The most comfortable men's pants for flying - with deep pockets

January 14, 2023 11:26 AM

Help me contribute to the downfall of American civilization by recommending the most comfortable, casual men's pants possible for flying. My top requirement is that they have deep pockets so that my phone, wallet, etc. don't pop out. Aesthetics really unimportant! Just looking for maximum comfort. Thanks, all!
posted by Conrad Cornelius o'Donald o'Dell to Clothing, Beauty, & Fashion (15 answers total)

I’m asking because I have weird taste in pants - what do you consider comfortable? Do you like tight-fitting pants with stretch? Because if so, my recommendations probably won’t work for you.
posted by kevinbelt at 11:35 AM on January 14, 2023

I don't know about Men's, but I have enjoyed my ScotteVest travel pants. Copious pockets and very comfortable.
posted by RedEmma at 11:51 AM on January 14, 2023 [1 favorite]

Duluth Trading cargo pants have stretch in them and offer ridiculous, accordion-lookin' pockets. They're marvelous for driving, too.
posted by wenestvedt at 12:06 PM on January 14, 2023

Seconding Scottevest. So comfortable, and actually look decent. I pretty much live in their "hidden cargo shorts" in the summer. Expensive, but they often have good sales.
posted by nixxon at 12:27 PM on January 14, 2023

Response by poster: Do you like tight-fitting pants with stretch?

I suppose some people might consider "tight-fitting" pants comfortable, but not me! I'd also add that my preference for these purposes leans toward no belt loops. I'd prefer an elastic-type waistband.
posted by Conrad Cornelius o'Donald o'Dell at 1:11 PM on January 14, 2023

Regarding the pockets, what if you paired comfortable pants with shirts that have pockets? When I fly I often put my documents and even wallet in a front shirt pocket so I’m not sitting on an awkward blob for long periods of time. It’ll open up your possible pants selection to straight-up sweats that will definitely be comfortable.
posted by migurski at 1:13 PM on January 14, 2023

Response by poster: Regarding the pockets, what if you paired comfortable pants with shirts that have pockets?

Nope, just looking for pants with good pockets!
posted by Conrad Cornelius o'Donald o'Dell at 1:15 PM on January 14, 2023

If cargo pants sound like a good idea, and shorter pants would be even more comfortable, why not cargo shorts?

Although taken to the logical conclusion, maybe one ends up flying in booty shorts and a fanny pack / tool belt.
posted by are-coral-made at 1:46 PM on January 14, 2023 [1 favorite]

These pants from fjallraven are my absolute favourite for several reason:

• large zippered pockets on each thigh - totally accessible sitting down
• lightweight so not sweaty and roll up and stow in a small bag nicely
• also, can hand wash in a sink and dries quickly
• integrated belt with plastic buckle

posted by mce at 2:57 PM on January 14, 2023

5.11 Tactical Pants
posted by Wild_Eep at 4:17 PM on January 14, 2023 [1 favorite]

I have found that jogger pants with zip pockets are incredibly comfy, and the zippered pockets make sure your wallet and passport don’t fall out. Also an elastic waistband. They used to sell them on Costco, but I recently flew in these.
posted by WedgedPiano at 4:41 PM on January 14, 2023

How much do you care that your pants are men's pants? Fresh Hot Flavors has comfy gender neutral joggers with elastic waistbands, deep pockets, and no belt loops. I haven't tried their joggers, just passing on the info. Their fabric isn't really made to last but I don't know if you care about that.
posted by spiderbeforesunset at 5:41 PM on January 14, 2023

Lululemon ABC pants. The pockets are so deep that I reached for my wallet and pulled out the arc of the covenant. Has a secret zip pocket in the rear right pocket, and the front right pocket has a divider big enough to stow a cellphone.
posted by krunk at 6:34 PM on January 14, 2023 [1 favorite]

Zubaz. Deep pockets, roomy and stretchy, and hey… you said aesthetics are unimportant so I figured I’d test that. Zubaz.
posted by entropone at 8:48 PM on January 14, 2023

I practically live in my three pairs of these Wrangler Men's Outdoor Stretch Zip Cargo Pants. The zippered thigh pockets (no Velcro, which is hateful and noisy) are on the sides so I find them easier to get to when something’s covering my lap, like a tray table or something. Comfy, marginally dressier than cotton cargoes, quick-drying. Love’em.
posted by conscious matter at 5:06 PM on January 15, 2023 [2 favorites]