by Product Review Lad |
Last Updated: June 14, 2021 Having enough pockets to hold your belongings and more is a dream come true. That’s precisely why having a couple of cargo pants in your wardrobe is an absolute must. Cargo pants are versatile, great for hiking and work, durable, and so much more. But that is only when you find the best cargo pants out there.
Otherwise, you get stuck wearing cargo pants that feel like burlap against your skin or are so heavy you start sweating profusely. That or the pattern is atrocious.
That is why we put together this list of the best cargo pants, so you can find a comfortable, stylish pair to wear for every occasion (okay, maybe not to your best friend’s wedding or a first date, but you’ll be tempted).
**Note** – A quick hello to anyone reading this, I’m Alastair AKA Product Review Lad. I started this site to help people choose the best products to buy, and hopefully what you’re about to read will aid you in your choice. This page includes affiliate links to the likes of Amazon, which if you make a purchase I qualify to earn a (typically small) commission. Don’t worry as this won’t cost you anything, the likes of Amazon pay any commissions. Thank you in advance for your support as this helps Product Review Lad to create the best reviews.
But, wait… What are cargo pants, you ask? The history behind cargo pants is fascinating. Back during World War II, cargo pants were fabricated for the military so that soldiers could carry all kinds of supplies with them into battle. These days, cargo pants carry the same militaristic aesthetic, but they are considered a convenient and comfortable fashion choice.
The Best Cargo Pants in the World
We have taken a long look at some of the best cargo pants for men and women around
Best Cargo Pants For Men: G-Star Raw Men’s Rovic Zip 3D Tapered
Looking for cargo pants that look like authentic military gear? G-Star, a Dutch brand, has some cargo pants that will make your jaw drop. They even call their Rovic Zip 3D pants a “classic military staple” that was “reinvented for the streets.” What does that mean, exactly?
For starters, these pants are 97 percent sustainable cotton and just enough elastane to keep the shape. The legs taper in, hugging close to the leg while maintaining a more relaxed waist. You get two oversized front cargo pockets, two slanted hand pockets, and two back flap pockets. One of the cargo pockets even has a stylish zipper above it.
The G-Star cargo pants for men are available in four colors—dark green, gray, dune, and raven—so you can purchase a few pairs for multiple options. They are perfect for a casual outing, and the material is warm enough to keep you cozy during cooler months.
Pros
- Made with sustainable materials, including cotton
- Tapered straight leg fit
- Multiple deep, functional pockets
- Excellent quality and durability
Cons
- The sizing is a bit odd. Some people report that they receive pants way too big for them after using the size chart, while others say what they ordered is smaller than average.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Cargo Pants For Women: Under Armour Women’s Tactical Patrol Pants II
There is a lot of love going around for the Under Armour Women’s Tactical Patrol Pants. The style was recently updated, so now these pants are better than ever. Why is that? First off, these tactical cargo pants for women hold a lot of stuff. You may not even need a purse while wearing these pants. The hand pockets are open for easy access, but the cargo and rear pockets have flap closures.
You don’t have to worry about durability either. The Under Armour Women’s Tactical Patrol Pants are made with durable ripstop material. You may be worried that the color will fade over time, but after multiple washes, these pants hold up and look amazing. The material—polyester—wicks away moisture so you stay cool while on the move; there is even anti-odor technology at work.
These pants come in several different colors, ranging from greens, earthy tones, camouflage, and black. Overall, the styling accentuates your form rather than being more relaxed like men’s cargo pants. You can certainly wear these to work, but you can also rock them at the grocery store, a casual outing, a date, and more.
Pros
- Made from durable 100% polyester ripstop
- Ideal for hiking, outdoor physical activity, and even more casual events
- Machine washable
- Moisture-wicking material
Cons
- Sizing runs a bit small, so you may want to order a size or two up
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Men’s Camouflage Cargo Pants: Wrangler Men’s Regular Tapered Cargo Pant
If you aren’t wearing camo cargo pants yet, what are you waiting for? You’re missing out. Even if you don’t consider yourself a fan of a camouflage pattern, you are going to love the Wrangler Men’s Regular Tapered Cargo Pant in “grey camo.” The blend of light and dark gray on black compliments any color and type of shirt. The pants are made of light, breathable cotton integrated with even spandex to give them additional stretch, so you can bend and twist as needed. The tapered straight leg is roomy but flattering for every height.
Unlike some of the other favorite cargo pants for men on this list, the Wrangler variation comes with a unique cargo pocket design. One side has double pockets, while the other has a regular-sized pocket, allowing for more organization. On top of that, there are also two front slash pockets and rear pockets.
Lastly, whether you want a decent pair of cargo pants for a casual day out or want to pair them with a tailored shirt, these pants deliver. They are durable and rugged enough for the outdoors yet fashionable enough for day-to-day activities. You can choose the camo pattern, but there are other colors available, too.
Pros
- Flattering fit with a relaxed waist but tapered legs
- Plenty of storage space
- Fits true to size
- Stretchy material allows for more mobility than jeans
- Attractive camo design
Cons
- The pocket liners are less durable than the rest of the pant
- Some people have experienced premature wear and tear
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Women’s Camouflage Cargo Pants: Women’s Cotton Casual Military Cargo Pants
Though camo leggings are undeniably comfortable and make your leggings look amazing, there may come a time when you want to rock the camo but need the pockets. That is why we are recommending these camo cargo pants for women, because they don’t only look amazing on, but they are extremely good quality for the price tag. The best of both worlds!
There are two camouflage patterns: a classic army green-brown and a black-and-white. In both, the colors are bold but not overwhelming. Other colors are also available, such as beige, black, and brown. As for the fit, it’s relaxed—wide throughout the legs. There are—count ‘em—nine pockets. Four side pockets, two slanted front pockets, one zippered pocket, and two buttoned rear pockets.
If you are concerned about these pants being heavy, don’t worry. The material is just breathable enough to make these cotton cargo pants for women ideal for spring, summer, and autumn. So, you can go hiking or chill around the house in these, and you will be comfortable no matter what. There is also a cinch cord at the ankle to keep water out.
Pros
- Deep, functional pockets that can hold all kinds of belongings, even your phone
- Great for all kinds of weather
- Durable material and zipper
- Flattering, relaxed fit
Cons
- Does not come in size 0 and may not fit petite women
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Men’s Work Cargo Pants: Wrangler Riggs Workwear
The Wrangler Riggs Workwear pant is a lightweight and stylish choice for those who want to wear cargo pants to work. The pants are made from 100 percent cotton ripstop and feature the patented ROOM2MOVE technology, giving you plenty of flexibility, no matter the task. There are also plenty of reinforcements along the seams and around the knees.
Looking for storage space? These pants feature 7 pockets: 2 cargo pockets, 1 watch pocket, 2 front pockets, 1 hammer loop, and 2 back pockets.
Wrangler Riggs Workwear was also one of our top choices in the “Best Work Pants for Carpenters and Construction Workers.”
Pros
- Enhanced durability from ripstop fabric and reinforced knees, back pockets, and seams
- Gusseted crotch
- 7 deep pockets and hammer loop
- Ideal for warmer climates
Cons
- Not as fashionable as other choices
- Not designer for shorter individuals
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Women’s Work Cargo Pants: LA Police Gear Women’s Operator Pant
The Women’s Operator Pant is designed for movement and comfort. These durable pants are made from polyester and cotton ripstop, feature a gusseted crotch and an elastic waistband. Plus, the fabric is coated with Teflon Shield and Fabric Protector, so the color will remain rich and unstained for as long as you have them.
You don’t have to worry about carrying a purse with these pants, either. There are a couple of slanted pockets on the front, D-rings, and deep back pockets for all kinds of items.
We also named the LA Police Gear Women’s Operator Pant as an excellent pant for carpenters and construction workers. You can read the full review there.
Pros
- Tons of storage space
- Available in several colors
- Durable construction: YKK zipper fly, gusseted crotch, ripstop fabric
Cons
- Seams can be uncomfortable
- Sizing and durability are inconsistent—you never know how long these pants will last
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Men’s Durable Cargo Pants: CQR Men’s Tactical Pants
CQR is a brand known for top-quality tactical and outdoor gear. You know that these CQR Men’s Tactical Pants are going to be of superior construction and durability. Let’s walk through all the features that make these cargo pants awesome. There are two D-rings along the elastic waistband, a metal alloy zipper, a gusseted crotch, and articulated seams along with the knees for more mobility.
The fabric of these tactical pants, called Duratex Ripstop, was specially coated to repel dirt and water. It is also rip-resistant, so you will get plenty of usages. Want to wear these tactical pants during the summer months? No problem. The material is also lighter than your average cargo pants or denim jeans. Next, the pockets: you have one deep mag pocket with Velcro closure; hatched back pockets, and two large cargo pockets on the thigh.
When going through the colors, you will also notice that the pants also have different numbers (106, 108, etc.). Some of the pants have additional pockets or features, so be sure to go through the extensive list! Regardless of which kind you choose, you can wear these pants with a pair of durable work socks and steel toe boots for all-over protection that won’t quit.
Pros
- Available in 29 colors and multiple styles
- Features 12 pockets for plenty of storage space
- Lightweight, breathable ripstop material
- Can be worn in all kinds of environments
- Great craftsmanship extends the durability
Cons
- The crotch seam may be annoying to some people
- Cargo pockets are smaller than average
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Best Women’s Durable Cargo Pants: 5.11 Tactical Women’s Stryke Covert Cargo Pants
5.11 has a motto: “Always be ready.” With these pants, you will be ready to tackle whatever the day throws at you. From moving mountains, training, work, or just doing tasks around the house, these pants are going to make you feel like a superhero. 5.11 Tactical Stryke Covert Cargo Pants for women were designed with female officers and operators in mind. That is why these pants have more stretch than your average tactical pant. They also have a gusseted crotch, 12 pockets, and articulated knees with pockets for knee pads.
The Flex-Tac ripstop fabric has been reinforced along the seams and sprayed with Teflon, making them stain and rip-resistant. That is not the best part, though. What makes these pants great is the flattering cut that, even with all the convenience of deep pockets, still manages to look professional and feminine.
If you want a functional pair of work pants, these won’t disappoint, especially for such a reasonable price.
Pros
- Breathable water, stain, and rip-resistant material
- Reinforced seams and gusseted crotch for enhanced durability
- 12 deep (and we mean deep) pockets
- Comfortable enough for everyday wear
Cons
- Runs a bit on the smaller side, so plus-sized and curvy women may have difficulties finding the right size
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Final Thoughts
Cargo pants have never been more in style than they are right now. Over the past couple of years, cargo pants have become a staple for any wardrobe. Both men and women can now enjoy a relaxed fit pant with plenty of pockets. Hopefully, with these reviews, you will be able to find a pair that suits you and your lifestyle. All you have to do now is find the colors that you adore.
Recommended Reading
Best Work Socks for Steel Toe Boots
We have reviewed some great quality work socks (and some not so great) showing you the best socks for your needs. Making your choice simple.
Best Camo Leggings for Women
Looking for the best camo leggings for yoga, comfort, hiking? You've come to the right place, we've reviewed the market to show you the best.
Best Foot Warmers for Poor Circulation & Arthritis
Cold feet really are not enjoyable, especially during those cold long winter days. Here you will see the best foot warmers of different types.
Best Construction Work Pants
Your safety and comfort are necessary while working, you need to own the best work pants, we've reviewed them here to help you choose.
