CARGO SHORTS HAVE come a long way from the baggy, overloaded versions that gave the garment a bad rep. I’ve tested tons of cargo shorts across the board, from military-inspired classics to high-performance options built for the trail and double as swim trunks. Best Cargo Shorts for MenBest Overall: ​Best for Outdoors:Best Relaxed:Best Design: ​Best Vintage-Style: ​​What to ConsiderFabricLightweight cotton, cotton blends, or twill are great for everyday wear. Pocket ArrangementModern cargo shorts often have slimmer, flatter pockets that sit closer to the body—giving you utility without puffiness. Cargo shorts are officially back—and these are the best of the new breed.