Part of it is the ’90s revival, part of it is the utility trend, and part of it comes down to a relaxation of the slim-fit trousers and shorts styles that have dominated menswear for a near two decades. The best men’s cargo shorts are back, in other words. The obvious summer alternative, they have been enjoying a surge of popularity but, without getting too philosophical about it, what makes a cargo short a cargo short?

Springing up in the 1980s and marketed towards outdoorsy types, a cargo short will have two bulky pockets on the side of each leg, making it easier to get stuff in and out of. For the most part, they are cut out of thick, hard-wearing cotton but are less tailored than bog-standard chino shorts.

They’ve always been practical. Now they’re trending, too.

If you’re on the hunt for the best men’s cargo shorts, here are some top brands to find them from.

Our Top Picks Best Overall Men’s Cargo Shorts:
Drawstring Cargo Shorts at Closed Best Lightweight Cargo Shorts:
Beams Plus Straight Leg Cargo Shorts at Mr. Porter Best Black Cargo Shorts:
Dickies Regular Fit Twill Cargo Shorts at Amazon Best Designer Cargo Shorts:
Rick Owens Cargo Pod Shorts at End Clothing Most Timeless Cargo Shorts:
Twill Cargo Shorts at GAP Best Affordable Cargo Shorts:
Nylon Utility Geared Shorts at Uniqlo Best Denim Cargo Shorts:
Polo Ralph Lauren Straight Leg Cargo Shorts at Mr. Porter Best Simple Cargo Shorts:
Norse Projects Straight Leg Cargo Shorts at Mr. Porter Cargo Shorts With Elastic Waist:
Maharishi Cargo Snoshorts at End Clothing Best Camo Cargo Shorts:
Premium Cargo Shorts at Wrangler

In This Article

1. Our Picks
2. What To Look For
3. Men’s Cargo Shorts FAQs

1. Best Overall Men’s Cargo Shorts: CLOSED Drawstring Cargo Shorts

European brand Closed pulls out all the stops when it comes to ingenious designs and sleek craftsmanship. Born in Germany and fusing Italian and French style elements, this brand makes clothes that scream, “I’m too cool to care, but still look good as hell.”