Initially introduced in 1938, cargo pants have been an all-time favourite of beach wanderers and outing enthusiasts. These signature cargo pants with side pockets on your thighs provide quicker access to all your crucial items.
Somewhere around the 1990s, these pants gained popularity in the world of mainstream fashion. Skateboarders and artists indulged in hip-hop acts and popularised these baggy cargo pants outfits as casual streetwear.
Today, these modern cargo pants define the fashion statement in their ever-expanding range of prints, colours, and silhouettes. Let's explore some of the different types of cargo pants for men:
Different Types of Cargo Pants for Men
1. Baggy Cargo Pants
Baggy types of cargo pants remind us of the era dating back to 90s fashion. However, the modern cargo pants in this category are looser and have relaxed bottoms. They are perfect for imparting a comfortable and relaxing look, which is why many men favour them.
2. Parachute Cargo Pants
The parachute type of cargo pants is available with a high-rise elasticised waistband. These pants have a drawstring for an adjustable fit with side entry pockets, utility pockets, and drawcord-cuffed ankles to offer a relaxing fit.
3. Tactical Cargo Pants
Tactical types of cargo pants are specifically crafted for outdoor activities. These are quite durable and have extra pockets with sturdy stitching. These are ideal picks for your outdoor adventures, such as camping, hiking, and other activities. You can pair these with boots and a weather-resistant jacket for a perfect look on your trekking trip.
4. Slim-Fit Cargo Pants
Slim-fit types of cargo pants put off a more tailored and streamlined look from the classical cargo silhouette. These are carved from stretch-infused fabrics that make them a perfect fit for your hip and thigh region.
The signature snap-flap, stylish men's cargo pants for casual wear scale down while offering ample storage. These are more polished as casual work clothes or night attire.
5. Cargo Joggers
Jogger types of cargo pants fuse the athletic jogger's aesthetics with cargo styling and utility. These cargo joggers are made from lightweight and breathable fabrics, either knit or woven style. They carry an elastic waistband equipped with adjustable drawstrings or a cord.
The tapered leg carries elasticised ribbed cuffs sitting exactly above your ankle. The side pockets of such cargo joggers offer you enough storage space while you are on your go.
6. Printed Styles Cargo Pants
If you do not wish to go with the simple and casual cargo pants, there are printed or patterned versions available as well. Mostly, Gen Z would love to have them in all cool graphic patterns. From botanical prints to camo to tie-dye swirls, you will find them in all printed styles. These add artistic flair to your normally utilitarian attire.
7. Street-Style Cargo Pants
Street-style includes different types of cargo pants known for their durability. These are often available as loose-fitting variants with multiple side pockets and are typically designed from high-quality fabrics such as technical blends or cotton. They represent a mix of style and functionality, showcasing strong embellishments visible across the streetwear. They are versatile, making them your ideal pick for casual streetwear and semi-formal looks.
8. Traditional Cargo Pants
Traditional or classic cargo pants are a different type of cargo pants featuring a wide-leg or straight silhouette look. You may get it either in a mid to low-rise or roomy-fit pattern to flexibly fit around your hips and thighs. Traditional trousers, cargo pants have large bellowed pockets that fit on your thighs with flap closures. Mostly, these cargo pants look edgy with their build-up of sturdy cotton or cotton-blended fabric material.
Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Cargo Pants
Selecting the cargo pants is not a difficult task if you know the correct approach. Consider fabric, pocket design, fit, and why you want it. Prefer using lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or cotton blend for your everyday wear. Otherwise, you can opt for durable and water-resistant fabrics for outdoor adventures.
Here are some quick tips to ponder while selecting stylish men's cargo pants for casual wear:
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Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton blends or cotton, especially in warmer climates.
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Durable fabrics are well for outdoor adventures.
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Look for water-resistant pants for rain.
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Quick-to-dry fabrics help in preventing dampness and discomfort.
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The ideal fit of your men's cargo pants for hiking and trekking balances your comfort so that you are able to move around freely.
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Baggy, durable cargo pants for outdoor adventure men are usually flattering for those with larger frames.
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Slim-fit, premium quality cargo pants for everyday wear are perfect for all those with a slimmer physique.
Conclusion
What originated earlier for just military purposes, today, different types of cargo pants define the mainstream fashion staple available in endless styles and designs. From polished linen styles to hardy outdoor narrow cargo pants, there's one for every single occasion and activity. While buying different street-style cargo pants, consider details such as fabric, fit, colour, and features for a proper selection. You can either style them casually for the weekends or dress them up as your evening attire.
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FAQs
What are Cargo Pants?
Cargo pants or trouser types of cargo pants for men are stylish pants distinguished by their appearance. They are often large, with multiple pockets primarily resting on your thighs and hips. Importantly, they add to your practicality and functionality and help you with ample storage space. Over time, they have evolved as a fashion statement appreciated for their styling ability and versatility.
Which cargo pants material is best?
A durable cotton blend flanked with a bit of synthetic fibre makes a perfect cargo pant material. These durable cargo pants for outdoor adventure men offer a seamless balance between breathability, comfort and strength.
What is the difference between cargo and baggy?
Trouser cargo pants differ from baggy ones in their fit and function. The former ones have multiple utility pockets, which make them practical for carrying items. The latter are characterised by loose and relaxed fitting, which defines their comfort and styling.
What body type looks good in cargo pants?
Adjustable cargo pants are stylish and comfortable picks for several body types. They are often versatile and easy to wear. The only thing is that you should know how to select the right one. Complementing your silhouette is quite important. You have unique choices amongst the dark colours, such as shades of dark grey, denim blue, black and olive.
Should cargo pants be loose or tight?
Premium quality cargo pants for everyday wear should generally be loose or have a relaxed fit. This fit is perfect for greater ease of movement, making it more comfortable to wear. Baggy types of cargo pants are more casual in their look.
Are cargo pants good for outdoor activities?
Yes, cargo pants are ideal for outdoor adventures due to the practicality of their design and ample storage space. These are durable and comfortable, offering plenty of pockets in which to store your essentials. Traditional ones may not be an ideal pick for outdoor adventures.
Can cargo pants be worn for office work?
Yes, there are plenty of options around comfortable men's cargo pants for work and play. You can choose versatile cargo pants for men in various colours for your daily office wear.
