Cargo shorts have come a long way from the baggy, below-the-knee disasters that dominated the early 2000s. Once written off as a fashion crime alongside frosted tips and wallet chains, modern men's cargo shorts have been completely reimagined by Australian brands.
The problem with traditional cargo shorts wasn't the concept. It was the execution: oversized pockets, unflattering lengths, and cheap fabrics. Today's premium designs deliver genuine functionality with styling that actually looks good, whether you're heading to weekend barbecues, coastal walks, or a casual Friday at the office.
As a Melbourne-based shorts specialist brand, we've put together a list of the best premium cargo shorts, comparing everything from pocket design to fabric performance in harsh summer conditions.
How We Evaluated the Best Cargo Shorts
There’s a science to finding the best cargo shorts in 2026, and it’s much more than simply checking if they have pockets. We evaluated seven premium Australian brands, using the criteria that actually matter
- Fit and length: above-knee VS below-knee, slim VS relaxed.
- Pocket design: refined VS bulky traditional cargo pockets.
- Fabric performance in Australian conditions: stretch, breathability, and quick-dry capabilities.
- Overall value for money at a premium price point.
The difference between modern and dated cargo shorts boils down to three key areas.
First, length: Today's best designs have a 7-9 inch inseam that sits above the knee, ditching the unflattering below-the-knee style of the 2000s.
Second, fabric: Premium-stretch cotton blends (typically 97-98% cotton with 2-3% elastane) have replaced the stiff 100% cotton that offered no give and poor comfort.
Third, pocket design: The best modern cargo shorts feature pockets that lie flat when empty but expand when needed. This replaces permanently bulky pockets, which tend to create an unflattering silhouette.
Durability factors also matter. This includes stitching quality, hardware (zippers and buttons), colour retention after multiple washes, and the complete ownership experience: return policies, warranty coverage, and whether you're actually getting value at the premium price point.
The 7 Best Cargo Shorts in Australia
1. Frankster’s The Aussies – Best Overall
Price: $99.95 | Shop Here
Frankster's The Aussies are exactly what modern cargo shorts should be. They aren't the old-fashioned, stiff cargo shorts of yesteryear. They’re built with a premium fabric blend with 57% Lyocell, 42% Cotton, and 1% Elastane, so they feel much softer than traditional cotton cargos but still offer the durability you need for Australian conditions.
What Makes Them Stand Out
The fabric is the first thing you'll notice. Lyocell gives these shorts a smoother finish than standard cotton blends, and the 1% elastane provides just enough stretch for all-day comfort without making the shorts look baggy. The partially elastic waistband adapts to your daily activities, whether you're unwinding at the pub or walking the dog.
Pocket design is where Frankster really stands out from the competition. Seven pockets may sound excessive, but these shorts manage it without adding bulk. The signature hidden zip pocket fits an iPhone 15 Pro Max and is conveniently positioned so that it doesn't dig into your hip when you sit down. Deep cargo pockets, two back pockets (one buttoned), and standard side pockets are genuinely useful and don’t risk making you look like you're heading on a safari.
Then, there’s the fit: above-knee length (not too short) and a drawstring with dual holes so that you can tuck it inside for a cleaner look or outside for a more relaxed vibe. Belt loops are there if you want to sharpen things up, too.
Best For
Blokes who want versatile men's cargo shorts with pockets that handle everything you throw at them: beach trips, backyard barbecues, weekend errands, or even sneaking snacks into the cinema. These work everywhere and look the part.
Potential Drawbacks
At $99.95, they're on the expensive side. The Lyocell blend requires some care (wash at 30°C or below, and air dry) to maintain fabric quality. However, that's standard for premium materials.
The Bottom Line
Frankster's 100-day comfort guarantee makes buying these shorts that little bit easier. They have over 100 reviews with an average of 91% five-star ratings. Customers praise the comfort, fit, and quality, with many reporting that they still look fresh after two years of regular use. For men's stretch cargo shorts that actually deliver on both style and function, The Aussies set the benchmark.
2. Assembly Label Creston Cargo Short – Best Coastal Style
Price: $120
Assembly Label brings its signature coastal minimalist aesthetic to cargo shorts. These lean heavily into the relaxed Byron Bay vibe, with clean lines and neutral tones that photograph well.
What Works
The design is undeniably sharp. Assembly understands aesthetics, and the relaxed fit of the Creston shorts fits in with their coastal lifestyle brand perfectly.
What Doesn't
Assembly creates products across multiple categories (linen shirts, wool blazers, homeware), and that breadth comes with compromises. Customer reviews on Product Review give them a 1.8/5 star rating, complaining about seams failing after a single wear and fabric losing shape quickly. The 100% cotton construction has no stretch, so working out your ideal size is also tricky.
The return policy is another downside. There’s only a 14-day window for returns and a $15 return shipping fee if you want a refund instead of store credit. Multiple customers describe the online return process as "shockingly bad" with slow email responses.
Best For
Men who want shorts that give off a laidback coastal vibe. This design delivers Instagram-ready fits rather than long-term durability.
3. Industrie Platoon Combat Shorts – Best Lightweight Fit
Price: $79.95
Industrie's Platoon design uses a cotton, elastane and linen blend that prioritises breathability, but this comes at the cost of durability. The regular fit includes an elasticated waist and drawstring, which some men appreciate for casual comfort, but others find makes the shorts look less polished than traditional cargo designs.
The linen blend fabric gives some stretch, though the pockets are notably smaller and less functional than Frankster's. When it comes to durability, multiple customers report that the fabric pills after just a few washes, and the lighter construction doesn't hold up to regular wear.
At a similar price to Frankster's shorts, they lack any warranty backing. If you're after shorts that'll last beyond a single season, the Platoon falls short. They're passable for occasional beach trips, but not built for men who need cargo shorts that actually work hard.
Best For
Blokes who want an ultra-lightweight option for hot weather and don't mind replacing their shorts after a season or two.
4. Country Road Cargo Shorts – Best-Quality Materials
Price: $129.95
Country Road goes premium with their cargo shorts, using heavyweight cotton that feels durable and looks sharp straight out of the box. The construction quality is excellent, with reinforced stitching and high-end hardware throughout.
The trade-off? No stretch whatsoever. The 100% cotton construction means these shorts don't adapt to your body, and the heavyweight fabric can quickly feel stiff in hot weather.
At $129.95, they're the priciest shorts we tested. While the material justifies some of the cost, the lack of comfort features and limited colour range make them harder to recommend over more versatile alternatives.
Best For
Blokes who rate traditional aesthetics over modern comfort features.
5. Gazman Cargo Shorts – Best Traditional Fit
Price: $99.95
Gazman also takes a traditional approach to cargo shorts, with standard cargo-style pockets and a relaxed fit. The design is pretty straightforward, and it hasn’t changed much over the years.
Like the Country Road cargo shorts, they’re made from 100% cotton construction. So, again, while this feels comfortable, there’s little to no stretch – if you have a big lunch, you’ll notice it.
The build quality is decent, though, with reliable stitching. There’s just a lack of modern features like elastic waistbands and hidden pockets, which makes them feel dated compared to Frankster's.
Best For
Men who prefer traditional, no-frills cargo shorts and are less interested in modern features.
6. Sportscraft Cargo Shorts - Best for Smart Casual
Price: $129.99
Keen on the idea of cargo pockets that don’t over-dominate the design? Sportscraft might be a good option for you. They’re well known for polished, classic menswear, and that sensibility carries through to these cargo shorts. The design feels clean and understated, offering a neater take on a traditionally casual style.
The 100% cotton fabric is comfortable and breathable for warm weather. However, at $129.99, they’re one of the more expensive picks on this list. The cargo pockets are subtle and streamlined, favouring a clean look over maximum storage. If you’re after cargo shorts that feel more refined than rugged, they fit the bill.
Best For
Men who want tidy, well-made cargo shorts for weekends, casual outings, and relaxed summer occasions.
7. Hallensteins Cargo Shorts – Best Budget Option
Price: $44.99
Hallensteins cargo shorts are the most affordable option here, at just $44.99. For the price, they deliver solid basic functionality with standard cargo pockets and ripstock fabric construction.
The budget-friendly price means some compromises: the fabric is lighter weight than premium options, hardware feels less substantial, and customer reviews mention inconsistent sizing and quality control issues. These aren't built for heavy use or longevity, but they're perfectly adequate for casual weekend wear.
Best For
Budget-conscious shoppers who need cargo shorts for light, occasional use and don't mind replacing them after a season or two.
What to Look For When Buying Cargo Shorts in 2026
Fabric Matters More Than You Think
Skip 100% cotton if you want shorts that last and stay comfortable all day. Premium stretch cotton blends (97-98% cotton with 2-3% elastane) or Lyocell blends match the breathability of cotton while adapting to your body’s movements better.
Plus, in the Australian heat, the blend is quicker to dry. This can make a real difference, especially if you're transitioning from the beach to the pub and don’t like soggy shorts.
Length Determines Whether You Look Current or Dated
Above–the–knee is the modern standard. An 8-10 inch inseam is typically the sweet spot for most blokes, as this makes sure that the shorts sit just above the knee – not too short. Below-knee cargo shorts look pre: 2005, no matter how premium the brand.
Pocket Design Separates Premium from Basic
Not all cargo pockets are created equal. Look for designs that lie flat when empty but expand when needed. Hidden zip pockets (like those on Frankster's shorts) add security without bulk.
You should avoid shorts where the pockets permanently bulge out, even when empty. The ideal number of pockets is four to seven. Any fewer and it defeats the purpose of cargo shorts. Any more and it’ll look over-the-top.
Waistband Flexibility Makes or Breaks Comfort
Partially elastic waistbands are game-changers for all-day wear. They adapt as you move, sit, or eat without demanding constant readjustments.
Traditional fixed waistbands work fine for short periods, but for men's utility shorts you'll actually live in, the stretchier, the better.
Return Policy Reveals Brand Confidence
Premium brands should back their products. A 100-day guarantee (like Frankster's) shows genuine confidence in the quality. Short 14-day return windows and return shipping fees suggest that the brand knows its product might not live up to expectations.
Customer reviews matter more than marketing claims. Look for verified purchases with 2+ year wear reports, not just fresh-out-of-the-box impressions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cargo shorts still in style in 2026?
Yes, but only modern versions. Traditional below-the-knee cargo shorts with bulky pockets remain fashion crimes, but contemporary designs from brands like Frankster, Industrie, and Politix have reimagined cargo shorts with slimmer profiles, refined pockets, and above-knee cuts. The key is choosing premium fabrics with stretch and avoiding the baggy, oversized styles of the 2000s.
What's the difference between cheap and premium cargo shorts?
Premium cargo shorts like Frankster's Aussies use advanced fabric blends (Lyocell and stretch cotton) that last 2+ years, while budget options like Jeanswest typically need replacing every season.
Premium versions have better stitching, quality hardware, and thoughtful details like hidden zip pockets and elastic waistbands. The upfront cost difference is usually $40-60, but premium shorts deliver better cost-per-wear over time.
Which Australian brand makes the best cargo shorts?
Frankster's The Aussies lead the pack for overall versatility and value, combining premium Lyocell fabric, seven functional pockets, and a 100-day guarantee at $99.95.
Country Road offers superior construction quality at $129.95 for traditionalists, while Industrie's Drifter ($89.95) works well if you prefer a slimmer, tailored fit. Assembly Label delivers coastal aesthetics but sacrifices durability.
How should cargo shorts fit in 2026?
Modern cargo shorts should sit above the knee with a 7-10 inch inseam. Look for a fit that's neither too baggy nor too tight, with room to move around comfortably. The waistband should sit at your natural waist without riding up or sliding down.
Brands like Frankster and Gazman offer partially elastic waistbands that adapt throughout the day, whereas Country Road and Assembly Label only offer fixed waistbands.
Can you wear cargo shorts to smart-casual events?
It depends on the design. Politix cargo shorts ($119.95) are refined enough for date nights and casual work events when paired with a button-down shirt. Frankster's The Aussies also work for smart-casual settings thanks to their clean lines and premium fabric. You’ll want to avoid traditional bulky cargo shorts, such as those from Gazman or Jeanswest, for anything beyond casual weekends.
