Cargo pants — aka utility bottoms with pockets galore — are making a comeback.
Originally a military style, cargo pants were designed to provide ample storage for small equipment. Fast forward to the ‘90s and ‘00s, and it rose into mainstream fashion. Over the years, the style has evolved and adapted to different subcultures, growing more and more popular.
“The post-pandemic fashion trends are all about comfort, focusing on oversized and looser silhouettes,” says Basia Richard, a Los Angeles-based virtual personal stylist and strategist. Think: mom jeans and wide-leg pants that offer a relaxed-yet-stylish look. Adding to that list are cargo pants that started coming back in style in the fall of 2022 — and have continued to trend into this spring and summer.
Richard says that the cargo pants of today got a "fashionable edge" thanks to modernized silhouettes, fabrics and designs. "Outside of the traditional baggy, relaxed fit, you can also find new styles with slim silhouettes and tailored looks," she adds.
What are the main differences between cargo pants from back in the day and the ones now? Many modern-day styles feature a streamlined and tailored silhouette, which gives them a major upgrade from their classic streetwear style, Richard explains. You can also find a wider range of fabrics like cotton, linen and even lightweight silk.
How to style cargo pants
There are countless ways to wear cargo pants, and the beauty of styling is that it’s based on personal preference. But if you’re looking for some inspo, style expert Christin Bryant of CBstyled has you covered.
“Pair them with a fitted crew neck tee or tank top and layer with a denim or bomber jacket,” she says. “Sneakers are an obvious choice for this casual style of pants but you can also dress them up with heels. [Wearing them with] flip flops are perfect for a cute summer look!”
Ready to see what the new and improved style looks like? Here are several pairs of women's cargo pants we're currently digging for work, leisure and everything in-between.
For easy shopping, use the links below to navigate:
Best budget | Best baggy | Best classic | Best lightweight | Best relaxed-fit | Best tapered/fitted | Best wide-leg | Best cropped | What to look for | FAQs | How we chose | Meet our experts
Best budget cargo pants
Old Navy High-Waisted Pulla Utility Pants
- Soft fabric
- Elastic waistband
- Versatile
- May shrink in dryer
Material: Cotton, spandex | Size range: XS to 4X | Pockets: 4 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Commerce SEO editor Amanda Fama shares that she loves how versatile these Old Navy cargo pants are. "I’ve paired them with boots for a night out and with sneakers for errands. They’re really comfortable, too, and I’d love to buy them in more colors. Plus, the pockets are super deep and can fit a wallet and my phone with ease.
A New Day High-Rise Ankle Cargo Pants
- Lightweight fabric
- Elastic waistband
- Some sizes unavailable
Material: Rayon, recycled polyester | Size range: XS to 4X | Pockets: 4 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
These stylist-approved cargo pants will make the perfect addition to your wardrobe. With a comfortable elastic waistband and a flattering tapered leg design, you'll want to wear them everywhere, from the office to lunch with friends.
Viodia Hiking Cargo Pants
- UPF 50+ fabric
- 4-way stretch
- Thin material
Material: Nylon, spandex | Size range: XS to 3XL | Pockets: 5 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Quick-dry cargo pants that are flexible and breathable enough to hike in? Sign us up. These waterproof pants from Amazon are not only budget-friendly compared to other outdoor brands, but they are "durable" and "lightweight," according to reviewers. The pair also features four-way stretch and is equipped with UPF 50+ fabric, making it a comfy and safe option.
All in Motion Stretch Woven Tapered Cargo Pants
- 6 colors available
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Wrinkle resistant
- Tumble dry
Material: Recycled polyester, spandex | Size range: XS to XL (short and long) | Pockets: 4 | Maintenance: Machine-wash, tumble-dry
Priced at $30, this is the ultimate pair that will get you the most for your money. Lightweight, moisture-wicking and stretchy, these cargo pants offer plenty of benefits. Of course, we have to note the convenience of the pockets with zippers, too.
One of the many reviewers on Target’s website noted, “These are easily my favorite pair of pants. I even just bought more. I’m sad I didn’t jump in on them sooner, because now I wish I could get more of them in more colors!”
Best baggy cargo pants
Viatabuna High-Waist Baggy Jeans
- Relaxed fit
- Soft material
- Hand wash recommended
Material: Cotton and polyester | Size range: XXS to XL | Pockets: 4 (varies upon color) | Maintenance: Hand-wash (some colors are machine-wash)
Bryant recommends these high-waisted jeans that work well for everyday casual wear.
“It’s a great basic pair from Amazon that aren’t stiff and have minimal pockets, so it's a good entry-level pair,” she says.
Best classic cargo pants
Garage Straight Cargo Pant
- Six color options
- Baggy leg, fitted around waist
- Runs slightly large
Material: Cotton | Size range: 00 to 15 | Pockets: 4 | Maintenance: Wash cold (inside out)
Zip fly with snap button closure: check. Side flap pockets: check. This classic pair is another one of Bryant’s recommendations, and for good reason. Made with 100% cotton, it’s all about comfort and comes in a wide range of sizes (from 00 to 15).
“More side pockets makes this a trendier style but still very wearable and easy to style,” Bryant says. Choose between colors Army Green, String Beige or Jet Black.
Dickie's Cropped Cargo Pants
- Cropped length
- Contour waistband
- Run large
Material: Twill, cotton, spandex | Size range: 24 to 34 | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
A brand famously worn by dads everywhere, now you too can don the popular Dickie's pant. With a relaxed leg, you can roll them up to show off a pair of high top sneakers, or wear them flat when wearing sandals. Available in seven colors (from Desert Sand Beige to Wild Rose Pink), easily mix and match these cargo pants for bright or neutral looks.
L.L. Bean Stretch Canvas Cargo Pants
- Plus, petite and tall sizes
- Hold up well
- Small pockets
Material: Cotton, spandex | Size range: 2 to 20 (regular, petite and plus) | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash and dry
Available in regular, petite, medium tall and plus sizes up to 26W, these straight-leg cargo pants from L.L. Bean has earned countless raves for its stretchy cotton material that allows you to move easily and freely. Several shopper reviews also noted how sturdy the material and design feels for long-lasting wear.
Aritzia Wilfred Free Maeve Pant
- Comfortable amount of stretch
- Shaping waist
- Final sale
Material: Cotton, 2% polyester, spandex | Size range: 00 to 16 | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Are you the office's resident snack maven? These mid-rise cargo pants from Aritzia feature ample pockets for all of your midday treats, and they come in six neutral colors. Note: Reviewers have mentioned this pair running small, so don't be afraid to size up!
Best lightweight cargo pants
Libin Cargo Joggers
- UPF 50+ fabric
- 5 functional pockets
- Quick drying
- Inconsistent fit
Material: Polyester, spandex | Size range: XS to 3XL | Pockets: 5 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
These five-pocket joggers are perfect for everything from hiking to running errands and staying hands-free. The material feels oh so lightweight and it dries quickly, too. They're also Amazon's bestselling women's hiking pants and even come in a dozen different colors.
Best relaxed fit cargo pants
H&M Relaxed Fit Cotton Cargo Joggers
- Comfortable
- Functional pockets
- May shrink in wash
Material: Cotton, spandex | Size range: XS to 3XL | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash, tumble dry medium
While these might be marketed as men's pants, SEO associate editor Kamari Stewart bought them because she hoped they'd fit her tall frame. "Luckily, I was correct and these have become a staple in my weekly wardrobe. They’re super comfortable and, like any good cargo pant, have plenty of pockets so when I wear them, I often don’t need to go out with a tote or a bag because everything fits in these."
H&M Cargo Pants
- Elastic waist
- 5 colors
- Many sizes sold out
Material: Cotton | Size range: 0 to 20 | Pockets: 4 | Maintenance: Machine-wash cool
With roomy pockets and a comfy fit, this pair of canvas cargo pants is ultra-versatile. Dress it up or down and style it with sneakers or heels. Six colors are yours for the taking, including this baby blue color perfect for spring and summer.
Scroll through the website and you’ll find many positive reviews on this pair, such as this one: “These cargo pants exceeded my expectations! Great quality and they look nice. True low rise.”
Gap Twill Cargo Pants
- Regular, tall and petite sizes
- Functional back pockets
- Slim in the hips
Material: Cotton, Tencel | Size range: XS to L (regular, tall and petite) | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Not too baggy and not too fitted, this pair of twill cargo pants is somewhere in between. “A more tapered leg and lighter colors makes them perfect for warmer weather,” says Bryant.
Length-wise, they hit just below the ankle so you can show off your shoes. If they fit long on you, Bryant suggests to “cuff them and wear them with sandals for an effortless summer look.”
Best tapered/fitted cargo pants
Banana Republic Slim Refined Stretch Cargo Pants
- "Luxurious" structured fabric
- Removable belt
- Slim fit
Material: Viscose rayon, elastane | Size range: 2 to 20 (regular, tall and petite) | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Looking for a work-appropriate pair of cargo pants? Richard recommends this pick from Banana Republic. “It is specifically designed with a slim fit, making it suitable for professional or business-casual settings,” she says. It comes in five colors, perfect for every day of the work week if you love the fit.
More than 900 reviewers on the Banana Republic website rated this pair five stars. One user noted, “The fabric in these pants is wonderful! They have just the right amount of stretch and feel so comfortable!”
Material: Viscose rayon, elastane | Size range: 2 to 20 (regular, tall and petite) | Pockets: 6 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Best wide-leg cargo pants
Urban Outfitters UO Mae Linen Cargo Pant
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Runs large
Material: Linen, rayon | Size range: XXS to XXXL | Pockets: 2 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
If you're looking for a comfy, breezy look, you can’t go wrong with a pair of lightweight linen pants. This low-rise cargo style features oversized pockets at the legs and can be easily pulled on without buttons or zippers. Will you go for the one in green stripes, bright orange, ivory or navy?
Best cropped cargo pants
Mocoly Cargo Hiking Pants
- Deep zippered pockets
- Adjustable drawstring waist
- Wrinkles easily
Material: Polyester, elastane | Size range: XS to 3XL | Pockets: 4 | Maintenance: Machine-wash
Hoping to switch up your workout wardrobe? Try this capri-length cargo pant that’s both convenient (hello, pockets!) and comfy. This pair has 9,100-plus five-star ratings and has two features we're totally digging: UPF 50+ protection and an adjustable cord lock around the cuffs, so you can keep bugs at bay while you're out enjoying nature.
What to consider when shopping for cargo pants
Pockets. Cargo pants are all about pockets, pockets, pockets. Some styles feature them at the sides, near the waist or on the back. Be mindful that some pairs have false back pockets that are just for design. If you’re looking for a pick with more storage options, make sure to look for real back pockets.
Fabric. “Opt for natural fabrics like cotton and linen for summer,” says Bryant. These will keep you cool during warmer weather and are easy to take care of. If extra comfort is a key factor you’re after, consider fabrics with stretch. Fabric choice can also depend on your lifestyle; for example, the pair we recommend from Amazon is waterproof and made specifically for hiking.
Style. As Richard noted, modern-day cargo pants come in casual to dressy styles. Your preference and your taste, lifestyle and body shape can all play a role in which style you choose. For example, a slim-fit style may be suitable for work, while a baggy pair may work for a weekend outing.
Maintenance. And of course, how to care for the garment can be an important element in deciding which cargo pants to buy. Check the product description on how it's cleaned — such as machine wash, hand wash, or dry clean — to determine if the pair works for your lifestyle and schedule.
FAQs
How we chose the best cargo pants for women
To find the best cargo pants, Shop TODAY interviewed two style experts for their top recommendations based on their experience. We also thoroughly surfed the web, reading through reviews upon reviews to source top-rated pairs people are raving about.
In addition, we kept in mind cargo pants' key features (number of pockets, fabric, style and maintenance) while sourcing our selections.
Meet our experts
- Christin Bryant is an Edmonton, Canada-based style expert who shares realistic outfits and shopping links on her social media account, @cbstyled. She defines her style as casual yet polished, and she's known for wearable, neutral-colored everyday looks.
- Basia Richard is a Los Angeles-based personal stylist and strategist. She has styled top celebrities for over 15 years. She currently focuses on styling women who are corporate leaders, so they can dress for success at work. She also constantly shares resources on everything style-related on her Instagram, @basia.richard.
