Flares! Wide-Legs! Cargos! Here Are 5 Nike Pairs to Help You Celebrate the Active-Pants Renaissance

Over the last year, I've noticed a shift at my local Pilates spot: Skin-tight leggings are no longer the undisputed uniform. Sure, they're still around—but throwback cargos, joggers, wide-legs, and more have very much entered the chat (er, studio). Never one to let a trend pass without giving it a try, I recently showed up to class in a pair of flared leggings—and before the warm-up was over, you could call me a convert. The extra airflow? Game-changing. The effortless movement? Even better.

And working out is just the beginning. Looser active pants offer next-level versatility that feels like a breath of fresh air after years of shimmying into skin-hugging leggings. You can wear them for class and for brunch, to run errands or to lounge at home, and you can guarantee an effortlessly-put-together look (and feel) while you do.

The athleisure space is full (and getting fuller) these days—but it's no surprise that Nike's active pants are the gold standard. Whether you're into sleek flares, a laid-back velour vibe, or stylish cargos, every high-quality, classic pair checks the box for performance, style, and these-could-be-pajamas comfort. In other words, don't sleep on the active-pants renaissance—here are five of Nike's best to add to your rotation.

Dri-FIT Mid-Rise Joggers

$95

Sweats, but make them buttery soft, moisture-wicking, and made for everything from warm-ups to weekend lounging. Cozy without the bulk, these joggers will quickly become your new everyday go-to.

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Dri-FIT High-Waisted Loose Wide-Leg Pants

$110

Need a break from compressive leggings? We've all been there. These breezy wide-leg pants are designed with a high waist that actually stays put, fabric that keeps you dry, and a relaxed fit that makes them just as good for workouts as they are for coffee runs.

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High-Waisted Flared Leggings

$110

Yoga pants (now leaning into a the flared-legging rebrand) are back, and they mean business. This sleek, sculpting pair works well on all body types and channels just the right amount of retro. Snag them in understated black or navy—or go bold with orange or pink.

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Mid-Rise Cargo Pants

$90

Cargos have made a serious comeback, and this pair—which gives major streetwear-meets-activewear vibes—proves why. With roomy pockets and a laid-back fit, you'll be wondering why you didn't invest in a pair years ago.

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Mid-Rise Velour Pants

$75

Velour is officially out of retirement (hi, 2000s-era Paris Hilton), and these pants are leading the charge. Soft, stretchy, and unapologetically nostalgic, they’re the upgrade your athleisure lineup didn’t know it needed.

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