by Lisa Bruckner, CEO & Co-Founder, with strong stance in the cargo pants controversy
While looking at men’s online clothing shops recently, I noticed a recurrent trend: Men’s cargo pants on sale or clearance. I felt a rush of excitement at the thought of never seeing a grown man wear these pocket-y pants again! As a realist however, I understand cargo pants have a purpose, place and time. Let’s discuss these.
The purpose of cargo pants is to hold things. But in truth: How many toys do you need to carry with you in one day? If you work in an office or in 
the business sector, everything you need should be on your desk, in your briefcase or thanks to current technology: compiled onto one device like your smartphone. Therefore, cargo pants do not belong on the business — or even biz-casual — man.
This brings us to place. The place for cargo pants is simple: anywhere (usually outdoors) where you require many, many pockets to hold things you can’t otherwise carry. For example: The Dad taking his kids to the park (pockets for snacks, diapers, sippy cups, etc.). Cargo pants are ideal for the great outdoors, expeditions and careers that require you to work in the rough. Going camping? Hooray — put on those cargo pants! Going to the office? Put the cargo pants down!
Lastly, let’s talk about time. The best time to wear cargo pants is when you don’t need to worry about your appearance. This is a key point to remember: Cargo pants are not attractive or flattering unless you are a muscular man in uniform who is not wearing a shirt. I understand many men think cargo pants are cool, in the “I want to be outdoorsy, comfortable and slightly dangerous” way. Once you wash them however, and the pocket flaps flip up above your bun cheeks in high salute — and the thigh pockets are so wrinkled they look like mummified remains — you lose any “cool” that once might have been. To me, cargo pants look like a wannabe indulgence of the urban man; like the guy who drives a hummer down Fifth Avenue. Watch out: Those potholes are so dangerous, man.
But... why?.
Now, let’s jump back to purpose: If you truly must carry your iPod, flask, sewing kit and hair product everywhere you go, may I please suggest a tasteful murse? Or, for you manly men who must travel hands-free, may I suggest the arguably cool ScotteVest. Some of these jackets look like they are straight out of the Swat Team supply room… and have 352 pockets! However select your style carefully. (I said “arguably” cool for a reason.)
The Solution
I recommend you pack those cargos away for the weekend adventures and buy some flat-front chinos or dark denim instead. Plus, if don’t do your own laundry, consider this: the person who does will shout for joy when they no longer have to check all six pockets of your pants every time they’re washed.
Finally, memorize this rule: Cargo pants should only be worn with vintage sneakers or athletic shoes (including hiking or combat boots).
Now you’re truly prepared for both the urban and outdoor wilderness. Enjoy!
— Lisa Bruckner, CEO and co-Founder Hendricks Park
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