Few sounds are as synonymous with a ‘90s childhood as the familiar swish of a pair of windbreaker pants. Now, those sporty bottoms that used to dominate playgrounds are having another moment—this time, as an activewear staple.
Originally designed as a lightweight layer to keep you warm on the go, windbreaker pants are back for their ability to move with you while keeping you comfortable when it’s chilly outside. But it’s not just nostalgia driving the trend: People have posted with the hashtag #windbreakerpants over 6.3 million times on TikTok, while a search on the social platform for “wind pants styling” reveals over 41 million ways to fit these iconic bottoms into your closet.
To find the best windbreaker pants, we asked personal trainers and stylists for their pro shopping tips, then scoured the internet to find top-rated pairs from brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Lululemon, and more.
Our top picks
- Abercrombie & Fitch YPB motionTEK Jogger
- Lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger Full Length
- FP Movement Well Played Pants
- Daily Practice by Anthropologie Base Jump Parachute Pants
- Mountain Hardwear Rockrydge Pants
What to consider when shopping for windbreaker pants
“Windbreakers are elevated sweats, so I always feel more put together when I throw them on for school drop-off—but there are a few things I look for when I want to actually do more than run after my kids or look cute,” Taylor Walker Sinning, a certified personal trainer, holistic health coach, and fitness model, tells SELF.
Just because windbreaker pants are usually pretty thin doesn’t mean they can’t be cozy and comfortable: “The fabric should feel lightweight, but also act as a barrier to a cold fall or winter day,” Walker Sinning says. She suggests steering clear of fleece-lined versions if you plan to work out in yours, as the added layer isn’t very breathable.
Most windbreaker pants are made of a nylon and polyester blend, according to stylist Terumi Murao, an avid rock climber and surfer. (It’s what gives them their slight sheen and swooshy noise.) But today, she says, brands like REI and Free People Movement have figured out ways to produce pairs from lighter-weight, more moisture-wicking materials that still look, feel, and sound like the originals.
Some pairs on our list aren’t just cute—they’re also pretty functional. Adjustable drawstrings in waistbands and drawcords at the ankles help you get a closer fit, while side pockets are handy for keeping your phone, keys, and other essentials close by. And others are made with fabric that has UPF protection built right in, to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays.
Shop the best windbreaker pants
Below you’ll find some of the season’s best windbreaker pants that look great when you’re out and about and can stand up to a steamy sweat session.
Active by Abercrombie
YPB motionTEK Jogger
These are one of Walker Sinning’s top pairs right now: “If I want to be active in my windbreaker pants, I prefer a jogger style because they look great with high socks and can tuck into my favorite sneaker or bootie to go from the studio to the streets seamlessly,” she says. The stretchy waistband and adjustable drawstring on this pair are convenient and comfortable—plus, there are two inseam lengths (short and regular) to choose from.
Lululemon
Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger Full Length
Walker Sinning also loves joggers for their high-waisted fit that looks great paired with cropped tops and sports bras—”a perfect combination for my favorite dance class,” she says. Made from a stretch material that’s designed to move with you, these Lululemon windbreaker pants should retain their shape wear after wear.
FP Movement
Well Played Pants
For a trendier spin on these retro bottoms, try this pair of barrel-legged windbreaker pants from Free People Movement. The roomy, rounded shape tapers at the ankle for a relaxed but structured look. Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, they’re made from a woven, water-resistant material that’s also designed to resist rips and tears.
Anthropologie
Daily Practice Base Jump Parachute Pants
A new take on puffy pants, this parachute pair comes in lots of bright hues and is made from a lightweight, water-resistant fabric. Adjustable cuffs allow you to wear them as a more tapered trouser or as wide-leg pants. “They’re incredibly comfortable, but you still look put together,” one happy Anthropologie shopper wrote. “I’ll be getting more colors for sure!”
Mountain Hardwear
Rockrydge Pant
If you plan to do some hiking or outdoor climbing, these may be the pants for you. They’re made from a cotton, nylon, and elastane blend, so they’ll stretch with you in almost any direction. The fabric around the knee is articulated, meaning there’s an extra panel to allow for better movement and help you focus on the trail ahead. Bonus: They’re also harness-compatible.
Minor Planet Helio Track Pant
Murao shouts out this pair because they’re mostly made from breathable organic cotton, as opposed to synthetic materials. They also feature one unique design element she loves: a zippered pocket in the middle of the waistband in the back. “It feels a little bit more luxe,” she says. “I really like that because sometimes when you’re wearing windbreakers, it completely ruins the whole shape and the way they hang when you have your heavier items on one side.” Also key: three additional pockets for the rest of your necessities, an adjustable drawstring, and cinchable cuffs.
Adidas
Adidas by Stella McCartney Woven Track Pants
The color-blocking on this pair is a classic ‘90s callback, but modern upgrades like a high-rise waistband and zippered pockets on the sides and back make them cuter and more convenient. Perforated panels provide extra breathability, and the 100% recycled polyester fabric is wind-resistant and water-repellant while still feeling as light as air.
Windbreaker pants are traditionally known for their baggy, relaxed fit—but if you’re looking for something with a bit more shape and structure, this pair from Cotopaxi is one of our favorites. They’re made from recycled nylon and just enough spandex to feel flexible, but not flimsy. Plus, the fabric has UPF50+ sun protection (the most you can get) for outdoor adventures.
Athleta
Trekkie High Rise Parachute Pant
Athleta’s wide-leg windbreaker pants are made for hitting the trails, but would look equally as cute on your morning walk to grab coffee. They’re made from a tear-resistant ripstop material, so you can play hard while wearing them. Zipper slits on the calves keep things breathable, should you work up a sweat while getting in your steps.
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