Men's Classic Fit Pleat Front Expandable Waistband Shorts - Cool 18

In this review of the Haggar Cool 18 pleat-front shorts, the bottom line is simple: these are a solid choice for men who want a dressier short that still handles warm-weather activity. The review finds the standout feature to be the COOL 18 fabric treatment, which combines wrinkle resistance, moisture wicking and reduced static so the shorts look neat after a long day. With an expandable waistband and a 9.5' inseam that hits above the knee, they balance comfort and a tailored appearance for casual work events or weekend outings.

Key Features

• COOL 18 fabric: Resists wrinkles, wicks moisture and reduces static so the shorts stay comfortable and presentable through a busy day.
• Classic fit: Relaxed through the hip and thigh to provide room for movement while still maintaining a neat pleat-front silhouette.
• Expandable waistband: Stretches up to 3 in for added comfort and a secure fit that adapts to changes in waist size.
• 9.5' inseam: Hits above the knee for a versatile length that works for casual lunches or slightly dressier summer events.
• Gabardine construction: Durable, smooth fabric with offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets and a roll hem for a refined finish.

Who It's For

These shorts are well suited for men who need a smarter short option for warm weather-think casual work settings, summer dates or family outings where a tidy appearance matters but full trousers are too hot. The expandable waistband and classic cut make them a good pick for men who value comfort and a little extra give at the waist.

Men seeking a very slim, modern short or athletic performance shorts with heavy stretch should look elsewhere; these are tailored toward everyday wear with a more traditional pleated look and moderate stretch rather than athletic compression or a fashion-forward slim leg.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• COOL 18 treatment keeps fabric looking fresh by resisting wrinkles and wicking moisture.
• Expandable waistband adds discreet comfort and allows up to 3 in of stretch through the waist.
• Durable gabardine and thoughtful pocket details let these shorts be dressed up or down easily.

Cons

• Sizing runs mixed for some shoppers, with reports that the usual size can come up a bit small.

Specifications

Collection	COOL 18
Fit	Classic fit (relaxed hip and thigh)
Waistband	Expandable waistband (stretches up to 3 in)
Inseam	9.5' inseam (above the knee)
Fabric	Gabardine with wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking finish
Design details	Pleat front, offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, roll hem

Our Verdict

These pleat-front shorts are a practical, value-minded choice for men who want a neater warm-weather option that still breathes and moves. Between the COOL 18 fabric and the expandable waistband, they deliver comfort and low-maintenance care, making them a smart buy for casual business or weekend wear for most shoppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shorts run true to size?
Many customers report mixed sizing, with some noting they run a bit small, so checking measurements or trying a size up is recommended.

Is the waistband comfortable for extended wear?
Yes; the expandable waistband stretches up to 3 in and provides secure, non-constricting comfort throughout the day.

Can these shorts be dressed up?
Yes; the gabardine fabric, pleat-front styling and welt back pockets let these shorts work for casual work events or dinner where a polished look is preferred.