All of us are looking for ways to look stylish this summer while still staying comfortable. The athleisure look is not only aesthetically pleasing, it’s also functional and super comfortable. 

Joggers are a part of this whole look. With the right pair of shoes, you can take joggers from a gym staple to a runway head-turner.

Keep reading and take these steps to rock that athleisure look.

What are joggers?

Joggers are an informal type of pants that are tapered at the ankle, usually with elastic. The snug fit to your ankle gives the pants a graceful shape that complements your figure. 

The original joggers

Joggers were originally a type of sweatpant that was designed for … well … jogging. Standard sweatpants are typically loose-fitting and made of a thicker material. They are designed to keep your legs nice and warm for those cold-morning adventures or late-night movie marathons. 

Joggers are slightly more form-fitting than normal sweatpants, they’re made of thinner materials, and they have that signature taper at the ankle. They allow for good mobility for activities like jogging or playing sports. 

Joggers today

Like many forms of athletic wear, the jogger was adopted into everyday fashion, and now we have joggers that are made of all types of materials and styles, not only for sweatpants. 

They’re catch-all pants. 

When should I wear joggers?

The great thing is that there are so many different types of joggers out there. 

If you’re looking for a pair of pants that can get you through casual Friday while still looking fairly put-together, a nice pair of denim or trouser joggers will do the trick. If you want to look like a fitness influencer, joggers are flattering to all kinds of physiques.

You can wear them to the grocery store. You can wear them on a night out on the weekend, and they even make for a fantastic outfit to lounge around at home. Their whole appeal is that they make comfort look good! 

Jogger outfit combos

Got your eye on a pair? Here are some ways to wear them:

1. Baggy shirt and active shoes

Joggers are slim-fitting but not too tight, making them comfortable and flattering, allowing you to do a lot with your tops. One of the best looks for slim-fitting joggers is a simple baggy t-shirt and a pair of active shoes. 

The baggy shirt and slim pants combo make for a flattering, comfortable look, and you can tie the whole athleisure vibe together with a pair of active shoes. It’s a good look for your kids' soccer games or for running errands. 

2. Baggy sweater and sneakers

If it’s a bit chilly outside, and you want to stay cozy while looking fashionable, the sweater jogger combo is tough to beat. A nice pair of denim joggers can make the look a classy/casual hybrid, and a pair of leather sneakers like the Prague can tie together the whole look. This is the perfect look for a stroll on a brisk autumn day or if you’re headed out for drinks or dinner. 

3. Denim jacket and combat boots

If you’re going for an edgy look, joggers and combat boots are a match made in heaven. Joggers go well with boots in general because of the taper. It ensures that your pants don’t fall over your boots, giving you a chance to show off those amazing leather boots. 

Tie the whole look together with a graphic tee and a denim jacket. It’s a top-notch outfit for a concert or if you’re headed to a brewery with some friends. 

4. Crop top and knit active shoes

Joggers go well with crop tops and tank tops. The look wouldn’t be complete without a nice pair of active shoes, like our Madrid Eco-Knit.  It’s a pair that supports your workouts and boost those casual athleisure outfits.

5. Cargo joggers with classy, low-rise sneakers

Some of the most stylish joggers out there are cargo joggers. They tend to be more slim-fitting trousers, and the pockets add texture and dimension that tie together the whole fit. It takes a normal look and adds a touch of cool. 

Cargo joggers go wonderfully with graphic tees and some classy, low-rise sneakers like the Prague. These shoes are made of canvas and suede to make a dynamic shape and a pleasing, textured look. 

6. Linen joggers with sandals

Let’s say you’re on vacation at the beach. You want to take a nice walk on the beach after dinner to enjoy that fresh ocean breeze. There’s no better outfit than a nice pair of linen joggers and stylish (yet supportive) sandals. The linen is perfect for those oceanic vibes, and the sandals are easy to slip off if you want to feel the sand in your toes. 

You can dress this up with a nice top or keep it casual with a nice, flowy shirt.

7. Hoodie and active shoes

We can’t talk about joggers without talking about hoodies. These two were made for each other. They’re both comfortable, they can both be dressed up or down, and they make for a perfect fit in a time when streetwear culture has taken over. 

Put on jogger trousers to make it a more everyday look, or go with some jogger sweats for a nice outfit to take to the gym. Tie it all together with a pair of athleisure shoes. There’s no better get-up for a trip to the movie theater or for chilling at home. 

8. Monochromatic jogger set with matching sneakers

Few things can make you feel as cool as wearing a monochromatic sweatsuit. There’s just something about it that makes you feel put together yet relaxed, all at the same time. It’s a way to say that you care about your appearance while staying comfortable all day long. 

The look can really come together if you get a pair of shoes to match. Making the entire fit a single color can take the look from a nine to a full 10. 

Seasonal shoe and jogger pairings

Wondering about the seasons? Joggers aren’t just for one time of year—these pants can roll with whatever the weather throws at you. But here’s the truth: pairing them with the wrong shoes can leave you sweating in the summer, freezing in the winter, or just looking a little off. 

Here’s how to match your joggers with the right shoes for every season.

Spring

Spring is that in-between weather where it’s chilly in the morning, warm by noon, and raining by dinner. A lightweight, breathable pair of shoes is your best bet—something that keeps things airy but still gives you some coverage. 

Stick with neutral or pastel colors to match the season, and if there’s a chance of rain, opt for something that won’t turn into a soaked mess after a few puddles.

Summer

Hot outside? The last thing you want is heavy, sweaty shoes weighing you down. Summer jogger outfits work best with low-top sneakers or slip-ons that let your feet breathe. And if you’re by the beach or just keeping it casual, joggers with sandals can totally work—just make sure they look intentional and not like you gave up halfway through getting dressed.

Fall

Fall is prime jogger season. It’s the time for layering up and adding a little extra style to your fits. This is when joggers pair best with sturdier, more structured shoes like classic sneakers or boots. 

Earth tones and neutral colors? Always a win. Whether you’re out for a coffee run or heading to a casual dinner, fall jogger outfits just hit different.

Winter

Winter joggers are all about balance—warm but not bulky, stylish but still practical. Since joggers are often thinner than jeans or other winter pants, the right shoes make all the difference. 

Go for high-tops, weather-resistant sneakers, or boots that actually keep your feet warm. And if there’s snow or ice? Make sure your shoes have some grip—nobody wants to be the person slipping their way down the sidewalk.

Common mistakes in shoe and jogger pairings

We’ve covered the best ways to style joggers, from casual to classy, but what about the don’ts? Because let’s be honest—just throwing on any pair of shoes with joggers won’t always work. Some combos clash, some feel off-balance, and some just miss the mark entirely. 

Let’s talk about the biggest mistakes people make when pairing shoes with joggers (so you don’t have to).

Wearing bulky sneakers with slim joggers

Joggers are all about a clean, tapered fit. Pairing them with oversized, chunky sneakers can throw off the proportions, making your feet look massive compared to the rest of your outfit. If you’re rocking a slim jogger, stick with a sleek, streamlined shoe that complements the shape of the pants rather than overpowering them.

Forgetting the occasion

Joggers can be styled up or down, but that doesn’t mean they work everywhere. If you’re heading to a semi-formal event, ultra-casual sneakers might not cut it. 

On the flip side, if you’re going for a laid-back vibe, a structured or overly polished shoe might feel out of place. The key is matching the formality of the shoe with the overall feel of your joggers.

Pairing the wrong joggers with dress shoes

Yes, joggers can be dressed up—but not every jogger. Ultra-soft fleece joggers that you wear at home probably won’t pair well with more structured or dressy shoes. If you’re going for a smart-casual look, joggers made of twill, denim, or a trouser-like fabric work best.

Ignoring color coordination

Mismatched colors can throw off an outfit. If your joggers are bold or patterned, stick to neutral shoes that won’t compete for attention. On the other hand, if your joggers are a solid, neutral shade, feel free to experiment with a pop of color in your footwear. 

And if you’re ever unsure? A monochromatic jogger-and-shoe combo is always a safe (and stylish) bet.

Tucking joggers into high-tops (unless you mean to)

Joggers have a natural taper that sits well on top of most shoes. Tucking them into high-top sneakers or boots can make them look awkwardly bunched up—unless you’re intentionally going for that look. If you’re wearing high-tops or boots, let the joggers sit naturally at the ankle for a cleaner silhouette.

Shoes to wear with joggers

Joggers are a great element to include in anybody’s wardrobe, and now you’ve got plenty of ideas on how to style these amazing pants. But if you’re still a bit unsure about what shoes to pair with your new trousers, check out Kiziks. 

Kiziks are changing the game when it comes to shoes. We make stylish shoes, both active and casual, that provide your feet with fantastic support and comfort, all while being completely hands-free. Simply slide your foot in, push your heel down, and the shoe snaps up around your heel to give you a secure, comfortable fit every time. 

Check out Kiziks today and pair them with your new joggers. You’ll be so glad that you added this combo to your wardrobe. 

Sources:

Athleisure Trend Around the World | globalEDGE

JOGGER | Cambridge Dictionary 

Streetwear Culture- What You Need to Know | Treehouse Society