Difference in Men and Women's Sweatsuits

You probably already know the timeless rules of fashion, like investing in quality over quantity, effortless style is in the details, and when in doubt, go monochrome. These principles hold up for both genders.

Another such rule is comfort and versatility. 

Sweatsuits, particularly sweatshirts, were originally designed for men but have since been embraced by women, not for their aesthetics but for ease. In fact, we now have unisex styles in them, breaking the gender norms a little more. 

With the rise of unisex fashion, it’s also natural to wonder if there’s still a real difference between men’s and women’s sweatsuits. After all, an oversized sweatshirt and well-fitted sweatpants seem to work across the board. 

The short answer is that although the gap has narrowed, key distinctions remain—some intentional, others more a result of tradition than necessity.

Fabric’s Feel & Quality

One of the biggest distinctions in men’s and women’s sweatsuits has always been fabric weight and composition. 

Women’s styles often incorporate blended fabrics with a touch of elastane or modal, making them feel lighter, softer, and more flexible. Men’s sweatsuits, particularly in the premium market, lean toward denser, heavyweight materials that hold their shape over time.

Yet one fabric remains a universal preference—100% cotton. Whether it’s a structured heavyweight hoodie or a relaxed sweatpants, both men and women tend to agree on the comfort, durability, and breathability of pure cotton over synthetic blends.

Unlike fleece-backed synthetics, which can trap heat and feel overly plush, a well-made 100% cotton sweatshirt offers natural insulation without the bulk, making it just as suitable for layering as it is for lounging. 

The weight also provides structure, preventing the slouchy, worn-in look that often comes with lighter fabrics while still feeling lived-in and easy to wear.

Design Details 

Beyond the obvious differences in cut and fabric, it’s the smaller details that distinguish men’s and women’s sweatsuits.

• Waistbands and Pockets – Women’s sweatpants typically sit higher on the waist, designed for styling with cropped hoodies or fitted tops. Men’s versions favor a mid-to-low rise with a looser waistband. And while men’s joggers almost always have deep, functional pockets, women’s versions are sometimes left lacking—a design choice that feels increasingly outdated.
  
  

• Hoodie Construction – Men’s hoodies tend to have larger, more structured hoods, originally designed to accommodate broader shoulders and even fit over baseball caps. Women’s versions may have a slightly wider neckline or a more fitted shape to sit closer to the body.
  
  

• Sleeve and Pant Lengths – Women’s sweatpants often feature a more tapered ankle, whereas men’s may have a straight-leg or looser cuff. Similarly, sleeve length differs; men’s hoodies are generally cut longer in the arms.

These differences are subtle, but they influence how a sweatsuit looks and feels when worn.

The Shift Toward Unisex Styles

The growing popularity of unisex fashion has led to a merging of design elements—oversized hoodies, neutral color palettes, and shared fits that feel equally at home in any wardrobe. 

Many brands now create genderless sweatsuits designed with universal proportions that don’t lean too heavily toward traditionally masculine or feminine tailoring. But even in the unisex space, fabric remains a deciding factor. 

A well-constructed 100% cotton sweatshirt or jogger set often serves as the ideal middle ground, offering the durability and weight men typically prefer with the softness and breathability women seek.

For those opting for a unisex fit, the choice often comes down to finding the right weight and cut. A slightly oversized 100% cotton sweatshirt paired with tailored but relaxed 100 cotton sweatpants creates a balance that works for everyone—neither too structured nor too slouchy and timeless enough to last beyond seasonal trends.

So, Do the Differences Still Matter?

Men’s and women’s sweatsuits still maintain their distinctions, but in an era of effortless dressing, the focus has shifted from labels to fit, feel, and function. 

While certain silhouettes and details are tailored to specific body shapes, such as sweatshirts with collars for men, the overall philosophy remains the same: comfort without compromise. 

The best sweatsuit is the one that fits like it was made for you, no matter with what gender intent it has been made. And more often than not, that starts with the right fabric, the right weight, and a design that transcends trends.