It wasn't that long ago that track pants were reserved for two things: working out or relaxing at home on your least productive days. But those days have come and gone, and now, a good pair of track pants is a necessity, suitable not only for a serious leg day, a quick coffee run, or even a flight.

But, naturally, because of their popularity, there are a lot of them available in the market, and not all of them are created equal; some feel like sandpaper, others stretch out after one wash, while others simply don’t fit well. If you're looking to get yourself a good pair of men’s track pants, then you'll have to look beyond the price tag. Here are the essentials you'll need to look out for:

Fabric is Everything

While the feel of the fabric is the first thing you'll notice, the performance of the fabric is what really counts. For example, if you're planning on hitting the gym, you'll want moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics, like polyester/spandex, which pull sweat away from your skin, preventing that soggy feeling during your workout.

If, on the other hand, comfort is your main concern, you'll want high-quality cotton blends, which are the king of comfort fabrics. The track pants for men tend to be a good balance, offering stretch while still having a premium, durable feel.

The Right Fit: Slim, Relaxed, etc.

Fit is probably the biggest thing guys get wrong. A fit that’s too loose can be sloppy, while one that’s too tight can constrict your circulation.

Tapered/Jogger Fit

These are fitted around the ankle, giving you a slimmer silhouette. They're great for running or biking, as there’s no extra fabric that could get in the way of your exercise gear. They're also great for showing off your sneakers.

Relaxed/Straight Fit

These offer extra space in the seat and thighs. If you have bigger quads or just like the classic streetwear >

Pockets (The Underestimated Feature)

There is nothing more annoying than having your phone fall out of your pocket every time you sit down or do a bench press. When you go shopping, you should look for how deep these pockets are. Even better, you should look for ones that have zippers. These offer peace of mind, knowing your keys and wallet are secure whether you're sprinting or running errands.

Waistband and Drawstrings

Your waistband needs to fit well without digging uncomfortably into your body. Your waistband needs to have elasticity, giving you a wide waistband. A high-quality drawstring, whether internal or external, is a non-negotiable feature. This is because you can adjust your waistband depending on whether you've had a big meal or you're preparing for a high-intensity workout.

Durability and Style

Since the item for purchase is intended for use as activewear, it’s safe to assume that it’ll be washed several times. You want an item that doesn’t develop those annoying little balls of fluff after the first few washes. Fuaark is a brand that excels in this area. Their joggers and track pants are geared towards the aesthetic fitness crowd. Their designs are geared towards those with a muscular physique, but are also made with materials that are built to withstand the friction of the gym environment.

Versatility

The track pants for men should also be versatile. Will the track pants for men pair well with a technical tee for a workout? Yes. Will they pair well with a hoodie or a denim jacket for meeting friends out and about? Yes. Consider an item with a neutral colour such as charcoal, navy, or black.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the right track pants for you will depend on your life>