Fabletics Don Trouser vs. 5 Pocket: Which one should you buy?

The Fabletics Don Trouser is a polished, tailored pant with an office-ready aesthetic, while the Fabletics 5 Pocket has the classic, casual style of jeans or chinos. The main difference comes down to the occasion: the Don Trouser combines activewear comfort with a more professional silhouette, whereas the 5 Pocket prioritizes everyday comfort in a familiar, relaxed design.

Here’s a clear look at both options from Fabletics to help you decide which pant fits your wardrobe best.

Fabletics Don Trouser

The Fabletics Don Trouser is designed for a modern, active lifestyle where work, travel, and casual outings often blend. It offers the sleek, structured look of a traditional trouser but is made with stretch performance fabric for all-day comfort and mobility.

• What it is: A tailored, versatile pant designed for smart-casual wear, offering a polished look with the feel of activewear.
• Key features: Tailored fit with a tapered leg, modern mid-rise waistband, moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, and minimal pocket detailing for a clean finish.
• Price: $70–$90, with discounts often available for members.
• Materials/Construction: Made from a polyester-elastane blend that feels smooth and slightly structured, providing excellent stretch and shape retention.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a tailored fit through the hip and thigh with a tapered ankle. Most find it runs true to size, but its cut is designed to be more fitted than relaxed.
• Pros: Professional enough for a casual office, incredibly comfortable for travel, versatile design pairs well with both sneakers and dress shoes, durable fabric holds its shape.
• Cons: Higher price point than other Fabletics pants, tailored fit may feel too snug for those who prefer relaxed styles, less suited for strictly casual weekend wear.

This trouser is perfect for professionals or travelers who need a comfortable but refined pant that can easily transition from a meeting to a flight.

Shop this product: fabletics.com/products/don-trouser

Fabletics 5 Pocket

The Fabletics 5 Pocket pant combines the timeless look of your favorite chinos or jeans with the benefit of modern performance fabrics. It’s built for ultimate casual comfort, offering stretch and breathability in a familiar, easy-to-wear silhouette.

• What it is: A contemporary take on classic casual pants, featuring a five-pocket design and flexible, soft fabric for everyday wear.
• Key features: Classic five-pocket styling, lightweight and breathable material, moisture-wicking properties, and a versatile slim or straight fit.
• Price: $60–$80, often available at a lower price with promotions or bundle deals.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from a soft, stretchy blend of nylon, elastane, and sometimes rayon that prioritizes comfort and flexibility over structure.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a more relaxed fit than the Don Trouser, typically with a slim or straight leg. It generally runs true to size but is designed for a comfortable, casual feel.
• Pros: Excellent value for the price, extremely comfortable for daily wear and errands, timeless style pairs easily with anything, lightweight and breathable.
• Cons: Less polished look isn’t suitable for office settings, softer fabric may be less durable over time compared to the Don Trouser, may show pilling with frequent washing.

This is the ideal pant for anyone seeking a go-to for casual outings, weekend errands, and relaxed social events where comfort is key.

Shop this product: fabletics.com/products/5-pocket

Fabletics Don Trouser vs. 5 Pocket Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The style is the most significant difference between these two pants. The Don Trouser has a clean, modern aesthetic. Its tailored cut, minimal pockets, and smooth fabric give it a polished vibe that can be dressed up for a smart-casual office or a nice dinner out. It bridges the gap between traditional workwear and performance apparel.

In contrast, the 5 Pocket pant is purely casual. Its design is rooted in the classic look of jeans and chinos, making it an easy and familiar choice for everyday wear. It’s perfect for coffee runs, park visits, or casual Fridays, but its relaxed look isn’t intended for more formal settings.

Fit & Sizing

The Don Trouser is designed with a tailored fit. It contours the body more closely, with a tapered leg that creates a sharper, more defined silhouette. While comfortable due to the stretch fabric, the fit is intentionally structured and may feel snugger, especially if you prefer loose clothing.

The 5 Pocket offers a more relaxed fit, available in either a slim or straight leg. It provides more room through the hip and thigh, prioritizing comfort and ease of movement for everyday activities. The overall feel is comfortable and casual, less restrictive than a tailored pant.

Materials & Quality

Both pants are made with quality performance fabrics, but their compositions serve different purposes. The Don Trouser's polyester-elastane blend feels smooth and substantial, offering excellent shape retention that helps it maintain its polished appearance throughout the day. It’s designed to resist wrinkles, making it great for travel.

The 5 Pocket’s fabric, often a nylon-rayon blend, is softer, lighter, and more breathable. The focus is purely on comfort for casual use. While durable enough for regular wear, its softer nature may make it more susceptible to pilling or losing some shape over time compared to the more structured Don Trouser.

Price & Value

The 5 Pocket pant is the more budget-friendly option, typically priced between $60–$80. Its approachable price and versatile casual style make it an excellent value for a daily-wear pant. The Don Trouser comes in at a slightly higher price point of $70–$90, which reflects its more complex, tailored construction and its ability to function in a professional setting. Its value lies in its ability to serve multiple purposes, from work to weekend travel.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both pants offer great comfort and quality, but they are built for different purposes and styles.

Choose the Don Trouser if:

• You need a versatile pant that works for a smart-casual office or travel.
• You prefer a sleek, tailored silhouette that looks polished and put-together.
• You value wrinkle-resistant, structured fabric that keeps its shape all day.
• Your wardrobe blends professional pieces with comfortable, modern styles.

Choose the 5 Pocket if:

• You want a comfortable, everyday pant for errands, weekends, and casual outings.
• You love the classic style of jeans or chinos but want better stretch and comfort.
• Your primary focus is on relaxed comfort and breathability.
• You are looking for a high-value, versatile casual pant at a lower price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Fabletics Don Trouser and 5 Pocket?

The key difference is style and occasion. The Don Trouser is a tailored, polished pant suitable for work or smart-casual events, while the 5 Pocket is a relaxed, casual pant designed for everyday comfort with a classic jeans-like style.

Are Fabletics pants true to size?

Generally, yes. However, fit can vary by style. Choose your usual size in the Don Trouser for a snug, tailored fit. The 5 Pocket offers a more relaxed fit, so sticking to your normal size should give you a comfortable feel.

Can I wear the Don Trouser to work?

Yes, the Don Trouser is an excellent choice for business-casual or smart-casual office environments. Its clean lines and tailored fit give it a professional look, while the performance fabric ensures comfort.

Which pant is more comfortable for all-day wear?

Both are designed for comfort, but the best one depends on your activity. The 5 Pocket is often described as more comfortable for lounging and casual errands due to its softer fabric and relaxed fit. The Don Trouser is exceptionally comfortable for long days that involve sitting, standing, and moving, like a day at the office followed by travel.

Which style is better for travel?

The Don Trouser is an ideal travel pant. Its stretch fabric provides comfort on long flights or car rides, and its wrinkle-resistant material means you'll look put-together when you arrive. It’s also versatile enough to wear directly to a meeting or dinner.

Do these pants look like athletic wear?

No. While they use performance fabrics often found in athletic wear, both styles are designed to look like casual pants. The Don Trouser resembles a modern dress pant, and the 5 Pocket mimics the look of a chino or jean.

Is the Don Trouser worth the higher price?

If you need a versatile pant that can serve both professional and casual needs, the Don Trouser is worth the investment. Its value comes from its ability to function in multiple settings without sacrificing comfort.

How should I care for Fabletics pants?

For best results and longevity, wash both styles in cold water on a gentle cycle and either tumble dry on low or hang them to dry. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can degrade the performance features of the fabric over time.