Women's cargo trousers

What are cargo trousers?

Cargo trousers are trousers with extra pockets on the legs, often with pocket flaps. Those leg pockets define the cargo style; the legs themselves can be straight, wide or tapered. Cargo pants is another name for the same type of trousers.

Which fit should you choose?

Choose your cargo trousers according to how much room you want around your hips, thighs and ankles. A loose fit and a wide hem opening are different things: roomy trousers can still taper towards the ankle.

A balloon shape combines extra volume with a narrower hem. If a style has drawstrings at the hems, these let you adjust the openings.

How do high-waisted cargo trousers sit?

High-waisted cargo trousers sit higher on the body than mid-rise or low-rise styles. Check the style's rise and measurements to judge where the waistband will sit on you. A high waist does not tell you how wide the legs are.

What does stretch mean in cargo trousers?

Stretch means the fabric can give; it is different from a loose fit. Look for elastane and a description of stretch in the product details if that is a feature you want.

What do elasticated waists and drawstrings do?

An elasticated waistband allows some give, while a drawstring lets you tighten the waist when that feature is present. Still check the waist measurement: adjustability does not replace choosing the right size. Waist elastic does not tell you the rise or whether the main fabric stretches.

What should you look for in soft cargo trousers?

Check both the fabric and the cut if you want soft cargo trousers with a relaxed feel. Cotton, viscose blends, sweatshirt fabrics and synthetic materials can differ in structure and drape. Soft fabric does not necessarily stretch, so read the details for the individual style.

Want to try a leather look? Explore our faux leather trousers and leggings.

How do you choose the right size and leg length?

Compare the cargo trousers' measurements with a pair you already like wearing. Follow the size guide's measuring method: body measurements, garment measurements and flat measurements are different. Use the guide for that style whether sizes are shown as XS–XL or a W measurement.

Lay your own trousers flat and measure from the crotch seam to the hem if the guide gives an inside leg measurement. If it gives a side length, measure down the outside from the waistband to the hem, following the guide's instructions. Always compare the same kind of measurement.

If your own trousers have a 76 cm inside leg and the new style measures 72 cm, turn your hems up by 4 cm to get a rough idea of where the new pair will finish. The rise, crotch position and cuffs can affect the result. Try them with the shoes you plan to wear and check that the hems clear the ground.

How do you style cargo trousers with tops?

Pair cargo trousers with a simple top if you want the leg pockets and trouser shape to stand out. A shorter or tucked-in top shows the waistband, while a loose top adds volume to the outfit. Your style, your rules.

Start with our women's tops and T-shirts, or add a women's hoodie for a laid-back look. Black cargo trousers with a dark top create a coordinated outfit; green or beige tones with a light top add contrast.

Which shoes work with cargo trousers?

Choose shoes to suit the leg width and length. Trainers, boots and sandals can all work, but the hem shape determines how the fabric sits against the shoe.

Wide legs can fall over trainers or boots, so check the length with your shoes on. Cuffs gather the fabric at the ankle and leave more of the shoe visible. With boots, try the cuff or elasticated hem against the shaft to check for bunching or pulling. An open, straight hem can fall over the shaft if it is wide enough. With sandals, a hem that finishes above the shoe gives a lighter silhouette and reduces the chance of stepping on the fabric.

Want to compare more cuts and trouser types? Browse our women's trousers.

For more relaxed options in sweat fabric, compare our women's joggers and sweatpants.