Traditional cargo pants may have started as a practical military invention in the 1930s,1 but today, you’ll find them everywhere—not just on the front lines. That’s because there are multiple types of cargo pants in modern fashion, each with a distinct flair.
So, if you’re not convinced by cargo pants, maybe you haven’t found the right kind.
In this guide to the different types of cargo pants, we’re introducing you to the range of cargo styles, fits, colors, and prints. Discover what to wear with cargo pants and find the best cargo pants that suits your style, including options that are perfect for your summer outfits.
1. Classic Cargo Pants
First, you have your traditional cargo pants. These military-inspired combat trousers have multiple pockets down the legs and a relaxed fit. They’re usually a uniform width from the hips to the ankles, creating a straight leg line punctuated by quintessential stand-out spacious pockets.
Classic cargos are the ideal choice in casual settings. All you need to wear with your classic cargo pants is a fitted tee and white sneakers, and you have an outfit that’s ready for a gathering, the bar, or the backyard. Layer a short-sleeve button-up over the tee for a slightly more put-together classic cargo look.
2. Slim Fit Cargo Pants
While you may think of cargo pants as eternally baggy, the reality is that you can find cargos in many modern fits. Slim fit and skinny cargo pants are some of the options.
Slim fit cargo pants hug the legs more tightly, and they tend to have fewer pockets, leaving you with a cleaner silhouette that’s reminiscent of streamlined athletic pants. Some slim-fitting cargo trousers, like our Cargo Drawcord II Pants, even come with a drawcord, furthering the sporty look.
Of course, sporty isn’t your only option. Our Snap Zipper II Cargo Pants have a more rugged edge to them. Pair these with a baggy white tee and sneakers of your choice.
3. Jogger Cargo Pants
If an athletic-inspired look is more your forté, you’ll love jogger-style cargo pants. These cargo jogger hybrids retain the multiple pockets of a cargo pant, but taper at the bottom into a cuff.
Because these are essentially joggers with pockets, cargo joggers are exceptionally comfortable and casual. Wear them with some athletic white sneakers and a basic tee, and you’re ready for:
- The gym
- The field
- The patio
- The classroom
4. Cargo Pants with Prints
Up until now, we’ve been talking about different fits of cargo pants. But there are also variations in the fabrics used to make cargo pants. These days, you’ll find cargos in every color of the spectrum, as well as patterned pants with stripes, swirls, and more.
One of the most iconic forms of the printed cargo pant is camo cargo pants. These attention-grabbing bottoms reference the cargo pant’s military history while looking decisively modern—especially when paired with an off-white graphic tee and some sneakers.
While camo is one of the most popular cargo pant patterns, you’ll also find:
All of these prints make a welcome addition to your cargo pant collection, as they allow you to speak your personality through your style.
5. Utility Cargo Pants
Utility cargo pants, and utility clothing in general, call to mind the simple clothes civilians wore in Britain during World War II. These pants are usually made from a uniform canvas-like material, and feature a handful of spacious pockets along the front or sides. In general, they’re a more pared-back version of classic cargos.
Utility cargo pants sometimes cross over into techwear, a more recent trend that highlights rugged, utilitarian clothes. If that sounds like your style, then utility cargo pants are for you.
Because these pants are lightweight, they’re ideal to pair with activewear or outdoorsy pieces. For example, you could easily throw on a olive green utility pant with a black tee and head for a hike.
Color Variations in Cargo Pants
Along with different fits and functions, cargo pants also come in an array of colors. Beige is only the beginning.
While neutral khaki colors have long been the standard for cargo pants, today you’ll find a swath of pair-with-anything colorways, including:
- Black
- Brown
- Gray
- Olive green
- Off-white
These neutral colors allow for easy outfit-making, but they’re not your only option. For something more interesting, pick up a pair of cargos in pink or purple, then create a monochromatic look with a matching tee.
By selecting cargos in new and interesting colors, you add more variety to your wardrobe.
Find Your Perfect Cargo Pants at mnml
With variations in fit, pattern, color, and more, there’s no shortage of cargo pants for every mood. Whether you prefer the classic option, a jogger-cargo hybrid, or a pant with an out-there print, cargo pants will keep your hands free and your style on point. These versatile pants are a staple in any collection of menswear essentials.
To find the cargo pants that turn you into a cargo believer, shop the mnml collection and find high-quality cargo pants from every category.
Sources:
- MilitaryTimes. A brief history of cargo pants, the military’s greatest fashion contribution. https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/military-culture/2020/09/12/a-brief-history-of-cargo-pants-the-militarys-greatest-fashion-contribution/
