Mens Cargo Shorts

What Types of Men's Cargo Shorts Are Available?

Cargo shorts are casual shorts recognised by their utility-inspired pockets, often positioned on the sides of the legs. City Beach stocks different cuts and waistband styles, including traditional cargo shorts, cargo walk shorts and elastic-waist designs.

Classic Cargo Shorts

Traditional cargo shorts generally feature a structured waistband, belt loops and additional pockets. Selected styles, including the Element Source Cargo Shorts and Rip Curl Classic Surf Trail Cargo Walk Shorts, have side and back pockets, patch pockets, and button-and-zip fastenings.

Elastic-Waist Cargo Shorts

Elastic-waist cargo shorts use a stretch waistband rather than relying entirely on a fixed waist. Some designs also feature adjustable drawstrings.

City Beach carries styles including the Billabong Spec 73 Cargo Elastic Waist Shorts and Worship Supplies Topper Elastic Cargo Shorts. Explore men's elastic-waist shorts for additional pull-on designs.

Cargo Walk Shorts

Cargo walk shorts combine the utility-inspired pockets of cargo clothing with a casual walk-short silhouette. Styles such as the Jacks Phase Cargo Walk Shorts and Rip Curl Classic Surf Trail Cargo Walk Shorts offer different pocket arrangements and designs.

For alternatives with simpler pocket layouts, browse men's walk shorts.

Baggy and Relaxed Cargo Shorts

Baggy cargo shorts have a wider silhouette through the leg, while relaxed styles generally provide additional room through the seat and thigh. Fit varies by brand, so check individual product descriptions rather than assuming every cargo short has the same cut.

What's the Difference Between Cargo Shorts and Carpenter Shorts?

Cargo shorts are primarily recognised by their additional utility-style pockets, usually positioned along the sides of the legs.

Carpenter shorts are inspired by traditional workwear and may feature tool pockets, utility loops or other workwear details. Some designs combine elements of both styles.

City Beach stocks carpenter-inspired denim shorts from Worship Supplies and RVCA. Explore men's denim shorts and jorts for carpenter and baggy jean-short alternatives.

How Do Men's Cargo Shorts Fits and Lengths Compare?

Cargo shorts vary in leg width, hem length and waistband construction. City Beach's range includes short, regular, mid-length, knee-length and selected longer designs.

Regular-fit cargo shorts generally have a conventional leg shape, while relaxed and baggy cargo shorts create a wider silhouette. Knee-length styles finish around the knee, although the exact position depends on your height and the garment's cut.

A longer cargo short does not automatically have a baggier fit. Compare both the leg width and length when selecting a style.

Understanding Cargo Pockets, Waistbands and Materials

Cargo shorts can feature side pockets, patch pockets, back pockets and utility-inspired detailing. Selected products have belt loops, removable belts, elastic waistbands, drawstrings or button-and-zip closures.

Materials vary across the range. Selected cargo shorts use cotton woven fabric, while others feature blends containing polyester, nylon or elastane. Some products list stretch fabric, but this is not universal.

Check individual product descriptions for fabric composition, pocket placement, fastenings and care instructions.

Colours, Patterns and Cargo Short Designs

City Beach's men's cargo shorts range includes black, blue, green, grey, brown, white and neutral shades. Patterns include plain, camo, striped and printed designs.

Black and neutral cargo shorts offer a simple look with graphic tees, while khaki and green styles suit utility-inspired outfits. Camo cargo shorts can be paired with plain tops to balance the pattern.

Selected styles also feature embroidered logos, contrasting details and different pocket constructions.

Cargo Shorts vs Denim Shorts, Walk Shorts and Board Shorts

Cargo shorts are distinguished by their utility-style pocket design, while other shorts categories are defined by their fabric, silhouette or intended use.

Denim shorts are made from denim and include regular, relaxed and baggy jort styles. Casual shorts cover a broader range of everyday designs, while walk shorts generally have a more traditional casual silhouette.

Board shorts are associated with swimming and surfing, whereas cargo shorts are generally intended for casual clothing rather than water activities.

For a full-length utility-inspired alternative, explore men's cargo pants, or browse the wider men's shorts and bottoms collection.

How to Choose and Style Men's Cargo Shorts

Start with the fit, length and pocket design you prefer. For streetwear outfits, pair baggy cargo shorts with an oversized graphic tee and sneakers. For relaxed everyday styling, combine regular cargo shorts with a plain T-shirt or short sleeve shirt.

Explore men's tops and T-shirts for graphic tees, oversized fits and casual button-up shirts. Add men's sneakers for a skate-inspired look.

For cooler weather, pair cargo shorts with men's hoodies and sweatshirts. For casual weekends, complete the outfit with thongs or sandals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Men's Cargo Shorts