By PickSmartly Editorial Team
· Updated Aug 4, 2026
9.7PM Score
Products Evaluated
8
Reviews Analyzed
24,959
Brands Ranked
1
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
When it comes to balancing rugged utility with everyday comfort, Haggar has carved out a specific niche in men's casual wear. Their cargo shorts are not just about adding extra pockets. They are engineered for the man who needs a reliable pair of shorts that can transition from a weekend hike to a casual backyard barbecue without feeling out of place. Unlike high-fashion cargo shorts that often prioritize aesthetic over function, Haggar focuses on durability, fabric performance, and a consistent fit that caters to various body types. Whether you are looking for heavy-duty cotton twill for outdoor work or lightweight, moisture-wicking blends for summer heat, understanding the nuances of their lineup is key to making a smart investment.
Editor's Choice
Our Top Picks for Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts
The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.
COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
STYLE: These are the ideal pleat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
INSEAM: With a 9.5" inseam that hits above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
Any man tired of mid-summer sweat and wrinkled clothing needs these Haggar COOL 18 shorts in his rotation immediately. I was particularly impressed by the molecular-level technology that manages to wick moisture and fight off static without feeling like a stiff, synthetic uniform. The gabardine fabric feels substantial yet breathable, and the classic fit provides a relaxed, comfortable silhouette through the hips and thighs. With a 9.5-inch inseam that hits just above the knee, they strike that perfect balance between casual weekend wear and a polished look for a summer date. The expandable waistband is a total game-changer for all-day comfort, stretching up to three inches to ensure you never feel restricted during a long lunch or dinner.
COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
STYLE: These are the ideal flat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
INSEAM: With a 10.5" inseam that hits just above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Classic Fit Shorts redefine summer ease through molecular-level fabric technology that actively resists wrinkles and static. I found the gabardine fabrication feels incredibly premium, especially since the moisture-wicking properties actually keep you dry during humid outdoor lunches. The standout feature is definitely the expandable waistband, which stretches up to three inches to ensure a secure, comfortable fit that moves with you rather than digging in. With a 10.5" inseam that hits perfectly just above the knee, these shorts bridge the gap between casual weekend wear and a polished look for a summer date. Subtle details like the single welt back pockets and offseam front pockets elevate them far beyond your standard basic khaki.
COOL 18 PRO: This collection from America's favorite pant brand features 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort, moisture wicking technology, UV protection, and best of all, they are machine washable.
MATERIAL: Made of 50% polyester and 50% Sorbtek polyester, a moisture wicking fabric that will keep up with your every movement while staying cool and dry. These shorts will stay comfortable all day and are bound to become a staple in your closet.
STYLE: These are the perfect pleated front shorts for going on a summer date or to a family event. They are a regular straight fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist and have a 9.5" inseam that hits just above the knee.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, a single welt back pocket, and a roll hem. Pair them with a classic button-up shirt or a simple tee and white sneakers.
The immediate sensation of the moisture-wicking Sorbtek fabric keeps you feeling crisp even when the summer humidity starts to climb. These Haggar Cool 18 Pro shorts are a masterclass in functional summer style, blending a relaxed straight fit with high-performance technology. I found the 4-way stretch and the expandable waistband—which gives you up to three inches of extra breathing room—to be absolute game-changers for all-day comfort. They hit at a perfect 9.5-inch inseam, sitting just above the knee for a polished look that works for everything from backyard barbecues to summer dates. Between the UV protection and the easy machine-washable material, these are built for guys who want to look put-together without sacrificing ease of movement.
COOL 18 PRO: This collection from America's favorite pant brand features 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort, moisture wicking technology, UV protection, and best of all, they are machine washable.
MATERIAL: Made of 50% polyester and 50% sorbtek polyester, these shorts will stay comfortable all day and will become a staple in your closet. They have a 10.5" inseam that hits just above the knee.
STYLE: These are the perfect flat front shorts for going on a summer date or to a family event. They are a straight fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, a single welt back pocket, a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with a button-up shirt or a simple tee and white sneakers.
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Pro Straight Fit Shorts deliver an incredible level of temperature control through advanced moisture-wicking technology. I found these to be a total game-changer for summer outings because the 4-way stretch fabric moves with you rather than against you. The 10.5-inch inseam provides a modern look that hits right above the knee, while the expandable waistband offers an extra three inches of flex for a secure, customized fit. Whether you are heading to a family barbecue or a summer date, the gabardine fabrication and subtle details like the roll hem and single welt back pocket keep things looking polished. They are remarkably easy to maintain since they are fully machine washable, making them a reliable staple for any warm-weather wardrobe.
COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
STYLE: These are the ideal flat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
INSEAM: With a 9.5" inseam that hits just above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Classic Fit Shorts deliver a masterclass in temperature management through molecular-level fabric technology. These aren't your average summer shorts. The moisture-wicking gabardine material actively fights heat and static while resisting those annoying wrinkles that usually ruin a polished look. I found the 9.5-inch inseam hits the sweet spot just above the knee, making them versatile enough for a casual lunch or a semi-formal dinner. The expandable waistband is a total game-changer, stretching up to three inches to ensure a secure, comfortable fit that moves with you. With thoughtful details like offseam front pockets and a clean roll hem, they transition effortlessly from a weekend park outing to a summer date night.
ACTIVE SERIES: We applied the comfort and benefits of America's favorite pant and designed a slim fit superflex utility short that offers the ultimate comfort and movement to keep you looking and feeling your best all day.
FEATURES: Not only does this slim fit short look great, but it is also designed in 100% Polyester fabric that offers moisture wicking technology. Added benefits include UPF 50+ protection, 4-way stretch and a utility pocket for your belongings on the go.
FEATURES: Not only does this slim fit short look great, but it is also designed in 100% Polyester fabric that offers moisture wicking technology. Added benefits include UPF 50+ protection, 4-way stretch and a utility pocket for your belongings on the go.
FABRICATION: This short is made of the latest performance polyester fabrication. You will stay fresh and comfortable all day long. The best part is this fabric is machine washable!
DETAILS: The slim fit 9.5" flat front short offers a superflex waistband that provides up to 2" of stretch. Pair these great shorts with a casual tee and sneakers and you are ready for whatever the day brings!
The stretch in the waistband is immediately noticeable the moment you pull these on, providing an effortless two-inch give that makes all-day wear a breeze. Haggar has essentially taken the DNA of their most popular pants and distilled it into a high-performance utility short. These are crafted from a technical 100% polyester fabric that doesn't just feel lightweight. It actively works to wick moisture away and provides UPF 50+ sun protection. I found the 4-way stretch and slim fit silhouette to be a perfect balance, offering a modern look without sacrificing the mobility needed for an active lifestyle. Whether you are hiking or just running errands, the integrated utility pocket and machine-washable fabric make these an incredibly practical addition to a summer wardrobe.
COOL 18 PRO: This collection from America's favorite pant brand features 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort, moisture wicking technology, UV protection, and best of all, they are machine washable.
MATERIAL: Made of 100% polyester, these shorts will stay comfortable all day and will become a staple in your closet. They have a 9.5" inseam that hits just above the knee.
STYLE: These are the perfect flat front shorts for going on a summer date or to a family event. They are a slim fit, meaning they are relaxed, yet fashionably fit throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature a flex waistband that stretches, so your shorts will stay both secure and adjustable.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, a single welt back pocket, a roll hem, and a stripe fabrication. Pair them with a button-up shirt or a simple tee and white sneakers.
Most men assume that patterned shorts will either look outdated or feel restrictive, but the Haggar Cool 18 Pro collection completely flips that script. I found these stone plaid shorts to be an incredible balance of style and utility, especially with that 9.5-inch inseam that hits perfectly just above the knee. The 100% polyester fabric isn't just lightweight. The 4-way stretch and moisture-wicking technology make them feel incredibly responsive during a long summer afternoon. I particularly liked the flex waistband, which provides a secure fit without feeling tight around the middle. Whether you are dressing up for a date with a button-up or keeping it casual in a tee, the slim yet relaxed fit through the thigh ensures you look polished rather than sloppy.
COOL 18 PRO: This collection from America's favorite pant brand features 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort, moisture wicking technology, UV protection, and best of all, they are machine washable.
MATERIAL: Made of 100% polyester, these shorts will stay comfortable all day and will become a staple in your closet. They have a 9.5" inseam that hits just above the knee.
STYLE: These are the perfect flat front shorts for going on a summer date or to a family event. They are a slim fit, meaning they are relaxed, yet fashionably fit throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist.
COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature a flex waistband that stretches, so your shorts will stay both secure and adjustable.
FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, a single welt back pocket, a roll hem, and a stripe fabrication. Pair them with a button-up shirt or a simple tee and white sneakers.
Haggar’s Cool 18 Pro collection sets a high bar for men seeking a polished summer aesthetic without sacrificing movement. These stone plaid shorts strike a rare balance between being fashionably slim through the hip and thigh while remaining incredibly relaxed thanks to the 4-way stretch fabric. I found the moisture-wicking technology and UV protection essential for long afternoons at family events or summer dates. The 9.5-inch inseam hits perfectly just above the knee, providing a modern silhouette that works with everything from a crisp button-up to a casual tee. With the expandable flex waistband and machine-washable polyester construction, they offer a level of adjustable comfort and easy maintenance that makes them a reliable wardrobe staple.
A Guide to Selecting the Best Haggar Men's Cargo Shorts
Prioritize Fabric Composition and Weight
The most critical decision factor when selecting Haggar cargo shorts is the fabric. Haggar typically utilizes two main categories: heavy-duty cotton twill and performance synthetic blends. If your primary goal is durability—perhaps for gardening, light construction, or heavy outdoor activity—opt for a high-percentage cotton twill. These provide a structured look and can withstand abrasion. However, if you live in a humid climate or plan on being active, look for their performance fabrics. These often incorporate polyester or elastane, which offer superior moisture management and quicker drying times. A blend that includes a small percentage of spandex is particularly beneficial, as it provides 'mechanical stretch,' allowing the shorts to move with your body rather than restricting your stride.
Evaluate Pocket Architecture and Utility
The 'cargo' element is defined by the side pockets, but not all cargo pockets are created equal. When browsing, pay attention to how the pockets are constructed. Some models feature bellows pockets, which expand to hold larger items like a smartphone or a multi-tool without creating an unsightly bulge. Others feature streamlined, low-profile cargo pockets that maintain a cleaner silhouette, making them more suitable for casual social outings. Consider the placement of the pockets as well. Deeper pockets are better for preventing items from sliding out when you sit down, while zippered side pockets are essential if you frequently carry keys or wallets that you don't want to lose.
Understanding the Fit and Waistband Engineering
One of Haggar's strengths is their attention to waistband comfort. Many of their cargo styles incorporate a bit of stretch in the waist or a more forgiving rise. When choosing a fit, decide between a relaxed fit, which offers more room in the seat and thigh, and a regular fit, which provides a more traditional, tailored appearance. For men with larger midsections, look specifically for styles that emphasize comfort in the waistline to prevent digging. A well-fitted pair of cargo shorts should sit comfortably at the natural waist without requiring constant adjustment, and the leg opening should be wide enough for airflow but not so baggy that it looks unkempt.
Longevity and Maintenance Considerations
To ensure your shorts last through multiple seasons, consider the weight of the stitching. Cargo shorts are subject to more stress at the pocket seams than standard shorts. Look for reinforced stitching around the cargo flaps and the crotch area. Additionally, think about your laundry routine. Cotton-heavy shorts may require more frequent ironing to maintain a crisp look, whereas their performance blends are often wrinkle-resistant and can be tossed straight into the dryer. Choosing a dark, neutral color like khaki, navy, or olive will not only hide dirt more effectively during outdoor use but will also ensure the shorts remain a versatile staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
Ready to choose?
Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.
Quick answers about Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts before you buy.
Generally, Haggar shorts offer a consistent, true-to-size fit, though some users find the waist slightly more forgiving due to the integrated stretch fabrics used in their performance lines.
While they are excellent for casual outdoor activities and light walking, they are primarily designed as lifestyle/casual wear rather than technical mountaineering gear.
Most Haggar cargo models feature a blend of cotton and spandex, providing a comfortable 'give' that prevents tightness when sitting or bending without losing the shorts' shape.
The pockets are designed with a streamlined profile to minimize bulk, but heavy items like large smartphones or heavy tools may cause the fabric to sag slightly.
Yes, Haggar is known for high-quality construction. The fabrics are typically pre-shrunk and resistant to fading, making them ideal for regular laundry cycles.
Haggar typically offers a variety of cuts, but their classic cargo shorts lean toward a relaxed, traditional fit that provides ample room in the thigh.
Many models include an internal elastic waistband or a side-adjuster system, which is helpful if you fall between standard sizing increments.
Because of their clean stitching and structured appearance, many Haggar cargo shorts are polished enough for casual Fridays or outdoor social events.
Research & Insights
Our Analysis of Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts
24,959Reviews Analyzed
8Products Evaluated
9.7Avg PM Score
1Brands Ranked
Top 10 Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts Brands on Amazon
Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.
We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 24,959 reviews
on Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts, using our
selection criteria to identify the best options in the men's fashion.
Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts priced around
$32.42.
Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the
top 8 Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts for your consideration..
We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right shorts Products
based on their
needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Haggar Mens Cargo Shorts to buy. We take pride
in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.
Side by Side
Comparison Table
Compare the top 8 picks at a glance — select a column to sort.
