Cargo shorts are short trousers that are as fashionable as they are functional. Although the cargo shorts only broke through to the general public in the 1990s, the history of this garment goes all the way back to the 1930s. The cargo trousers was introduced by the British Army in 1938. The large flap pockets at the knees (sometimes also at the hip) provided additional storage space and allowed soldiers quick and easy access to important gear such as ammunition and radios. Its functionality was soon discovered by campers and other people with active lifestyles, including skateboarders. In the 1990s, cargo shorts were picked up by the hip-hop scene and became popular with a wider audience, who especially liked the style and comfort of cargo shorts. Because cargo shorts are not only functional, they also look good. The large square pockets at the knee are also a good look when they are not full of stuff. The lightweight cotton construction also makes them ideal for warmer weather. The original cargo shorts were nice and baggy and came to just over the knee, but nowadays you see more and more cargo shorts that are shorter. Cargo shorts have traditionally been made in colours such as green, brown and khaki, but nowadays you see more and more cargo shorts in other, fresh colours.
