Looking for joggers that aren’t way too long? Here’s where to find joggers for shorter guys that actually fit.
Joggers are the quintessential garment of the athleisure movement, and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon.
A modern take on sweatpants, joggers prioritize function over form, but they’re usually slim enough to avoid looking sloppy.
The term “jogger” is thrown around to the point where it’s all but lost its meaning, but most guys would agree that joggers have:
- Elastic waistbands
- Drawstrings
- 4-way stretch
- Cuffed ankles
Some joggers are basically just chinos with cuffed ankles, and some more like slim fit sweats. Some are basically just technical pants. If your travel plans aren’t formal, they also are some of the best travel pants.
We’re not going to split hairs here. As a shorter guy, I’ve always had trouble finding a pair of joggers that isn’t too long.
So, I don’t really care what you call them – I’m willing to try them on.
Short Joggers & Sweatpants
I think it’s tough to find shorter length joggers because, unlike jeans and chinos, joggers are sold in S/M/L sizing.
Sometimes the smaller sizes have shorter inseams, but not always, and the inseam is usually 28 inches or longer (even on size XS).
But, don’t worry! There are a few brands making joggers for short men, and I’m on a mission to try them all.
Here’s what I’ve found so far…
Ash & Erie Hybrid Jogger
Ash & Erie’s Hybrid Jogger is basically a lululemon’s Surge pant but with an inseam that works well for shorter guys.
Made from lightweight, stretchy material and featuring a very tapered leg, these will work in the gym, on a red eye flight, or running a quick errand.
Keep in mind, they’re definitely athletic pants. They’re not like chinos with a jogger cuff.
So they won’t work with collared shirts and can’t be worn to the office.
Also, I find that they run slightly small, so if you don’t skip leg day, might want to size up.
While consumers know the brand for their everyday wear, they have also become one of the best loungewear brands especially for those 5’8″ and under.
Under 510 Tyson Jogger
These lightweight joggers are available from Under 510 in grey or black, with a 28 or 26 inch inseam.
I’m wearing the grey colorway in 30×26 (note: I’m wearing the fleece version below, not the LTE version):
I actually expected these to be slightly shorter for more of a no break look. I think they’re longer than expected for two reasons:
First, the actual inseam is 27 inches (before washing and drying).
Second, the rise is on the longer side, which lengthens the outseam (total leg length).
I actually like the length and fit of these joggers, and they’re super comfortable, but know that they run 1-2″ long.
Ash & Erie French Terry Jogger
Compared to Under 510, these Ash & Erie joggers are very fitted and have shorter inseams (size XS, 25-27″):
They’re made with 95% cotton and 5% Spandex, so they have plenty of stretch built in.
I also tried their size S 27-29″ inseam, which actually fit better, assuming you don’t like a tighter, cropped fit.
If you’re looking for a great pair of sweatpants for short men, these are for you.
Bantam Clothing Joggers
Bantam Clothing is a UK-based clothing brand for shorter men. At the time of writing, they make jeans, t-shirts and joggers.
I tried their light grey joggers in 30W x 27-28L (the smallest waist and longer inseam). Here’s what they look like:
These have a nice taper, and they’re not anywhere near tight on my thin legs. I find the medium rise to be very comfortable.
The length is spot on. I wouldn’t want to go any shorter, especially considering possible shrinkage in the washer and dryer.
The cotton-poly blend fabric feels like your classic sweatpants material – soft and stretchy.
I’ve worn these shorter length sweatpants lounging around at home and to the gym, and they work well in both situations.
lululemon Shorter Length Joggers
Athleisure giant, lululemon, makes make styles of men’s pants, most of which are not available in shorter lengths.
Some of their joggers are available with 27 and 28 inch inseams, although they’re hard to find in stock online.
I happened to snag a pair of 27″ Engineered Warmth Joggers a few months ago, and they quickly became a cold weather lazy Sunday favorite.
I’d love to try lululemon’s Surge Jogger or ABC Jogger in a shorter length, but it’s proving difficult to find the right size/length combo in stock.
Be sure to check their website often, as the shorter versions of their most popular joggers and sweats are restocked periodically.
Bonobos Homestretch Jogger
Available in a shorter 27″ length, these Bonobos Homestretch Joggers prioritize comfort with an elastic waistband and gently tapered leg openings.
They’re not a performance/office pant; they’re more like a pair of short sweatpants.
The color selection is fantastic. Bonobos knows how to choose fabrics that look good with everything you own.
Also, the quality is good for the price, but you should maximize value by waiting for a sale (they happen relatively often).
A7 Defy Joggers
A7 makes competition-grade workout gear for strength training focused athletes.
Their Defy Joggers are sold in unisex sizes from XS to 3XL, with inseams ranging from 26 to 32 inches.
I chose size S to accommodate my waist and hips:
They’re pretty snug all over and very comfy, equally great for lounging around the house or attempting a new deadlift PR in the gym.
My one complaint is the bright logo mark on the thigh.
I’d prefer no visible branding or a more monochromatic logo that didn’t jump stand out so much.
Fabletics Go-To Jogger
If you just need a comfy pair of sweatpants for short men, the Go-To Jogger from Fabletics may be a good fit.
They’re not too tight, and the fabric is more like cotton (not too swishy).
Plus, you can get them with 27″ inseams in a wide variety of wast sizes.
They’re also priced lower than most of the other joggers on this list, especially when they go on sale.
Adidas ID Striker Pants (Women’s)
I accidentally ordered the women’s version of these pants, and I’m glad I did because they quickly became my favorite workout pants.
These are super slim and tapered. They’re made from a meshy polyester fabric that has plenty of stretch built in and doesn’t get too warm.
These joggers don’t have any drawstring in the waistband or back pockets, which makes them minimal, lightweight and comfy.
To me, these feel like part of Spiderman’s uniform, and I really enjoy working out in them.
Hylete Flexion II Jogger
These are the second iteration of Hylete’s popular Flexion Pants. They’re the right length, gently fitted and extremely comfortable.
Compared to the original version, the Flexion II features a shorter inseam and more tapered ankle.
I wear these a lot inside and in the gym. They’re some of the most comfortable pants I own.
FAQs About Short Joggers
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about sweatpants for shorter guys. We’ve also compiled everything you need to know about joggers and athleisure wear here.
Can you get short length joggers?
Absolutely. Most men’s clothing brands offer their most popular joggers in multiple lengths, including a shorter inseam (usually 27″).
What length joggers should I get?
Joggers should stop right around your ankle bone. They should not stack up around your ankle. For shorter men, 28″ or 27″ joggers should work well.
How short is too short for joggers?
Joggers that don’t touch your ankle bone are probably too short. When you sit down, they ride up, the cuffs get stuck around your calves.
Do joggers look good on short guys?
Yes, joggers look great on short guys! Just make sure they’re not too long for your legs 😉
Do joggers make you look shorter?
Joggers only make you look shorter if they’re way too long for you legs. Most short men will look just fine in 26-28″ inseam joggers.
Can tailors make joggers shorter?
While any tailor can hem a pair of jeans, joggers are more difficult to shorten. They have tapered legs and have cuffed leg openings, which makes any alterations more complicated.
If you need shorter sweatpants, it’s best to buy them at the proper length because you won’t be able to get them tailored.
What are your favorite joggers?
Since we’ve published this article, we’ve tried a few other joggers. Check out our Western Rise review and our Tommy John review for even more tried and true jogger options.
What’s your favorite pair of shorter length joggers? Let me know in the comments section below, and I’ll add them to the list!
It would be helpful if you told us your height
Brock is 5’6″ while wearing boots. (So, like 5’4″, or so)
Hi,
Do you know where to get jogger pants for a short (5’2”) OLDER guy with a larger 43” waist but skinny legs? My poor dad has decreased in stature over the years and most pants are made for slim people. He looks like he’s drowning in most pants that fit his waist cuz the rest is huge!
Same for shirts… shoulders too wide and sleeves too long for his girth.
Help!
Are they Hylete Flexion II good as regular 24.5 inseam, long 26.5, or regular 25.5? I’m about 5’7″ and don’t want a pair too long. I think I can get away with a 30″ waist. Just bigger thighs.
Hey Brock – Solid article. At 5’ and built like an endurance athlete, would they Hylete work? Or would you stick with Ash & Erie or 5’10 and under? Tough to discern which you think are best.
At 5′ flat I think Ash & Erie or U510 would be a good fit. Hylete would probably be a little long, but man, they’re VERY high quality!
Thank you so much for doing this research! I’m buying for a college football player who is 5’8, but extremely muscular—about 195 pounds. Does not miss leg day at all; very built through the rear and legs. Which brand did you find the most roomy without being a tent?
At 5’8″ and muscular, most mainstream brands should fit just fine. Of the brands I’ve tried, I’d probably go with Hylete.
Why are you not including the Peter Manning joggers? They make a few varieties including an all-day jogger and a sport-tech jogger. All designed for shorter men and have shorter inseams.
I think they are better or at least equal to your top Ash and Erie choice.
I found their all day jogger to be really baggy through the leg but tight in the hips. Also, the material and color choices weren’t great (hard to pair with other items). Their sport jogger was very tight in the hips, to the point where I couldn’t wear them.
For me, other brands have worked much better, including Ash & Erie.
This is super helpful. I have a 13-yr-old who needs men’s sizes but is only 5’3″. He prefers joggers over any other pants, so I have ordered a couple of pairs for him to try from almost every website you recommended. Thanks for helping a mom out!
Who makes that white henley your wearing? So difficult for me to find a henley with a good sleeve size!
This information is so great and very much appreciated. Thankyou.
I’ve been having such trouble to find the right size and leg length for my other half. He prefers elasticated cuff but I’m sure he will love lululemons ones.
One happy lady
My fav joggers is the lightweight homestretch jogger from Bonobos. They have inseam length available in 27″
Hello, I’m pretty difficult to fit in joggers. My waist is 38, but I’m 5’ 7”, yeah I know little chunky in middle. Also it’s hard to find joggers to fit inseam, hips, waist. I’m like a short chunky fire hydrant. I measured my jeans that actually fit and they measure 27” inseam. I’m pretty much like other short men, waist fits but the length is too long or waist is too small but length is just right. If I have to get women’s size just to fit so be it, most joggers I’ve seen you can’t tell they’re women’s joggers. Any suggestions
Wings + Horns Cabin Fleece Joggers. I’m 5”6 and the inseam is almost right. I think it read 26” on the site. Material and design are also excellent.
Thanks for this article! I’m 5’5” and on the heavier side (for now, that’s why I want to get some good workout pants). This seems like a good guide to get me started on my search. Would love to see a guide for some recommendations for all sorts of clothing for heavier short guys, we want to look good too!
After reading your article, I decided to buy two Peter Manning All Day Sweatpants (Grey and Navy). I’m 5’6”, 160 lbs. (gained 15 pounds during COVID-19 quarantine), waist 32-34 inches, and inseam 28-29 inches. I bought the 30 / 32 waist x 25 inseam; and it’s a perfect fit since the waistband is elastic so there’s lots of give (for the recent weight gain). It’s not a “slim fit”, but that suits me because I’ve got thick calves. As with all short guys, the inseam was the big question. The 25-inch inseam ends above my ankle bone which is the perfect length. The thickness of the sweatpants cotton was a very pleasant surprise. I was expecting sweatpants that were lighter and thinner (similar to what you’d find at Old Navy or the Gap) so I’m really happy at the thickness of the Peter Manning sweatpants.
I am glad you cover this subject. I look forward to visiting their websites. Thank you.
Fabletics men has joggers in 26” inseam. Really good quality too.
Thanks for this recommendation! I was a bit wary of jumping into their “VIP” thing they seem to push so I just ordered a pair of the Takeover pants in a XS with 25″ inseam at retail, which was the last one in stock. For reference, I am 5’6″ with pretty short legs. They fit great and are more like a hybrid pant/tight where they have a little room on the top, but hug around the calves downward. I am thinking of trying some of their joggers, but still don’t know if I want to sign up for VIP even though there’s heavy “discounts”.
I’m a huge fan of Public Rec. They offer the All Day Every Day Pant (no cuffed hem), joggers, and the Stadium Jogger (a lighter version of traditional jogger). Public Rec offers both waist and inseam just like jeans or chinos, even in 28″. For fit, comfort and quality, they’re the best in the business imo. Additionally they offer other items like henleys and bomber jackets.
The Ace Sweatpants from Mack Wheldon are the most comfortable and surprisingly best fitting joggers I have purchased. Their site says a small has an inseam of 30″ but it fits me perfect (I’m 5’4″). I gave it try after I read reviews with comments being slightly shorter in length. They were right cause the Small fits me perfect. I now have 5 of these sweatpants.
For the Fit also makes various joggers and lounge-type pants specifically for shorter men.
I’m probably a 27-28 inseam. I have been wearing Marine layer and Vuori joggers. I think it helps when they are cuffed at the bottom. I also agree with Lululemon ABC joggers. They fit great as well.
I believe LuLulemon will hem any pair of pants you buy from them for free. Even joggers.