Both cargo and joggers are well-known street style favourites. But do they give the same vibe? You know the answer to that is no. From cargos serving a military-style look to joggers keeping it effortlessly cool, which one should you choose? This article aims to describe all the key differences you need to focus on. With utility, features, occasions, clothing and footwear options, we've covered it all. Discover our take on the cargo vs joggers debate and see if you agree with our proposed solution. 

A] The Emergence Of Cargo Pants

The resurgence of both Y2K and the ‘90s style has recently made a major comeback. From graphic prints on your cargo pants to the different denim shades, cargo pants underwent a much-needed transformation. They earlier denoted a rugged look suitable for military operations. The British army was the first to set an example, followed by the American army. These pants could easily store items such as a compass, maps, and other required utilities. Today, cargo pants are even used on fashion highways, displaying various runway trends. “So, should you go for cargo pants?” Read on to find the answer to this decision. 

B] The Rise Of Joggers

Emile Camuset designed the first pair of joggers, which prioritised athleisure at its core. Since other clothing options did not suit intense movements, joggers rose in popularity. Initially designed for athleisure, they are now in every workplace. Even during critical times like COVID, people loved them for combining comfort with style. Just one look at the cuffed ankles and comfy feel can make anyone recognise these. Rappers, celebrities, and college students, as well as other audiences, are going for joggers thanks to the massive pop culture impact today.

C] Cargo Vs Joggers: Breaking Down The Key Differences

Here are some quick differences you need to consider when choosing between cargo vs joggers:

  • Material 

Cargo pants

Cotton-blend or denim material, depending on the cargo pants. Mixed cargo pants often incorporate both cotton and denim, which proves to be an excellent option. 

Joggers

Materials like cotton and fleece fare well.

  • Fit

Cargo pants

Has a relaxed fit with a slight tapering for a polished look. 

Joggers

Has a relaxed fit with cuffed ankles to maximise your comfort levels.

  • Pocket size

Cargo pants

Has a huge pocket size with multiple pockets to fit accessories such as your mobile easily. 

Joggers

Has fewer pockets but good enough space to store items such as your house keys comfortably. 

  • Design 

Cargo pants

Provide a sleek yet modern look suitable for formal wear. 

Joggers

Designed for a friendly vibe, keeping breathability at its forefront. 

  • Durability

Cargo pants

Perfect for travelling and outdoor activities. 

Joggers

Suitable for daily activities like jogging.

  • Versatile nature

Cargo pants

Suitable for occasions such as casual, brunch, and sometimes semi-formal settings.

Joggers

Suitable for occasions such as travel, gym, sleepwear, and more.

  • Matching footwear

Cargo pants

Black, white, or brown chunky or hiking boots are some commonly chosen options. 

Joggers

Plain or logo sneakers from a sports brand, such as Nike, are a good option for a sporty look.

  • Mobility

Cargo pants

Mobility can be slightly restricted. 

Joggers

Allows for free movement due to the fabric structure.

  • Popularity

Cargo pants

They are popular across all ages. 

Joggers

They are more popular among the younger crowds.

  •  Maintenance

Cargo pants

Can take up a lot of space and do not dry quickly. 

Joggers

Do not take up a lot of space and are easier to wash.

D] Occasions To Choose Cargo Pants

Occasions that go well with cargo pants:

  • Workwear

A brown, dark green cargo is suitable for any workplace.

  • Parties

A dark brown or black cargo is suitable for any late-night parties or other occasions.

  • Casual lunch

A cool light blue or white cargo is suitable for your brunch or other cafe-hopping places. Even a pair of blue cargo jeans will work well for your outings. 

  • Travel

An olive or dark brown cargo will work well with any outdoor activities.

If you're looking for the above-mentioned cargo pants, check Thomas Scott’s range of cargo pants here.

E] Occasions To Choose Joggers

Occasions that go well with joggers:

  • Gym

A black jogger works well for your gym look.

  • Airport

A classic blue jogger can be a part of your airport look. 

  • Sleepwear

A printed jogger works great for building your sleepwear wardrobe. 

  • Travel

A light grey jogger will be a comfortable choice to meet all your travel requirements.

  • Outdoor activities

A khaki jogger will blend well with any trekking or other outdoor-related activities. 

If you're looking for the above-mentioned pair of joggers options, check Thomas Scott’s range of joggers here.

F] Aligned Clothing and Footwear Options

Aligned clothing options with cargos:

  • Casual black, white, and beige t-shirts will pair nicely with your cargos.
  • You can pair casual checked shirts in beige, olive green, black, and other similar colours with a jacket to continue with your casual theme.
  • A dark green, short-sleeve, striped shirt will go well with your cargo pants.

Aligned clothing options with joggers: 

  • A monochrome scheme with a grey and black colour combination can be implemented for your sweatshirts and joggers. 
  • A black jacket with a white t-shirt will work well with black joggers.
  • Go with a monochrome scheme by pairing a grey sweatshirt and joggers. You can follow a similar scheme with black as well.

Aligned footwear options for your cargo:

  • A white sneaker will go well with a brown cargo. 
  • A white and brown chunky sneaker will work well with your cargo.
  • Brown boots will go well with brown or black cargo pants.
  • A white chunky sneaker pairs well with olive cargo for a hip-hop vibe. 
  • A black hiking shoe works well with olive cargo for a more robust look.

Aligned footwear options for your joggers:

  • A white sneaker will give a clean look when paired with a white sneaker.
  • A black high-top sneaker will go well with black joggers.
  • A blue and white sneaker with a canvas finish will work with a street style vibe.
  • A red colour-block sneaker can be used if you wish to opt for a bold look.
  • A beige and white low-casual sneaker will work with brown joggers.

G] Essential Do’s And Don’ts Of Cargo Vs Joggers

Some do’s and don’ts of both cargo and joggers:

  • Dos for your cargo:

Spot-clean instantly instead of frequent washing. Don’t overstuff your cargo pockets, as it could ruin your cargo's structure. 

  • Don'ts for your cargo: 

Avoid flashy or bold colours without a neutral t-shirt. Avoid pairing sandals and slippers with your cargo pants.

  • Dos for your joggers:

To prevent pilling, make use of a fabric shaver. Machine-wash your joggers on gentle cycle mode.

  • Don'ts for your joggers:

Avoid heavy prints if you are going for a minimalist vibe. Avoid pairing with formal shoes such as loafers.

Our Final Take on Cargo vs Joggers:

Keep a pair of olive green or dark brown cargos if you like to travel frequently. Keep a pair of mid-blue cargos if you want cargos for an everyday look. And lastly, a pair of light blue joggers, as it is a versatile styling item that pairs with lunch, sleepovers, casual hangouts, and more. 

Lastly, low-quality cargo or jeans can ruin your entire look even if you take note of all the above-mentioned steps. If you're looking for premium-quality cotton-blend cargo and joggers that are built to last, try Thomas Scott’s range of joggers and cargo pants. Our range will take care of durability, style, and comfort, so you don’t have to compromise on anything. We don’t just provide affordable options; we also make sure they are ethically sourced.