What to expect from bamboo joggers
Short answer: Bamboo sweatpants are soft, drape well and are comfortable for lounging and everyday wear. Over time they usually become softer and a little more relaxed in shape, while the knees, seat and waistband are where wear shows first.
The fabric in sweatpants
Sweatpants with bamboo viscose are often knitted as sweatshirt fleece or French terry, frequently blended with cotton or polyester. The inside may be lightly brushed or have small loops that add a little body. The viscose gives a soft drape, so the trousers hang neatly instead of standing out stiffly. That makes them comfortable at home, when travelling and on quiet days. See bamboo sweatpants for men for different styles.
Knees and seat
Soft fabrics give at the knees and seat when you sit for a long time. Sweatpants can therefore develop small bags, especially after a full day on the sofa or a long journey. That is normal and often recovers after washing. Trousers with a higher share of polyester or elastane hold their shape better but may feel less soft. You can decide for yourself which matters more, and it is worth knowing the trade off before you choose.
Waistband and drawstring
The waistband usually has elastic and a drawstring. The elastic becomes a little looser over time, especially with hot washes and tumble drying. You can tighten the drawstring as the elastic relaxes, so the trousers still sit properly. Tie a knot in the ends of the drawstring before washing so it does not slip into the channel. It is a small step that saves a lot of fiddling later on.
Pilling and surface
Sweatshirt fabric can pill, particularly on the inner thighs and where the trousers rub against the sofa or a seat. Pills are small balls of loose fibres and are normal wear. They can be removed with a fabric shaver. Wash the trousers inside out and with similar clothes. Avoid washing them with jeans or garments with zips, which add extra friction in the machine and speed up pilling.
Washing and drying
Wash at 30 to 40 degrees according to the label. Viscose can shrink at high temperatures, and elastic ages with heat. Let the trousers dry flat or draped over a rail, not hanging from the waistband, so they do not stretch lengthways. Avoid the tumble dryer. With that care, both shape and softness last longer. See more in the full bamboo range for men.
When they are worn out
Sweatpants are worn out when the fabric thins at the knees and inner thighs, when the waistband no longer holds, or when the crotch seams start to give. How quickly that happens depends on how much you wear them. Many people wear sweatpants very often, so wear comes naturally. Brands such as JBS of Denmark make soft styles for everyday use.
Frequently asked questions
Do bamboo sweatpants shrink
They can shrink slightly with hot washes and tumble drying. Wash at a low temperature and air dry them.
Why do my sweatpants bag at the knees
Soft fabric gives when you sit for a long time. The bagging often recovers after washing.
How do I remove pilling
With a fabric shaver or a disposable razor. Washing inside out reduces new pilling.
See our range of bamboo sweatpants for women.
