The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Cargo Pants for Women

As a woman on the go, you need clothing that can keep up with your active lifestyle. Cargo pants are not only stylish but also practical, offering plenty of pockets for all your essentials while still looking chic. However, with so many options on the market, choosing the best cargo pants for women can be a daunting task.

In this ultimate guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make the right choice. From different styles and materials to consider, to how to find the perfect fit for your body type, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re planning a hike in the mountains or just running errands around town, finding the best cargo pants will ensure you look and feel your best every step of the way. Let’s dive in and find your perfect pair!

What Are Cargo Pants?

Cargo pants are easy to identify because of their big pockets. They usually fit loose and comfortably. Most have a straight or wide-leg shape, but you can also find slimmer styles if you prefer that look.

What makes cargo pants special is that they have many pockets. These pockets often close with flaps or buttons. The large pockets add to their practicality, which means they are great for carrying daily items or travel necessities. Some cargo pants even have drawstrings at the leg openings. This lets you adjust the fit and change up your style.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Cargo Pants for Women

Fit and Style

Fit is very important for cargo pants. It affects how good they look on you. Think about your body type and style when picking the best cargo pants for your closet. Choose a style that fits your shape and what you like to wear.

If you want a loose fit, try wide-leg or boyfriend-style cargo pants. If you like a cleaner look, slim-fit or cropped cargo pants may be better for you. Pay attention to rise options like high-waisted, mid-rise, or low-rise. Also, look at leg shapes such as straight, wide, tapered, or cropped. Consider the overall shape as well.

Try on different styles to see which ones make you feel good and comfortable. Remember, your cargo pants should look nice and let you move easily.

Fabric and Material

The fabric and materials of your cargo pants play a big role in how comfortable they are, how long they last, and how they look. It’s important to pick a fabric that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Think about the weight and breathability of the material. This matters a lot if you will wear your cargo pants in warm weather or while being active. Lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or Tencel are great for hot climates. On the other hand, thicker materials like twill, canvas, or corduroy can keep you warmer and offer more structure.

Also, consider how durable the fabric is and if it resists wrinkles. You want materials that can handle regular wear and washing without changing shape or color.

Pockets and Storage

One of the best things about cargo pants is how practical they are, especially because they have many pockets. When you pick cargo pants, think about where the pockets are, how big they are, and what kind they are to make sure they hold what you need.

Think about what you usually carry, like your phone, wallet, keys, and other must-haves. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Quantity: Do you want many small pockets or just a few large ones?
• Closure: Consider options like flap closures, button closures, zippers, or open pockets.
• Placement: Pockets can be on the side thighs, front, or back, and they have different uses.

In the end, the best setup for pockets will depend on what you like and how you plan to use your cargo pants.

Comfort

Comfort is very important when picking cargo pants. You want to move easily and feel good all day. Think about the style of the waistband, how breathable the fabric is, and how the pants fit overall.

Look for pants with a waistband that feels good on your hips. It should not be too tight or uncomfortable. Elastic waistbands with drawstrings or adjustable tabs can help you get a better fit. Also, choose fabrics that breathe well. This is especially important if you live in a warm place or feel hot easily.

Breathable fabrics let air flow better. This helps to avoid overheating and keeps you comfortable all day. A comfy pair of cargo pants will soon become a favorite piece in your closet.

Purpose and Usage

Cargo pants are very versatile. You can dress them up or down for any occasion. Think about what you will use them for when picking a pair.

For casual outings, errands, or a laid-back weekend, choose cargo pants made of comfy materials like cotton or linen. You can wear them with a t-shirt, tank top, or a casual blouse for an easy and stylish look.

If you want a more polished style for work or semi-formal events, pick cargo pants that are tailored and made of nicer fabrics like twill or rayon. You can pair them with a button-down shirt, a blazer, or a knit top for a chic and trendy outfit.

Top Features to Look for in Women’s Cargo Pants

Water-Resistant Materials

If you want to wear cargo pants for outdoor activities or if you live in a rainy area, pick a pair that is water-resistant or water-repellent. Fabrics treated for this or made from synthetic materials, like nylon or polyester, can keep off light rain and help you stay dry.

These features are great for hiking, camping, or just dealing with unpredictable weather. Water-resistant cargo pants will help you stay dry and comfortable. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor fun without the worry of getting wet.

Look for cargo pants that have durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes. This gives you extra protection against moisture.

Breathability

Breathability is important for comfort, especially when it’s hot or when you’re active. Choose cargo pants made from fabrics that let air flow and wick away moisture. Good options are cotton, linen, or blends of nylon or polyester.

These fabrics help control your body temperature. They let heat and moisture escape, which keeps you cool and dry. This way, you avoid feeling hot and damp, reducing discomfort and skin irritation. By focusing on breathability in your cargo pants, you can feel your best and stay active.

Security Features

Consider cargo pants with security features if you travel often or want to keep your items safe. Look for hidden pockets, zippered spaces, or button-flap closures. These can help stop theft and keep your valuables secure.

These features can give you peace of mind when you are in busy airports or exploring crowded city streets.

Some cargo pants even have RFID-blocking pockets. This helps protect your credit cards and passport from electronic theft. It is smart to invest in cargo pants with good security features for extra protection.

Adjustable Cuffs and Waist

Cargo pants with adjustable cuffs and waists give you a fit that fits just right. You can use drawstrings, buttons, or tabs to change the fit how you want.

With adjustable cuffs, you can choose different styles. You can make the ankle tighter or keep it loose for a wider leg opening. An adjustable waist helps keep the pants secure and comfortable, so they stay in place without feeling too tight.

These features also make cargo pants more versatile. You can wear them for different times and activities.

Best Cargo Pants for Different Occasions

Best Cargo Pants for Outdoor Activities

For people who love the outdoors, it is important to find cargo pants that are durable, functional, and comfortable. Choose pants made from strong fabrics like ripstop nylon or canvas. These materials can handle wear and tear.

Look for these features:

• Reinforced knees and seat for more durability in areas that get a lot of stress.
• Water-resistant or quick-drying abilities to deal with unexpected weather.
• Articulated knees to allow easier movement during physical activities.

These features help your cargo pants endure the challenges of outdoor adventures while keeping you cozy and safe.

Top Picks:

• Prana Halle Pant: These pants are made from a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric, perfect for outdoor adventures. The adjustable waist and gusseted crotch offer extra comfort and mobility for hiking or climbing.
• Columbia Saturday Trail Pants: Designed with UPF 50 sun protection and moisture-wicking properties, these cargo pants are ideal for outdoor activities. The side pockets are roomy and secure, making it easy to store your essentials.

Best Cargo Pants for Work

When you think about work clothes, it’s important to balance being professional and comfortable. Cargo pants can be a good and stylish choice for work. Just make sure to pick styles that fit your office dress code.

Look for cargo pants that have a tailored fit and come in neutral colors like black, navy, khaki, or olive green. Stay away from baggy fits or casual fabrics like denim. Choose materials like twill, cotton blends, or nicer fabrics like crepe or rayon to look more polished.

You can match your cargo pants with a button-up shirt, blouse, or sweater. Adding a blazer can make your outfit even better. Depending on your office, consider finishing your look with loafers, flats, or low heels.

Top Picks:

• Carhartt Women’s Rugged Flex Pant: These workwear cargo pants are designed for tough jobs. The durable, stretch fabric ensures maximum mobility and comfort, while the multiple pockets keep tools and essentials close by.
• Dickies Women’s Relaxed Fit Utility Pant: Made from durable cotton twill, these pants are built for long workdays. With deep pockets and a relaxed fit, they offer plenty of room to move and store your tools securely.

Best Stylish Cargo Pants for Fashion

Cargo pants are very popular right now. They have become a trendy choice for people who love fashion. Use stylish colors and fabrics to make attractive outfits.

Try wide-leg styles, high-waisted cuts, or cropped lengths. Bright colors like emerald green, rust orange, or vibrant purple can bring some fun to your look. You can also choose printed cargo pants, like camouflage, floral, or unique designs, to up your fashion game.

Feel free to try different shoes as well. Chunky sneakers, heeled boots, or strappy sandals can finish your cargo pant outfits perfectly.

Top Picks:

• Everlane The Utility Barrel Pant: These cargo pants have a tailored, slim fit that makes them perfect for a chic, fashionable look. The cropped length pairs well with ankle boots or sneakers, and the soft fabric ensures comfort throughout the day.
• Madewell The Taper-Leg Utility Pant: With a looser fit and a slightly higher rise, these cargo pants offer a trendy yet laid-back vibe. They’re available in neutral colors and are great for pairing with oversized sweaters or fitted tops.

Best Cargo Pants for Traveling

Cargo pants are great for travelers. They offer comfort and practicality. Plus, they have plenty of space to hold your important things. Fabrics like nylon and cotton blends are lightweight and resist wrinkles. These materials are perfect for travel since they pack easily and need little ironing.

When buying cargo pants, find ones with many secure pockets. These can hold your passport, wallet, phone, and more. Look for zippered pockets or those with button-flap closures. They add extra security, giving you peace of mind while you are out.

Pick cargo pants with a comfortable waistband and some stretch. This will help keep you comfy during long flights or train rides.

Top Picks:

• L.L. Bean Women’s Stretch Canvas Cargo Pants: These pants are perfect for traveling, with their lightweight, stretchy fabric and comfortable fit. They have plenty of pockets, so you can keep your valuables safe while you’re on the move.
• Uniqlo Wide Straight Cargo Pants: Made from a stretchable, breathable fabric, these cargo pants are perfect for long days of travel. They’re sleek, comfortable, and have a modern, slim fit that looks great on the go.

Popular Brands That Offer High-Quality Women’s Cargo Pants

Many well-known brands provide a large choice of women’s cargo pants in different styles, fits, and prices. Choosing a brand that matches your tastes helps you get a high-quality and trendy pair.

Think about things like the brand’s quality, design, size options, and price to make a smart choice.

L.L. Bean

L.L. Bean is known for its strong focus on quality and durability. They offer cargo pants that are made to last. These pants are great for outdoor lovers and for anyone who wants clothing that will hold up over time. L.L. Bean has classic styles that come with practical features, combining look and usefulness. Their cargo pants often have reinforced knees and seats for extra strength. They also provide multiple pockets for storage and comfortable fits for different activities. L.L. Bean supports its products with satisfaction guarantees and has a wide variety of sizes and inseam options to meet the needs of many customers.

Uniqlo

Uniqlo is famous for its stylish and affordable clothes, and their cargo pants fit right in. The brand provides a mix of classic and modern designs. Uniqlo’s cargo pants are made from comfortable, easy-care fabrics, perfect for daily use. They have a simple look that matches many different personal styles. Uniqlo aims to keep prices low while maintaining quality, so their cargo pants are available to many shoppers.

Everlane

Everlane puts a strong focus on ethical manufacturing and clear pricing. This has helped them gain loyal customers who care about sustainability. Their cargo pants are made from high-quality materials, built to last a long time. Everlane aims to create classic designs that don’t go out of style, so their cargo pants stay fashionable through different seasons. The brand is serious about ethical sourcing and production. Customers can feel good knowing their clothes are made in a responsible way. Everlane also shares clear information about the cost involved in making each item, showing their commitment to transparency.

H&M

H&M is a worldwide fashion store that is popular for its stylish and affordable clothing choices. They have many types of cargo pants available. This includes classic styles and trendy designs. H&M keeps track of the latest styles, giving customers fashionable cargo pants at great prices. They often add new arrivals, so there is always something fresh to find at H&M. The brand wants to make fashion available for everyone.

Athleta

Athleta is a well-known brand for athletic wear. They have cargo pants made for both performance and style. These pants are made from fabrics that wick away moisture and allow breathability, making them great for workouts. Athleta’s cargo pants come in different styles for yoga, running, hiking, or just going on errands. The brand aims to make activewear that is both functional and stylish, helping women stay active. They also provide inclusive sizing along with many colors and designs to choose from.

Prana

Prana is a well-known brand for its stylish and eco-friendly outdoor clothing. Their cargo pants reflect this commitment. Made with sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, Prana cargo pants help reduce their impact on the environment. These pants are designed to balance performance and style. They are durable, practical, and comfortable to wear. Prana also cares about social responsibility. They support fair labor practices and take care of the environment.

Take Away

Cargo pants for women are useful and stylish. When picking the right pair, think about fit, fabric, pockets, and what you’ll use them for. Choose materials that resist water, allow breathing, and offer security for better comfort. Whether you need them for outdoor fun, work, fashion, or travel, brands like L.L. Bean, Uniqlo, and Athleta offer great choices. You can express your style with adjustable cuffs and waistbands. Stay stylish and practical with cargo pants that fit your needs. Join the conversation below to share your favorite cargo pants or ask any questions about how to style them!

Frequently Asked Questions

What body type looks good in cargo pants?

Cargo pants are very flexible and look good on many body shapes. The important thing is to choose the fit and style that works best for your body.

Is 50 too old to wear cargo pants?

Style never gets old! Anyone can wear cargo pants and feel great. Pick styles that you enjoy and show off your unique taste.

Which company’s cargos are best?

Many companies create great cargo pants, but the quality and durability can change from one brand to another. Some well-known options that are praised for their quality are L.L. Bean, Everlane, and Athleta.

Are cargo pants still in style for women?

Cargo pants are not just a trend anymore. They have become a fashionable must-have in many closets. You can see them in fashion shows, and lots of influencers on Instagram are wearing them too.