Since moving to SoCal, I’m wearing cargo shorts nearly every day. For years I have worn Propper brand shorts, but may be ready to make a change.

What cargos do you love, and what features do you love about them?

I’m typically carrying a Spec Ops or Maxpedition organizer in each of the cargo pockets, along with other small items, but don’t want huge cargo pockets that end up looking like saddle bags 😃

Thanks!

I really like Duluth Trading Co cargo shorts, especially their models in synthetic fabrics. You might find their CPs a bit bulky, however. It's a choice between function and fashion.....

These are my two favorites:

http://www.cabelas.com/product/home/mens-cargo-shorts%7C/pc/105625080/c/104081580/cabelas-mens-trail-shorts-inseam/722797.uts

http://www.cabelas.com/product/home/mens-cargo-shorts%7C/pc/105625080/c/104081580/cabelas-mens-legendary-pocket-hiker-shorts-inseam/1324933.uts

I like the bigger patch pockets of the "Trail Shorts", but they don't have an elastic wasit.

I hate the small patch pockets on the "Legendary Shorts", but these shorts do have the elastic waist.

I like these for a pretty specialized reason. The cargo pockets (what I called "patch pockets" above) are directly on top of the main pockets, not down on your thighs. This is good (specialized use) for when you are concealed carrying a firearm in your front pocket. Those patch pockets directly on top of the main pocket do a pretty good job of breaking up the outline of the firearm. And if you put something into those patch pockets, that serves even better to break up the outline. Obviously, an appropriate holster is needed as well, preferably one that itself breaks up the outline. But also, ignoring the firearm, I hate cargo pockets down your thighs because if you put anything even remotely heavy or bulky in them, they bounce uncomfortably on your leg.

Since you live in California, chances are slim that you're in the 0.0001% of the state's population that can actually get a CCW permit, so my reasons for liking these shorts is probably of zero value to you. Still, they're nice shorts and are quite durable. Note that you can get shorts that look just like these from Bass Pro Shops. But in my experience, the Bass Pro variety is made of much lessor fabric and they rip and wear out much sooner.

Boca Grande nylon fishing shorts... World Wide Sportsman line from Bass Pro... a G43 fits in a Recluse holster in the cargo pocket...some stretch in the waist... velcro rear and cargo flaps

I had a pair of sportif shorts that I loved. I believe they were called flat iron. They had a cargo pocket, then an open top pocket behind the cargo pocket, then a regular front pocket.

I don't think they make them anymore, pity.