Haggar Men's Cool 18 Classic Fit Pleat Front Expandable Waistband away

In this review of the Haggar Men's Cool 18 Classic Fit pleat-front short, the bottom line is simple: these are dependable, comfortable dress-casual shorts for men who want classic styling with modern fabric performance. The standout reason to buy is the COOL 18 treatment paired with an expandable waistband, which delivers wrinkle resistance, moisture wicking and a bit of give at the waist so the shorts stay comfortable all day without looking sloppy.

Key Features

• COOL 18 fabric: Provides wrinkle resistance and static control so the shorts keep a neat appearance after sitting or moving around.
• Moisture wicking: The material draws sweat away from the skin to help you stay dry during warm weather or light activity.
• Expandable waistband: The waistband stretches up to 3 in for comfortable wear through meals or long days without needing a belt adjustment.
• Pleat-front styling: Classic pleated front and gabardine fabric let these shorts be dressed up with a polo or worn casually with a tee.
• Functional pockets: Offseam front pockets and single welt back pockets provide practical storage while maintaining a clean silhouette.
• Above-knee length: The 9.5in inseam hits above the knee for a balanced, traditional short length that works for many occasions.

Who It's For

These shorts are best for men who prefer a classic, slightly relaxed fit and want fabric that resists wrinkles and wicks moisture. They suit weekend family outings, casual work events, and warm-weather date nights where a neat, put-together look matters without sacrificing comfort.

Men seeking a modern slim look or those who want a very short inseam should look elsewhere, and shoppers who need performance-specific activewear with high-stretch four-way fabrics may find these less suitable. Also note sizing feedback is mixed, so consider trying your usual size and be prepared to size up if you prefer a roomier fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable expandable waistband that allows up to 3 in of stretch for all-day comfort.
• COOL 18 treatment keeps fabric looking fresh by resisting wrinkles and static.
• Sturdy gabardine fabric that can be dressed up or down and holds shape after washing.
• Practical 9.5in inseam and discreet pocket design for versatile wear.

Cons

• Sizing runs mixed for some customers, with reports that usual sizes can come up small.
• Not intended as high-performance athletic shorts if maximum stretch or sports-specific features are required.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Haggar Cool 18 pleat-front short is a solid choice for men wanting classic styling with practical performance: wrinkle resistance, moisture wicking and an expandable waistband add real day-to-day comfort. It represents good value for anyone who dresses casually but wants a polished look, though shoppers should watch sizing and consider trying their normal size first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts true to size?
Many customers find the fit comfortable but some report the usual size runs a bit small, so consider sizing up if you prefer extra room.

Will these shorts wash and dry well?
The gabardine with COOL 18 treatment holds up well in regular washing and is described by users as easy to wash and quick to dry without excessive wrinkling.

Can these be dressed up?
Yes, the pleat-front design and clean gabardine fabric allow these shorts to be paired with a polo or button shirt for a neat casual or smart-casual look.