Sweat shorts and jogger shorts are the answer to summer loungewear

These above-25°C days have us turning to sweat shorts and jogger shorts as a cooler alternative to our favourite joggers, especially on the days we WFH (sans any aircon). It’s far too hot to be clad in anything below the knee – unless it’s a floaty dress – and they are the ideal alternative to snuggly, fleece-lined tracksuits, but remain just as comfy.

Just like loungewear, the best women’s sweat shorts and jogger shorts have all the elements of classic sweatpants. They quite literally are a cropped version of the silhouette’s we’ve come to know and love over the past two years+, maintaining tie-waist details or elasticated waistbands and often rendered in brushed cotton or loop-back french terry for that uber-soft feel.

If you’re searching for a new pair (one can never have too many), we particularly love Adanola’s version for a varsity/country club-style take on the trend and Uniqlo’s soft fluffy shorts will give your best pyjamas a run for their money in the comfort stakes. GANNI’s pared-back high-rise shorts include organic cotton for a more sustainable fabric mix (if you’re ok with making more of an investment) and we’re more than slightly obsessed with these organic cashmere yacht shorts from Les Tien – proving the dopamine dressing trend will never die.

Any shorts made from organic or recycled materials will go a little easier on the planet but if you really want to try the trend in a sustainable way, take a pair of scissors to your existing trackies for a cool customisation. The raw hem will add an edge to them anyway.

Want to know how to style your sweat shorts and jogger shorts? Smarten them up by pairing them with a simple black blazer and a designer bag, or go for a scandi-inspired two-piece look with a matching oversized shirt or t-shirt nonchalantly tucked into the waistband.

However you’re wearing your sweat shorts and jogger shorts this season, scroll through our gallery of the 17 best styles to shop now.