Understanding What Are Cargo Pants

Comfortable, durable, and completely multipurpose, cargo pants have been a mainstay of casual fashion since the 1990s. They've appeared everywhere from elegant runway shows to edgy streetwear collections. But what exactly defines cargo clothing? Is it just the iconic design—or does fabric, fit, and functionality matter just as much?

What Are Cargo Pants?

Cargo pants—also known as cargo trousers or combat trousers—are functional pants designed with a loose, relaxed fit that allows for easy movement, particularly at the knees and hips. Traditionally made from sturdy cotton or cotton-blend fabrics, cargo pants are built to handle heavy wear and outdoor conditions.

The most recognizable feature of cargo pants is the signature square patch pocket located on one or both outer thighs. These pockets often include accordion folds or bellows that allow them to expand, offering extra storage space. Most are secured with flaps, buttons, snaps, zippers, or Velcro, making them as practical as they are iconic.

What are Cargo Pants Made Of?

Cargo pants are made from durable cotton-synthetic blends, ideal for rough
activities. The quick-drying fabrics and oversized belt loops offer comfort and versatility.

Today, however, cargo pants are as much a fashion statement as utilitarian wear, so you can find trendy styles in light-weight or luxury fabrics that are cooler and more wearable. Updated designs also feature elastic waistbands or cuffs, jetted side pockets (pockets that open into the interior of the pant leg rather than being sewn onto the exterior), and extra slim or baggy fits.

Cargo Pants: A Brief Overview

When Were Cargo Pants Invented?

You may think that cargo pants are a recent invention, but these popular pants have been around for almost a century. They were first worn as battle attire by soldiers for the British Armed Forces in 1938. Shortly after, this iconic clothing hopped over the Atlantic Ocean to the U.S.

Cargo Pants History

Designed to be worn by British forces during the Second World War, cargo pants had ample pocket space that allowed soldiers to carry necessary items like field dressings, maps, and other vital supplies on the battlefield while keeping their hands free. 

American paratroopers fighting in Europe in the early 1940s saw the innovative design and copied it, using the pockets for ammunition and radios. Soon, cargo pants became part of the basic battle dress uniform for the entire U.S. military.

What are Cargo Pants Like Today?

After decades as standard military uniform, cargo pants started entering civilian mainstream fashion in the 1990s as hip-hop streetwear. The style soon became ubiquitous in casual clothing chains and high-end fashion shows. The iconic patch pockets became more decorative than functional, and fabrics have moved away from military-grade to lighter cotton or quick-drying synthetics to make cargo pants more practical for everyday wear. However, the basic silhouette remains the same. 

Who Can Wear Cargo Pants?

Cargo pants may have hit the red carpet, but these functional and durable pants are still a fundamental piece of military battle dress. They are also used for many police, firefighter, and EMS uniforms, and even medical scrubs. 

Outside the workplace, you’ll find many types of cargo pants that you can wear for both casual and dressy occasions. Classic cargo pants for men are a go-to for informal office wear and socializing, but you can pair more tailored styles in soft fabrics with a blazer and dress shoes for a night out. Women can also wear relaxed-fit cargo pants to a casual workplace or out with family or friends. Additionally, trendy slim-cut women’s cargos with sleek side pockets and elastic or tapered cuffs worn with high-heeled pumps or boots make a fashion-forward evening look.

Cargo Pant Styling Tips

You may be asking yourself, “What are cargo pants best worn with?” 

Classic, casual cargo pants like UNIONBAY’s Survivor Cargo Pant for men or Lilah Convertible Cargo Pant for women look great with other timeless, straightforward pieces. 

1. Street Style: Pair with an oversized graphic tee, hoodie, or puffer jacket.
2. Modern Look: Go for neutral cargo pants (olive, beige, black) with a fitted tee or tank top.
3. Workwear-Inspired: Combine with a canvas or denim jacket.
4. Y2K/ Retro: Opt for low-rise cargos with a crop top, baby tee, or tube top.
5. Smart Casual: Choose tailored cargos with fewer pockets & pair with button-down shirt.

Now that we’ve answered your questions about what are cargo pants, it’s time to update your look with a pair of classic cargos from our collection. Browse our cargo pants for men and women, or contact us for more information about how to choose the perfect pair of cargos to suit your personal style.