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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
If you want a pair of black nylon cargo pants with drawstrings that actually cinch at the ankle and stay put, the SEVEGO Women’s Hiking Pants are the pick to beat. They come in tall inseams from 30″ to 36″, so you are not stuck with flooded hems. The nylon-blend fabric is lightweight and water resistant, and the zip pockets keep your phone from sliding out on the trail. Below, seven standouts that handle hiking, travel, work, and everyday wear — ranked by how real owners use them.
This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
A good pair of black nylon cargo pants with drawstrings needs four things: a nylon blend that dries fast, enough stretch to step over logs, zippered pockets that hold a phone, and a drawstring hem that cinches at the ankle.
Top Picks
How To Choose The Best Black Nylon Cargo Pants With Drawstrings
The first thing you need to know is that “nylon cargo pants” covers a huge range of fabrics, fits, and pocket layouts. The wrong pair will either bag around your ankles, fail to hold your phone, or run so small you cannot squat without discomfort. Here is what actually separates a great pair from a frustrating one.
Fabric blend and stretch matter more than the label
Pure nylon is tough and dries fast but has almost no give. Adding spandex (an elastic fiber that lets fabric stretch and snap back) changes everything. The MOURCE hiking pants use a blend of 88% Nylon and 12% Spandex in a 4-way stretch (meaning the fabric stretches both across and lengthwise), so you can step over a log or kneel to set up a tent without the fabric binding. Softer blends that add a little cotton, like the CQR’s 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton ripstop, feel more like everyday casual pants but sacrifice some of that extreme stretch.
Drawstring hems and waistbands — the details that decide comfort
A drawstring hem (an adjustable cord that cinches the opening at your ankle) keeps the pant leg from catching under your heel and stops cold air or bugs from crawling up. But placement matters — a toggle that dangles on the outside of the calf will swing and catch on brush. Waistband construction is equally important. An elastic waistband with an internal drawstring keeps pants up during yard work without a belt, while a fixed non-elastic waist like the Wrangler’s relies on belt loops and a true-to-size fit.
Pocket count and closure: what actually stays put
Cargo pockets are only useful if your phone does not launch out when you sit down. Look for zippered closures on the main cargo pockets — the SEVEGO’s secure zip thigh pocket fits a phone and keys, while the MoFiz capris use a snap-closure on the phone pocket. Deep pockets are worth more than many pockets. MOURCE’s deep zippered cargo pockets fit a 6.9″ phone securely, and for anyone carrying a large Android device, pocket depth is the single most important thing to check before you buy.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Model | Best For | Fabric / Stretch | Inseam / Length | Pocket Layout | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEVEGO Womens Hiking Pants★ Best Overall | Tall hikers wanting ankle drawstrings | Nylon-blend, lightweight | 30″/32″/34″/36″ tall inseam | 4 zipper pockets | Amazon |
| MoFiz Women’s Cargo CaprisBest for Heat | Hot-weather hiking and travel | Moisture-wicking, lightweight | Capri cut (shortened) | 2 zip + 2 button pockets | Amazon |
| Wrangler Men’s Relaxed Fit Stretch Cargo | Everyday work and casual wear | Stretch twill, lightweight | 29″ inseam | 6 pockets (2 cargo, 2 back, 2 slash) | Amazon |
| MOURCE Hiking Pants Men | One-bag travel and fishing | 88% Nylon, 12% Spandex, 4-way stretch | — | 7 functional pockets | Amazon |
| Men’s Cargo Work Hiking Pants | Work and warm-weather fishing | Nylon, lightweight | Fits 31″ inseam | Multi-pocket with zippers | Amazon |
| Mens Hiking Pants Tactical Nylon Stretch | Work, travel, and outdoor versatility | Nylon stretch, waterproof | — | 6 pockets | Amazon |
| CQR Men’s Tactical Pants | Tactical and heavy-duty outdoor use | 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton Ripstop | — | Multi-purpose cargo pockets | Amazon |
Detailed Reviews
1. SEVEGO Womens Hiking Pants
Our pick — 4.5+★ from 700+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
Four tall inseam options and real drawstring cuffs make this the pick tall hikers keep repurchasing.
Most women’s hiking pants top out at a 31″ or 32″ inseam, which means tall frames end up with ankle-flashing hems. SEVEGO fixes that by offering 30″, 32″, 34″, and 36″ inseams in the same pant. That is 34″ versus the Wrangler men’s 29″ — a 17% longer leg option for anybody who has struggled to find a proper fit. The nylon-blend fabric is lightweight and water resistant, so a light drizzle or dewy morning brush rolls right off. Owners rate fit highest of any trait, with the 30″–36″ inseam range a close second.
Drawstring cuffs are on the outside of the lower calf and cinch to create a capri look — a smart way to convert full-length pants into something cooler for warm-weather hiking. The four zippered pockets hold their contents against jostling, and the fabric is machine washable and easy to care for. At 4.5+ stars across 700+ ratings, this is the crowd favorite in its tier. The strongest verified owner report: “6ft, 35″ inseam; 34″ perfect, 36″ also good. Lightweight, neat. Color/quality hold up 3yrs, looks new.”
The honest catch is the drawstring placement. It sits on the outside of the ankle, so it dangles and can catch on brush or snag on low branches when you are moving fast. A 3-star review also notes that the inseam needed another inch or two for the very tallest women, so if you are over 6ft with legs to match, consider the 36″ option seriously. And a 5-star owner mentions the waistband can rub when you get sweaty — a small note, but worth knowing for hot-weather hikes.
What buyers rave about
- Four tall inseam lengths (30″ to 36″) solve the ankle-gap problem that plagues most women’s hiking pants
- Water-resistant nylon-blend fabric sheds light rain and morning dew
- Four zippered pockets keep phone and keys from bouncing loose on the trail
- Cinchable cuffs convert them into capri-length for warmer days
- Machine washable and wrinkle-resistant for travel
The honest trade-offs
- Drawstring toggle sits on the outside of the ankle and can catch on brush
- Waistband reportedly rubs when you sweat heavily
- Tallest customers over 6ft may still need the 36″ option for full ankle coverage
Reach for this if: you are 5’8″ or taller and have been burned by ankle-flashing hems — the 34″ and 36″ options are the whole reason this pick wins.
Look elsewhere if: you keep a fast pace through dense brush and a dangling ankle toggle would annoy you — the MoFiz capris have a cleaner cuff.
2. MoFiz Women’s Cargo Capris
Capri length and moisture-wicking fabric that dries in minutes — the pant for humid summers.
When Florida heat and humidity roll in, full-length pants feel like a punishment. These MoFiz capris are cut above the ankle, run lightweight, and use a moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you cool in humid heat and dries in minutes. The waistband is elastic with an adjustable rope lock (a small cinch clasp that lets you tighten the waist on the fly), so you can dial the fit without a belt. On the women’s tier, this one holds 4.0+ out of 5 stars while the SEVEGO tall pants sit at 4.5+ out of 5 — a small but real gap that reflects the MoFiz’s known sizing quirks.
Quality is what owners rate highest, followed closely by fit. The material holds up through repeated wash-and-wear cycles — one verified buyer notes colors stayed like new after two summers. Pockets are generous and functional: two side zipper pockets for security plus two button pockets for quick access. As the review pages put it: “Lightweight, soft capris; wash/dry without shrinking. XL fits perfectly.” Also handy: the drawstring waist keeps them up during yard work, and they pack down small enough for one-bag travel.
The recurring gripe is sizing. Some buyers report these run small, especially for curvy hips and thighs — sizing up is wise if in doubt. The waistband elastic has limited stretch, and the loose leg bottoms plus long pull ties can look baggy on a slimmer frame. Fabric and sizing both show up as mixed in owner feedback, so this is not a universal yes. For summer hiking, dog walks in hot climates, and one-bag travel, the capri cut and quick-dry fabric are the whole point.
What wins people over: that moisture-wicking capri fabric is genuinely cool in humid heat and dries in minutes — ideal for hot, sticky climates where long pants are unbearable.
The sizing reality: a good number of buyers suggest sizing up, and the elastic waistband does not stretch far — try the next size if you have curvy hips or thighs.
Best for: hot-climate walkers and summer hikers who want a lightweight capri with pockets deep enough for a phone and keys.
Skip if: you are looking for a hip-hugging cut — these run loose in the leg and baggy pull ties are part of the style.
3. Wrangler Men’s Relaxed Fit Stretch Cargo Pant
38,500+ owners and a lightweight twill that stays cool — the reliable work pant you can dress up.
When you have been buying the same work pant for a decade, you do not want innovation — you want consistency. Wrangler’s relaxed-fit stretch cargo pant sits at the natural waist, runs relaxed through the seat and thigh, and uses a stretch twill that moves with you whether you are hauling brush or running errands. The 29″ inseam fits taller frames through the leg without riding up, and the lightweight fabric is comfortable in hot weather. It holds 4.5+ out of 5 stars and leads the field on owner volume — a 119-to-1 report count compared to the MOURCE men’s pants at 325.
Six pockets round out the layout: two cargo side pockets, two back patch pockets, and two slash pockets. The phone pocket gets called out specifically, and owners say the pockets are well-sized and true to their measurements. Recommended for everyone from carpenters to weekend yard workers. The strongest endorsement of durability: multiple buyers describe wearing the same pair for ten years before replacing it, and one notes knees that have not torn or worn through repeated use.
The one knock worth mentioning: the fabric is lightweight and not especially tough against thorns or briars, so if you regularly push through heavy brush, this pair will show wear sooner than a ripstop tactical pant. It is also a non-elastic waistband, so you need a belt if you prefer a snug fit — one owner sized down from 36 to 34 with a belt after losing weight. That range — worksite to casual dinner — is why it holds 4.5+ stars across 38,500+ ratings.
The value read: 4.5+ stars and an enormous owner base mean replacement parts, sizing feedback, and real-world durability stories are everywhere — you are buying into a proven design.
Where it stops: lightweight twill is not a briar-buster — if you push through brush regularly, choose the CQR ripstop instead.
Go here for: a versatile everyday cargo pant that handles light work, weekends, and casual wear in one pair.
Choose differently if: you want a drawstring or elastic waist — this one keeps the classic belt-loop construction.
4. MOURCE Hiking Pants Men
Seven pockets, a 6.9″ phone slot, and fabric that recovers in 30–60 minutes — built for one-bag travel.
If you hate carrying a daypack, the MOURCE’s seven functional pockets are the selling point. The deep zippered cargo pockets fit a 6.9″ phone securely, so you can leave the bag at base camp. The fabric is a mix of 88% Nylon and 12% Spandex in a 4-way stretch (it stretches both across and lengthwise), which means no binding when you kneel, climb, or step over obstacles. The elastic waistband adds extra flexibility on top of the fabric stretch, and quality is the aspect owners rate highest, with fit a close second.
Water resistance is realistic here — MOURCE positions these as shedding morning dew and light rain, not a sustained downpour. For heavy multi-day trekking in the rain, the brand itself suggests layering a rain shell pant over them. The quick-dry fabric recovers in 30–60 minutes on the trail or overnight at the hotel sink, which is exactly the kind of performance one-bag travelers need when laundry access is limited. Use cases span fishing, camping, trekking, travel, golf, yard work, and casual wear.
The honest limitation is thigh-pocket chafing. One owner reports that carrying a phone in the thigh pocket caused the inner seam to rub a quarter-sized patch of skin off the knee over a long day. The zipper hardware is also a mixed bag — a few owners mention the cargo pocket zippers failing after extended use, and one reviewer notes fabric snagging after a few days of hard wear. For casual and moderate use, the 4-way stretch and seven-pocket layout are what owners rate highest. Buyers also note the included belt is more of a bonus than a highlight.
Why it stands out
- 7 functional pockets, including deep zippered cargo pockets that hold a 6.9″ phone
- 88% Nylon and 12% Spandex 4-way stretch keeps movement unrestricted
- Quick-dry fabric recovers in 30–60 minutes on the trail or overnight
- Elastic waistband supports active movement all day
- Water resistant against dew and light rain
What to watch
- Thigh-pocket phone carry caused inner seam chafing for one long-distance hiker
- Cargo pocket zippers have failed for a minority of extended-use buyers
- Included belt is functional but not a standout
- Not a rain pant — sustained downpour needs a shell layer
The pick for: travelers and anglers who want everything on their person and do not want to carry a bag.
Think twice if: you will wear a phone in the thigh cargo pocket for ten-hour days — move it to the zippered hip instead.
5. Men’s Cargo Work Hiking Pants
Cool through 40-to-80 degree swings, quick-drying, and roomy enough to squat in without adjustment.
If you work outdoors in warm, humid conditions, these pants hit a balance. They are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, and customers note they handle 40-to-80 degree temperature swings comfortably. Ample secure pockets with zippers keep tools and valuables in place, and the fabric has enough stretch in both the waistband and the body to move through squatting, kneeling, and crouching without needing to adjust. Sizing runs a touch small, so do not assume your usual waist will fit — buyers recommend going up one size, and one owner sized all the way up from a medium 32″ to a large.
The regular-slim fit tapers at the hem (narrowing toward the ankle), which gives them a cleaner look than a flat-bottom cargo pant — but if you have thick legs, size up two sizes. The fabric is a soft nylon that moves well in squatting and walking, and the roomy pockets accommodate the on-trailer essentials nicely. An included belt comes in handy, though several owners mention the belt itself is not much of a highlight and the small belt loops make it awkward to thread. Durable, well-made construction is what owners appreciate most.
The most common complaint is pocket depth. A large Android phone may not sit deeply enough to stay fully secure in the front pockets — if your phone is a very large model, check the dimensions of your device first. A minority report stitching that failed right out of the package, so it is worth inspecting on arrival. And note: dense brush will wear through the lightweight fabric faster than a ripstop would, so this is better on trail than in thick undergrowth.
The broad range: owners say these handle temperature swings from 40 to 80 degrees comfortably, making them a smart cross-season work pant for warm-climate outdoor laborers.
Sizing heads-up: they run about a size small — order one size up, and if you have thicker legs, consider two sizes up for a comfortable squat.
Suited to: outdoor workers and anglers in warm humid climates who want quick-drying, breathable, lightweight coverage.
Not your pair if: you need front pocket depth for a very large phone or regularly push through briars — the fabric is light, and the pockets are shallower than some carry demands require.
6. Mens Hiking Pants
Waterproof nylon, six pockets, and an elastic waist that owners call their new favorite work pants.
Waterproof nylon stretch is the story here — not just water resistant, but built for sustained wet conditions. The fabric uses nylon for durability and a stretch element for moveability, and the elastic waistband adds comfort without a belt. Six pockets hold the daily carry: phone, keys, wallet, tools. Owners consistently describe these as their new favorite work pants, with quality rated highest and comfort close behind. They are lightweight for warm weather and versatile enough for travel and outdoor activities as well as job sites.
Fit runs true and the elastic waist earns praise for comfort during long days. Pockets feature zippers for security. The 4.0+ out of 5 stars and 800+ ratings show a solid, if slightly less proven, track record than the Wrangler’s enormous following. The build is reviewed as a great buy for the price, and owners point to good pockets and light weight as the practical highlights. The 6-pocket layout is generous for travel days when you want one pair to do everything.
The caveat is zipper quality, which shows up as mixed in owner feedback — a subset report zipper issues that render specific pockets unusable. That is not a universal problem, but it is worth inspecting the zippers on arrival. Waterproof nylon also tends to feel less breathable than a lighter quick-dry weave in extreme heat, so if breathability is your top priority in a humid summer, the MOURCE or the work hiking pants above may feel cooler. If you want waterproof coverage without a belt, the elastic waist and six zippered pockets are the draw.
Where it shines: the waterproof nylon build and belt-free elastic waist make these a serious everyday carry pant for work, travel, and wet-condition outdoor days.
The zipper question: zipper quality is mixed in owner feedback — a minority report pocket zippers failing, so check them from the start.
Made for: anyone who wants true waterproof coverage and a belt-free waist for work, travel, or outdoor days.
Better elsewhere if: you prioritize maximum breathability in humid heat or want zero zipper risk — a lightweight quick-dry weave serves you better.
7. CQR Men’s Tactical Pants
Ripstop fabric and a reinforced button-and-zipper closure — built for tactical and rough-terrain duty.
When you need pants that survive thick undergrowth, the CQR tactical pants are the durability play. The fabric is 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton in a ripstop weave — a grid-reinforced construction designed to stop small tears from spreading — and it is water resistant, stain resistant, and breathable. A side elastic waistband makes for a secure fit that keeps up with active movement, and the metal alloy button-and-zipper closure is reinforced with a durable mounted stopper for a high-strength hold. The 4.0+ out of 5 stars across 1,200+ ratings reflects a track record that holds up.
Quality is the aspect owners rate highest here, with fit a strong second and durability third. The multi-purpose cargo pockets are designed for tools and equipment so you do not have to hold things in your hands, and owners describe these as suitable for full-day daily wear. Weather resistance covers the basics well — water beading off and stains coming out — and the blend feels wrinkle-free and comfortable straight out of the wash. If you want one pant for job-site duty and rough-trail hiking, the ripstop weave and reinforced closure are the reason to choose this one.
Two things to know going in. First, the fabric blend includes cotton, so it does not dry as fast as pure nylon in a downpour — for sustained rain, a rain shell layer is still smart. Second, pocket layout and value both show as mixed in owner feedback, meaning the cargo pocket arrangement is not universally loved, and some buyers feel they get more for their money elsewhere. Neither is a dealbreaker for the tactical use case, but they are the honest caveats.
The durability case: ripstop fabric and a metal alloy button-and-zipper closure are built for abuse — this is the pant for rough terrain, tactical training, and heavy-tool EDC carry.
Caveat worth knowing: the 35% cotton content means slower drying than a pure nylon pant — pack a rain shell for sustained downpours.
Top choice for: tactical training, rough-terrain hiking, and heavy-tool carry where durability outranks packability.
Look at the waterproof nylon pick instead if: fast drying in downpours matters more than ripstop tear resistance to you.
Know the Specs
Water resistant vs waterproof
These two terms are not interchangeable, and the difference matters on the trail. Water resistant means the fabric sheds light rain, morning dew, and brief splashes — the moisture rolls off before soaking in. Waterproof means the fabric is engineered to keep water out even under sustained pressure. The MOURCE men’s pants and the SEVEGO women’s pants are water resistant — the brands themselves say to add a rain shell layer for heavy, sustained downpours. The waterproof nylon tactical pants go further and handle sustained wet conditions without a shell. If you hike in wet climates, choosing waterproof or planning to layer accordingly is the safe play.
Ripstop vs plain weave nylon
Ripstop fabric is woven with a reinforcing grid — a network of thicker threads at intervals — that stops a small tear from spreading into a big one. That is why the CQR tactical pants, made from 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton ripstop, hold up in thick brush where a lighter nylon will snag and split. Plain nylon, like what you find on most lightweight hiking pants, is lighter and dries faster but is not built for abrasion against thorns or briars. If you mostly hike groomed trails and value light weight and quick drying, plain nylon is right. If you push through undergrowth, ripstop pays off.
Drawstring hems and adjustable waistbands
A drawstring hem is an adjustable cord at the ankle that cinches the pant leg closed — useful for keeping bugs and cold air out, and for converting long pants to a shorter, cooler cut on hot days. The SEVEGO pants use a drawstring at the lower calf that cinches to a capri look, while the MoFiz capris use an adjustable rope lock at the waist. Placement matters: a toggle that sits on the outside of the leg can dangle and catch, whereas an internal drawstring stays hidden. An elastic waistband with an internal drawstring keeps pants up during yard work without needing a belt — a real convenience for anyone who hates fussing with buckles.
Inseam length and how to get it right
Inseam is the distance from the crotch seam to the hem of the pant leg — the measurement that decides whether your ankles stay covered. It is the single most misunderstood number in pant shopping, which is why most people just guess and get it wrong. If you know your inseam, buy to it. If you do not, measure a pair that fits you well: the SEVEGO women’s pants offer 30″, 32″, 34″, and 36″ options in one design, a range that covers most of the tall market, while the Wrangler men’s pant uses a 29″ inseam and the work hiking pants fit a 31″ inseam. Get the inseam right and the rest of the pant — stretch, pockets, drying time — actually gets a chance to work for you.
Common Questions
What does “water resistant” actually mean on nylon cargo pants?
How do I pick the right inseam length for my height?
Are drawstring ankles better than elastic cuffs?
How many pockets do I really need in a pair of cargo pants?
Will nylon cargo pants shrink or fade after washing?
What fabric blend is best for hiking in hot weather?
Do these pants run true to size or should I size up?
Can I wear tactical cargo pants for everyday casual use?
What is ripstop fabric and why does it matter for cargo pants?
How long do quality nylon cargo pants typically last?
The Bottom Line
For most buyers, the black nylon cargo pants with drawstrings winner is the SEVEGO Women’s Hiking Pants because the 30″–36″ tall inseam range and the outside drawstring cuff solve the two biggest fit complaints tall hikers report — hem gap and dragging cuffs — for a 4.5+ star price that stays mid-range. If you want maximum pocket capacity and true one-bag-travel fabric, grab the MOURCE Men’s Hiking Pants with its 7 pockets and 88% Nylon, 12% Spandex blend. And for cold-weather or rough-terrain durability, the CQR Men’s Tactical Pants brings ripstop fabric and a metal-alloy button-and-zipper closure to the mix. Whichever pant matches your use case, the four fit fundamentals never change: know your inseam, check pocket depth against your phone, size up when the fabric has a mixed stretch reputation, and inspect the zippers from the start.
How we choose
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of October 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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