13 Best Men's High-Waisted Pants 2025, According to GQ Editors
GQ RecommendsThey help your legs look a little longer, and your fits look a lot bigger—and every pair worth your time is right here.By Leon HedgepethJanuary 21, 2025Image: Getty; Collage by Brittany LogginsSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.Men's high-waisted pants have been on the rise for a while now. But long before they became a favorite of artful cool guys and the least charismatic menswear influencer you know, they helped propel real-life guys into an entirely different echelon of cool. Think of Sidney Poitier rocking dusty high-waisted khakis with military boots, or Gianni Versace dressing down his jacket with high-waisted jeans, or Fred Astaire defying the laws of gravity in high-waisted trousers and dainty brogues. All of those fellas swore by pants with a higher rise (more on that later), and all of them mastered menswear’s golden ratio, a key move in making high-waisted pants work for you.Sure, if you’re used to wearing jeans with a Bieberian level of slouch, yanking your pants above the navel might feel a little unusual at first. Trust me, though: there’s a reason mass-market brands like Dickies (a sturdy 100+ years in the game) and hoity-toity designer darlings have converted legions of guys to the cause. So whether you’re ready to embrace the high-waisted resurgence or just flirting with the idea, we rounded up the best men’s high-waisted pants, jeans, and trousers on the market right now to get you started.The Best High-Waisted Men’s Pants, According to GQThe Best High-Waisted Chinos: Buck Mason Full Saddle Chinos, $158The Best High-Waisted Work Pants: Dickies Original 874 Work Pants, $30The Best High-Waisted Dress Pants: Mfpen Service Pleated Wool Trousers, $290The Best High-Waisted Jeans: Levi’s Vintage Clothing 1955 501 Original Fit Jeans, $295The Best High-Waisted Fatigue Pants: Noah Cotton Twill Utility Pants, $298The Best High-Waisted Pants for Menswear Nerds: Stòffa Pleated Wool-Flannel Trousers, $675The Best High-Waisted Pants for Fashion Guys: Lemaire Twisted Seam Pants, $710Looking for Something Specific?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronMore High-Waisted Pants We LoveHow to Style High-Waisted PantsHow We Test and Review ProductsHow We Make These PicksThe Best High-Waisted Chinos: Buck Mason Paperback Twill Full Saddle ChinosBuck MasonPaperback Twill Full Saddle Chinos$158 Buck MasonPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsThe fit makes them an almost replica of chinos from the 1940s and 50sThey’ve been enzyme garment-washed, giving them a perfectly broken-in feel right from the first wearConsWith a 32.5-inch inseam, most guys—including me—will likely need to have these hemmedIf you haven’t taken a sip from the Buck Mason menswear fountain, its chinos are guaranteed to quench your thirst—for pants, that is. The brand is on a hot streak, like the 73-9 Warriors season (minus the Game 7 heartbreak), cranking out easy-to-wear basics: thermals, chukka boots that feel like instant classics, and even suits that make the full-time office grind a little less painful. But its chinos? Oh, they’re in a league of their own.Allow me to gush for a second—besides my personal endorsement (and the fact that I’ve already snagged a second pair), these chinos are a home run. Made from a 9.5 oz cotton twill, they’ve got just enough stiffness to hold their shape after washing, kind of like your favorite pair of over-loved, over-washed jeans. And here’s the kicker: these are Buck Mason’s widest chinos in their full-saddle fit. Think high-rise at the waist, straight cut through the leg—a silhouette that plays equally well with a tucked-in Oxford or a cozy Cowichan sweater on those blustery winter days. The real magic? These pants pull off a retro vibe, channeling vintage service uniform energy while working hard as a year-round staple.Best High-Waisted Work Pants: Dickies Original 874 Work PantsDickiesOriginal 874 Work Pants$30 AmazonPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsA wallet-friendly price tag, making it easy to snag a few pairsWrinkle-resistantAvailable in over a dozen colorsConsPrimarily made from polyester, which can feel a bit scratchy or uncomfortable for some peopleBe sure to go up a size or two with theseFrom skaters to restaurateurs to woodshop gurus, Dickies has kept its authentic workwear cred intact—even after teaming up with one of the most sought-after brands. How has the brand managed this without leaving its core crowd behind? Three numbers—8-7-4.These pants first dropped in 1967, rocking that signature crisp crease down the leg. Made from a hardy polyester-cotton twill blend, they’re wrinkle-resistant, so you can look sharp even after a long day of, well, whatever life throws at you. Whether you're under a car trying to figure out why your engine sounds like a blender or you've had a sauce-pan disaster, these bad boys have got your bac
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Men's high-waisted pants have been on the rise for a while now. But long before they became a favorite of artful cool guys and the least charismatic menswear influencer you know, they helped propel real-life guys into an entirely different echelon of cool. Think of Sidney Poitier rocking dusty high-waisted khakis with military boots, or Gianni Versace dressing down his jacket with high-waisted jeans, or Fred Astaire defying the laws of gravity in high-waisted trousers and dainty brogues. All of those fellas swore by pants with a higher rise (more on that later), and all of them mastered menswear’s golden ratio, a key move in making high-waisted pants work for you.
Sure, if you’re used to wearing jeans with a Bieberian level of slouch, yanking your pants above the navel might feel a little unusual at first. Trust me, though: there’s a reason mass-market brands like Dickies (a sturdy 100+ years in the game) and hoity-toity designer darlings have converted legions of guys to the cause. So whether you’re ready to embrace the high-waisted resurgence or just flirting with the idea, we rounded up the best men’s high-waisted pants, jeans, and trousers on the market right now to get you started.
The Best High-Waisted Men’s Pants, According to GQ
- The Best High-Waisted Chinos: Buck Mason Full Saddle Chinos, $158
- The Best High-Waisted Work Pants: Dickies Original 874 Work Pants, $30
- The Best High-Waisted Dress Pants: Mfpen Service Pleated Wool Trousers, $290
- The Best High-Waisted Jeans: Levi’s Vintage Clothing 1955 501 Original Fit Jeans, $295
- The Best High-Waisted Fatigue Pants: Noah Cotton Twill Utility Pants, $298
- The Best High-Waisted Pants for Menswear Nerds: Stòffa Pleated Wool-Flannel Trousers, $675
- The Best High-Waisted Pants for Fashion Guys: Lemaire Twisted Seam Pants, $710
Looking for Something Specific?
The Best High-Waisted Chinos: Buck Mason Paperback Twill Full Saddle Chinos
Buck Mason
Paperback Twill Full Saddle Chinos
- The fit makes them an almost replica of chinos from the 1940s and 50s
- They’ve been enzyme garment-washed, giving them a perfectly broken-in feel right from the first wear
- With a 32.5-inch inseam, most guys—including me—will likely need to have these hemmed
If you haven’t taken a sip from the Buck Mason menswear fountain, its chinos are guaranteed to quench your thirst—for pants, that is. The brand is on a hot streak, like the 73-9 Warriors season (minus the Game 7 heartbreak), cranking out easy-to-wear basics: thermals, chukka boots that feel like instant classics, and even suits that make the full-time office grind a little less painful. But its chinos? Oh, they’re in a league of their own.
Allow me to gush for a second—besides my personal endorsement (and the fact that I’ve already snagged a second pair), these chinos are a home run. Made from a 9.5 oz cotton twill, they’ve got just enough stiffness to hold their shape after washing, kind of like your favorite pair of over-loved, over-washed jeans. And here’s the kicker: these are Buck Mason’s widest chinos in their full-saddle fit. Think high-rise at the waist, straight cut through the leg—a silhouette that plays equally well with a tucked-in Oxford or a cozy Cowichan sweater on those blustery winter days. The real magic? These pants pull off a retro vibe, channeling vintage service uniform energy while working hard as a year-round staple.
Best High-Waisted Work Pants: Dickies Original 874 Work Pants
From skaters to restaurateurs to woodshop gurus, Dickies has kept its authentic workwear cred intact—even after teaming up with one of the most sought-after brands. How has the brand managed this without leaving its core crowd behind? Three numbers—8-7-4.
These pants first dropped in 1967, rocking that signature crisp crease down the leg. Made from a hardy polyester-cotton twill blend, they’re wrinkle-resistant, so you can look sharp even after a long day of, well, whatever life throws at you. Whether you're under a car trying to figure out why your engine sounds like a blender or you've had a sauce-pan disaster, these bad boys have got your back. While durability is the star of the show—especially considering the price—the fit is universally loved. A relaxed high-rise fit with a straight leg and just a hint of taper at the hem, letting your pants gently kiss the top of your shoes. They're equally at ease on a construction site or at dinner, especially when paired with their trusty matching work shirt.
Best High-Waisted Dress Pants: Mfpen Service Pleated Wool Trousers
When Sigurd Bank launched Mfpen a decade ago, his mission was simple: create elevated staples inspired by Scandinavian style, all while championing sustainability. He started with deadstock fabrics and blended in recycled and organic materials. Fast-forward to today, and his label has become one of the go-to brands for menswear nerds the word over.
Take the brand’s Service pleated wool trousers as an example. These are office-ready, thanks to their relaxed straight-leg cut and high-rise fit. And let’s not overlook the hook fastening—because when it comes to higher-waisted pants, it’s all about that extra security. No one wants their trousers heading south without warning. Plus, it gives a sleeker look, keeping your waistband smooth and free of awkward bunching. Pair these with a cardigan and derbies, and while it might be a bit early for a promotion (we're still in Q1, after all), these trousers will definitely turn heads in your morning meetings.
Best High-Waisted Jeans: Levi’s Vintage Clothing 1955 501 Original Fit Jeans
Levi’s Vintage Clothing’s odes to the brand’s rich archive are always a win. From its 1930s-inspired crewneck sweatshirt to denim throwbacks ranging from the early 1900s to the '90s, the sub-label doesn’t miss. Take its 1955 501 reproduction, made in Japan—a love letter to 50s bikers. (Think Marlon Brando in The Wild One.)
True to classic biker style, these jeans feature a loose, boxy “anti-fit” (definitely not slim or skinny) that still holds strong as a goes-with-everything silhouette today. They're selvedge, so expect them to be stiff when you first pull them out of the bag, but don’t worry—they'll soften with each wear. (Pro tip: size up two sizes in the waist and length, because these babies shrink a lot after a wash.) The waist is mid-rise, but sits higher than your typical jeans, with a relaxed fit through the leg. Wear them to death, and maybe—just maybe—LVC will be recreating a fit in 2055 based on your perfectly worn-in whiskers and fades.
Best High-Waisted Fatigue Pants: Noah Cotton Twill Utility Pants
From their collaborations with Timex and Barbour, Noah has the playbook for working with heritage brands in a way that’s stylish and tasteful. While these collaborations may steal the spotlight, don’t overlook one of their finest assets: pants. Noah’s stovepipe jeans have a quiet, cult following among menswear devotees, but their fatigues deserve equal praise.
Their Japanese twill pants, inspired by classic Army fatigues, feature signature slash pockets and button-flap back pockets. Noah’s reimagined design introduces subtle pleats that enhance the higher-rise fit, creating a flattering elongating effect (and trust us, that’s never a bad thing). Pair them with rugged boots now, and by spring, they’ll be perfectly broken in, ready for the laid-back vibes of Vans.
Best High-Waisted Pants for Menswear Nerds: Stòffa Pleated Wool-Flannel Trousers
Stòffa’s store is basically a zen-like planet—think of the massage emoji but in real life. All that’s left to do is admire the brand’s insane fabrics, flawless fits, and tonal footwear. The brand’s Italian-made collection is a masterpiece of clean lines, with pieces that easily transition from season to season. It’s like they’ve designed a wardrobe that just gets you—no thinking required. Scroll through their lookbooks, and you’ll quickly see why this is a brand you’d want to wear head-to-toe.
Much like the rest of their clothes, the devil is in the details. Take their straight-leg pleated wool-flannel trousers. Made from an impossibly soft, sand-colored wool, these beauties come with pleats for that high-rise magic. But the real game-changer? The adjustable waist tabs. Forget belts and alterations—these pants give you the perfect fit every time. Wear them today, pass them down to your kids, and make sure they do the same.
Best High-Waisted Pants for Fashion Guys: Lemaire Twisted Seam Belted Straight Leg Pants
The best designers always keep practicality top of mind, and that's why Lemaire is one of the best in the game right now. From his eponymous label’s iconic belted tote bags to his partnership with Uniqlo U, Lemaire’s real magic lies in his ability to straddle both ends of the price spectrum. Luxurious pieces under $100? Check. Over $1,000? Also, check. Few designers can pull off that kind of range without losing their visual language—but Lemaire? He’s thriving.
Case in point: these stunning espresso-brown high-waisted pants. Crafted from hefty denim with a twill weave, they’re built for workwear-level durability (read: tough enough for your errands, chic enough for your coffee date). The slightly twisted side seams give the legs a unique curved-barrel shape—a little artsy, a lot flattering. The high-rise waist pairs with a roomy seat and straight legs for that perfect blend of structured and relaxed. Oh, and did I mention the matching, removable built-in belt? It’s a utility touch that says, “Who needs to buy a belt after spending $700+ on pants?”
More High-Waisted Pants We Love:
Todd Snyder
Relaxed Selvedge Jeans
Baggy jeans are back, and leave it to Todd Snyder to make some of the best pairs fueling the comeback. His version? Made from heavy-duty 12.5 oz cotton, featuring a nice high rise and a stovepipe leg. Pair them with a denim shirt for a double-denim look so good you'll find yourself stuck on repeat.
RRL
Herringbone Pants
RRL’s line is packed with workwear, military, and aviation-inspired garments so good, that they probably could’ve kitted out the armed forces back in the day—and made them look cool doing it. Their fatigues are evidence, made from yarn-dyed Japanese herringbone fabric and then lovingly sanded and distressed by hand, like denim's artisanal cousin. The ultimate touch? Adjustable waist tabs for that custom fit and a generous rise that blends comfort and style.
J.Crew
Classic Chinos
There's no denying the giant-fit chino helped put J.Crew back on the menswear map, but the brand’s classic version is the true hero, outlasting fleeting trends like avocado toast. Inspired by the original 1940s military-issued pairs, these chinos feature a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh with a full leg—perfect for boarding school kids trying to look cool and adults crunching spreadsheets in their blue-light frames, dreaming of 5 p.m. freedom.
Ghaia Cashmere
Marinaio Pleated Cotton-Twill Pants
Ghiaia Cashmere doesn’t just make some of the world’s best cashmere sweaters—it’s founder Davide Baroncini’s masterclass in styling that truly sets them apart. Visiting their site feels like a never-ending scroll of outfit inspiration that you didn’t know you needed but now can’t live without. And it’s not just the sweaters stealing the show. The label’s cotton-twill pleated trousers fit seamlessly whether you’re steering a boat or navigating a meeting room. Style that’s as versatile as it is enviable—seriously, you might want to sit down before you start scrolling.
Banana Republic
Signature Italian Herringbone Wide-Leg Pants
With guys heading back into the office full-time, Banana Republic has got your back for those early mornings under fluorescent lights. These Italian-milled wide-leg herringbone wool pants are the office’s perfect companion—looking like they could easily cost double. Throw on a topcoat or peacoat, and voilà, you’re good as gold. Ready to conquer your day, or at least make it through those Zoom meetings with style?
Casatlanic
Safi Houndstooth Wool Pants
Casatlantic makes some of the best pants, endorsed by some of menswear’s most talked-about social media stars. Crafted from a 9 oz. wool fabric, these pants give a stylish nod to ‘60s Riviera flair, with a high waist and double pleats. And don’t sleep on the subtle houndstooth pattern—it’s practically a showstopper on its own.
How to Style High-Waisted Pants
Let’s clear up one common point of confusion: high-rise and long-rise are not interchangeable. A high-rise refers to where the waistband sits relative to your natural waist—usually at or just above your navel. A long-rise refers to the measurement from the crotch seam to the waistband’s top, or how much fabric you’re working with in that area. In simpler terms: a higher-rise will give you that snatched-waist vibe, while a longer-rise will determine how the pants hang on your frame. Both are important, but understanding the distinction will save you a good deal of dressing-room regret.
Now that we’ve cracked that mystery, let’s talk benefits. First and foremost: high-waisted pants create the illusion of longer legs, helping you look taller (and, dare I say, a touch sexier). They’re equal-opportunity flatterers, too—whether they’re wide-legged jeans or tailored dress pants, the math works the same. Style the former with a cropped denim jacket for a throwback riff on the Canadian Tuxedo, the latter with a blazer to ape Gordon Gekko’s freewheeling braggadocio, or either with loafers, Chelsea boots, and just about every other shoe you care to name.
How We Test and Review Products
Style is subjective, we know—that’s the fun of it. But we’re serious about helping our audience get dressed. Whether it’s the best white sneakers, the flyest affordable suits, or the need-to-know menswear drops of the week, GQ Recommends’ perspective is built on years of hands-on experience, an insider awareness of what’s in and what’s next, and a mission to find the best version of everything out there, at every price point.
Our staffers aren’t able to try on every single piece of clothing you read about on GQ.com (fashion moves fast these days), but we have an intimate knowledge of each brand’s strengths and know the hallmarks of quality clothing—from materials and sourcing, to craftsmanship, to sustainability efforts that aren’t just greenwashing. GQ Recommends heavily emphasizes our own editorial experience with those brands, how they make their clothes, and how those clothes have been reviewed by customers. Bottom line: GQ wouldn’t tell you to wear it if we wouldn’t.
How We Make These Picks
We make every effort to cast as wide of a net as possible, with an eye on identifying the best options across three key categories: quality, fit, and price.
To kick off the process, we enlist the GQ Recommends braintrust to vote on our contenders. Some of the folks involved have worked in retail, slinging clothes to the masses; others have toiled for small-batch menswear labels; all spend way too much time thinking about what hangs in their closets.
We lean on that collective experience to guide our search, culling a mix of household names, indie favorites, and the artisanal imprints on the bleeding-edge of the genre. Then we narrow down the assortment to the picks that scored the highest across quality, fit, and price.
Across the majority of our buying guides, our team boasts firsthand experience with the bulk of our selects, but a handful are totally new to us. So after several months of intense debate, we tally the votes, collate the anecdotal evidence, and emerge with a list of what we believe to be the absolute best of the category right now, from the tried-and-true stalwarts to the modern disruptors, the affordable beaters to the wildly expensive (but wildly worth-it) designer riffs.
Whatever your preferences, whatever your style, there's bound to be a superlative version on this list for you. (Read more about GQ's testing process here.)
