This Post Carries Precious Cargo (Pants)
Having initially most notably risen to favor in the fashion circuits of the ’90s, cargo pants have continued to be a bonafide style staple ever since.
From their roots in function, these pocket-heavy pants have moved into the luxury spotlight, too, which makes clear that the possibilities for future 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 can compete the utilitarian classics.
Scroll for a look at the best cargo pants for 2025
WTAPS Cargo Trousers
With its deep pockets, knee darts, and drawstring waist and hems, these olive cargos reconsider classic functional military attributes as a fashion piece.
sacai Belted Denim Cargo Pants
In this timely hue of brown, sacai's belted denim cargos equip you with gaping pocket flaps so voluminous that they moonlight as a travel accessory.
COMME des GARÇONS HOMME Wool Cargo
Proving that a cargo can be just as elegant as conventionally formal slacks, CDG HOMME's woolen pair has every right to be taken seriously as a contender for a nice evening out.
Stone Island Mil-Spec Stretch Ripstop-TC
A brighter, creamier, and thus more coastal slash casual take on cargos comes from Stone Island, the Italian experts of luxury military gear.
Aimé Leon Dore Camouflage Cargo Trousers
Of course, there has to be a camouflage cargo in the mix. ALD's wholly cotton pants tick all the boxes without appearing costume-y.
Ann Demeulemeester Cargo Pants
The muted green shade, paired with the extra long cord of its dangling drawstring, lend Ann Demeulemeester's cargo pant a certain edge made better by a dramatic flare shape.
Rick Owens DRKSHDW Drawstring Cargo Trousers
Speaking of drama, Rick Owens would naturally take his cargos to more experimental territory, making them in a slouchy brushed cotton with added belt-like elements and pockets, plus an off-white shoelace for fastening.
Carhartt Work In Progress Regular Cargo Pants
When speaking of cargos, workwear icon Carhart WIP is a no-brainer place to look, the beige ones above being case in point.
Amiri Quad Work Pant
Amiri's monogrammed cargos don't actually sound like they would work. But upon reviewing them, you'll find they actually do.
adidas Originals Camo Cargo Zip-Off Pant
Now, there's camo print on cargos, and then there's whatever you'd call this pair of adidas trousers. One thing's for sure: if you ever visit the country, you're disappearing into the background in these, whether you like it or not.
AURALEE Viyella Cargo Pants
Everything AURALEE founder Ryota Iwai touches is improved. Even something as often-done as the cargo is instilled with a new elegance without veering too far off course from its useful origins.
C.P. Company Cargo Trousers
C.P. Company's cargos are subtle standouts, what with with their big slanted pockets and thick but lightweight fabric. The grayish green dye used here is sure to match warm and cool tones just the same.
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