The best khaki pants—or as they’re also known, chinos—are a menswear staple: a dressier yet equally versatile sibling to jeans with breathable, comfortable cotton or twill fabric. But despite their prevalence, it’s surprisingly easy to get khakis wrong—whether it’s an ill-fitting silhouette, shiny synthetic materials, or an outdated country club vibe.
But when done right, khakis are effortlessly cool, both in style and function. Like many menswear classics, they trace their roots to the military. And while khakis are generally more breathable than jeans, they bring a sturdy utilitarian heft that can handle everyday wear and tear. If they were tough enough for D-Day, they’ll easily survive your daily routine.
Conventional khakis lean dressier, appropriate for business casual occasions, while performance chinos add stretch for extra comfort. (“Khaki,” by the way, refers to the familiar dusty-brown color and the type of pant, which can be any color.) But the best khakis retain some of their original DNA—a blend of heritage and durability—while still feeling cool, contemporary, and wearable. When shopping for khakis, cotton is key—it’s the hallmark of an authentic, well-made pair. Versatile by nature, khakis can be dressed up with a collared shirt and blazer or dressed down with a sweater and sneakers. They shouldn’t be ultra-skinny, but rather anywhere from tailored to relaxed, depending on your preference and body type.
Our pick for the overall best khaki pant is Octobre Editions Tom Chino, but with so many brands turning out great khaki pants, there’s something for every situation, and every man, here.
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Best Khaki Pants at a Glance
- Best Overall Khaki Pant: Octobre Editions Tom Chino
- Most Comfortable Stretch Khaki Pants: Dockers Ultimate Chinos
- Best Everyday Khaki Pant: Taylor Stitch The Slim Foundation Pant
Best Khaki Pants for Men in 2024
Best Overall Khaki Pant: Octobre Editions Tom Chino
Courtesy Image
Octobre Editions is an in-the-know brand that delivers stylish, high-quality menswear essentials with a touch of Parisian flair (while still feeling immensely wearable for the every-guy). Octobre Editions Tom Chino checks all the khaki boxes. It’s versatile enough to dress up or down, and the fit is impeccable—a tailored, slightly tapered cut that flatters almost any body type. The 280g cotton is substantial yet incredibly comfortable, thanks to its smooth, brushed finish that feels almost like moleskin. A touch of elastane (2%) adds stretch for easy movement, and authentic details like two back welt pockets, two front slide pockets, and an inside hook-and-button closure are designed to spec. The rich color options—beige, navy, and rust—are ideal for the cooler fall months, so stock up now.
Best Tailored Khaki Pants: Banana Republic Slim Italian Stretch Chino
Courtesy Image
What immediately stands out about these new khakis from Banana Republic, a stalwart in the khaki game, is their elegance and sleek, streamlined silhouette. Banana Republic Slim Italian Stretch Chino pants aren’t your typical khakis—they offer a more tailored and polished look, perfect for office-casual settings or even dressier occasions like date nights. And it’s not just about looks—crafted from Italian-woven cotton twill, they deliver both durability and texture, with just the right amount of stretch for all-day comfort, even at formal events. Opt for the polished, darker hues here—navy, black, or charcoal.
Most Versatile Khaki Pant: Flint and Tinder 365 Chino Pant
Courtesy Image
Since launching in 2020, Flint and Tinder has made consistent improvements to its fan-favorite 365 pants and, this season, they’ve reached their best version yet. Flint and Tinder 365 Chino Pant has a heritage yet modern look with a faint nod to authenticity thanks to its inherent texture and durability. Made of cotton with a touch of stretch for performance, these pants are suitable for almost any occasion and can be dressed up with an Oxford shirt or down with a cable-knit sweater. The garment-dyed process provides a lived-in texture. While skinny fits are available, the straight leg is the most versatile for varying body types.
Most Comfortable Stretch Khaki Pants: Dockers Ultimate Chinos
Courtesy Image
Narrowing it down to just one pair of khakis from Dockers wasn’t easy—they could’ve easily topped several categories—but Dockers Ultimate Chinos truly shine. While too much stretch can compromise a khaki’s authenticity and natural feel, Dockers Smart 360 Flex fabric strikes the perfect balance of form and function. These straight-leg khakis are tailored yet relaxed, and with four-way stretch—both vertically and horizontally—they offer maximum flexibility and movement. They won’t sag, and an elastic waistband will adjust throughout the day (even after lunch or Thanksgiving dinner). The best part? You’d never guess they’re stretch khakis, and that’s precisely the point.
Best Everyday Khaki Pant: Taylor Stitch The Slim Foundation Pant
Courtesy Image
The best everyday pair of khakis is one you can wear with almost any outfit and throw on easily—a cornerstone in any wardrobe. Taylor Stitch excels at creating such essentials, focusing on craftsmanship, design, and materials. The Slim Foundation Pant is made from 100-percent cotton and features a slim fit that gently tapers through the thigh, knee, and leg opening. Garment-dyed and washed for a vintage feel, these khakis have timeless appeal and can be easily styled for anything—from weekend strolls with a knit sweater and denim jacket to casual outings with a T-shirt and chore jacket.
Best Pleated Khaki Pants: J.Crew Classic Double-Pleated Chino Pant
Courtesy Image
The pleats revival is very much here, making them seem not so dated and more like an intermediate-level style swerve. While it takes confidence to pull off, the rewards are worth it, and J.Crew’s Classic Double-Pleated chinos are a great starting point. Inspired by 1940s military-issue khakis, these chinos are authentic yet modern. Made from 100-percent cotton, they offer plenty of room, thanks to those pleats. A relaxed yet tailored silhouette with a straight leg, ideal for cuffing, elevates the look even further. Pair them with Converse sneakers or lace-up Paraboot Derby shoes for an effortlessly on-trend vibe.
Best Vintage Fit Khaki Pants: Buck Mason Paperback Twill Full Saddle Chino
Courtesy Image
Buck Mason pays homage to menswear’s utilitarian and military roots, reinterpreting pieces in a forward-thinking, wearable way. The brand’s respect for a garment’s history shines through, and the Buck Mason Paperback Twill Full Saddle khakis are no exception—washed to replicate the look and feel of service uniforms. The stylish silhouette is in a works-anywhere straight-leg cut, reminiscent of a vintage khaki fit, and back pocket flaps add to the retro appeal. Made from durable 9.5 oz cotton twill, these khakis are built to last. If you’re after a stylishly vintage-inspired pair, they deserve a spot in your rotation.
Best Business Casual Khaki Pants: Charles Tyrwhitt Ultimate Non-Iron Chinos
Courtesy Image
If you work in an office or business environment, a sharp pair of chinos is essential, and Charles Tyrwhitt, known for its reliable and stylish tailored garments, delivers just that. These Charles Tyrwhitt Ultimate Non-Iron Chinos hit all the right business casual notes without venturing into corny territory, which can happen if the fit or color is off. Available in classic and slim fits, they have a tailored silhouette made from breathable mid-weight cotton with just a hint of stretch for mobility. They have a trademark non-iron finish, which keeps them wrinkle-free through even the busiest days. With a range of color options at accessible price points, stock up for casual Fridays, remote Mondays, and (if the office is a bit more lax) stress-packed Wednesdays alike.
Best Authentic Twill Khaki Pants: Bills Khakis M1 Relaxed Fit Original Twill Khaki Pants
Courtesy Image
For over 30 years, Bills Khakis has been synonymous with quality, earning a spot alongside icons like L.L. Bean, Filson, and Schott. The brand was born in 1984 out of the founder’s admiration for the durability and style of WWII-era military khakis. The Bill Khakis M1 Relaxed Fit Original Twill Khaki Pants, based on 1930s American military officer khakis, remain as relevant today as when they were first produced. Made from a sturdy 9.5 oz two-ply cotton twill, these khakis could well survive a lifetime, and you can feel the quality right when you put them on. Made in the USA, they are built for whatever seasonal adventures lie ahead.
Best Performance Khaki Pants: Bonobos The Chino 2.0
Courtesy Image
Performance khakis can sometimes lose what makes them unique by using synthetic fabrics that feel too crinkly or unnatural—basically, not cotton. Yet Bonobos has nailed it with its The Chino 2.0 pants. These keep the classic feel and fit while adding modern performance features. With a super-soft wash and four-way stretch for complete mobility, they resist wrinkles and wick moisture, making them as functional as they are comfortable. A discreet zip pocket on the side keeps your keys or valuables secure. While we wouldn’t recommend hitting the gym in these, they’re an excellent lifestyle pair with just the right amount of performance for your active days.
Best Garment-Dyed Khaki Pants: Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pant in Chino
Courtesy Image
Why garment-dyed? The process of garment dyeing gives khakis a soft, lived-in feel, a richer, more nuanced color, and a vintage look. It involves dyeing the pants after they’ve been cut and sewn instead of dyeing the fabric beforehand. Several other pairs on this list are also garment-dyed, but the Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pant in Chino hits the ideal mix of texture, softness, and authenticity. With subtle officer-style pleats for added roominess and a classic coin pocket flap, these chinos epitomize lived-in comfort and offer just a touch of military-inspired style.
Best Travel Khaki Pants: Duer Weightless Poplin AC Pant
Courtesy Image
These might be the least khaki-like pants on this list, but the Duer Weightless Poplin AC pants still retain all the classic chino hallmarks—silhouette, comfort, pocket placement, and a mostly cotton composition—reimagined for travel. At just 3.5 oz, they’re featherweight yet durable thanks to nylon, with a bit of elastane for stretch. The fabric naturally wicks moisture and regulates temperature—a blessing for unforeseeable on-the-go situations. Zippered pockets keep your essentials safe, while the elastic waistband and inner drawstring provide extra comfort. Though not ideal for the coldest days, they’re unbeatable for airport hustling.
Best (Very) Relaxed Fit Khaki Pants: Abercrombie & Fitch Baggy Chino
Courtesy Image
Most of the khakis on this list lean toward a tailored fit, but if you’re after a truly relaxed vibe—or want loose-fitting, certified-wide-leg khakis to lounge in—Abercrombie & Fitch’s new Baggy Chino is the way to go. While this oversized silhouette isn’t for everyone, it can be a style flex for the right person. To balance the volume, pair these chinos with a more fitted top, like a crewneck knit, cardigan, or denim jacket, for a stylish contrast. Made from 100% cotton twill, they’re durable, and the rich colorways add depth to the ample-and-then-some fit.
Best Khaki Pants for the “Khaki Head”: Save Khaki United All-American Chino
Courtesy Image
Save Khaki was the first brand that showed me how cool khaki pants could be. It still has that under-the-radar appeal, even though plenty of guys have discovered its authentic, no-nonsense silhouettes—think Steve McQueen, not Steve in HR. Save Khaki United All-American Chinos are made in collaboration with Imogene + Willie, a cult-favorite brand among denim enthusiasts, using durable 9-oz twill cotton from a textile mill operating in the U.S. for 175 years. These details matter for true khaki heads, who can be as passionate as selvage denim geeks.
Where Did Khaki Pants Originate?
As we mentioned above, khakis, like so many other storied menswear pieces, originally came to be via the miliary. In the mid-1800s, British soldiers in India dyed their cotton trousers to blend into the landscape and stay cool. While “khaki” refers to the dusty-brown color (from the Hindi word for “dust”), the trousers became known as chinos when they were standard issue for U.S. soldiers during the Spanish-American War, and remained a cornerstone of military wear through both World Wars. Today, “khaki” can refer to the color or the pant—which, somewhat confusingly, is not necessarily khaki in color—or both.
Related: 15 Best Corduroy Pants of 2024 That Are Effortlessly Cool
How We Selected the Best Khaki Pants
The world of khakis can overlap with other hybrid casual trousers, but for this guide, we stuck with classic khaki pants. The pants featured here mostly stay true to the OG khaki design with slanted side pockets and back welt pockets. Though we’ve included slight variations like pleats or performance fabrics, you won’t find cargo or field pants here—just good ol’ khakis in a range of colors like tan, beige, navy, black, hunter green, rust, and other handsome shades.
All of the khaki pants mentioned share a certain level of quality and are predominantly cotton, with a few incorporating stretch or performance fabrics. Each pair reigns supreme in its own category. For instance, the best tailored khakis offer a streamlined, sleek appearance perfect for a dressier look, while the most comfortable pair features merciful four-way stretch. Though style was a common thread in all selections, some key considerations come into play when choosing the best khaki pants.
What to Look for in the Best Khaki Pants
Fit
As with denim, the fit of chinos varies greatly depending on your preferences. Most of the khakis here feature a tailored or straight-leg fit—styles that stand the test of time. However, if you’re leaning into the heritage vibe, a wide-leg fit, like in khakis from Buck Mason or Abercrombie, is stylish and nods to the pants’ ’50s and ’60s era. Pleats can add a fashion-forward flex, but to avoid an ’80s used-car-salesman look, make sure the pleats are on well-fitted, well-cut khakis like those from Alex Mill or J.Crew. Ultimately, the fit should work with your body type and feel right to you. Slim or tailored fits offer a timeless look suitable for both casual and dressier occasions, while straight-leg fits provide a classic, heritage-inspired silhouette perfect for more relaxed settings. And don’t forget the waistband—it should sit comfortably at your natural waist, preventing sagging while flattering your build.
Color
Classic khaki or beige is versatile, easy to style, and always a safe bet. But for dressier occasions, navy, black, or dark gray chinos are an inherently more elegant look. Where khaki pants really stand out compared to jeans—and where they align with corduroy pants—is in their ability to embrace rich fall hues and jewel tones like olive, rust, or deep browns. During the summer, light blues or stone shades are ideal, but the heft and texture of mid- or heavier-weight fall khaki pants lend themselves to classic khaki, navy, brown, or autumnal jewel tones.
Fabric
As we’ve emphasized, cotton is the foundation of the best khaki pants. Heritage-inspired styles might be made from twill cotton, which is robust, durable, and structured. Many khakis include a bit of stretch—usually spandex or elastane—for added comfort and flexibility. Some blends may incorporate semi-synthetic or synthetic textiles, like lyocell or polyester, but cotton should always be the primary fabric. Additionally, the weight of the fabric should align with the season—lighter for summer and heavier for winter. Trust your instincts and the feel of the fabric.
Details
Khaki pants look best with a clean, minimal design—no unnecessary pockets or embellishments. Five-pocket styles are better left to jeans or more casual trousers. Classic chinos typically feature two slant side pockets and two back welt pockets, nodding to their heritage while keeping the look refined. Some styles include a button clasp and hook, with a waist tab for a polished touch. You can pair khakis with a belt for dress-casual or everyday outfits. However, well-fitting khakis can be worn beltless for a minimalist aesthetic.
Related: Our Top 14 Dress Shirts Pair As Well With Jeans As They Do With a Suit
Why You Should Trust Me
In addition to writing for Men’s Journal, I’ve covered topics spanning menswear, fragrances, watches, grooming, and styling for InsideHook, Robb Report, Esquire, and Men’s Health. I’ve worn or tested hundreds of khaki pants over the years, from the office to summer wedding season.
I’ve always tried to add a timeless element to whatever I write, because while trends are interesting and relevant to a degree, my heart has always been drawn to more perennial guidance and themes. My obsessive-compulsive tendencies are both a blessing and a curse, and while I often delve into researching items to the point of exhaustion, it’s this approach that often positions me as a go-to person for advice. Whether it’s about coats, colognes, turntable needles, or yes, khakis, people recognize that I’ve done the legwork (pun intended). I enjoy inspiring others to seek out their unique interests in things that might improve their lives.
Related: 19 Best Casual Shoes for Men to Look Sharp When Dressed Down