Why the Lakeside Cargo Shorts Might Be Your Next Trail Companion

When the weather finally tips toward spring, I find myself reaching for clothes that can handle a bit of sunshine without screaming “I’m a tourist.” The Lakeside Mens Shorts from Mountain Warehouse manage that balance in a surprisingly low‑key way. They’re not the flashiest thing in the rack, but they do a solid job of being the kind of gear you forget you’re wearing until you need it.

Fabric that sticks around

The fabric is a 100% durable twill cotton—think sturdy canvas that still feels like cotton. That twill weave gives the material a bit of give, so you can bend, squat, or sprint without the fabric pulling. Most people notice the texture right away; it’s not the slick polyester of a typical running short, but it holds up well against scrapes from branches or rocky paths.

Because it’s cotton, the shorts breathe better than a full‑synthetic alternative, which is nice during those early‑morning hikes when the sun is still shy. That said, they’re not a waterproof option, so you’ll want to avoid getting caught in a downpour without an extra layer.

Pocket party (six ways to smile)

Six pockets might sound like overkill, but they’re actually a subtle win. Two deep cargo pockets sit low on the hips, perfect for a water bottle or a compact map. The front right side hosts a slimmer pocket that slides a phone in just right—no wobble, no constant adjusting. A small hidden pocket inside one of the cargo slots is great for keys or cash.

• ✓ Plenty of room for essentials without bulging.
• ✓ Zippered rear pocket keeps valuables safe on bumpy trails.
• ✗ The extra seams can add a tiny bit of weight compared to ultra‑light shorts.

When they shine

If you’re planning a weekend of walking, light trail running, or setting up camp under a blue sky, these shorts fit the bill. The range of colors—from muted navy and khaki to a bold rust—means you can blend in or stand out, depending on your mood. And the sizing runs from 28 up to 48, so the fit is fairly inclusive.

Because the twill is sturdy, the shorts survive a tumble over a rock or an accidental brush with a low branch. I didn’t expect them to hold their shape after a full day of hiking, but the waistband stayed snug without needing a belt.

A couple of things to keep in mind

They’re not the go‑to for high‑intensity heat. On a scorching summer afternoon, the cotton can feel a bit warm, especially if you’re pushing hard on a steep climb. If you’re looking for ultra‑lightweight, low‑profile performance gear for marathon‑style runs, you might want something with more synthetic blend.

How they stack up against the competition

Compared with the popular “TrailFlex” shorts from another outdoor brand, the Lakeside version is a bit heavier but offers more pockets (TrailFlex caps at four). TrailFlex uses a nylon‑spandex mix that dries faster, which is a plus in wet conditions, but it can feel a little flimsy when you brush against thorny brush.

Bottom line

All in all, the Mountain Warehouse Lakeside cargo shorts feel like a reliable sidekick for anyone who spends weekends outdoors but doesn’t want to fuss with high‑tech apparel every time. They’re sturdy, pocket‑rich, and comfortable enough for a full day of activity.

• Pros: durable twill cotton, six functional pockets, wide size range, good color selection.
• Cons: not waterproof, can be warm in extreme heat, a bit heavier than ultra‑light alternatives.

If you value durability and practicality over ultra‑light performance, these shorts deserve a spot in your summer gear rotation. They might just become the “forgotten favorite” you reach for whenever the trail calls.