Haggar Men's Cool 18 Pleat Front Expandable Waist Short

In this review the Haggar Men's Cool 18 Pleat Front Expandable Waist Short is examined for everyday wearers who want a neat, comfortable short with a forgiving waistband. The bottom line: this short is for men who need a smart-casual option that balances a classic pleated look with modern comfort. The single biggest reason to buy is the expandable waist design combined with Cool 18 gabardine fabric, which lets the short move with you while keeping a tidy, pleated front appearance suitable for warm-weather work or weekend outings.

Key Features

• Expandable waist: The adjustable waistband provides a little give after meals or during active days, reducing pressure at the waist for all-day comfort.
• Pleat-front styling: The traditional pleated front keeps a cleaner, dressier silhouette compared with flat-front shorts while allowing room through the hip.
• Cool 18 fabric: The gabardine weave is designed to breathe and drape well, making the shorts feel cooler in warm weather than heavier cotton blends.
• Solid color: A plain, solid finish makes these shorts versatile for pairing with polos, short-sleeve shirts, or casual blazers.
• Durable construction: The gabardine fabric and reinforced seams are built to withstand frequent wear and routine washing without losing shape.

Who It's For

These shorts are best for men who prefer a slightly more formal short than athletic or cargo styles: think office-casual summer days, golf, or outings where a neat appearance matters. The expandable waist makes them a practical choice for anyone who wants comfort without switching to an elastic-only short.

Those who want ultra-casual shorts with stretch-knit fabric, very short inseams, or bold patterns should look elsewhere; this model emphasizes a classic, pleated gabardine look and a modest, standard short length rather than athletic performance features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable expandable waist that gives extra room when needed.
• Smart pleat-front styling suitable for casual dress or business-casual settings.
• Breathable gabardine Cool 18 fabric that hangs well in warm weather.

Cons

• Not as stretchy as performance knit shorts, so it may feel less flexible during vigorous activity.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Haggar Cool 18 Pleat Front Expandable Waist Short is a solid value for men who want a tidy, comfortable short for warm-weather smart-casual use. Its expandable waist and gabardine fabric deliver practical comfort without sacrificing a neat appearance, making it a good buy for office-casual days and weekend events where polish and comfort matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the waistband elastic?
The waistband is expandable, providing extra give rather than being a full elastic band.

Are these shorts suitable for golf?
Yes, the smart look and comfortable fit make them a suitable option for casual golf rounds.

Do they run true to size?
The expandable waist helps accommodate small size fluctuations, but customers should choose their normal waist size for best fit.