The 10 Best Maternity Sweatpants for When Even Leggings Feel Like Too Much

checked mark Fact-Checked by Erin Cavoto  | January 25, 2024
Best Maternity Sweatpants

Quick Summary

The best maternity sweatpants are the Kindred Bravely Everyday Lounge Joggers, according to moms in the What to Expect community, because of their comfortable lightweight feel, stylish look and long-lasting quality.

In This Article

Here’s the truth about maternity clothing: You don’t need much of it, but you probably do need a few key pieces to carry you through your pregnancy. 

When I was expecting twins, I thought I’d rely heavily on maternity jeans — and for the first few months, I did. However, I eventually switched over to maternity leggings, but even those started to feel a little constricting after some time. I quickly realized as I got further along in my pregnancy that what I really needed was a comfortable (but still cute) pair of maternity sweatpants that I could wear whether lounging around the house or running errands.

A good pair of maternity sweatpants will feel comfortable, accommodate your baby bump, and look nice enough to be worn out of the house. But the best pair of maternity sweatpants will serve you beyond your pregnancy; they’ll provide the same comfort as your body heals from giving birth and changes during the postpartum stage. (And if you're looking for even more comfy pregnancy clothes, you'll probably want to grab a set of maternity pajamas, too!)

How we chose the best maternity sweatpants

Finding maternity sweatpants that are comfortable is easy; finding ones that are functional and fashionable, however, is a bit more challenging. Let’s face it, sweatpants are rarely the cutest clothing item in your closet. But brands have come a long way in designing sweatpants — specifically, maternity sweatpants — that you can wear out of the house without receiving judgemental stares. 

I started by scanning the What to Expect community boards to learn what maternity sweatpants moms were recommending to one another. I also took note of the criteria they consider when buying maternity sweatpants. Using this criteria, as well as my own own experience as a mom of twins who tried on many pairs of pregnancy sweatpants, I narrowed down the options to a list of 10 maternity sweatpants that met (well, really, exceeded) expectations when it came to:

  • Comfort
  • Stretch
  • Longevity
  • Features, such as adjustable waist bands or pockets 
  • Versatile for postpartum wear, too 

Why Trust Us?

What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.

Best Overall Maternity Sweatpants

Kindred Bravely Everyday Lounge Joggers

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Kindred Bravely Everyday Maternity Joggers
Buying Options
Pros
  • Lightweight material
  • Soft
  • Available in two lengths
Cons
  • Some reviewers feel the material is too thin

Material: 95% viscose, 5% spandex

Size range: XS-XXXL/2X and in Regular and Long

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

For a pair of maternity sweatpants that you can wear just about anywhere, without sacrificing comfort, look no further than the Kindred Bravely Everyday Lounge Joggers. A favorite brand among What to Expect readers, Kindred Bravely’s are made of a soft but durable viscose fabric that provides plenty of stretch as your body grows. 

“They're super-soft and comfortable and stretchy and have good longevity,” says Jeanne Beacom, What to Expect’s Campaign Performance Manager, who owns four different colors of these joggers. “I'm wearing my 2021 joggers into my current 3rd trimester, and that's after wearing them through two postpartum and WFH years.”

Made of soft viscose fabric with some spandex for stretch, moms like the lightweight feel and slim style of these sweats. Moms like that the slim, jogger-style gives these sweatpants a more put-together look; you won’t mind wearing them out of the house.  And, they aren’t just great for pregnancy: In the postpartum period, the lightweight material will keep the night sweats at bay (if you know, you know). 

Jeanne did note that one of her pairs was a little stretched out after a few years of wear, but these pants will certainly last you through at least one pregnancy and postpartum period, if not more.

Community Reviews
  • “The Kindred Bravely joggers are amazing. They’ve lasted me through two pregnancy and fit when you are back to your normal size. I’ve worn them so much they might have holes in them. They are thin, but the perfect thickness to sleep in without getting too hot.” 

  • “I really like the kindred bravely bamboo joggers. I was able to wear them all the way through my last pregnancy and postpartum. The size is super adaptable so I can wear them over or under my bump too depending on how I’m feeling.”

  • “I bought 2 pairs and plan on wearing them a lot post partum because they are so light”

Best Maternity Joggers

Lululemon Align High-Rise Jogger

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Lululemon Align High Rise Jogger
Buying Options
Pros
  • Incredibly soft and lightweight material
  • Flattering and versatile
Cons
  • Pricey

Material: 81% nylon, 19% lycra elastane

Size range: 0-20

Why We
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Why We Love It

Lululemon’s iconic Align high-rise leggings are arguably the most recommended non-maternity maternity legging. So it’s no surprise that moms-to-be also love the brand’s Align high-rise joggers. Like the leggings, these Lululemon sweatpants are made of supremely soft and stretchy material, which is ideal for stretching over a growing bump. They also  feature a comfortable waistband that pregnant reviewers say didn’t feel tight on their bumps. The polished look of these joggers means you can wear them out of the house, while the moisture-wicking flexible fabric makes them an option for low-intensity workouts, too. Keep in mind that many What to Expect moms recommend going up one size when buying Lululemon clothes for pregnancy.

Community Reviews
  • “Just wanted to say that the best finds so far have been the lululemon align joggers and the aligns. God they’re so comfy! Tons of room to grow.”

Best Fleece Maternity Sweatpants

PinkBlush Basic Fleece Maternity Sweatpants

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Pink Blush Fleece Maternity Sweatpants
Buying Options
PinkBlush_Maternity
PinkBlush Maternity
$53
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Pros
  • Thick
  • Adjustable drawstring
Cons
  • Limited sizes

Material: 60% cotton, 40% polyester

Size range: S-L

Why We
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Why We Love It

There’s just something about a pair of classic baggy fleece sweatpants on a cold day. And if you’re pregnant during the winter months, you’ll be happy to have PinkBlush’s fleece maternity sweatpants in your closet.  The fleece-lined interior will feel soft and warm, without overheating your. And though the waist has plenty of give to grow with your bump, it could also be worn below the bump if you find it more comfortable. What’s more is that these pants come with a drawstring waistband you can adjust for a better fit, plus pockets for your phone, keys or wallet.

Community Reviews
  • “I got some from pink blush maternity that I love!”

Best Maternity Loungewear Set

LILLUSORY 2 Piece Oversized Slouchy Matching Cozy Knit Sweatsuit Set

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Lillusory 2 Piece Lounge Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Comfy oversized fit
  • Matching set can be worn separately or together
Cons
  • Not designed specifically for pregnancy

Material: 55% acrylic, 45% cotton

Size range: S-XL

Why We
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Reviews
Why We Love It

There’s something about a loungewear set that makes you feel more put together, even if you’re just laying on the couch. Even though it’s not specifically a maternity set, this Amazon find grows with you throughout your pregnancy, thanks to the high-waist, wide pants. The matching top is also oversized so it should comfortably fit over your growing belly, too. Pregnant reviewers found the set to fit perfectly over their bumps, and many say they enjoyed wearing it postpartum too while recovering from birth. Most went up at least one size, so you might want to do the same. 

Community Reviews
  • “I have this set and love it!”

  • “I just got my first pair of these and I’m obsessed!!”

Best Affordable Maternity Sweatpants

Stars Above Perfectly Cozy Jogger Pants

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Target Stars Above Sweatpants
Buying Options
Pros
  • Wide size range
  • Affordable
  • Come in multiple colors
Cons
  • Will likely need to size up

Material: 80% rayon, 17% polyester, 3% spandex

Size range: XS-4XL

Why We
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Reviews
Why We Love It

Target’s Stars Above line is a favorite among What to Expect staff and community members, who praise the affordable, comfortable non-maternity maternity loungewear — including sweatpants These Stars Above joggers are plenty cozy and comfy, made of a soft rayon blend that is lightweight and breathable. 

“They’re super soft with lots of stretch in the waist and not too tight or elastic so it doesn’t put pressure on your stomach,” says Melissa Bykofsky, What to Expect’s Executive Editor. “I wore these during pregnancy, but not at the end when I was huge. Mostly early through middle pregnancy, but I’m sure if I sized up they would have been great.” 

They also have an adjustable drawstring waistband that might help youwith getting the perfect fit over (or under!) your bump.

Community Reviews
  • “Target!! I usually wear a M pre pregnancy and sized up to an XL in these and they’re sooo comfy!”

  • “I got these earlier in my pregnancy and I think they’re the best thing I’ve ever purchased!!! I have light gray and wanted to bring them to go home from hospital in but I’m not risking getting blood on them. I think I’m gonna purchase the darker pair also.”

Best Over-the-Belly Maternity Sweatpants

Gap Maternity Full-Panel Joggers

Best Maternity Sweatpants - GAP Maternity Full Panel Sweatpants
Buying Options
Pros
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Large
  • stretchy belly panel
Cons
  • On the pricier side

Material: 88% cotton, 12% linen

Size range: XXS-XXL

Why We
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Why We Love It

As a twin mom, I can attest to the fact that full-panel support is great when you have a large bump — an under-the-belly option doesn’t feel quite as comfortable in those final days of pregnancy, in my opinion. These lightweight GAP maternity sweatpants feature a panel that easily stretches up and over your belly.  But what makes this belly panel even greater is that it has drawstring ties so you can adjust it as you grow. Wear these sweats around the house or dress them up with a fitted tee and sneakers for a cute look to run errands.

Community Reviews
  • “I'm tall and have a hard time finding ones long enough. their loungers are so comfortable.”

Best Plus-Size Maternity Sweatpants

Torrid Happy Camper Super Soft Performance Jersey Crop Active Jogger

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Torrid Happy Camper Sweatpants
Buying Options
Pros
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Large pockets
Cons
  • Will likely need to size up

Material: 82% polyester, 18% spandex

Size range: M-6X

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Torrid is a go-to for What to Expect moms in search of plus-size clothing. Although not technically a maternity sweatpant, many moms-to-be opt for these cozy Torrid joggers made of soft Jersey fabric. These sweats come with a four-way stretch so it should be comfy on your growing bump whether you choose to wear them over or under your belly. And, the adjustable drawstring will also help with finding a perfect fit. Reviewers like the large pockets and soft-to-the-touch material, as well as the stylish look. Keep in mind that these might fall too short on taller people, since they’re cropped. Also, since it’s a non-maternity option, many recommend going up a size. 

Community Reviews
  • “[The] cool thing about having lost 90 lbs is that I kept a size up or two from my weight loss! Ive found that my Torrid pants that are one size bigger and have some elastic to the waist band have been perfect!! They are a little loose in the booty, but so much more comfortable in my stomach. My leggings have been great too.”

Best Petite Maternity Sweatpants

Vuori Performance Jogger

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Vuori Performance Jogger
Pros
  • Four-way stretch
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Come in a long size
  • too
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Will likely need to size up

Material: 89% recycled polyester, 11% elastane

Size range: XXS-XXL

Why We
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Reviews
Why We Love It

As a mom just over five feet tall, these Vuori joggers are the only pair that don’t make me feel like I’m swimming in excess fabric. Thanks to the 25-inch inseam (most sweats that have a 28-inch inseam), they hit right at my ankle. Although they aren’t designed for maternity wear, they have a relaxed fit, adjustable drawstring and four-way stretch that lends itself well to pregnancy clothing. (As with any non-maternity clothing, you should size up if you plan to wear while pregnant.) The lightweight material is also great for people who tend to run hot while pregnant. 

And, if you’re taller but like the look and style of these pants, a longer length is also available.

Community Reviews
  • “Just splurged on vuori performance joggers….I haven’t been digging leggings recently but omg these are a game changer!!! What has been your game changer??”

  • “I love love vuori performance joggers. I have had to size up in pregnancy but i love the feel of the fabric and they are just so insanely comfortable.”

  • “I absolutely love mine. I bought mine about a year and a half ago and over time they do relax and stretch some, but I’m happy with my typical size. I’ve even been able to wear my normal size while pregnant because the waistband sits below my belly and is not tight or restrictive. I’m debating about getting a second pair to bring to the hospital for after baby is born.”

Best Flare Maternity Sweatpants

H&M Mama Before & After Ribbed Pants

Best Maternity Sweatpants - HM Mama Flare Sweatpants
Buying Options
Pros
  • Foldable belly panel
  • Stylish look
Cons
  • They shouldn’t be machine dried

Material: 53% cotton, 37% polyester, 10% spandex

Size range: XS-XXL

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

With a loose fit and wide belly panel, these H&M sweats will easily accommodate a growing body. But the ribbed pattern and wide flare add a touch of style, making them easy to dress up (especially when paired with the matching top). They’re made mostly of cotton, so they’ll feel soft against your skin, while the addition of spandex gives them plenty of stretch.

Community Reviews
  • Maternity leggings, maternity jeans (H&M has a great selection of maternity pants), and maternity long sleeve tops (Target, Walmart, H&M, Kohls).

  • I just ordered some maternity sweatpants from H&M in a size up, even if I only wear them for a month or so the comfort will be worth it.

Best Maternity Yoga Pants

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Practice Maternity Pant

Best Maternity Sweatpants - Beyond Yoga Spacedye Maternity Pant
Buying Options
Pros
  • Buttery soft feel
  • Supportive belly panel
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
Cons
  • Pricey

Material: 87% polyester, 13% elastane

Size range: XS-XL

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

If you’ve never felt Beyond Yoga’s spacedye material, you’re in for a treat. The brand’s blend of polyester and elastane creates a smooth, almost velvety texture, making these yoga pants great for comfortably moving around during a yoga sesh or lounging at home. The belly panel provides good support while moving around, and it can be folded up or down depending on your preference. The moisture-wicking fabric also helps keep you cool whether you’re stretching or walking. Although these pants are pricey, they might be worth it if you want a great go-to pair of pants for some low-intensity exercise.

Community Reviews
  • “Also have two pairs of beyond yoga leggings (size S) my fiancé got me for Xmas and they are so buttery soft!”

FAQs

You can wear non-maternity sweatpants while pregnant, though maternity sweatpants will be more comfortable and accommodating. If you already own sweatpants to wear over the next nine months, you can simply wear the waistband underneath your bump or loosen the drawstring if your pants have one. If you’re buying a pair of new non-maternity sweatpants, look for something with an adjustable waist and go up a size or two to accommodate your belly. 

There are many different places to buy maternity sweatpants. The most obvious choice is a brand dedicated to maternity wear or with a maternity section, such as Kindred Bravely, GAP or H&M. But you can also buy non-maternity sweatpants from your favorite stores like Target and Lululemon, so long as you opt for ones made of stretchy fabric or ones that have an easy-to-adjust waistband. If you do go for a non-maternity sweatpant, consider sizing up to ensure comfort.