Best Breathable Cargo Shorts for Men of 2026

William Weston Avatar
William Weston
Last Updated: Jan 26, 2026

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Breathable Cargo Shorts are a must-have for men seeking comfort and functionality. These shorts are designed with lightweight and breathable fabric, allowing for maximum airflow and ventilation. With multiple pockets, they offer ample storage space for essentials, making them perfect for outdoor activities or casual everyday wear. The versatile design of these shorts ensures they can be paired with a variety of tops, making them a versatile addition to any man's wardrobe. Whether for hiking, running errands, or simply lounging around, Breathable Cargo Shorts are the ideal choice for men who value style and comfort.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Lee Extreme Motion Carolina Cargo Short Cover #TOP 1
Lee Extreme Motion Carolina Cargo Short
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Match Men's Comfort Cargo Shorts Cover #TOP 2
Match Men's Comfort Cargo Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Shorts Cover #TOP 3
Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Shorts
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Breathable Cargo Shorts for Men

#TOP 1

Lee Extreme Motion Carolina Cargo Short

Lee
2188806
Mortar Gray
Lee Extreme Motion Carolina Cargo Short Cover
Lee Men's Extreme Motion Carolina Cargo Short, Mortar Gray, 36

The Lee Extreme Motion Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable while staying active. With a regular fit, these shorts offer a balanced and relaxed feel perfect for everyday wear. The special flex waistband adapts to your movements, so you won’t feel restricted whether you’re bending or stretching. Made from moisture-wicking stretch fabric, these shorts help keep you cool and dry by allowing air to flow and moving with your body. Plus, Lee’s long history of quality means you can trust these shorts to last through many adventures, giving you reliable comfort and durability.

What We Like
Comfortable fit
Durable material
Deep, well-placed pockets
Stretch waistband option
True to size
#TOP 2

Match Men's Comfort Cargo Shorts

Match
S3612
Khaki
Match Men's Comfort Cargo Shorts Cover
Match Men's Twill Comfort Cargo Short Without Belt #S3612 (Label Size XL/34 (US 32), Khaki)

The Match Cargo Shorts are designed for comfort and functionality. With a classic loose fit and straight leg design, these shorts sit comfortably at your waist, featuring a zip fly and button closure along with a drawstring tie. You will appreciate the generous multi-pocket design, perfect for storing essentials during outdoor activities. Made from breathable and durable fabric, these shorts ensure you stay comfortable all day long, making them an excellent choice for warm weather adventures.

What We Like
Comfortable loose fit
Multiple pockets
Breathable fabric
Durable construction
#TOP 3

Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Shorts

Amazon Essentials
F16AE60004
Black
Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Shorts Cover
Amazon Essentials Men's 10" Classic-Fit Cargo Shorts (Available in Big & Tall), Black, 30

The Amazon Essentials Cargo Shorts offer a comfortable fit that sits at your waist and provides extra room through the hips and thighs, making them ideal for all-day wear. Made from 100% cotton twill, these shorts keep you cool and comfortable thanks to their breathable fabric, which also feels soft yet durable after a special garment wash. Designed with practicality in mind, they feature roomy pockets and wide belt loops, so you can carry your essentials easily and use a belt without hassle. The zip fly with a button closure adds convenience, ensuring a secure fit every time you wear them.

What We Like
Comfortable classic fit
Breathable cotton twill
Spacious pockets
Wide belt loops
Secure zip fly
#TOP 4

GLESTORE Men's Cargo Shorts

Grey Green
GLESTORE Men's Cargo Shorts Cover
Mens Cargo Shorts Cotton Work Shorts Multi Pocket Casual Workout Shorts for Men NO Belt Grey Green 36

The GLESTORE Cargo Shorts are a stylish and practical choice for various casual activities. Made from lightweight cotton, these shorts offer breathability and comfort, making them ideal for all-day wear. You'll appreciate the relaxed fit that allows for easy movement, whether you're hiking or running errands. With multiple pockets, these shorts provide convenient storage for your essentials like your phone and wallet, keeping everything within reach. Plus, their durable construction means they can withstand everyday use, ensuring you get long-lasting wear out of them.

What We Like
Comfortable cotton material
Ample storage pockets
Durable construction
Lightweight and breathable
#TOP 5

Iivos Men's Cotton Twill Cargo Shorts

Iivos
W-082-083
Army Green
Iivos Men's Cotton Twill Cargo Shorts Cover
Men's Cotton Twill Cargo Shorts (Army Green) – Breathable, Durable, Multi-Pocketed, for 5'6"–5'9", 130–160 lbs (Waist 30–31.5in, HIPS 36.1in) – Ideal for Hiking, Work & Casual Use

The Iivos Cargo Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and organized. They feature a drawstring closure, making it easy to adjust the fit to your liking for all-day comfort. Made from a cotton-synthetic twill blend, these shorts are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, helping you stay cool and dry during warm days. The shorts also come with multiple deep pockets secured with metal snaps, so you can safely carry your essentials like keys, wallet, and phone without worrying about losing them. With durable materials and thoughtful design, these shorts are perfect for hiking, work, or casual wear.

What We Like
Adjustable drawstring closure
Lightweight, breathable fabric
Quick-drying material
Multiple secure pockets
Durable construction
#TOP 6

Mylldey Men's 3/4 Cargo Shorts Black Camo 2XL

0036blackCamo38XXL
Black Camo
XX-Large
Mylldey Men's 3/4 Cargo Shorts Black Camo 2XL Cover
Mylldey Men's Cargo Shorts 3/4 Relaxed Fit Mens Running Shorts 7 Pockets Elastic Waist Cotton Hiking Shorts (Black Camo, 2XL)

The Mylldey Cargo Shorts offer a comfortable and breathable experience thanks to their 100% cotton fabric, which is gentle on your skin and prevents irritation. Designed with a relaxed 3/4 fit and an elastic waistband, these shorts move with you easily, making them ideal for various activities like running or hiking. You’ll appreciate how the waistband stretches to keep the shorts secure without feeling tight. Plus, caring for these shorts is simple—they can be hand washed or dry cleaned, making maintenance hassle-free. Overall, the Mylldey Cargo Shorts combine comfort, convenience, and practicality for your active lifestyle.

What We Like
100% cotton fabric
Relaxed 3/4 fit
Elastic waistband
Easy care instructions
#TOP 7

Kolongvangie Men's Quick Dry Cargo Shorts

S2 Khaki
Kolongvangie Men's Quick Dry Cargo Shorts Cover
Kolongvangie Men's Lightweight Quick Dry Shorts Work Breathable Combat Training Water Sweat Resistant Cargo Short

Kolongvangie Men's Quick Dry Cargo Shorts are simple, classic, and lightweight with multiple pockets for convenient storage. They are travel-friendly, quick-drying, and provide UPF 50+ protection against harmful UV rays. With Rugged Flex stretch technology, these shorts offer a comfortable fit through the seat and thigh, making them suitable for various outdoor activities and daily wear.

What We Like
Quick-drying and UPF 50+ protection
Multiple pockets with convenient storage
Rugged Flex stretch technology for comfortable fit
#TOP 8

Runcati Mens Lightweight Elastic Waist Cargo Shorts

Dark Grey
Large
Runcati Mens Lightweight Elastic Waist Cargo Shorts Cover
Runcati Mens Cargo Shorts Elastic Waist Drawstring Lightweight Shorts Summer Hiking Casual Shorts with Pockets No Lining Dark Grey

The Runcati Cargo Shorts offer a comfortable and practical option for your summer wardrobe. With an elastic waist and drawstring, these shorts provide a flexible fit that adjusts to your body, ensuring ease of movement throughout the day. Made from soft, breathable fabric, they keep you cool and comfortable even in warm weather. The shorts feature four useful pockets, allowing you to carry essentials like keys and phones securely. Their durable construction and loose fit make them perfect for various activities, from casual outings to outdoor adventures, giving you reliable wear and freedom wherever you go.

What We Like
Elastic waist with drawstring
Breathable, soft fabric
Four functional pockets
Durable and sturdy stitching
Loose fit for comfort

Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Short

Amazon Essentials
F16AE60004
Khaki Brown
Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Short Cover
Amazon Essentials Men's 10" Classic-Fit Cargo Shorts (Available in Big & Tall), Khaki Brown, 38

The Amazon Essentials Men's Classic-Fit Cargo Short is a versatile and comfortable choice for men. Made from soft, lightweight, and breathable twill cotton, these shorts are perfect for warm weather. The roomy fit through the hip and thigh, along with the straight leg design, ensures a comfortable and relaxed feel. With a 10-inch inseam, these shorts provide ample coverage without feeling too long. The shorts sit naturally at the waist, offering a flattering and classic look. Whether you're running errands or enjoying outdoor activities, the Amazon Classic-Fit Cargo Short is the perfect companion.

What We Like
Soft, lightweight, breathable fabric
Comfortable, relaxed fit
Durable after multiple washes
Spacious, practical pockets
Good value for the price
#TOP 10

APTRO Men's Blue Camo Cargo Shorts 40

D04 Camo-blue
APTRO Men's Blue Camo Cargo Shorts 40 Cover
APTRO Men's Camo Cargo Shorts Button Closure Cotton Shorts Multi Button Pockets Casual Shorts 6 Pockets Blue Camo 40

The APTRO Camo Cargo Shorts offer a great combination of comfort and practicality. Made from 100% cotton twill fabric, these shorts feel soft and breathable, keeping you comfortable all day long. The durable double stitching and sturdy buttons ensure they hold up to regular wear and tear, so you can rely on them for various activities. With six spacious pockets, you have plenty of room to store your essentials like keys or tools, making them perfect for work or outdoor fun. The knee-length design and elastic waistband provide a relaxed fit that adapts to your body shape, giving you freedom of movement and all-day comfort.

What We Like
100% cotton twill fabric
Durable double stitching
Six spacious pockets
Elastic waistband
Knee-length design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are cargo shorts in Style 2021?

Forget baggy '90s-era cargo shorts, for 2021, the look is more fitted. A trusted classic with a contemporary twist, today's cargo shorts are slim-fitting, stylish, and perfect for pairing with everything from t-shirts for a dressed-down look to polo shirts for put-together style.

2. Are cargo shorts good for hot weather?

These shorts have low-profile zipper side pockets to help you safely store essentials. If you like low-profile pockets, visit our article about the best cargo shorts with zipper pockets. These shorts are great for summer and really allow your legs to breathe in the hot weather.

3. Are cargo shorts still cool?

This is actually happening. It's 2022 and we're talking cargo shorts because cargo shorts are well and truly back, baby. And here's the really freaky thing: Cargo shorts aren't just back, they're actually kind of great now. Gone are those calf-grazing monstrosities favored by Warped Tour attendees and performers alike.

4. Why cargo shorts are the best?

Functionality. Then comes functionality. Cargo shorts are best known for their plethora of pockets, which only adds to the practicality of these shorts. Whether you wear them to the bar or the beach, you'll always have enough space to fit your belongings… and then some.

Editor's Notes

During our breathable cargo shorts for men research, we found 48 breathable cargo shorts for men products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 261,151 customer reviews through our big data system to write the breathable cargo shorts for men list. We found that most customers choose breathable cargo shorts for men with an average price of $21.43.

The breathable cargo shorts for men are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of breathable cargo shorts for men, including Lee, Match, GLESTORE, Iivos, Mylldey. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
William Weston Avatar

William Weston was born in America and is currently a fashion industry designer. He's always been fascinated with the idea of taking something old and making it new again, so he decided to go into fashion design. William loves working on his designs and creating clothing that will make people look good while feeling comfortable at the same time.