Forget Netflix and chilling; these Lululemon sweatpants are made with training in mind, writes Kieran Alger.

Let’s face it, some of the best sweatpants are better suited to kicking back post-workout, or nipping down the shops, than getting amongst it on the gym floor. Well not these. The Lululemon License to Train Joggers are designed with training in mind. The clue’s in the name.

Men’s Fitness verdict

Made from a shell-like, abrasion-resistant, four-way stretch fabric, these water-repellent and fast-drying sweats are perfect for outdoor workouts and warm ups.
Pros
  • Water repellent
  • Plenty of pockets
Cons
  • Not as comfortable for lounging
  • Can be a bit toasty
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How we tested the best sweatpants

Our team of reviewers are experienced testers of all manner of fitness kit. While testing out these sweatpants we were mainly looking at fit, comfort and style. We also paid close attention to the fabrics used and whether they offered specific sporty features like 360-degree stretch or moisture-wicking abilities, alongside any additional features, like pockets, drawstring waists and elasticated cuffs.

lululemon joggers close up shot
There’s a fully elasticated waistband with a drawcord that you can tie inside or outside to keep it out of the way.

Lululemon License to Train Joggers features

They’re made from a shell-like, abrasion-resistant, four-way stretch fabric. It’s also water repellent and fast-drying – so good for outdoor workouts and warm-ups. I did find that the lined technical fabric doesn’t have the soft and stretchy kick-back comfort you get with the more classic On Sweatpants but it’s notably lighter. And in my experience, that makes the License to Train sweats much more workout friendly.

There are a few clever details here too. That includes a fully elasticated waistband with a drawcord that you can tie inside or outside to keep it out of the way. Plus the drawstrings have chunky aglets – those plastic bits on the end – to stop them disappearing into the waistband.

What’s the fit like?

The classic tapered fit is generally a little baggier than some skinnier sweatpants. Strategic panels on the inside leg and up into the undercarriage region, along with perforations behind the knees, help boost the flexibility and breathability. I also found this to provide a better range of movement while also helping to keep things airy.

The cuffed ankles are narrow and quite seriously elasticated. That’s great for locking the legs nicely in place but you can’t slip them on without taking your shoes off.

Storage and colour options

The joggers have three zippered pockets to cover your storage needs. There are two front pockets that also pack key and coin sleeves to protect your smartphone screen. The zippered back pocket also has a handy loop for securing keys and headphone cases.

There are eight colour options and six sizes from XS to XXL to choose from. Plus three different leg length options: regular, taller and shorter.

Materials:91% recycled polyester; 9% elastane
Features:Reversible waistband; zippered pocket with hidden phone and coin sleeve
Sizes:XS – 2XL
Colours:8 colours available

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