Cuff pants aka tapered-joggers are gearing up to be a major trend for the second-half of this year and into 2015. Part of the street-sport trend, this active-inspired pant has already cut into denim sales and likely will continue to do so. Like a lot of fashion trends as of late, the silhouette first emerged as a popular item in men’s streetwear. And even now it’s still much more popular as a item for guys, though women have embraced it and reflecting a move to gender-free dressing, in many cases are purchasing men’s versions.
What defines a cuff pant and makes it distinct from a pair of sweatpants? Think of them as something of a hybrid between a traditional soccer jogger and leggings. There is a slight drop crotch and a bit of room in the drawers, the waist sits a bit higher than the average sweatpant silhouette and the leg tapers to a narrow fit that ends at the ankle with a seamed cuff that often includes a hidden zipper.
Detail-wise, the prototypical cuff pants usually feature two extra-long, angled zipper pockets, often featuring contrasting fabrics or colors, plus a drawstring, also contrasting. Some cuff pants are offered in 100 percent cotton, but we prefer those that feature some stretch because they help the pants keep their fit and unlike back in the day, won’t bag out at the knee after a few hours of wearing. As such, they offer the comfort and retro appeal of cotton but the durability of polyester.
One of the first U.S. companies to embrace the silhouette and bring it to the forefront is Publish, who have even trademarked the description “jogger pant.” (There is a great interview here about that story.) Nike and Adidas have been leaders of the look and both of their styles (Nike Tech fleece and Adidas fleece jogging pants) routinely sell out shortly after hitting retail. Reflecting a huge demand currently exceeding supply, Nike’s version normally priced at $80, regularly sells on Ebay for $150 and up. Women’s streetwear brand PLNY LaLa‘s versio is great, and it’s one of the first made in women’s sizing. The fast fashion folks like Zara are offering their take on the look, too, and by this time next year just about every retailer and manufacturer will have a version (so enjoy the look now because you are soon to be sick of it!).
Streetwear blogs have been covering the cuff-pant phenomenon since it started gearing up last year with style guides that generally recommend wearing the pants with a low or mid-sneaker. Obviously women have a lot more flexibility and are able to style the silhouette with everything from sneakers to heels. Because the fabric of choice (for now) is a heavier cotton, we think it looks better with a more substantial heel that has a sportier edge, whether block or platform.
We have searched around and posted up pics of some of our favorite cuff pants here, but be aware, some are men’s sizing only and lots other are sold out. As such consider this more of a guide and a starting point. If you are willing to wait a little bit, as mentioned, a virtual tsunami of choices should be available by year end.
