Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in Volume IV of B.H. Magazine. To get your copy (and access to future issues), subscribe here.
Cargo pants might have waned in popularity over the last couple of decades, but if you have access to the internet, you’ll know they’re very much back in fashion – and we’re here for it. They’re comfortable, practical, and bring a function-forward touch to an outfit that just works.
So if you’re looking to add a pair of great cargo pants to your wardrobe, we’ve wrapped up a few of the very best options out there, to make your decision-making process that little bit easier. Let’s get into it.
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Sassafras Overgrown Fatigue Pants Military Poplin Olive
Disarm fellow cargo enthusiasts with these strides from Sassafras – a Japanese cult label that tempers military design with more benevolent references. Designer Takashi Takagi is a passionate gardener, and that interest crops up in several interesting ways – like a multi-stage pocket that is perfect for assorted gardening tools.
OrSlow Vintage Fit 6-Pocket Cargo Pants
A familiar standard-bearer for the ‘Made in Japan’ movement, OrSlow has had the vintage repro game on lock for the better part of two decades. These 6-pocket cargoes (codenamed V5260) are an adaptation of US army trousers from the 1960s – made out of a gnarly ripstop fabric that is, if anything, superior to the original.
18 East Mended Benny Trail Pant
18 East founder Antonio Ciongoli – of Eidos Napoli fame (RIP) – reworks classic trail pants through a distinctly laid-back lens. The ‘Mended Benny’ features kantha ripstop and jacquard-cotton patching along the side seams, plus an elasticated tri-ring waistband. Equal parts functional and relaxed, this pair balances unique detailing with everyday wearability.
3sixteen Coyote Washed Twill Cargo Pant
These cargoes are the widest style offered by 3sixteen – New York’s acclaimed indie denim outfitter. Its design team has made meaningful mods to the typical mil-spec cargo formula by incorporating a touch of elastic in the waistband, and Japanese twill fabric in one of their own custom washes. Straight out-of-the-box comfort? You betcha.
Studio Nicholson Haye Pant
A bestseller from cult British label Studio Nicholson, the Haye pant was designed as an “anchor” for timeless, urban wardrobes. Through the leg, expect a fit that is relaxed and curvy, providing ample space for this trouser’s signature detail: highly functional patch pockets that sit over the side seam.
Haversack HBT Utility Pant
Named for the standard-issue US army bag, Haversack’s top priorities are strength and practicality. Koji Norihide’s firm specialises in clothing steeped in authentic military references, particularly from the WWII era. These utility pants take the formal conceit of the M43 trousers and refine it, adding a same-fabric belt and darted-leg detail.
Earth\Studies MP-108 Utility Pant
Function-first trousers from a brand that describes its clothes as “tools” – to help individuals explore, and express themselves, in the natural world. This particular design sits somewhere between cargoes and the typical hiker’s pants. Peep the rounded right-leg pocket, complete with cinch cording for maximum adjustability.
Bryceland’s P13
Shoppers intent on escaping the proverbial trend cycle need look no further than Bryceland’s P13. Inspired by the “pre-fashion world”, these are a thoughtful progression of similar garments worn by US Marines. The rise may be higher, the cut a hint dressier, but make no mistake – in FUBAR situations, they’ll cover you just fine.
If you’ve enjoyed this feature article on the best cargo pants, consider a few more of our favourite stories – direct from the pages of B.H. Magazine:
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- The True Cost Of Luxury: Confessions Of A Restaurant Critic
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