Molecule Pants

Which Molecule Cargo Pants Should You Choose?

Start with how you want your pants to fit and which fabric you prefer. The range includes very roomy styles, straight regular cuts and pants that sit closer to the body. Here you can compare the main differences.

Want Wide Legs and Plenty of Room?

Comfy Combats have a very roomy fit with extra space around the seat, thighs and knees. The legs are wide without a pronounced taper. Eight pockets, including separate zipped pockets, provide storage for small everyday essentials.

Ankle Busters also have a baggy fit but offer less extra space around the crotch and knees than Comfy Combats. The legs fall almost straight. The model has eight pockets, a metal zip and detailing in the same colour as the fabric.

Both are made from heavyweight cotton with a stonewashed finish. Choose mainly according to how much room you want in the upper part of the pants.

Prefer a Classic, Straight Cut?

Stitched Combats have a regular fit, straight legs and extra leg length. They are worth considering if pants often come up short on you. Angled front pockets and cargo and rear pockets give them a simpler look. Check the actual leg measurements in the size guide.

Basic Combats are a relaxed unisex style with room around the hips and legs. An external waist drawcord and drawcord hems let you adjust the garment. Basic also offer a roomier alternative to the shaped women’s styles.

Lighter Fabric or Heavier Cotton?

Outdoor Lightweights are made from lightweight cotton ripstop. Their cut is straight and more streamlined than Molecule’s classic baggy pants, while still allowing room to move. Choose them when you prefer lighter fabric for warm days, travel or leisure.

Heavy Outdoors offer a related cargo look in heavyweight cotton with a stonewashed finish. There is room around the thighs and knees, while the legs narrow towards the ankles. Six pockets, knee panels and drawcord hems complete the model.

Heavy Outdoors sit closer to the body than Comfy Combats and Ankle Busters and can feel small for their labelled size. Compare the product measurements rather than choosing solely by your usual size.

Fitted at the Hips – How Do You Want the Legs to Fit?

Low Cut Combats have a low-rise waist and fit closely around the hips and thighs. The legs gradually widen towards the ankles for a subtle bootcut shape. Choose them if you prefer a low waist and a more shaped silhouette.

Riptail Combats follow the body around the waist, hips and seat but have straight, roomier legs. They suit you if you want a closer fit at the top without narrow legs throughout.

Both models run small. Pay particular attention to waist and hip measurements. The solid-colour versions are made from heavyweight cotton, while the Woodland versions use cotton ripstop.

Understand the Fabric Before You Choose

Heavy Duty cotton is the heavier fabric. It gives the pants a more substantial feel and a heavier drape. The stonewashed finish contributes to a worn-in look.

Cotton ripstop is lighter and recognisable by the small squares in its weave. Reinforcing threads help limit the spread of small tears. It is an option if you prefer lighter pants in warm weather.

Find the Right Size and Leg Length

Compare the measurements in the product’s size guide with a pair of pants you already find comfortable. Check the waist, room around the hips and thighs, and leg length.

Baggy describes the cut and does not automatically mean you should size down. A fitted model should still give you enough room to sit, bend your knees and move comfortably.

Several models have adjustable hems, so you can let the legs fall loosely or gather them around your ankles and footwear. Check the details on each product.

Washing and Care

Always follow the care label in your pants. Empty the pockets, close buttons and zips, and turn the pants inside out before washing. Wash with similar colours and follow the garment’s drying instructions.

Looking for a Shorter Style?

Explore our Molecule cargo shorts and 3/4-length shorts if you prefer shorter legs. You can also browse the full Molecule range and compare the models in our complete guide.