Sweatsuits are a winter lounge staple. And though the big, fleecy hooded numbers are warm and comfortable, they lean more schleppy than stylish. So if you love the idea of sweatsuits but still want to look put-together, Gap's CashSoft is the answer.
The pieces look chic but feel as comfortable as the sweatpants I'd happily live in. In fact, I'd wear them just as easily around the Christmas tree as I would on a plane, working from home, or running errands on a Saturday. They have that rare quality of being soft and slouchy without ever crossing into sloppy.
These sets have an entirely different level of refinement than most loungewear — the kind that makes you do a double take in the mirror and think, "Wait, why does this look… chic?" I genuinely never thought I'd get compliments on a sweatsuit, but here we are.
If you're also someone who secretly wants to be in sweats at all times while still looking like you made an effort, the CashSoft line hits a sweet spot that few brands manage. Here's what stood out after wearing and testing the pieces.
For more of our favorite winter loungewear, see our articles on the best sweatsuits for women, the best slippers for women, the best sweatpants for women, and more.
What is CashSoft?
Gap's CashSoft fabric is made to look and feel like cashmere — but don't be fooled, because it doesn't contain any cashmere at all. It's made of cotton blended with synthetic polymers like nylon and acrylic. And while we almost always advocate for skipping blends in favor of 100% natural fibers, Gap's CashSoft material does offer a case for mixed materials.
For one, it's warmer than pure cotton. The threads have that fuzzy, soft-to-the-touch texture that insulates heat. And it's not itchy, unlike traditional wool. The closest comparison would be, of course, cashmere — but a full sweatsuit made of cashmere would cost around $300 or more.
With all the sales that Gap offers, you can find a CashSoft set for under $100, and almost all pairings come out to under $150. The pieces can also be laundered easily at home (another advantage over cashmere).
My favorite for the holidays: the CashSoft Cable-Knit set
Gap's CashSoft cable-knit set is one of those rare lounge pieces that looks as good as it feels. The cable pattern is surprisingly refined — not too chunky, not too flat — giving the sweater and matching pants a textured, almost hand-knit look that reads more "boutique winter knit" than mass-retail basic. The CashSoft fabric itself has that brushed, cashmere-adjacent feel — but it's still lightweight enough that you don't overheat.
What impressed me most was the structure. The cable detailing adds just enough weight that the sweater drapes cleanly instead of stretching out or losing shape, and the pants hold their ribbed waistband without sagging. And the fit was fantastic: the slightly cropped sweater makes for a great staple that I can wear alone or with the pants, and the sweater bottoms fit surprisingly well considering that I couldn't find them in petite.
It's the kind of set you can legitimately wear out of the house without feeling like you're in pajamas. Warm, polished, and machine-washable — the CashSoft cable-knit set punches way above its price point. If you prefer cozy pieces with a touch of texture and a lot of softness, this is the one to grab.
My go-to weekend set: CashSoft Oversized Sweater and Bootcut Pants
What sets this sweater apart is its oversized silhouette, which lends it a more intentional, wearable shape than any other sweatshirt. It drapes beautifully, and the ribbed hem and banded cuffs add just enough structure to keep it from feeling boxy. Though the crewneck sweater that I'm wearing above is sold out, there's still lots of stock in the V-neck version.
Gap's CashSoft Boot Sweater Pants are perhaps my favorite piece in the whole CashSoft line. The boot-cut silhouette is the real differentiator here: instead of the straight or jogger shape most sweat pants default to, this cut elongates the leg and balances out bulkier winter tops. It gives the pants a more "finished" look, almost like a soft-knit version of trousers. Plus, it helps that these are available in both petite and tall lengths so that you can get the perfect fit.
As someone who has always switched between leggings, jeans, and sweatpants for cozy weekend days, this pant beats all of them in comfort, warmth, and style. I'm planning to purchase it in both black and white, so I can pair it with almost anything.
FAQs on CashSoft
What exactly is Gap's CashSoft fabric?
CashSoft is Gap's proprietary knit that's designed to mimic the feel of cashmere — soft, smooth, and slightly fuzzy — but at a much more accessible price point. It's usually a blend of synthetic and natural fibers, which helps keep it lightweight and easy to care for.
How does CashSoft compare to real cashmere?
The texture is noticeably soft and cozy, but it's not as lofty or warm as true cashmere. What you're getting is a similar handfeel without the maintenance or the higher cost. Many shoppers describe it as "cashmere-adjacent" — comfortable enough for everyday wear, and less precious.
Is CashSoft warm enough for winter?
It's warm for its weight, but not heavy-duty. I'd describe most of the knits as midweight. In colder climates, it works best under a coat or paired with thermal layers.
How do you wash Gap CashSoft sweaters and loungewear?
Most CashSoft pieces are machine-washable — a big difference from real cashmere. Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and lay flat to dry to preserve the fabric's feel. Avoid high heat, which can damage the fibers.
