Tested: The Best Men’s Cargo Pants for Stylish Storage

Cargo pants are officially back, and over the last year especially, the once ’90s staple has caught the Y2K wave, appearing on runways and city streets (and getting even baggier, if you can believe it). Plus, seeing as military-inspired attire has had such a major impact on the modern fashion scene, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that countless brands are putting their own spin on a surplus store staple. Having become immensely popular among the fashion world’s cream of the crop, it serves you right to know the best pairs of cargos to buy for your wardrobe. Whether you’re aiming to load your pockets with a particularly bulky EDC for a night out or you need some extra room for your gear when you’re out on the hiking trails, there are a number of styles to consider. So without further ado, we encourage you to bring your dearest belongings with you as we get hands-on with some of the best pairs of cargo pants for men.

How We Tested

Welcome back to our Tested series, where we take a closer look at some of our favorite gear; this time around, we’re tackling the once tactical, now casual cargo pants. Our process begins by comparing our personal experiences with the rest of the landscape, stacking up our tastes and preferences against the online space before narrowing down the selection – we’re left with picks we can stand by from brands that we trust.

After getting our hands on this curated selection, we insect each pair of cargos off-body, looking closely at the build quality, stitching, and overall look. Then, we put each pair on and begin our testing, starting with the fit inspection, paying close attention to how everything feels in the waist and what kind of cut we’re working with. Comfort is another major consideration, and we made sure to test out how each pair feels on the skin, stacking it up against the rest of the picks to determine what each pair’s strengths are. Seeing as the most important part of cargo pants are, well, the cargo pockets, we tally up all the pockets each pick has to offer and how much storage they give you.

Measurements: I’m 6’2″ and wear a size 34×30 pants. Considering the history of cargo pants (and my personal preferences), I went for a relaxed fit when I could, and a longer inseam for that baggy look.

What to Look For

Material: Cargo pants are historically supposed to be pretty durable, and going with durable materials like ripstop nylon or cotton twill is always a good choice. But there are plenty of modern picks that use stuff like spandex or traditional cotton for a more subdued/less tactical look.

Fit: The ideal fit for a pair of cargos really depends on the style you’re going with; most styles will come in your traditional pant sizes (slim, regular, relaxed), and going with a relaxed fit is usually best for baggy pants, while a regular fit is best if you want a more traditional look and feel.

Pockets: They wouldn’t be cargo pants without the instantly recognizable cargo pockets, and at a minimum, you’re looking for two on the legs. There’s nothing wrong with going above this (and many labels do) as it offers more storage and changes up the style.

Water Resistance: Cargo pants will often be made with cotton-synthetic or quick-drying synthetic blends to give you some water resistance, and this is ideal if you plan on rocking them in the outdoors.

Style: The most classic cargo pants look is that military green and a baggier look, but there’s nothing wrong with grabbing something a little different, like Carhartt’s workwear hybrid, for example.

Dickies FLEX Regular Fit Cargo Pants

Best Starter Pants: Serving as the entry-level option that stands head-and-shoulders above any adjacent brand, Dickies excels in this category, as the century-old workwear staple crafts the quintessential pair of starter cargo pants. Fit for skaters, blue-collar workers, and just about anyone else, the FLEX Regular Fit Cargo Pants are as versatile as they come. Equipped with plenty of spacious pockets, one of them includes a multi-use cell phone pocket that is bound to come in handy when straining through the workday.

If you’ve owned/worn a pair of Dickies before (especially the label’s iconic chinos, which we got hands-on with in our guide to the best chinos), then you’ll know what to expect with these cargo pants. They’re made with mechanical stretch twill (composed of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, the same as their chinos) that has a super nice dry hand feel, and Dickies FLEX fabric for easier movement. I really loved the look of these cargos; they sort of combine the style of slacks with cargo pockets on the side for a versatile look that really goes with anything. You’re getting a buttoned waistband, two hand pockets, two back pockets (one buttoned), and two medium-sized cargo pockets with velcro closures (with a convenient cell phone pocket above the right cargo pocket). The fit here is true to size with a straight leg, giving you a look and design that you could confidently rock at the job site or the office. 

As a bigger guy, I find that Dickies’ pants have a waistband that’s usually a bit too tight, and even though I went with my normal size here (34), I found that these were also a little tight for me in the waist. If you’re like me, I recommend going for a size up for some more room.

Verdict: Able to handle hard work or just a day at the office, this pick from Dickies has the traditional look of your favorite pair of slacks combined with the utility of cargo pants. 

Uniqlo Wide-Fit Parachute Cargo Pants

Best Baggy Pants: UNIQLO’s affordable apparel is only getting better as the label continues to establish itself in the fashion scene, and we went with this baggy pair of parachute cargo pants for this guide. They’re made with a crisp cotton/nylon fabric and have a super wide/baggy look that’s perfect for any streetwear heads or fashion fans on a budget.

Part of the UNIQLO U Collection (composed of international designers from the label’s Paris Research and Development Center led by Artistic Director Christophe Lemaire), these cargo pants are a parachute hybrid with a (very) baggy silhouette that’s certainly eye-catching (and comfortably roomy). They’re made with this crisp and lightweight blend of cotton and nylon that has this nice dry hand feel, and features an elastic waistband with both a buttoned fly (with a YKK zipper) and a drawstring. You’re getting paneled fabric and darts at the knees for easy movement, with two super big gusseted cargo pockets (with snap closure), two hand pockets, and a single back pocket (also with a snap closure), giving you a total of five pockets. There’s also a drawstring closure around the ankles, so you can customize how baggy the pants are. Fit here is definitely relaxed, with plenty of room in the waist and legs for a loose fit. 

As much as I loved the baggy look and feel here, I get that it’s not for everyone, which is my only criticism of the pants. You’re getting a nice compromise, though, as you can easily adjust the ankles with the drawstrings to change up how baggy (or not baggy) you want them to be.

Verdict: Big, baggy, and definitely modern, this parachute/cargo hybrid from UNIQLO may not be for everyone, but it was certainly for me. I loved the relaxed look and feel, and there’s an insane amount of space in both the cargo pockets. 

Carhartt Cargo Work Pant

Best Work Pants: It often seems like Carhartt can do no wrong, and the legendary workwear reliably designed Work Pant is one of its many garments that checks every box. These rugged bottoms are made from a sturdy, cotton fabric and are rounded out with Rugged Flex stretch technology for some added mobility and comfort. If you’re looking for a classic pair of work cargos without fully breaking the bank, then look no further.

Made with a heavy-duty blend of cotton with just a touch of spandex, these cargo pants are built to handle the jobsite or the city while giving you plenty of flexibility (thanks to Carhartt’s Rugged Flex technology, the label’s take on four-way stretch that moves with your body). For storage, there are two hand pockets, two back pockets (with velcro), and two cargo pockets with some extra utility slots on the front of the right cargo pocket (which you can easily use to store your phone). You’re also getting hidden hook and loop closures on the cargo and back pocket flaps, and a hidden zippered pocket on the left cargo pocket (a feature that I really appreciated). There’s a buttoned fly with a YKK zipper, and it’s finished with a relaxed fit that complements the stretchy design really nicely. Between the rugged construction and impressive amount of storage here, these make for the best work pants in our guide, but could easily be dressed up with some more streetwear-adjacent pieces (similar to the Dickies cargo pants). 

Again, I had the same problem with these pants as I did the Dickies pants, and to make sure I wasn’t off-base, I poked around reviews and consulted with coworkers. This ended up confirming my experience with how tight the waist here was, even with the relaxed fit. I highly recommend going for a size up, even if you’re not on the bigger side.

Verdict: Versatile, heavy-duty, and boasting an impressive amount of storage options, Carhartt’s Cargo Work Pant gives you that classic Carhartt durability with a versatile look and style. 

Foehn Brise Schoeller Cargo Pant

Best Techy Pants: Founded by Ingrid Sirois and Anthony Boronowski, the independent Quebec-based brand Foehn is one of the newer names in this guide, hitting the scene in 2017, but quickly making a name for itself in the outdoor style world. Committed to sustainable solutions as well, Foehn specializes in technical clothing for runners, cyclists, and climbers, with a timeless style at its core, just like this pair of techy cargo pants. They’re made with Fabric from Schoeller Switzerland and designed to handle a wide variety of sports, with guaranteed warmth in 40°F-70°F weather.

Hailing from one of our favorite boutique outdoor brands, these cargo pants have a gorp-friendly design that’s still versatile enough to pair with just about anything. They’re made entirely of this Schoeller stretch woven fabric, a stretchy polyester that has a smooth yet dry hand feel, and a lightweight construction that makes them super comfortable to wear. You’re also getting a biodegradable and PFC-free DWR finish for some sustainable water resistance, making these a great pick for rainy days or tackling the trails. There’s an elastic waistband with a minimalist belt (adding to the techy look), and there’s a total of six pockets with two very large cargo-esque pockets on top of the thighs (that basically take up your whole thigh as well), two hand pockets, and two back pockets. Fit here was definitely relaxed, but not too baggy with a more straight-cut look that I really liked. Given the design here, which is rated to handle 40°F – 70°F, these make for solid cold-weather pants as well. 

As much as I loved the lowkey look of these cargos, you can’t really see the cargo pockets unless you’re paying close attention, which may not be a problem for some (it wasn’t for me), but others may prefer a more traditional look.

Verdict: Built to seamlessly transition from the streets to the trails, these gorp-friendly cargos from Foehn have plenty of storage, a lightweight, water-resistant design, and a lowkey look that goes with anything. 

Nike Sportswear Tech Pack Waxed Canvas Cargo Pants

Best Waxed Canvas Pants: Arguably the most versatile pair of bottoms this list has to offer, Nike crafts a waxed canvas pair of cargos that can easily double as rain protection when the weather turns. The Nike Sportswear Tech Pack Waxed Canvas Cargo Pants are loaded with features like an elastic waist and drawcord paired with a zippered fly. For added elemental protection, they are composed of water-resistant waxed canvas that is sure to keep you dry on your next outdoor adventure. Additionally, these pants are made with 100% sustainable materials, giving them a sustainable edge.

Serving as one of our baggiest pairs of cargos (alongside the UNIQLO pick), these pants from Nike are about as modern as you can get, boasting a waxed canvas construction that makes them durable as hell. Not only are you getting durability and water resistance from the waxed canvas, but it’ll develop a unique fade as you wear it over time. You’re getting a buttoned waistband with a drawstring closure and a fit that’s about as relaxed as you can get, with plenty of room through the seat and thighs, and a straight-leg fit into some very baggy ankles (which can easily be sinched using the elastic ankles cuffs). Although you’re only getting one cargo pocket, it’s pretty big and comes with an attached D-ring, allowing you to clip on some extra gear. Other storage options include the two large and mesh-lined hand pockets and the single back pocket, and you’re also getting some articulated knees to make crouching easier. 

The only notable downside here is the surprising lack of pockets, as you’re only getting a single cargo pocket and a single back pocket. Personally, I think it adds to the unique look, but others may want more storage options. Also, the waxed canvas is a bit stiff at first, but it should break in and become softer as you wear the pants. 

Verdict: Combining the utility of waxed canvas with a baggy pair of cargos, this pick from Nike is certifiably built for the long haul, with a modern (and very gorp-friendly) look.

Alex Mill Pull On Cargo Pant

Best Versatile Pants: Everything from Alex Mill is durably (and stylishly) built to take on your day-to-day routine, and the roomy Pull On Cargo Pants are the perfect example. Made with sturdy midweight cotton, these comfy pull-on cargos provide enhanced freedom of movement thanks to the elastic waist. The brand also accounts for taller people who struggle with getting the wrong size sent to them when ordering online, as they sell the pants in regular and long lengths, while providing a comprehensive size guide before buying. 

There’s really no denying how popular cargo pants are, particularly, the baggy variants with big pockets. And Alex Mill absolutely knocked it out of the park with the Pull On Cargo Pant, capturing a modern style that I absolutely love (making this a personal favorite of mine). It’s made with garment-dyed cotton that looks and feels super vintage, and you’re getting an elastic waist (with both a buttoned fly and a drawstring waistband) that I really appreciated, giving you a relaxed fit that just feels great (especially if you’re a bigger guy like myself). I really like the baggy fit here as well, falling a few inches below the ankles to give you that laid-back look. For storage, there are two hand pockets, two big buttoned back pockets, and two (very big) cargo pockets on the legs for a total of six pockets. Even with the elastic waist, these didn’t feel too roomy in the waist and felt true to size for the most part.

As much as I love the baggy look of these cargo pants, I get that some prefer a more classic straight fit and may not like the looser look of these. That said, you could easily go for a size down if you’re rocking with the look of these and want something a bit more true to size. 

Verdict: Made with garment-dyed cotton for a vintage look, these cargo pants from Alex Mill have a modern baggy look and were a personal favorite of mine. 

On Explorer Pants

Best Outdoor Pants: Multiple Ironman winner and three-time World Duathlon Champion Olivier Bernhard teamed up with his friends David Allemann and Caspar Coppetti to start a footwear company that’s by runners and for runners. Oliver was inspired to start On during his search to find the best running shoes that would give him a cushioned landing and a firm take-off, which led Bernhard to a Swiss engineer whom he ended up creating the first On running footwear with. 

On has been blowing up a lot over the last few years, with its running shoes adorning the feet of every young up-and-comer in the city, and this is for good reason; On’s running shoes have earned the reputation as some of the comfiest on the market, and that comfort makes its way to the label’s Explorer Pants. Made entirely of lightweight polyester, these covert cargos have a similar design to Foehn’s cargo pants, opting for slightly hidden cargo pockets on the thighs (this time with snap closures) and an overall super clean design. Other storage options include the two hand pockets (no back pockets this time around), and you’re getting some adjustable ankle toggles to customize the fit. Speaking of fit, these felt true to size around the waist (with some give thanks to the waist adjusters), and have a sort of straight leg baggy fit that falls below the ankles. These are also water-resistant and designed to handle cold weather (having no problem keeping me warm in 66°F weather), making them a great pick for those getting active in colder climates. 

Considering the streamlined design of this pick, On has decided to nix the back pockets here, which I personally didn’t think detracted from the style/functionality, but some may prefer the extra storage options. These also don’t really have that classic cargo pant look either, which can be important for some, too. 

Verdict: Designed to handle any terrain, On’s lightweight cargo pants offer protection from the elements with some techwear style boot. 

Cargo Pants Comparison Chart

WHAT ARE CARGO PANTS?

Originally used as military workwear, cargo pants (or combat pants) are durable garments designed to be worn outdoors and in tough work conditions, with numerous storage options for tools and gear. Some variants of these pants were first seen in the British Armed Forces in the ’30s, then came over to the States during WWII. They would eventually break off into cargo shorts, which were all the rage among fishermen and outdoorsmen in the ’80s, and then became fashionable in the ’90s. Cargo pants are back in a big way right now when it comes to streetwear, and you can see that reflected in modern designs.

HOW TO STYLE CARGO PANTS

You can keep it basic, classic, and utilitarian with a field jacket, or you could embrace the streetwear style with some sneakers and a tee. Many new variants use pockets for utility just as much as they do for fashion, so keep this in mind when selecting a pair, and determine whether or not you need certain pockets for tools and the like.

Honorable Mentions

The sustainable outdoor gear giant Patagonia has a proven track record of environmentally conscious practices and attention to detail. And these cargo pants represent this well, with a study material blend of hemp, polyester, and cotton – this Iron Forge Hemp canvas is 25% more abrasion resistant than the average cotton duck canvas. You also get plenty of utility with gussets on the front pockets for tools, and two bellowed cargo pockets.

Those of you interested in a more simple pair of cargo pants should take a look at this pair from J.Crew, because it’s made with 100% cotton twill and has subtle cargo pockets just above the knee. So you’re still getting the utility that you want out of a pair of cargo pants, with a soft, stone and enzyme-washed finish, and versatile style. Moreover, buying these cargos supports the Better Cotton Initiative, a non-profit that works to improve cotton farming standards around the world.

While the Japanese brand OrSlow is mostly known for its premier denim clothing, the label’s other offerings are just as high quality. Like this pair of 100% cotton cargo pants that are handmade in Japan. They have two cargo and two side pockets, with a drawstring around the elasticated waist for a comfortable fit. You can see the inspiration from the old-school military gear for sure, but OrSlow has definitely come through with a modern twist.

As a brand that epitomizes American heritage, not to mention the rootin’-tootin’ old west, it’s no question that Ralph Lauren’s RRL line has an excellent take on a closet essential. Its camo-coated Ripstop Cargo Pant is equipped with articulated knees and drawstring hems to make them all the more comfortable and tailored to your liking. These are a stylish pair of bottoms crafted by the brainchild of a man who arguably knows style as well as anyone else in Ralph Lauren.

Hailing from the legendary Rick Owen’s DRKSHDW sublabel, these blacked-out cargo pants are perfect for anyone in the market for a pair of designer cargos that won’t break the bank. In true Rick Owens fashion, these are quite baggy with a wide leg, and made in Italy from organic cotton. You’re getting four pockets total with two hand pockets and two cargo pockets, and it’s finished with a button fly.

Tested: The Best Tactical Pants For Modern-Day Operators

If you’re looking for more capable pants, then you should take a look at our thorough guide to the market’s best tactical pants.