Having initially found favor in the fashion circuits of the ’90s, cargo pants have continued to be a bonafide staple ever since.
Finding their roots in function, the pocket-heavy pants have had long enough in the luxury spotlight now too, which means that the possibilities for new pairs are nigh-on endless. From wide-leg iterations to fully functional workwear pairs, cargo pants are a year-round essential, catering to all sides of the style spectrum.
Praised for their applications as both a stylistic and functional power play, the cargo pant sits at the intersection of form and function. And, with a selection featuring standout pieces from Gucci and Martine Rose alongside classic outdoor clothing brands, this roundup acts as proof that the luxury contingent has set up shop amongst the utilitarian options, too.
Scroll for a look at the best cargo pants for 2024
JiyongKim Sun Bleached Cargo Pants
Starting this list off with a bang, see these South Korean brand's avantgarde take on the workwear staple. The bleach pattern almost looks as though the pants were of a sheer, delicate fabric, thereby really elevating this item from mere pant-status to actual piece of design.
Andersson Bell Khaki Cargo Pants
With its drawstring cuffs, array of pockets and buttons, these green-shimmering cargos take a functional military classic and turn it high fashion – in-keeping with the year's favorite color scheme.
Uncertain Factor 3D Cargo Pants Black
These near-architecturally constructed pants pose as yet another prime demonstration of how to draw from banal clothes and apply an artist's lens to their re-interpretation.
HS05 Re-Inforced Nylon Cargo Trouser
Inspired by classic, hard-wearing cargo pants, this heavyweight pair comes with a densely woven nylon and cotton blend with a vertical weave. Plus, they features a double layer at the rear and knees.
The Frankie Shop Grant Flap Pocket Cargo Trousers
The Frankie Shop is a label that gets timeless, wardrobe staples right. This pair of cargos come with a slightly more formal look to your typical outdoor cargos and are detailed with a darted and paneled leg.
Axel Arigato Denim Cargo Pants
A big, oversized style of cargos that wouldn't look out of place on a '90s raver, this iteration combines Chromecore-influences with our current favorite, washed out black denim. Here, not one, but two classics become one.
Carhartt WIP Jet Rinsed Cotton Cargo Pants
Cut with a wide leg, Carhartt WIP's Jet cargo pants nod to its workwear roots. They're crafted from 6 oz cotton poplin, feature reinforced knee panels, and have drawstrings to adjust the fit.
LUEDER Drifter Cargo Pants Rust
At first glance, the flared, pleated leg allow for LUEDER's brown, iridescent cargos to camouflage as fancy suit bottoms rather than parachute-like actionwear.
and wander Oversized Cargos Off White
There ain't no camouflaging in these though. With their unusually bright coloring, and wander's cargos are rather atypical. Their carabiner hardware and waterproof material double-down, however, on the functionality other cargos on this list have forfeited for fashion's sake.
Gramicci Corduroy Loose Cargo Pant
One of the original outdoor brands, Gramicci's durable clothing is made to withstand going off-road. Whether you're going on a hiking expedition or a bodega trip, these wide-leg pants have you covered.
Martine Rose Twist Seam Cargo Trouser
If you're on the hunt for pocket space, this pair of Martine Rose cargos (literally) come with pockets on top of pockets. These pants do not skimp out on space to stash your stuff.
Kapital Cotton-Canvas Cargo Trousers
An innovative way to make double-knee, workwear pants even more functional, Kapital has turned the extra layer of knee protection into a nifty pocket.
Bonsai Double Cargo Pant
Doubling up on cargo pockets, with two on each leg, this pair of pants from Bonsai keeps things relatively muted when compared to the rest of its winter collection.
Iuter Brown Parachute Pants
Rounding out this list, we have these rather simplistic cargos by Iuter. No frills, no straps, creases or secret zippers. These are straightforward, wide legged nylon slacks, front and back pockets included.
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