Nigel Cabourn, with his passion for vintage military style, has a particular style of cargo pants that represents his vision. They are called "ARMY CARGO PANTS." This classic model has been popular for many years, since the brand first arrived in Japan. At first glance, they may look like ordinary military pants, but they are packed with a variety of unique features. Let's take a closer look at them.
Details that embody true functional beauty and contribute to everyday use.
The reason why people are attracted to military wear is because it is equipped with refined and genuine functionality. Even without mentioning examples such as flight jackets and duffle coats, military wear embodies the functional beauty that is generally said to be "form dictated by function."
Cargo pants are also a type of military wear that has this kind of functional beauty. As you'll see when you try them on, cargo pants are a truly "convenient" item, especially because they are designed specifically for carrying personal belongings while walking.
Cargo pants have a variety of functional beauties.
Top right: Two darts accommodate a wide range of knee joint movement when walking, sitting, and squatting. Top left: Equipped with tucks designed to increase capacity while remaining compact when empty. The tucks are folded toward the back to prevent them from getting caught on obstacles when moving forward. A cord is also attached to secure the contents in place. Bottom right: The drawcord for easy hem adjustment is also effective when worn with a cinched style. Bottom left: Suspender buttons remain on the front and back, allowing for a belt-less look with suspenders.
This classic model, the "ARMY CARGO PANTS," is no exception to being functional. Based on the US military's "M-51" cargo pants, a classic that will be familiar to military fans, it has evolved into a model that specialises in functionality and design by changing some details.
First, let's look at the details that embody the functionality inherited from the M-51. The two large cargo pockets that are characteristic of these pants are set on the thighs, allowing for easy movement and allowing for a larger surface area so as not to interfere with lower leg movement. The cotton tape inside the cargo pockets can be wrapped around the thighs to secure the contents in place.
Additionally, suspender buttons and drawcords are details that ensure mobility when worn, but by retaining these, they can also be used to adapt modern styles.
The front pockets, borrowed from British military cargo pants, are an iconic detail of the "ARMY CARGO PANTS."
What makes these cargo pants different from the base model M-51, is the vertical pocket on the right front, borrowed from British military cargo pants. It's a unique design that's different from the M-51, and it's also functional in that it can be used to store long, thin items.
I'd like to add a note about the effect that the darts have on the silhouette. The two darts in the knees are a functional detail added to allow for knee mobility, and when standing, they cause the knees to protrude forward, creating a "loose knee" look, which can be unaesthetic depending on how you look at it. However, when you consider that the M-51 originates from the rationalistic US military, you may find it easier to grow fond of it.
The high functionality of these authentic cargo pants also makes them useful as a modern fashion item, proving that military details are still very much alive today.
The more you wear them, the more the texture of the cotton satin develops..
On the left is a brand new cotton satin. It has a glossy finish. On the right is a staff member's personal item that has been worn for eight years. It has creases here and there, giving it a soft texture. The degree of wear also adds to its charm.
Along with the details, the fabric is also something that our ARMY CARGO PANTS have paid particular attention to.
This too shows Nigel Cabourn's style, which is in line with the logical functionality of vintage military wear.
The fabric used is a type of plain weave known as back satin. Unlike the base M-51, warp yarn is a slightly irregular weave, with a 36 count double yarn and a 24 count double yarn weft yarn, giving it a unique texture reminiscent of vintage fabrics from the 1940s and 1950s.
The pair on the left is a new item currently on sale. The pair on the right is a staff member's personal item that has been worn for eight years. While retaining its green hue, it has "grown" into an exquisite colour. The classic straight silhouette also gives it timeless appeal.
The appeal of this fabric, which is irresistible to vintage lovers as it "develops a unique character the more you wear it," is made possible by this attention to detail.
On the other hand, Nigel Cabourn's love for vintage items can also be seen in his choice of dyes, which take into account changes that will occur over time.
The threne dye used has the feature of becoming fixed to the fibre as oxidation progresses. In other words, the longer it lasts, the more it will adhere to the fibre. Another nice feature is that, unlike reactive dyes, it is less susceptible to the effects of rain and sweat, so it is less likely to turn red or yellow.
In other words, it is a choice that allows the colour to settle and fade over time.
The appearance of tears and frays is one of the joys of aging. Repairing and "nurturing" this fabric is also one of the joys of this fabric.
Available in multiple sizes and a versatile silhouette for both men and women.
The more you wear them, the more they develop their own character. The wide range of sizes available means they can be styled in a variety of ways. Another appealing feature is their "high degree of freedom."
The unisex design comes in six sizes, from 26 to 40, in two-inch increments, so you can choose the one that best suits the style you want to express.
For example, you can have fun by wearing one 30-inch pair for a snug fit and one 34-inch pair for a looser fit.
As you can see, the silhouette is a classic design that is highly versatile.
The simple, straight leg silhouette goes well with a wide range of footwear, from boots to sneakers. If you're concerned about the length, you can adjust it by rolling up the pants.
Also, to ensure that both men and women can enjoy the style, we recommend taking a look at the styling examples of our staff, as shown here.
Right: A black belt accents the long shirt. Middle: A set-up look with a green top. The white accents add a refreshing touch. Left: A classic style paired with a classic chambray shirt. For those who love simplicity.
ARMY CARGO PANTS Regular price ¥38,500 (tax included)
Item No. 80500050012
Colour：GREEN, KHAKI
https://cabourn.jp/products/80500050012
In addition to the green colour that is overwhelmingly popular among military enthusiasts, a khaki colour variation is also available in the same sizes. Like the green colour, it is versatile and can be easily matched with a variety of styles.
With "genuine details with functionality," "fabric that changes over time," and "a wide range of sizes," the "ARMY CARGO PANTS" are attractive enough to be loved for a long time.
If you're feeling the urge to get a pair, now is the time to buy. This means you'll be able to spend a lot more time with them. Carefully consider the colour and size, this is a piece you'll want to add to your wardrobe right away.
Photo by Yasuyuki Suzuki. Composition and text by Masashi Takamura.
