Whether worn on the job site or out doing recreational outdoor activities such as hiking, cargo pants need to be built to stand up to the toughest of conditions.
In this article you’ll learn what cargo pants are made of an much more there is to know!
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What Are Cargo Pants Made Of?
Cargo pants can be made from a range of fabrics – choosing which fabric is best depends on what the pants will be worn to do. Basically, they’re normally made from durable fabric. It’s good to know what’s available and their benefits to make sure to get the right pair!
I’ll cover what you need to know here.
What Is The Best Type of Fabric For Cargo Pants?
- Synthetic fabrics – such as those made from polyester – are a popular choice for cargo pants. These fabrics dry quickly and are less likely to rip or tear from day-to-day us. They’re also good for holding up for a long time. However, synthetic fabrics tend to be a bit stuffy as they don’t breathe very well.
- Stretchier cargo pants made from spandex fiber combinations are great for their comfort and flexibility. Pure synthetic cargo pants tend to be stiff which means they can be uncomfortable out in the field. Synthetic blend/spandex materials are much more comfortable in awkward positions and if you move a lot.
- Cargo pants made with cotton blended into the fabric are the most comfortable option and you’ll enjoy better breathability too. Blending cotton with a synthetic fiber – such as nylon – provides an optimal combination of comfort and durability. Adding cotton to the blend also results in a more stylish pair of pants, meaning they can be worn at the job site or at a family gathering.
What Are The Different Types of Cargo Pants?
Cargo pants come in many different styles, each serving a specific purpose. Here are six main styles to know.
6 Cargo Pant Style Designs to Know
1. Hiking Cargo Pants
These pants have to be able to hold up to the elements and allow for hard activities outdoros. The durability and quick-to-dry nature of synthetic fabrics are great for camping and hiking. The fabric won’t easily snag on a rock or other jagged edges.
Having a lot of pockets means they’re really useful for carrying snacks and gear. Some hiking cargo pants have mesh interior lining in the pockets which helps improve the breathability of the synthetic fabric and keeps you cooler during wear.
Hiking cargo pants usually come in a natural color – such as khaki – that blends in nicely with the outdoor environment.
2. EMT Pants
Cargo pants worn by first responders need to be durable and comfortable. Since EMTs often work with injured individuals on the ground, these cargo pants have reinforced knees.
They’re usually made out of a cotton-polyester blend and can have many pockets so that EMTs have everything they need to respond to any emergency. Anyone who spends a lot of time working on the ground will find EMT cargo pants a suitable option for their needs.
3. High Fashion Cargo Pants
Not everyone wears cargo pants for strictly dedicated purposes. Some pants are sold in versions made of higher-end fabrics like leather or silk and are all about making a fashion statement.
While these cargo pants still feature the signature extra cargo pockets, they may also come in a straight leg or a more relaxed fit. While other styles are loved for their role on the battlefield and on the job site, high-fashion cargo pants are more about looking sharp during everyday wear like other pants.
4. Slim Fit Cargo Pants
Slim fit cargo pants have a cut that’s very close to the body similar to slim fit jeans. Slim-fitting cargo pants are typically still made with durable fabric and have all the pockets normal cargo pants do.
Normal cargo pants are a bit loose and baggy – slim fit cargo pants may suit individuals who prefer the feeling of form-fitting clothing or who work in a setting where loose-fitting pants may snag on sharp edges.
5. Cargo Jogging Pants
Runners usually can’t take much with them when they hit the road or trail. That is why some joggers opt for cargo jogging pants with their large pockets providing extra storage.
While these pants feature many pockets, they are typically made from a lightweight, breathable athletic material like cotton or polyester blends. Like regular jogging pants, they may also have an elastic drawstring waistband to help keep them on tightly while running but still be comfortable.
As well, they can usually be found in a wide range of colors.
6. Tactical Cargo Pants
Tactical cargo pants are usually worn by law enforcement and members of the military. They’re made of thick, poly-cotton fabric and typically have reinforced stitching to improve durability.
The large cargo pockets often feature smaller pockets within them to maximize storage utility. Tactical cargo pants are built for ultimate durability and utility since they have to be able to stand up to even the most dangerous of conditions.
Why Do They Call Them Cargo Pants?
While it might seem obvious to some of us it’s not to everyone. Cargo pants got their name because of how much “cargo” one can carry in all of its pockets.
The word cargo is derived from the Latin verb meaning “to carry” or “to burden”, though most people who love their cargo pants don’t think they’re a burden at all!
What Can You Wear With Your Cargo Pants?
There are cargo pants for almost every occasion.
- On the worksite, cargo pants can be paired with work boots and a t-shirt.
- For school or friendly gatherings, cargo pants pair well with sneakers and a polo shirt.
- Out on a hiking trail, performance cargo pants can be worn with hiking shoes and an athletic shirt.
- For those looking for even more utility, a cargo shirt can add a couple more pockets to the ensemble.
What Is the Difference Between Combat and Cargo Trousers?
It is sometimes confusing trying to figure out the difference between combat and cargo pants. In fact, they’re the same thing but may go by different names depending on the setting and who the pants are being marketed to.
Where did cargo pants come from?
Cargo pants were originally worn by British troops in the 1930s and were then adopted by United States paratroopers in the early 1940s. The large cargo pockets were ideal for carrying food and ammunition as soldiers dropped into various battle zones.
Hence, cargo pants have often been referred to as combat pants as well. Selling “combat pants” to young kids might not feel suitable for every parent so the name “cargo pants” may be a more acceptable name for pants during peacetime.