Joggers with or without a drawstring

Short answer: A drawstring lets you adjust the waistband precisely and keeps the trousers up when you move. Without one, the waistband is smoother and does not show under a thin layer. The choice depends on how you wear them.

The drawstring gives adjustment

Your body changes a little through the day, and a drawstring lets you tighten or loosen the waist as needed. That is handy on active days, when trousers might slip with every step. A drawstring also lets the same size fit a little wider. See the bamboo jogging suit with an adjustable waist.

Without a drawstring the waist lies flat

A plain elastic waistband does not show through a thin layer and has no knot pressing on your stomach. That matters when you sit for long periods, at a desk or in the car. A flat waist also looks calmer under a short top. Pair it with a long sleeve bamboo T-shirt.

What lasts longest

With no drawstring, the elastic is the only thing that can fail, and once it goes slack it is hard to fix. A drawstring can be replaced and takes some of the strain off the elastic. So a waistband with a drawstring often keeps its shape a little longer with daily wear and frequent washing.

For movement and walks

If you walk far, cycle or do light exercise, the drawstring gives extra security. Pull it a little tighter so the trousers stay put, then loosen it afterwards. Without one, the elastic does all the work, which is fine as long as the size fits you well and the waistband is not worn.

For the sofa and home

At home, a waistband without a drawstring is often the most comfortable, since nothing presses when you lie down or curl up. The smooth waist is barely noticeable. Many people choose one pair without a drawstring for relaxing and one pair with a drawstring for days out.

Finding the right size

Without a drawstring, choose your usual size by hip measurement rather than waist, so the band does not dig in. With a drawstring you can go half a size up if you are between sizes, then tighten it. Also check the leg length so the trousers do not drag on the ground.

Washing and caring for the waistband

Wash the trousers at a low temperature and inside out to protect the elastic. Tie the drawstring loosely before washing so it does not slip into the channel or tangle with other clothes. Tumble drying is hard on elastic, so let the trousers dry on a rack.

What suits you

If you are often on the move, choose a drawstring. If you sit a lot or mostly wear them at home, go without. If unsure, a drawstring is the more flexible choice, since you can always leave it loose. Browse all womens clothing.

Frequently asked questions

Can you add a drawstring later

Yes, if the waistband already has eyelets. Otherwise a hole has to be made, which takes some sewing kit and a steady hand.

Does the knot press when sitting

It can. Tie the knot flat and push it slightly to the side, and you will hardly notice it, even after many hours at a desk.

What if the drawstring disappears inside

Fasten a safety pin to the end of the drawstring and slowly work it through the channel until it comes out on the other side again.