Few sounds are as synonymous with ’90s childhood as the familiar voice swish from a pair of windbreaker trousers. Now, the sporty bottoms that once dominated the playground 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 making a comeback due to their ability to move with you while keeping you comfortable when it’s cold outside. But it’s not just nostalgia that’s driving the trend: People have posted with the hashtag #windbreakerpants more than 6.3 million times on TikTok, while a search on the social platform for “wind pant styles” reveals more than 41 million ways to rock these iconic pants into your cupboard. .
To find the best windbreaker pants, we asked personal trainers and stylists for professional shopping tips, then scoured the internet to find top-rated pants from brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Lululemon, and more.
Our top choice
Things to consider when shopping for windbreaker pants
“Windbreakers make me sweat a lot, so I always feel neater when I wear them to school—but there are a few things I look for when I want to do more than chase 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 quite thin doesn’t mean they aren’t cozy and comfortable: “The fabric should feel light, but also act as a barrier in the fall or winter,” says Walker Sinning. He suggests avoiding the fleece-lined version if you plan to work out in your version, as the additional layer is less breathable.
Most windbreaker pants are made from a blend of nylon and polyester, according to stylist Terumi Murao, an avid rock climber and surfer. (That’s what gives them their slight shine and swooshy sound.) But now, he says, brands like REI and Free People Movement have found ways to produce pairs from materials that are lighter, more moisture-wicking, and still look, feel, and comfortable. sounds like the original.
Additional features
Some of the pairs on our list are not only cute—but also quite functional. An adjustable drawstring at the waist and a drawstring at the ankle help you wear tighter clothes, while side pockets are useful for keeping your phone, keys and other important items close at hand. And others are made from fabrics that have built-in UPF protection, to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays.
Shop the best windbreaker pants
Below you’ll find some of this season’s best windbreaker pants that look great when you’re out and about And can stand up to a steamy sweat session.
This is one of Walker Sinning’s top pairs right now: “If I want to be active with windbreaker pants, I prefer the jogger style because they look great with tall socks and can be tucked into my favorite sneaker or bootie to go from the studio to the smooth streets, he said. The elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring on this pair are snug and comfortable—plus, there are two inseam lengths (short and regular) to choose from.
Walker Sinning also loves joggers because of the high-waisted style that looks great paired with a cropped top and sports bra—“the perfect combination for my favorite dance class,” she says. Made from stretchy material designed to move with you, these Lululemon windbreaker pants will retain their shape after wear.
For a trendier take on these retro bottoms, try these barrel-leg windbreaker pants from Free People Movement. The round, roomy shape tapers at the ankle for a relaxed yet structured look. Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, this bag is made from a waterproof woven material that is also designed to withstand rips and tears.
A new style of puffy pants, this parachute pair comes in many bright colors and is made from lightweight, water-resistant material. Adjustable cuffs allow you to wear them as a more tapered pant or as a wide-legged pant. “They’re super comfortable, but you still look put together,” wrote one happy Anthropologie shopper. “I will definitely get more colors!”
If you plan on doing outdoor hiking or rock climbing, these pants might be right for you. It’s made from a blend of cotton, nylon, and elastane, so it can stretch anywhere. The material around the knee is articulated, meaning there are additional panels to allow better movement and help you focus on the track ahead. Bonus: They’re also harness compatible.
Murao touts this pair because it’s made mostly from breathable organic cotton instead of synthetic materials. They also feature one unique design element he loves: a zipper pocket in the middle of the waistband on the back. “It feels a little more luxurious,” he said. “I really like it because sometimes when you wear a windbreaker, the whole shape and way it hangs will be ruined if you put heavier items on one side.” Also key: three additional pockets for miscellaneous essentials, an adjustable drawstring and removable cuffs.
The color blocking on this pair is classic ’90s style, but modern upgrades like a high-rise waistband and zippered pockets on the sides and back make it even cuter and more comfortable. Perforated panels provide extra air circulation, and the 100% recycled polyester fabric is windproof and water-repellent while still feeling light as air.
Windbreaker pants are traditionally known for their loose, relaxed fit—but if you’re looking for something with more shape and structure, these pants from Cotopaxi are one of our favorites. Made from recycled nylon and just enough spandex to feel flexible, but not flimsy. Plus, it has UPF50+ sun protection (the most you can get) for outdoor adventures.
Athleta’s wide-leg windbreaker pants are made for use on the trail, but they’ll look just as cute on your morning walk for coffee. It’s made from tear-resistant ripstop material, so you can play around while wearing it. A zippered slit at the calf keeps air circulating, in case you get sweaty during your stride.
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