14 best cargo shorts for men in 2023

Women seem to have an abundance of clothing options. From little black dresses and airy linen dresses to versatile leggings and, well, just about anything else you can think of.

Fashion may be evolving to make all clothing more gender neutral, but it still can seem like the amount of options designed to fit men are limited.

There’s one particular style that has remained a constant in men’s fashion: the cargo short. It’s easy to see why — they’re functional, versatile, and best of all, come in a vast amount of styles you can sport.

Especially now that cargo pants are back, it’s only further proof that the pocket-filled style is having a moment that can’t be ignored.

Today, we are going to be dishing on the best cargo shorts for men to buy in 2023. Best of all, each option was vetted according to reviewers, so you know you’re getting the real deal.

Below, you can discover cargo short options from brands such as Wrangler, Walmart, American Eagle, Levi, Amazon and more.

Short styles range from camouflage cargo shorts, long cargo shorts, elastic waist cargo shorts and just about every other version you can think of.

Are you ready to fill your closet with the trendiest pair of shorts on the market? If so, take a look at the best cargo shorts for men below. And go ahead and add a pair (or five) to your cart — you deserve it.


Model wearing stone colored cargo shorts with white sneakers
Ralph Lauren

This luxe style is *so* durable one reviewer has been “wearing these cargo shorts for 15 years” they’re that comfortable. The material is made from an organic cotton that’s soft, while the rise was made to sit at the waist. It’s available in a variety of neutral colors that you can pair with everything from your favorite polo shirts to a classic white t-shirt.

If that doesn’t seal the deal, the reviewer also claims “they never wear out,” so you know you’ll have these forever.



Green cargo shorts
Aeropostle

Designed with a surplus of pockets and adorned with a D-ring belt, these cargo shorts are next level. Best of all, they hit below the knee for the ideal long cargo short look.

“After years of searching I have finally found the perfect pair of cargo shorts,” said an overjoyed shopper. “Regular shorts just don’t have enough pockets to fit all of the things I need with me at all times! Thank you Aéropostle! You did it!”



Khaki cargo shorts
Amazon

Choose from 10 various colors and get ready to enjoy 100% cotton shorts, a drawstring closure, breathable and lightweight material and four pockets.

One reviewer shared that these are so comfortable, he can wear them in public and inside his home. “I can wear these out but I also now wear them around the house, very comfortable,” they said. “Getting another pair.”



Gray cargo shorts
Wrangler

Sure, you can purchase any khaki cargo short, but are they durable and comfortable?

These Wrangler Five Star Premium Cargo Shorts are both of those things and more. They feature a functional design perfect for both work and play. But don’t take out word for it, read a happy customer’s words instead.

“Right fit, right weight, above all right price,” they said. “[I] wore a competitor’s short for a long time, their price went up and quality down. [I] took a chance on these, and happy I did.”



Green cargo shorts
Carrhart

Invest in a pair of work shorts that work as hard as you do.

These cargo work shorts by Carhartt allow for the freedom to move about your workday. Features include a lightweight stretch material, a cell phone pocket, a utility pocket and more.

A contractor even gave these shorts his stamp of approval saying, “The small pockets on the outside of the the large pockets are mandatory for me and these are great. They are durable and comfortable.”



Model wearing black cargo shorts with navy blue t-shirt
Under Armour

Available in three different colors, these Under Armour cargo shorts features the same quick-drying, water-repellent material used on the brand’s board shorts. If you’re outside for long periods of time, the material is UPF 30 to protect your skin from damaging sun rays.

“These just might be the best shorts every made!” said a shopper. “They’re comfortable, stretchy, quick-drying, have good pocket access and you can wear them anywhere. I’m seriously thinking about throwing all my other shorts away. I only want to wear these.”



Khaki belted shorts next to gray version
Walmart

Looking for both comfort and style? Well, it’s your lucky day.

These Galaxy by Harvic cargo shorts are perfect for casual everyday wear. Designed with a built-in belt, pockets and a slim fit leg, you know you’ll be ready for whatever the day throws at you.

BTW, the brand recommends sizing up for the best fit.



Gray cargo shorts
Levis

“I’ve recently been extremely frustrated by the modern trend of shorter shorts for men,” said a shopper. “I’m really glad I found these. I’ll be buying a second pair. If you are looking for a normal fitting pair of shorts that aren’t too big and baggy or way too short these are perfect.”

Not only are these Levis’ cargo shorts the perfect fit, but they are also currently on sale. So don’t mind us while we add a few colors to our carts, too.



Khaki cargo shorts
American Eagle

Ready to slip on some durable yet stretchy cargo shorts? Us, too!

These American Eagle flex shorts offer superior mobility, soft fabric and a structure that never loses its shape.

A fan of these shorts even bought them in four different colors, claiming they are the “best fitting cargo shorts.”



Model wearing orange cargo shorts and flip flops
Tommy Bahama

One reviewer found these shorts in a Marina store back in 2005 and “have been buying them ever since.” They described the durability and quality as “Like iron, have great pockets and are very comfortable.”

Further features include an elastic adjustable-drawstring waist, hook and loop closure pockets and various colorways.



Forest Green Cargo shorts
L.L. Bean

Skip the breaking in period and slip on a pair of these prewashed L.L. Bean cargo shorts. The soft cottony material has reviewers raving over how “extremely comfortable” they feel and the “generous pockets” provided.

Since it comes in five different colors you can pretty much wear one everyday of the work week.



Model wearing gray cargo shorts, close up of back view of product
Eddie Bauer

Consider these your warm weather and vacation wear secret weapon! For those scorching days when you want a dip in the pool after a long bike ride as long as you’re wearing these, you can just jump in. The waterproof material means they can be worn in the pool or at the beach yet the stylish fit is ideal for everyday wear. A total outfit must-have.

These also feature a four way stretch that has reviewers obsessed — and for good reason.



Model wearing black elastic waist cargo shorts
Nordstrom

Described by one shopper as “mad comfortable” this casual fit will take you from the basketball court to the couch thanks to the cotton and polyester mix material. The elastic waistband also means you won’t have to deal with a restrictive button or stiff material.


14. Denim Cargo Shorts: Mr. Porter Sacai’s Belted Straight-Leg Denim Cargo Shorts, $640


Model wearing denim cargo shorts, close up of front-view of product
Mr. Porter

Okay, these are definitely a luxe pick but are totally splurge-worthy. The denim material makes them unlike any cargo short we’ve seen. You can quite literally wear them with any top and shoes they’re *that* versatile. Plus, have you seen those pockets? Anyone looking to add a trendy statement piece to their ‘fit should definitely try these on for size.


For more content, check out the New York Post Shopping section.