Whether you’re heading out to a nice dinner, attending a wedding or running to the office, a classic pair of dress pants is often a prerequisite. I love dress pants, but I’ll be the first to admit they’re usually not the most comfortable — and I’m not the only man who feels this way. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort for style, and that’s why so many of us are on the hunt for dress pants that look polished but feel like sweats.
Brands including Lee, Bonobos, Lululemon and L.L.Bean are leaning into our quest for comfort. Whether you’re looking for chinos, traditional slacks or something in between, these big names are making men’s pants that feel like loungewear but look like they came out of a high-end menswear catalog.
We’ve sifted through tons of shoppers’ reviews to find the most comfortable dress pants for men — and yes, we’re talking as comfy as your favorite pair of Nike sweats. Prices start at just $37, so there’s a pair for every budget too.
Dress pants that feel like sweatpants for men
Looking for an affordable pair of comfy pants that’s not too dressy and not too casual? This popular pick is a shopper favorite with over 14,000 five-star reviews. The straight, roomy fit isn’t restricting through the hip and thigh, and there’s a natural waist with a flex waistband for extra comfort. These pants also have that classic four-pocket styling that we all know and love.
“Comfort of sweatpants without looking like a schlub,” one impressed reviewer wrote. “These are amazingly comfortable and look great whether you’re going casual or semi-formal.”
Being comfortable is one thing, but not having to iron your pants? That’s just downright luxurious. These no-iron dress pants are as easy-breezy as they come. They have a classic fit, stretch knit construction, four pockets and a zip fly with a hook-and-bar and button closure.
“They are perfect for casual or formal wear,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “They have a lot of stretch to them without them looking like sweatpants.”
This is one of those tried-and-true ready-to-wear men’s staples that’s delivered for generations. These dress pants are wrinkle-free and come in over 10 waist sizes and four inseam lengths. They have a straight-leg fit and are designed to sit flush at the waist with a roomier fit through the hip and thigh.
“So comfortable and very well-made slacks,” one fan wrote. “I wear these to work. They hold up all day and seem to avoid getting too wrinkled. They are super comfortable. Also, very nice fitting. I have problems sometimes finding slacks that fit well or are not too baggy and these are just perfect. I bought several different colors.”
These are some of the most size-inclusive and customizable dress pants you’ll find anywhere. Though you’re paying a bit of a premium, you get to choose from 18 waist sizes, five lengths, 24 colors and six fit types ranging from tailored to classic. That’s about as close to custom as it gets.
“Love these pants,” one reviewer raved. “As comfortable as sweatpants, but fine for work.” Said another: “Great fit and the material is extremely comfortable and stretchy. I would buy a whole closet full of these without hesitation.”
These stretchy, wrinkle-resistant pants keep their shape all day long and even have a hidden zipper pocket for valuables like cards or keys. They’re not too tight and not too loose, giving your glutes and thighs enough breathing room for extended wear.
“Looks like dress pants, feels like sweatpants,” one shopper who bought them for her 6-foot-6 husband wrote. “He says they’re one of the best pants he has owned. Worth the price, because we couldn’t find any other pants in his size.”
Chinos are extremely versatile, but they can also be a bit restricting. These Mack Weldons, however, are comfortable enough to do squats in thanks to their four-way stretch. They’re also practical and functional, with seven pockets and a stain-resistant finish. If your dress pants usually end up sagging after a couple of hours of wear, take note: These have an anti-sag back yoke built in to keep them on your waist.
“Such a good purchase,” one impressed shopper wrote. “As someone who lives in sweatpants, these give me all the comfort I could ever ask for in a dressier pant. They look great, fit great with just the right amount of stretch, and are easy to keep clean.”
While Bonobos’ Weekday Warrior Pant has a mix of cotton and elastane, this pair is made of 100% recycled polyester for lightweight, all-season wear. Reviewers say they reach for these when they need comfy, breathable, simple pants for playing golf or heading to work.
“They are comfortable enough to wear around the house (I work from home),” one reviewer wrote. “[They’re] the perfect pants for a night out, and they go perfectly with a dress shirt for a work meeting. The versatility is fantastic and the fit is perfect.”