Haggar Cool 18 Pro Straight Fit Pleat Front Shorts - Stretch Comfort

Our review of the Haggar Cool 18 Pro Straight Fit Pleat Front Shorts finds them best for men who want a neat, classic short with modern performance features. These shorts combine a traditional pleated front and straight fit with technical fabric properties, so the single biggest reason to buy is the balance of dressed-up styling and everyday comfort thanks to 4-way stretch and moisture wicking construction that keeps you cool without sacrificing a refined look.

Key Features

• Cooling fabric: The Cool 18 Pro material uses Sorbtek polyester to wick moisture so the wearer stays dry and comfortable in warm conditions.
• Stretch mobility: Four-way stretch allows for unrestricted movement whether sitting, walking, or bending during daily activities.
• Expandable waistband: The waistband stretches up to 3 in for added comfort through meals or long days without feeling tight.
• Smart styling: A pleat front and 9.5 in inseam create a polished appearance that works for casual events or a summer date.
• Easy care: Machine washable polyester blend keeps laundering simple and the shorts ready to wear without special treatment.
• Functional pockets: Offseam front pockets and a single welt back pocket provide practical storage without disrupting the silhouette.

Who It's For

These shorts suit men who need a smarter short for warm-weather outings - think family gatherings, casual office settings with relaxed dress codes, or weekend dates. The straight fit that sits at or below the waist and the 9.5 in inseam give a conservative, comfortable look that reads as put-together without being formal.

Shoppers who want ultra-casual athletic shorts or technical hiking gear should look elsewhere, as these are styled as pleat-front, everyday wear rather than performance-specific bottoms. Those preferring lightweight natural fibers may also prefer cotton blends, since these are primarily polyester and Sorbtek fabric.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Moisture wicking Sorbtek blend keeps skin dry during warm weather.
• 4-way stretch and expandable waistband deliver comfort for long wear.
• Pleated front and straight fit present a neat, versatile appearance for many occasions.
• Machine washable construction makes upkeep simple and practical.

Cons

• Polyester-forward fabric may feel less breathable to those who prefer natural fibers.
• Styled as a classic pleat front, so it is not aimed at athletic or technical outdoor use.

Specifications

Material	50% polyester / 50% Sorbtek polyester
Collection	COOL 18 PRO
Fit	Straight fit, pleat front
Inseam	9.5 in
Waist	Expandable waistband (stretches up to 3 in)
Care	Machine wash
Closure	Zipper

Our Verdict

These shorts are a good value for men who want a neat, comfortable summer short with performance-minded fabric. The combination of moisture wicking Sorbtek, 4-way stretch, and an expandable waistband makes them a practical everyday choice that dresses up more easily than athletic shorts while remaining easy to care for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts machine washable?
Yes. The polyester/Sorbtek blend is machine washable for simple care.

How long is the inseam?
The inseam is 9.5 in, which hits just above the knee on most wearers.

Do these shorts stretch?
Yes. They feature 4-way stretch fabric and an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 in for added comfort.