The best cargo shorts for men deserve more credit than they get. While other military-inspired staples like the M-65 jacket or fatigue pants are menswear darlings, cargo shorts still carry frat boy associations for many. And sure, at one point they were the sole territory of bros with names like Chad and Xander—bulky and clunky in all the wrong ways—but they’ve since been trimmed down and reconfigured into the stylish, streamlined staple they always had the potential to be. Just look at present-day pop heroes like Fontaines D.C., Dominic Fike and Justin Bieber, who all wear theirs with abandon.
Luckily, in 2025, the best cargo shorts are a far cry from oversized, pocket-packed relics of the Fred Durst era. Short lengths are inching back towards the knees, but with smarter proportions. Think slimmer cotton khakis, long tailored linen styles, and techy hiking pairs that move easily from the trail to the city. Below, you’ll find 14 of the very best cargo shorts right now, cut with flattering fits and functional pockets you can build a whole summer’s worth of outfits around.
But first, a quick word about those pockets: Guys tend to overstuff them like George Costanza’s wallet, especially in high summer, which throws off the silhouette and makes everything look bulky. Cargo pockets can carry a few things, sure, but these days they’re mostly there for texture. Cram with caution
The Best Men’s Cargo Shorts, According to GQ
In This Guide
Best Overall Cargo Shorts: Polo Ralph Lauren Gellar Cargo Short
When it comes to shorts, guys have been showing some thigh for a while now, but lately, we’re seeing a quiet shift toward longer pairs. If you’re an appreciator of the classics—a real meat-and-potatoes type—these stonewashed cargo shorts from Ralph Lauren hit the mark. Cut with a comfortable, relaxed fit and a 10.5-inch inseam, they offer a bit more coverage (and should still fall above the knee) without feeling bulky or baggy. The silhouette stays clean and straight, and unless you’re using the pockets as a man-purse, they won’t throw off your shape. A true staple, updated just enough. Picture a pair of cargo shorts in your mind. These are them.
Best Budget Cargo Shorts: Gap Relaxed Cargo Shorts
Cargo shorts and The Gap—two ‘90s icons that have weathered the trends and come out the other side, maybe even better than ever. This runs a touch longer than the Ralphs above, offering an easy, broken-in fit that feels like you’ve owned them for years. We’re especially into the navy colorway, which gives off a Naval vibe and pairs cleanly with a white tee, denim shirt, or even a breezy button-up. Consider them a low-key essential: unfussy, versatile, and built to last more than a few summers. What more could you want?
Best Swim-Friendly Cargo Shorts: Gramicci Explorer Nylon Short
We love Gramicci for their iconic hiking shorts and pants, but make no mistake, they do it all. These go-anywhere nylon cargo shorts are built for the spontaneous. Made from chlorine-resistant, recycled nylon, they’re tough enough for scrambling up a trail and quick-drying enough for a dip in a creek, or an impromptu belly flop into the nearest pool. The fit is relaxed and easy, with just enough structure to hold their shape when wet. Everybody in the pool!
Best Drawstring Cargo Shorts: Uniqlo Wide Fit Cargo Shorts
Uniqlo to the rescue once again—delivering an eye-catching, on-trend look made from solid materials, all for less than a round of cocktails. These cotton-nylon cargo shorts come from the Uniqlo : C collection, a line shaped by the vision of Clare Waight Keller, the former Givenchy and Chloé veteran turned Uniqlo Creative Director. The result? Elevated everyday pieces with a designer’s touch. These shorts have a sharp look with a wide fit that nods to current trends while still feeling wearable. The usual Uniqlo magic with a little extra polish.
Best Active Cargo Shorts: Nike ACG Snowgrass Cargo Shorts
This is one pair of cargo shorts where we fully endorse putting the pockets to use. Nike’s ACG shorts are built for the outdoors, with lightweight, water-repellent fabric and enough storage to haul everything from energy bars to trail maps to your everyday gear. The integrated belt and adjustable waistband keep things in check, while the rich brick red hue stands out from the usual olive and khaki crowd, without feeling loud. Functional, durable, and genuinely stylish, these shorts are made for getting outside and looking good doing it.
Best Black Cargo Shorts: Reigning Champ Nylon Cargo Short
Black always adds a little edge—sleeker, cooler, and a bit more under-the-radar, which is ideal for cargo shorts, where pockets can make things inherently loud. Reigning Champ’s technical take is made from a durable two-way stretch nylon and comes loaded with smart details: a built-in adjustable belt, reinforced seams, and low-profile cargo pockets that won’t look like you’re hoarding trail mix. They’re built for movement but won’t look out of place in the city, which, let’s face it, is where most of us will be wearing these anyway.
Best Linen Cargo Shorts: Stone Island Garment Dyed Linen Cargo Shorts
Stone Island might be famous for its highly technical outerwear, but even a simple pair of summer cargo shorts showcases the brand’s obsessive approach to fabrication. These are made from a garment-dyed flax linen that’s both breathable and durable (linen is generally two to three times stronger than cotton). Even the iconic compass badge? Tonal, same fabric, barely there. Real flexes whisper didn’t you know. This is the kind of quiet innovation that sets Stone Island apart: pushing technical boundaries, even when the vibe is laid-back and linen.
More Cargo Shorts We Love
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