using a special Venice Wash technique for a wonderfully worn-in feel. Adding to the comfortable aesthetic, matching premium tees are available in the same colors and fabrics. An easy choice for lounging in luxurious softness.
Hailing from one of our long-time favorite brands, these pajama pants exemplify comfort. Crafted from buttery smooth, lightweight Supima cotton, the same fabric used in Buck Mason's beloved Pima tees, they drape the legs in a way that enhances relaxation. The relaxed fit utilizes stretch poplin for an adjustable, comfy waistband along with generous roominess throughout. Two pockets and a pre-shrunk construction round out the features.
While the lightweight Supima cotton delivers unmatched comfort, the relaxed pajama style limits versatile styling options for these pants. As Buck Mason advertises, they excel specifically for lounging around the home. The thinner fabrication makes them better suited for indoor wear rather than outdoors in colder conditions. However, breathable and lightweight, they still keep the wearer cozy when relaxing inside.
Modernized Comfort for Daily Wear - Mack Weldon Ace Sweatpants
As part of their versatile daily wear Ace Collection, Mack Weldon delivers a modern twist on classic loungewear with their Ace Sweatpants. Crafted from ultra-soft micro-brushed French terry, these pants showcase a minimalist yet sophisticated design. Available in regular and tall fits across over a dozen understated colors, thoughtful details like a hidden zippered pocket, drawcord waist and ribbed ankle cuffs enhance the comfortable aesthetic.
The Difference Between Loungewear Styles
While comfortable pants of all stripes could potentially qualify as loungewear, there are distinctions between styles. Loungewear pants typically feature a relaxed, lightweight construction compared to heavier sweats. Sweatpants commonly incorporate fleece lining for enhanced warmth courtesy of a thicker fabric composition. Drawcord waists also feature prominently on many lounge pants compared to elasticized sweats. However, some borderline styles blend attributes of both, sitting in a category between dedicated lounge and sweats. Ultimately, the intended level of warmth and activity level helps define these similar yet distinct loungewear categories.