What Shoes to Wear With Sweatpants: for Men

Ah, sweatpants! Once dismissed as the “lazy day” uniform, now hailed as a streetwear staple. 

How did we get here? 

Well, it turns out comfort and style make a pretty compelling duo, especially for men. Today, whether you're hitting the gym, running a midnight snack mission to the gas station, or just loafing around the house, sweatpants are as versatile as it gets. 

But the rub is not all shoes work with every pair of sweats. So, let’s give you some quick and easy insights into the shoe-sweatpants dynamic.

Jogger Sweatpants Hustle

You know the drill to buy the right joggers: 100% heavyweight cotton sweatpants in slim-fit, cuffed ankles, a proper length that falls right above your feet, and a drawstring to keep it in place. Now, despite getting everything right and the fact that Joggers is the MVP of modern sweatpants, the challenge comes with feet—what you wear on your feet matters big time.

• Sneakers: The no-brainer option. Whether you’re a Nike loyalist or an Adidas fan, sneakers keep joggers looking fresh.
  
  

• Chelsea Boots: Yeah, you read that right. Pair slim joggers with sleek Chelsea boots, and suddenly, you’re the guy who gets compliments at happy hour.
  
  

• High-Tops: They are for old-school energy. Roll the cuffs to show off those kicks. Retro and joggers? Chef’s kiss.
  
  

• Slides: Sometimes, less is more. Slides with socks (optional) scream low-key cool for lounging or quick errands.

Straight-Leg Sweatpants: The OGs

Straight-leg sweatpants are like the tailored trousers of casualwear—comfortable but polished. They walk the line between laid-back and put-together.

• Minimalist Sneakers: Think all-white, clean-cut kicks. They look good with everything, especially straight-leg sweats.
  
  

• Work Boots: Rugged boots can add a certain grit to the outfit. When paired with sweatpants, they straight-up give you an outdoorsy-chic look without even trying.
  
  

• Loafers: Feeling fancy? Leather or suede loafers can turn straight-leg sweats into “creative professional” territory.
  
  

• Espadrilles: Lightweight, breezy, and perfect for summer evenings. Maybe try matching them to your pants for an elongated look.

Wide-leg or Flared Sweatpants

Wide-leg sweatpants can make a statement. They’re bold, comfy, and a little extra (in the best way). Your shoe choice here is all about balance; either match the volume or go the complete opposite.

• Chunky Sneakers: Oversized sweats and chunky sneakers are a power couple due to their matching proportions.
  
  

• Slip-On Canvas Shoes: Vans, Toms, or similar styles give off laid-back skater vibes with or without the board.
  
  

• Sandals: Wide-leg sweats and sandals? You’re practically on a tropical vacation, or at least you can look like you are.

Cropped Sweatpants

Cropped sweatpants are making waves in men’s fashion and are pretty easy to style as well. Here’s how to bring them into the spotlight:

• Low-Tops: Converse or Stan Smiths, anyone? Cropped sweats practically beg for low-profile sneakers.

• Slides: You can keep them more breezy with slides. Pair with a graphic tee, and you’re good to go.

• Chukka Boots: For a slightly dressier vibe, chukka boots are a solid choice.

• Driving Loafers: Polished but not too much—perfect for when you’re keeping it casual but still care.

Cargo Sweatpants

Cargo sweatpants bring a rugged edge with those extra pockets. They’re built for adventure—or, you know, just looking like you’ve got somewhere important to be.

• Work Boots Again: Rugged meets rugged. It’s a no-brainer.

• Trail Sneakers: Functional and stylish, these shoes make you look ready for anything, even if “anything” is just grabbing a latte.

• High-Tops: For a streetwear edge and bonus points for bold colors.

It’s all in the vibe you’re going for. Running errands at 1 a.m.? Crocs or slides have your back. Dressing up for casual Fridays? Break out the loafers. And if you’re just kicking back at home? Slippers, of course.

Sweatpants are about comfort, so comfortably mix and match, experiment a little, and find your groove. If recent fashion trends have taught us anything, it’s that style is personal, and sweatpants are the new power move regardless.