Cargo shorts have a checkered past, in some ways: Cargo shorts, like cargo pants, were popularized as a popular option for soldiers who needed to haul extra gear and weapons. And like some of our favorite menswear staples at WERD, cargo shorts have made their way into men’s wardrobes everywhere.
And then, the gears shifted: Cargo shorts became competitive and sloppy, lost their badass edge of cool and adventure, and were overtaken in your wardrobe by shorts with a slimmer cut and, no cargo pockets.
The best shorts these days are back and better than ever: The cuts are more streamlined, the colors are cooler, the fit is better. Make no mistake, the use of cargo packs is still strong, just in better packaging.
Usually made from cotton but now given a hint of stretch, the best shorts for men are here to make you rethink everything you thought you knew about style – start with these favourites.
Why did I choose it?
Over the years, Flint and Tinder has become much more than its Waxed Trucker Jacket. In my experience, you can trust the Huckberry brand for almost any category, including cargo shorts for comfortable stretch fabric – and a tailored fit.
Flint and Tinder 365 Cargo Shorts
The same 365 fabric combination that goes into Flint and Tinder’s excellent five-pocket trousers is transformed into modern shorts cut for a perfect above-the-knee fit.
It’s available in a range of earthy and versatile color options, and features a quick-release closure to keep your valuables safe – and unlike cargo shorts of yesteryear, these are slim rather than bulky.
Wrangler Authentis Classic Cargo Shorts
Although best known for hard-wearing denim and Western wear, Wrangler has a knack for all things work, cargo shorts included.
These feature six pockets for whatever tool you need close at hand, while the stretchy cotton blend is comfortable enough to wear for yard work or a weekend at the cabin by the campfire.
Patagonia All-Seasons Five-Pocket Work Shorts
Cargo shorts, at their core, are a very useful set of shorts that allow you to carry more when it comes to your everyday carry than you would otherwise. Especially for things like hiking, when you need your gear as soon as possible, you should rely on a famous brand like Patagonia: The combination of hemp, cotton and recycled polyester also provides moisture-wicking comfort.
Carhartt Rugged Flex Canvas Cargo Shorts
Carhartt is among the most trusted names in activewear for good reason, and cargo shorts are among the hardest working short silhouettes out there (maybe the hardest working?).
These have multiple pockets and loops for tools and EDC gear, and the use of the brand’s tough, abrasion-resistant Rugged Flex fabric makes it a surefire winner.
5.11 Tactical Tactlite Pro Cargo Shorts
The most extreme conditions and conditions call for gear that can handle it, and 5.11 Tactical’s take on the cargo short was designed with almost every adventure in mind.
The durable ripstop fabric (in the brand’s proprietary blend) is enhanced with additional utility pockets on the thigh and a double-reinforced seat.
Evidence of the Equator Cargo Hybrid Shorts
Its menswear is built to go the distance (you might be familiar with its famous 72-hour Merino T-shirts), and its shorts are no slouch.
Zippered cargo pockets provide compact, secure storage, while a hidden zipper pocket brings additional utility. They also come in small, go-anywhere color options that are perfect for long travel days.
Vuori Sunday Performance Shorts
In my experience, it’s hard to find shorts that are softer yet more functional than Vuori’s Sunday edition.
Those moisture-wicking, four-way stretch shorts just got a whole lot better, thanks to the added utility detail of two separate fabric pockets – whether they’re worn for a weekend run or to hit the gym.
Vuori Sale
Up to 40% off select items