The style is back—and better than ever.
Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.
I know what you're thinking. This has to be some sort of gag. A joke. A little chuckle time at the expense of a hopeless, irredeemable piece of clothing that should be forever consigned to the dustbin of history (read: the late '90s and early '00s). Right? Right?!?
Wrong. Sorry. This is actually happening. It's 2023 and we're talking cargo shorts because cargo shorts are well and truly back, baby. And here's the really freaky thing: Cargo shorts aren't just back, they're actually kind of great now. Gone are those calf-grazing monstrosities favored by Warped Tour attendees and performers alike. Today's cargos are slimmer, sleeker, and sincerely stylish.
Some are made of tech fabrics with barely visible pockets that can still stash everything you need to go about the day sans bag. Others are cut from good ol' cotton with the same side pockets you remember from back in the day, but trimmed down and gussied up so they feel modern—a better match for a camp-collar shirt and some low-key sneakers than a tattered Sum 41 tee. And some borrow from the world of outdoors apparel instead of leaning on military inspiration, with multitudes of pockets on the thighs and even a self-belt to complete the vibe. All of them, though, are eminently wearable as we head into the summer in earnest. The only thing left, then, is to pick a pair or two. Start with this list and you can't go wrong.
Want essential shopping tips on the regular? Sign up for Esquire Select.
Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit 10” Cargo Shorts
Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit 10” Cargo Shorts
Pros
Price - Lightweight
Cons
- Fits snug, according to some shoppers
If classic cargo shorts is what you're after, Amazon Essentials offers a great pair at a price that, characteristic to the brand, is hard to beat.
Wrangler Authentics Canvas Utility Hiker Shorts
Wrangler Authentics Canvas Utility Hiker Shorts
Pros
- Price
- Durable
Cons
- Color doesn't match photos, according to some shoppers
Wrangler never fails to offer wares made of the most heavy-duty materials, and this durable cotton-twill option is no exception.
Pros
- Stretchy
- Water-repellent
Cons
- Snug in the thighs
Cargo shorts that qualify as (dare I say it?) sleek.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons
- Prone to pilling, according to some shoppers
Perfect for your next hike across a glacier.
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Pockets are too big, according to some shoppers
When it comes to summer-ready materials, it doesn't get any breezier than a cotton-linen blend—this one from the always-reliable J.Crew.
Pros
- Super functional
- Lots of storage
Cons
- Expensive
Double RL calls for double everything. These shorts have waistband adjusters, two pockets on the front, back, and thighs, and drawstring hems.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Sleek design
- Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Not as many pockets as other designs
These are a summery staple—simple, but with an elastic drawstring waistband and ample pocket space, they get the job done.
Tommy Bahama Coastal Key Cargo Shorts
Pros
- Practical
- Stylish
Cons
- Only two colorways
With a breezy short sleeve button-down of your choice, you're ready to take on whatever summer throws at you.
Patagonia Iron Forge Hemp Canvas Cargo Shorts
Patagonia Iron Forge Hemp Canvas Cargo Shorts
Pros
- True cargo design
- Long-lasting fabric
Cons
- Material might be too heavy for hot weather
Patagonia is known for crafting apparel made for the outdoors, and if you're stepping out this summer, let it be in these. The thick material is durable AF, and in classic cargo style, these shorts come with plenty of pockets.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- Chic style
- Minimalist design
Cons
- $$$
If anyone can make cargo shorts look luxurious, its Loro f*ckin' Piana.
Pros
- Cool colorways
- Adjustable drawstring
Cons
- Runs long, according to some shoppers
Speaking of nylon cargo shorts, Adidas makes a pair with a big outdoorsy vibe basically begging to be taken on a hike.
Pros
- Breathable
- Stretchy
Cons
- Clingy fit, according to some shoppers
Like the ones you remember, but better. Read: cut with a slimmer fit and treated with DWR-coating for dips in the pool.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Nike Sportswear Club Cargo Shorts
Nike Sportswear Club Cargo Shorts
Pros
- Comfortable
- Relaxed fit
Cons
- One pocket
And if you're in the market for just one pocket, Nike's got you covered.
Pros
- Secure waist
- Lightweight
Cons
- Runs baggy, according to some shoppers
The gigantic wraparound pockets on either side of Gramicci's shorts are, counterintuitively enough, exactly what makes the silhouette feel all the more streamlined.
Dries Van Noten Perkbie Wide-Leg Pleated Cargo Shorts
Dries Van Noten Perkbie Wide-Leg Pleated Cargo Shorts
Pros
- Unique design
- Versatile to style
Cons
- Silhouette doesn't work for all body types
Need proof that cargo shorts are back and better than ever? Dries Van Noten, one of the most directional designers around, has hopped on the bandwagon, offering a wide-leg, front-pleated pair that has ample amounts of fashion cred.
