For the longest time, joggers were my style enemy.
I was the guy in jeans or slacks, always choosing something I knew how to craft an outfit around.
Frankly, I just didn’t know how to make joggers look good outside a gym or a Sopranos binge session. They always seemed too casual, too sporty, none of which are exactly… me.
But once I started hitting the gym seriously, joggers found themselves in my online shopping cart.
In the wake of the 2010s athleisure craze, I started seeing them paired with pieces that looked more put-together, even stylish. And get this: both in and out of my gym. Turns out, joggers can look great if you’re not treating them like pajamas. So, I gave them another shot, experimenting with ways to dress them up without losing that laid-back vibe.
Now, they’re a staple, and I’m pretty sure they’ve saved me at least five hours of outfit panic this year alone. And yes, I’m sharing what I’ve learned. Here’s the best of what to wear with black joggers, without looking like you’re about to zone out to your favorite podcast on the stair climber.
Black Bomber Jacket
A black bomber jacket with black joggers? Some might say it’s too much black, but I’m all for it.
There’s something undeniably sleek about going all-in with one color, and a bomber jacket adds that bit of structure joggers sometimes need. Plus, I’ve always appreciated how bomber jackets don’t lean strongly casual or dressy.
The bomber gives just enough edge to keep things interesting, especially with the contrast of materials—soft joggers against a slightly tougher jacket or vice versa.
With the right pair of sneakers, this ensemble is equally snazzy and relaxed. Perfect for when I’m going out and don’t want to engage in an hour-long brainstorming session about what I’m going to wear.
Denim Jacket
You know how people always say not to mix navy with black? Like it’s some kind of fashion cardinal sin. But honestly, I think that rule’s outdated—especially when you’re working with the unmistakable texture of denim.
A light or mid-wash denim jacket is the way to go for contrast, whereas a darker wash keeps the ensemble sleek against the black tech fabric—fresh either way.
My Vuori Ponto Performance Joggers make it easy to pull off this combo. The black joggers give a nice, streamlined base, while the denim jacket adds some laid-back style. Together, it’s a look that suggests more intention than a pullover or crewneck hoodie without looking like I’m an obedient follower of fashion law.
Warm enough for the winter and light enough for the summer, these keep me cool and comfortable in any workout. Featuring zip pockets and their proprietary DreamKnit fabric, the Ponto Performance joggers perfectly combine comfort and technical performance.
Crew Neck Sweatshirt
When I want to adhere to the jogger’s athletic roots, my Ponto Performance Crew is the first thing I reach for—and so should you.
The lack of a hood keeps the outfit looking streamlined, which works perfectly with the clean lines of black joggers. No fuss, no extra bulk—just a straightforward, sleek vibe that doesn’t try too hard.
I like that a crew neck gives off a sporty edge without tipping over into overly casual territory, particularly with old school terry-cotton ones. It’s comfortable yet intentional, and whether that’s for running or chilling, joggers and a simple crew neck sweatshirt is virtually impossible to miss on the aesthetic front.
Puffer Vest
Pairing a puffer vest with slim joggers creates a cool contrast that feels modern and functional. The bulkier silhouette of the vest adds a nice dose of structure up top, while the slim fit of the joggers keeps the look balanced.
For example, my Vuori Sunday Performance Joggers bring a sleek, tailored vibe that lets the puffer vest take center stage without overwhelming the outfit. Plus, with the jogger’s soft, performance fabric and subtle detailing, I maintain a sleek look whether I’m trekking through a gentle dusting of snow on the way to the gym or heading to brunch on a brisk fall Saturday.
If you're looking for a performance-based pair of joggers, Vuori has you covered. This fabric is super lightweight and breathable, and the waist band and taper below the knee help keep them secure, even during your most intense HIIT circuit.
This combo of tailored joggers and a Steadfast Insulated Vest hits that sweet spot between casual comfort and retro sportiness.
Lightweight Windbreaker
I used to think a windbreaker was strictly reserved for, well, windy days. But then I realized it’s one of those pieces that can elevate a simple jogger outfit, especially when the weather’s in that “not too hot, not too cold” range.
Whether you’re into a zip-up or an anorak style, a lightweight windbreaker adds some adventurous spice vibe while remaining true to the athletic core of joggers.
Personally, I lean towards a zip-up when I’m after something classic and easy to layer. It keeps the look clean, especially in neutral colors like olive, gray, or even a classic black-on-black combo.
If you’re feeling a bit bolder, an anorak style in a soft sage green or a warm tan can add some interest without overpowering the outfit. And similar to the puffer vest I mentioned before, the slight bulk of a windbreaker balances out the slim fit of joggers.
White Low-Top Sneakers
strictly part of an athletic outfit, but I like to switch things up by pairing them with dressy casual sneakers.
A pair of premium white leather low-tops adds a sophisticated touch that keeps the look elevated yet effortless. With the clean lines of Vuori’s Sunday Performance Joggers, the sneakers help strike a balance between relaxed and refined, bringing a minimalist vibe that feels intentional.
If you're looking for a performance-based pair of joggers, Vuori has you covered. This fabric is super lightweight and breathable, and the waist band and taper below the knee help keep them secure, even during your most intense HIIT circuit.
The combination works because the joggers stay understated, letting the white sneakers pop just enough to keep the outfit interesting. It’s an outfit that’s easy to pull off but still feels like I put some effort in.
Textured Knit Sweater
When I first tried wearing joggers with a textured knit sweater, I wasn’t sure it’d work.
But a good knit—especially one with some unique pattern or depth—brings a new level to an otherwise basic look without much in the way of visual excitement.
With black joggers, the texture does all the talking.
For colors, I find darker shades like charcoal or olive add a grounded, sophisticated feel, while brighter tones like beige or cream mustard keep it interesting, especially in fall.
A waffle-knit or ribbed sweater, even if it’s a bit oversized, can balance out the slim profile without making the outfit feel heavy. Go with a fitted top if you prefer a tailored look.
Whenever I demand comfort without taking the easy way out (AKA a full loungewear outfit), you can expect to see me wearing a cable knit with my joggers.
Colored Flannel Shirt
A flannel shirt with vibrant colors adds a nice pop to the uniform look of black joggers. It’s a casual pairing that’s easy and stylish, especially during the colder months when layers and textures come into play. I like how the colors of the flannel juxtapose the simplicity of joggers, giving the outfit a bit of vintage personality without overdoing it.
Again, my Vuori Ponto Performance Joggers are the perfect match here. Their sleek, understated fit complements the cozy vibe of something like the Ballard Shirt Jacket without competing with the colors.
Once I started mixing them with different textures, colors, and a few well-chosen layers, I saw just how versatile they could be.
So if you’re ready to give joggers a chance beyond the treadmill, start with a few of these pairings and see what sticks. You might just find, like I did, that joggers aren’t just for working out—they’re for actually enjoying the day, comfortably and stylishly.
