How to Find the Perfect Fit: Cargo Shorts Sizing Guide

Finding cargo shorts that fit perfectly can be frustrating. Sizes vary between brands, fit descriptions mean different things to different manufacturers, and online shopping makes trying before buying impossible. This guide provides everything you need to find cargo shorts that fit properly—every time.

Why Sizing Matters More for Cargo Shorts

Cargo shorts present unique fitting challenges compared to regular shorts:

• Pocket placement: Poorly fitted cargos put pockets in awkward positions
• Pocket bulge: Too tight, and cargo pockets strain and bulge
• Movement restriction: The wrong fit limits the freedom cargo shorts should provide
• Loaded weight: Pockets with items need proper waist support
• Appearance: Proportions matter more with the added visual bulk of cargo pockets

Getting the fit right affects both function and appearance more than with simpler shorts.

Essential Measurements

Before shopping, take these measurements:

Waist Measurement

Measure around your natural waistline—where you'll actually wear the shorts. This is typically about 2-3cm above the navel for most people. Stand relaxed (don't suck in your stomach) and keep the tape snug but not tight.

Pro tip: Measure with a finger inside the tape to account for comfortable breathing room.

Hip Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your hips/seat. This matters especially for relaxed and regular fits—there needs to be enough room through the hip without the waist being too loose.

Thigh Measurement

Measure around the fullest part of your thigh (usually about 3cm below the crotch). This is crucial for cargo shorts because the cargo pockets sit here. If the fit is too tight through the thigh, pockets will strain.

Inseam Measurement

Measure from the crotch seam to your desired hem length. Standard inseams range from 7 to 12 inches (18-30cm). Note: measure wearing the shoes you'll typically wear with the shorts.

Understanding Fit Types

Cargo shorts come in several fit categories:

Relaxed Fit

• Roomiest option through seat and thigh
• Sits at natural waist or slightly below
• Generous leg opening
• Maximum comfort and movement
• Best for: Larger builds, work activities, maximum mobility

Regular Fit

• Traditional, moderate cut
• Comfortable through seat and thigh without excess fabric
• Standard leg opening
• Balanced comfort and appearance
• Best for: Most body types, everyday wear

Slim Fit

• Narrower through seat and thigh
• Often sits lower on waist
• Tapered leg opening
• More modern, streamlined appearance
• Best for: Slimmer builds, style-conscious wearers

Athletic Fit

• Room through thigh for muscular legs
• Tapered from knee to hem
• Accommodates larger quads and glutes
• Best for: Athletic builds, gym-goers

Waist Sizing Decoded

Cargo short waist sizing typically follows trouser conventions but with important variations:

True to Size

Some brands use actual measurements—a size 32 measures approximately 32 inches at the waist.

Vanity Sizing

Many brands use "vanity sizing" where a labelled 32 actually measures 33-34 inches. This makes consumers feel good but complicates shopping.

How to Handle Sizing Variations

• Know your actual waist measurement
• Check brand-specific size charts
• Read reviews mentioning fit
• When between sizes, go up for cargo shorts
• Ensure exchange/return is possible

Length Considerations

Inseam length affects both appearance and function:

Short (7-9 inches / 18-23cm)

• Above mid-thigh
• More casual, beach-appropriate
• Less coverage for outdoor activities
• Cargo pockets may look oversized proportionally
• Works best on shorter individuals or for very casual settings

Medium (10-11 inches / 25-28cm)

• At or just above knee
• Most versatile length
• Works for most activities and settings
• Proportional pocket placement
• The default choice for most cargo short wearers

Long (12+ inches / 30cm+)

• Below knee
• Better for work and rugged outdoor use
• More coverage and protection
• Can look dated if too long
• Works well on taller individuals

The Fitting Process

When trying on cargo shorts (in-store or evaluating at home):

Step 1: Waist Check

• Fasten at natural wearing position
• Should stay up without a belt
• One to two fingers should fit inside comfortably
• No gapping at back or sides

Step 2: Seat Check

• Sit down normally
• No excessive tightness or pulling
• Adequate room for comfort
• Fabric shouldn't strain

Step 3: Thigh Check

• Stand with legs apart at shoulder width
• Walk around, squat down
• Pockets should lie flat, not bulge or pull
• No binding when moving

Step 4: Pocket Access

• Reach into all pockets
• Access should be natural and easy
• Front pockets accessible when seated
• Cargo pockets reachable while standing normally

Step 5: Loaded Test

• Put typical items in pockets
• Walk, sit, squat with loaded pockets
• Check for pulling at waist
• Ensure items are secure and accessible

Common Fit Problems and Solutions

Too Tight in Thigh

• Problem: Cargo pockets strain and bulge
• Solution: Size up or choose relaxed/athletic fit

Waist Too Big

• Problem: Shorts slide down, especially when pockets are loaded
• Solution: Size down, belt helps but isn't ideal solution

Pockets Too Low

• Problem: Hard to access, look disproportionate
• Solution: Try different brand/style; pocket placement varies

Inseam Too Short

• Problem: Pockets dominate appearance, limited coverage
• Solution: Choose longer inseam; proportions vary by brand

Inseam Too Long

• Problem: Dated appearance, bunching at knee
• Solution: Hem professionally or choose shorter inseam

Online Shopping Tips

When you can't try before buying:

Research Thoroughly

• Read multiple reviews focusing on fit comments
• Check if brand runs large/small
• Look for photos from real buyers
• Pay attention to reviewer body types

Use Size Charts

• Always check the brand's specific size chart
• Compare your measurements to chart, not label sizes
• Look for detailed charts including thigh and inseam

Buy Strategically

• Confirm return/exchange policy
• Consider ordering two sizes to compare
• Save packaging until sure of fit
• Take photos of any defects immediately

Brand Sizing Notes

While specific recommendations change with product lines, general observations:

• Workwear brands (Carhartt, Dickies): Often run large, built for movement
• Outdoor brands (Columbia, The North Face): Usually true to size, athletic cuts available
• Fashion brands (various): May run slim, check carefully
• Australian brands (King Gee, Hard Yakka): Built for Aussie builds, often generous

Alteration Options

If you find cargo shorts that almost fit:

What Can Be Altered

• Waist (taking in is easier than letting out)
• Inseam length
• Leg opening/taper

What's Difficult to Alter

• Thigh width (alters pocket placement)
• Overall seat room
• Pocket position

When to Alter

Alterations make sense for premium cargo shorts that fit well elsewhere. For budget pairs, finding a better fit is usually more cost-effective than altering.

Final Fit Checklist

Before committing to cargo shorts:

• [ ] Waist comfortable without belt
• [ ] Can sit without strain
• [ ] Can squat without restriction
• [ ] Pockets lie flat when empty
• [ ] Pockets accessible easily
• [ ] Length proportional to your height
• [ ] Movement unrestricted in all directions
• [ ] Loaded pockets feel secure

If all boxes are checked, you've found your fit. Cargo shorts that pass this test will serve you well for years.