Best Xs Mens Cargo Shorts in 2026

After weeks of use throughout a humid summer, these linen shorts have become my absolute go-to for beach days and casual outings. The classic fit offers a relaxed silhouette that doesn't feel sloppy, making them versatile enough for a quick lunch or a stroll on the sand. I found the elastic waistband particularly impressive because the internal drawstring allows for a precise, custom fit that stays secure without digging in. While they were previously marketed under a different brand name, the quality remains consistent for a leisure staple. They are incredibly lightweight and breathable, which is essential when you are trying to stay cool in high temperatures. If you are between sizes, I recommend sizing down slightly to ensure the best fit.

The absence of scratchy mesh netting is the first thing you'll notice when sliding these on. Unlike traditional board shorts that leave you feeling irritated after a day in the sand, the BRISIRA trunks feature a soft, second-skin compression liner that feels incredibly smooth against the skin. The 4-way stretch fabric makes a massive difference during active days of boating or fishing, as the material moves with you rather than resisting. I particularly like the thoughtful storage. You have a dedicated phone pocket built right into the liner and an additional large cargo pocket for your essentials. With a 9-inch inseam and an adjustable drawstring waist, they strike that perfect balance between functional athletic gear and casual beach style.

You are wading through knee-deep surf and realize your phone is safely tucked away in a dedicated liner pocket rather than sliding out of a loose waistband. These BRISIRA board shorts are built for active days on the water, utilizing a 4-way stretch fabric that moves with you whether you are sailing or fishing. The standout feature is the 2-in-1 design. Instead of annoying mesh, you get a soft boxer-brief liner that prevents sand irritation and provides a second-skin feel. The 9-inch inseam offers a comfortable length below the knee, while the elastic waistband and drawstring allow for a customized fit. Between the quick-dry technology and the added utility of a large cargo pocket, these trunks handle everything from beach lounging to heavy outdoor activity without feeling heavy or restrictive.

After weeks of use during various beach trips and boating excursions, these BRISIRA board shorts have become my go-to summer staple. The standout feature is undoubtedly the 2-in-1 design. Instead of annoying mesh, the soft boxer brief liner acts like a second skin to prevent sand irritation and chafing. I was particularly impressed by the mobility provided by the 4-way stretch fabric, which makes moving from a swim to a light workout feel seamless. The inclusion of a dedicated phone pocket on the liner, paired with a spacious cargo pocket on the exterior, solves the eternal struggle of where to stash essentials while walking along the shore. With an adjustable drawstring waistband and a comfortable 9-inch inseam, they strike a perfect balance between functional athletic gear and casual style.

Most people assume beach shorts are just glorified swim trunks, but these Nonwe boardshorts actually function as a versatile piece of activewear. I was impressed by how the lightweight, quick-dry fabric handles the transition from a heavy surf session to just lounging on the sand without feeling weighed down by moisture. The soft mesh lining offers a level of support that is often missing in standard swimwear, making them reliable for water sports or casual strolls. Between the adjustable drawstring closure and the elastic back waistband, you get a customized fit that stays secure. Plus, the addition of a back cargo pocket is a clever touch for keeping small essentials close while you are busy at the pool.

Nonwe has delivered a versatile piece of aquatic apparel that balances athletic functionality with a classic aesthetic. These plaid board shorts are an excellent choice for anyone needing reliable coverage during water sports or casual beach lounging. The quick-dry fabric feels incredibly lightweight against the skin, ensuring you stay comfortable and breathable even after a long session in the waves. I particularly like the thoughtful design elements, such as the soft mesh lining that provides essential support and the adjustable elastic back waistband that allows for a customized fit. With a functional back cargo pocket for small essentials and a drawstring closure, these shorts transition seamlessly from active surfing to relaxed poolside hanging without sacrificing style.

The 5.11 Men's Cargo Apex Shorts deliver professional-grade utility through a specialized Flex-Tac mechanical stretch canvas. These aren't your average summer shorts. They are precision-engineered for high-stakes environments where gear management is critical. I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful pocket architecture, including twin back yoke magazine pockets and deep cargo pockets with a clean interior finish. The Teflon treatment provides a necessary layer of defense against stains and moisture, while the gusseted construction and reinforced stress points ensure they survive heavy-duty use. Whether you are running a tactical op or just need rugged casual wear, the inclusion of a dedicated knife clip area and a handcuff key pocket makes these incredibly functional for anyone carrying specialized equipment.

The 5.11 Men's Cargo Apex Shorts deliver heavy-duty tactical utility in a streamlined, summer-ready package. Built from 6.4 oz. Flex-Tac mechanical stretch canvas, these shorts feel remarkably resilient yet move with you thanks to the gusseted construction and barracking at high-stress points. I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful organizational details, like the reinforced knife clip area, the dedicated handcuff key pocket, and the internal flex cuff pocket. Whether you are using the deep cargo pockets for gear or the twin back yoke magazine pockets for quick access, the design stays functional without looking overly bulky. The Teflon treatment is a lifesaver for keeping stains and moisture at bay during long days in the field, making them just as viable for covert wear as they are for rugged outdoor adventures.

The rugged texture of the ripstop fabric is the first thing you feel when you pull these shorts out of the packaging. Designed for high-intensity outdoor activity, these 11-inch knee-length trunks handle the demands of hiking, fishing, and military-style utility without feeling overly heavy. They strike a solid balance between tactical functionality and casual comfort, making them a versatile choice for summer sports or active days in the sun. Whether you are navigating a trail or just looking for a durable pair of cargo shorts for daily wear, the construction feels prepared for movement. At this price point, they offer a practical solution for anyone needing reliable, lightweight gear that doesn't sacrifice the utility required for rugged environments.

The lightweight, breathable texture of the cotton-linen blend hits you immediately, making these pants feel like a breeze against the skin. These Eaktool plaid trousers are a masterclass in effortless styling, offering a relaxed, baggy silhouette that transitions from a casual beach cover-up to a more structured streetwear look. I love how the elastic waist and drawstring allow for a customized fit, especially in the XXL size, preventing that restrictive feeling often found in heavier denim. Whether you pair them with boots and a jacket for an edgy vibe or keep it simple with sandals for a summer outing, the wide-leg cut provides incredible movement. They are a versatile staple for anyone needing comfortable, high-waisted options that don't sacrifice aesthetic appeal.

You are heading to a summer beach bonfire or a casual weekend hangout, and you need something that feels relaxed without looking sloppy. These oversized denim shorts strike that perfect balance between streetwear edge and gym-ready comfort. The polyester and spandex blend makes them surprisingly soft against the skin, avoiding that stiff, heavy feeling typical of traditional denim. I noticed the side splits and the elastic drawstring waistband allow for a massive range of motion, making them just as functional for a quick basketball game as they are for lounging. While they lean into a baggy, hip-hop aesthetic, the solid colors keep them versatile enough to pair with a simple tank top or a heavy hoodie for a more layered urban look.

Budget-conscious beachgoers looking for a pop of color without breaking the bank need these QTOCIO swim trunks immediately. The watermelon red hue is incredibly bright and stands out perfectly against the ocean backdrop. While the technical description includes a massive variety of fabric keywords, the core utility of these square-leg board shorts lies in their water-repellent nature and breathable design. They are built for those summer days where you are jumping from the lounge chair straight into the waves. At such an accessible price point, they function as the perfect throwaway pair for high-intensity water activities or tropical vacations where you want a vibrant, lightweight fit that won't weigh you down when wet.