Contents
- 1 What to consider before you buy chinos
- 2 How we chose the 10 best chinos
- 3 The 10 best chinos for men
- 3.1 1. Collars & Co CEO Classic Stretch Chinos
- 3.2 2. Banana Republic Slim Rapid Movement Chino
- 3.3 3. Asket The Regular Chino
- 3.4 L’Estrange
- 3.5 Luca Faloni
- 3.6 Wax London
- 3.7 ASKET
- 3.8 Uniqlo
- 3.9 J.Crew
- 3.10 GAP
- 3.11 COS
- 3.12 A Day’s March
- 3.13 Oliver Spencer
- 3.14 Polo Ralph Lauren
- 3.15 Incotex
- 3.16 Officine Générale
- 3.17 NN07
- 3.18 Rag & Bone
- 3.19 Alex Mill
- 4 How to style chinos
- 5 History of chinos
We break down everything you need to know about chinos, including what makes a great pair and the most stylish chino brands for men.
Chinos have evolved from their military roots into a modern must-have. They’re the unsung heroes of the wardrobe that bridge the gap between denim and dress pants.
But picking out the best chinos of 2025 is all about blending style with practicality. Whether you’re after slim fit chinos for a tailored look, athletic fit chinos for those gym-honed thighs, or the best stretch chinos for all-day comfort, there’s something here for every guy.
From budget-friendly picks, premium designer options, and everything in between, because who says you can’t look sharp without breaking the bank?
Jump to the 10 Best Mens Chinos.
What to consider before you buy chinos
Before you dive into the world of men’s chinos and get all trigger happy with that “add to cart” button, let’s break down the key factors that’ll ensure you’re strutting out in a pair that’s perfect for you.
Getting the fit right
This is the make-or-break moment for any pair of pants. The best chinos come in a range of cuts from slim, relaxed, or athletic and your choice should match your body type and personal swagger.
The best slim fit chinos strike that Goldilocks balance: they hug your legs just enough to show off your shape without cutting off circulation but for the big guys you might need a relaxed or athletic fit with extra room in the thighs and seat (because your quads deserve to breathe, not beg for mercy).
Choosing the fabric
Chinos are traditionally cotton-based, and for good reason as it’s breathable, soft, and looks effortlessly crisp when done right. But some of the latest men’s chinos of this year often mix in a little magic: think spandex or polyester blends for stretch and durability.
If you’re the type who’s always on the move (or just prone to the occasional lunge for the remote), stretch chinos are a game-changer offering flexibility without sacrificing that polished vibe. Weight matters too: lighter fabrics are great for summer, while mid-to-heavyweight options (like twill) hold up in cooler months.
Are they versatile?
The best chinos are like the Swiss Army knife of trousers, they should adapt to your life, not the other way around.
Need work chinos for a 9-to-5 grind? Look for a pair that plays nice with a blazer and tie, like a flat-front style in a muted navy or charcoal. More of a weekend warrior? Look for a relaxed fit and earthy tone (think olive or taupe) as they’re pair effortlessly with sneakers and a tee.
The real winners can do both: desk-to-dinner transitions without a wardrobe change.
How we chose the 10 best chinos
We didn’t just throw darts at a chino catalog (though that sounds fun). Our collective team of Men’s Flair editors (including myself) scored each pair of chinos against the key considerations of fit, fabric and versatility.
We also considered customer reviews, brand reputation, and how well each pair lived up to its promises. The result? A list of the best men’s chinos that’ll make you ditch your jeans, at least for a day or two.
The 10 best chinos for men
1. Collars & Co CEO Classic Stretch Chinos
Collars & Co CEO Chino Classic Pocket Cotton Stretch Pants Navy (Front)
Collars & Co CEO Chino Classic Pocket Cotton Stretch Pants Navy (Back)
Collars & Co CEO Chino Classic Pocket Cotton Stretch Pants Navy (Close-Up)
These stretch chinos from Collars & Co fuse a polished, professional edge with a comfort-driven twist. The deep navy shade is a timeless go-to, and the classic two-pocket design keeps the look streamlined and fuss-free.
Pros:
- Stretchy cotton blend
- Sleek classic fit
- Durable construction
The 97% cotton and 3% spandex blend offers noticeable stretch without compromising structure, the classic fit flatters most builds with a tailored yet comfy silhouette, and the construction holds up to repeated wear thanks to reinforced stitching.
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Slightly pricier than budget picks
Only available in a handful of colors (navy, khaki), limiting variety, and the price tag sits above budget options like Uniqlo or Gap, though we feel it’s justified by the quality.
Why We Liked Them:
They contour to your body like a second skin, ideal for sitting, standing, or the occasional stretch, while maintaining a boardroom-ready sharpness. As work chinos, they subtly flex to say, “I’m here to close deals, but I could also crush a quick workout.”
Best For:
Guys craving a do-it-all pant that balances versatility, comfort, and a premium feel for both work and play.
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Exceptional comfort and style, docked slightly for limited colors and higher cost, but reviews praise the fit and durability.
2. Banana Republic Slim Rapid Movement Chino
Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chino (Front)
Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chino (Back)
Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chino (Close-Up)
Banana Republic slim fit chinos are a high-street staple, lightweight for breathability, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to wear daily without overthinking it.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Soft Fabric
- Wide size range
Priced under $50 (£40), they’re a steal; the cotton-rich fabric feels soft against the skin; and sizes range from 28-44 waist with multiple inseams, accommodating diverse builds.
Cons:
- Can wrinkle
- Slim fit is snug for bigger legs
The lightweight material wrinkles if not ironed or hung properly, and the slim fit can feel restrictive through the thighs for those with larger legs.
Why We Liked Them:
They nail the casual-meets-put-together vibe, making them the best chinos for running errands or a low-key office day. Affordable enough to grab in multiple colors without guilt.
Best For:
Budget-conscious guys who want reliable style without sacrificing too much on quality or fit.
Our Rating: 4/5
Great value and versatility, but the wrinkle factor and snug thighs hold it back from perfection.
3. Asket The Regular Chino
Asket The Regular Chino (Front)
Asket The Regular Chino (Back)
Asket The Regular Chino (Close-Up)
Asket’s men’s chinos embody minimalist Scandinavian cool with a taupe cotton-satin weave that’s both sleek and substantial, a true wardrobe anchor.
Pros:
- Sustainable materials
- Crisp mid-weight fabric
- Timeless fit
Made from sustainable Italian cotton-satin with a mid-weight feel (300 gsm) that’s crisp yet comfy, the regular fit is timeless and flattering, and the brand’s ethical production adds feel-good points.
Cons:
- No stretch
- Higher price point
No stretch means less give for active wear, and the $145 (Approx £110) price is a step up from mass-market options.
Why We Liked Them:
They ooze understated premium quality without being loud about it, perfect as best chinos for guys who prioritize craftsmanship and longevity over fleeting trends.
Best For:
Eco-conscious dressers who crave a sharp, structured silhouette that lasts.
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Stellar quality and ethics, but lack of stretch and higher price temper the score; Asket’s praised for durability.
L’Estrange
The 24 Trouser Concrete
L’Estrange The 24 Trouser Beige
L’Estrange has stripped back the male wardrobe to a small selection of modular pieces that can be mixed and matched every day. The idea being that the less you buy, the better it is for the environment. A noble endeavour, sure, but what does this mean to you?
Well, its take on the chino is titled the ’24 Trouser’ because it’s designed to be worn all day long, no matter the occasion. Crafted using a custom-made cotton-blend fabric in partnership with an Italian mill, they are cut slim and feature a hidden drawstring waist for unparalleled comfort.
Relaxed yet sophisticated, they can be subbed in for your jeans as easily as they can your dress pants – making them perhaps the only chinos you’ll ever need. Mother Nature would approve.
Luca Faloni
Luca Faloni Cortina Cotton Chinos Camel Beige
Luca Faloni Cortina Cotton Chinos Navy Blue
An Italian direct-to-consumer brand, Luca Faloni is clearly proud of its heritage. Everything the label produces is ‘Made in Italy’, from the fabrics sourced from the country’s finest mills to the local artisans which craft each and every piece.
So, its chinos are as you would expect: superb. Made in northern Italy from a smooth premium cotton twill with 3% elastane for added comfort, they will adapt to your shape from the very first wear, while the classic mid-rise and slightly tapered fit means they work for all body types.
But it’s the attention to detail which really sets these chinos apart from the rest. Things like a triple horn button closure, an internal waistband to keep your shirt neatly tucked in and a central fastener to secure your belt in place. Bellissimo.
Wax London
Wax London Skye Trouser Navy Cotton Twill
Wax London Pleat Trouser Khaki Cotton Twill
Wax London is quickly becoming one of our favourite brands. Family run with a clear focus on sustainability throughout its collections, the British label offers a fresh, contemporary approach to menswear that many of the big boys seem to be lacking these days.
Nowhere is this more apparent than with its line of chinos. Aside from classic flat-fronted styles, there’s also designs with cropped legs, drawstring waists, pleats, wide cuts… all coming in a plethora of fabrics, including heavyweight twill, 100% organic cotton and cotton-elastane blends.
If you want to bring some variety to your legwear rotation, look no further.
ASKET
Asket The Chino Khaki Green
Asket The Chino Taupe
Scandi brand ASKET likes to keep things simple, which is why they have created a classic chino and a heavy twill chino. Two styles, multiple colours. Why complicate things?
The chino is made from an Italian mid-weight satin weave with just a hint of stretch, and embellished with a tonal herringbone interior and pressed French seams. The heavy twill chino meanwhile is cut from a heavyweight, Italian-made organic cotton twill that is built to last.
Both have a clean tailored finish that work well with lo-fi sneakers.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo Cotton Stretch Slim Fit Chinos
Uniqlo Regular Fit Chino Trousers
The Japanese retailer arguably does everyday essentials better and cheaper than pretty much anyone else, and so it goes with its chinos. For the price of four or five cocktails in a metropolitan city, you can pick up a fresh pair of classic chinos in a slim or regular fit, and in 100% cotton or stretch cotton.
The construction quality is good, and the cotton isn’t bad either, so fill your boots with the various colour options to build a really versatile wardrobe.
J.Crew
J. Crew 484 Slim-Fit Tech Pant
J. Crew Classic Relaxed-Fit Pleated Chino Pant
From the brand that has come to define modern preppiness, J.Crew’s chino collection is predictably vast. And it doesn’t cut any corners despite the very accessible price point.
The vast majority of styles are woven with elastane to create a stretchy and very comfortable fit. There are also a plethora of cuts to choose from, including skinny, slim, straight, relaxed, giant and drawstring. Every cut comes in a wide variety of tones too, from classic khaki to summer-ready pastels.
If you don’t want to complicate matters by shopping around, you’ll find all you need at J.Crew without breaking the bank.
GAP
GAP Essential Khakis in Slim Fit
GAP Modern Trousers in Slim Fit
Like Uniqlo, GAP has been an ever-present stalwart of the high street thanks to, ‘Ye aside, its dedication to producing affordable timeless classics. Its casual trouser collection features a number of chino styles in various fits and colours, constructed from a unique cotton twill called GapFlex, which is a smooth, stain-resistant weave with stretch technology.
For less than $35/£35, you get style, comfort and a solid everyday trouser you can easily integrate into your wardrobe.
COS
COS Relaxed-Fit Tapered Chinos
COS Relaxed-Fit Tapered Chinos
For an elevated take on the classic chino without blowing the budget, COS is one of your best options. Fashion-forward and innovative with its fabric considerations, COS’ chino collection is, creatively speaking, excellent.
From wide-leg cotton twill styles by COS Atelier, to relaxed-fit wool tapered chinos with single pleats via a classic tapered design constructed from a Tencel blend, COS’ chinos have more of a tailored feel than its competitors, making them great for those who prefer a smarter modern aesthetic.
A Day’s March
A Day’s March Sunnyvale Classic Chino
A Day’s March Sunnyvale Classic Chino Dark Navy
Swedish label A Day’s March is renowned for its pared-back staples in high-quality fabrications, and you can always count on a clean neutral colour palette, too.
While the brand make a dedicated chino pant in organic cotton twill, a lot of its other cotton trouser styles also fit the bill – its ‘Smart Trousers’ and ‘Redwood Trousers’ in cotton Tencel being cases in point.
With sleek and wide-leg fits to choose from, A Day’s March are a great option for those with an elevated casual style.
Oliver Spencer
Oliver Spencer Fishtail Straight-Leg Cotton-Twill Trousers
Oliver Spencer Fishtail Trousers Ellbridge Taupe
While the brand don’t call them ‘chinos’, Oliver Spencer’s perennial cotton trousers fit the bill. Almost exclusively cut in 100% organic cotton, Spencer has a template of styles to suit every wardrobe, from the contemporary cropped judo trouser to tapered fishtail and drawstring silhouettes.
The fabric and build quality is second-to-none and Spencer has worked the trousers into his collections seamlessly that you can often wear them as part of a casual ‘suit’.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren Straight-Leg Cotton-Blend Twill Chinos
Polo Ralph Lauren Burroughs Relaxed Fit Chino Trouser
Of course the master of modern prep does a great line in chinos. Ralph Lauren’s Polo label is the epitome of collegiate cool, of which the classic chino plays an integral part.
The relaxed-fit Burroughs style is a favourite, inspired by vintage trousers and cut from a cotton chino fabric that is made with ring-spun combed yarns.
You’ll also find myriad other chinos too, from slim-fit stretch styles to pleated cargo pants.
Incotex
Incotex Slim-Fit Stretch Cotton-Blend Trousers
Incotex Straight-Leg Stretch-Cotton Twill Trousers
Italian trouser specialist Incotex is part of the Slowear group and makes exceptionally high-quality cotton chinos. For those who want an elevated tailored approach to their casual strides, Incotex’s chinos are on the money.
With a slim tapered fit in the classic Italian style, most of Incotex’s chinos are woven with elastane and/or Spandex for a super-comfortable fit.
Officine Générale
Officine Générale Oswald Belted Straight-Leg Pigment-Dyed Cotton-Blend Twill Trousers
Officine Générale Hugo Cropped Cotton-Poplin Trousers
The epitome of relaxed Parisian sophistication, Officine Générale’s tailored trouser collection is exceptional year after year. Its chino pants are high quality and beautifully made, leaning much more towards a smart tailored trouser than your average casual chinos.
Its Hugo trouser is a stunning modern rendition of the classic, cut in Italian cotton twill with single pleats and a slight crop. Perfect worn with a simple plain tee and lightweight blazer.
NN07
NN07 Alex Straight-Leg Cotton-Blend Twill Chinos
NN07 Marco Slim Chino
Copenhagen-based NN07 takes an uncompromising approach to its aesthetic, which is always refreshing in a fashion market that seems to shift direction on a whim. For NN07, sleek minimalist style is everything, and that’s where chinos feel right at home.
NN07 probably has the best selection of chinos on the upper end of the market, with a total of 11 different fits to choose from, all constructed from high-quality cotton and organic cotton, and available in a predictably Scandi colour palette ranging from classic khaki to black via green, brown and grey.
Rag & Bone
Rag & Bone Fit 2 Action Loopback Chino
Rag & Bone Fit 2 Slim-Fit Garment-Dyed Stretch-Cotton Twill Chinos
New York outfit Rag & Bone are masters at that easy-going urban vibe and has perfected its chino styles, using some really innovative cloths.
Its Fit 2 Action chino is cut from a loopback soft twill that has the feel and softness of French terry cloth, which is really unique. Otherwise, its Fit 2 Stretch twill chinos are a traditional lightweight mid-rise style that comes in a variety of great-looking tones to add a tonne of versatility to your wardrobe.
Alex Mill
Alex Mill Slim-Fit Cotton-Blend Twill Chinos
Alex Mill Cropped Tapered Cotton-Blend Twill Chinos
Between Alex Drexler, his dad (former CEO of GAP and J.Crew) and Somsack Sikhounmuong (formerly design director at J.Crew), they have a world of menswear experience, specialising in that modern preppy aesthetic which the chino plays an integral part.
Hence Alex Mill’s chinos are some of the best on the market. Its flat-front option is made from a slightly stretchy, medium-weight fabric with a slight crop in the leg, while the pleated and field pant variations have a great vintage feel about them.
How to style chinos
Wax London
Reiss
Faconnable
Kith
Chinos are so incredibly versatile that it would be hard to find a way to get them wrong. They come in a large variety of colours too, and which tone you choose will go some way to determining how to wear them.
The traditional khaki shades naturally lean on a workwear aesthetic and can be worn in a relaxed way with contemporary crew neck sweaters and hoodies, combining well with other neutrals, as well as earthy hues such as tobacco, olive green and brown.
Lighter khaki styles can be dressed up a little more with a pair of loafers or minimal sneakers, along with a preppy look up top with an OCBD shirt, cardigan and lightweight windbreaker layered together.
Darker chinos such as navy, dark green, and black lend themselves to a smarter styling approach, paired with a softly tailored cotton blazer or a turtleneck sweater and blouson.
Ultimately though, chinos tend to be all things to all men, and there’s very little you can do to get the ‘wrong’ – aside from putting them on backwards.
History of chinos
Like just about every great piece of timeless menswear, chinos have their origins in the military. A bit of enterprising experimentation by one Sir Harry Lumsden in 1848 led to the British Officer creating ‘khakis’. While stationed in India, Lumsden was looking for ways to camouflage his white uniform and created a dye concoction of coffee, curry powder and mulberries. It was dubbed ‘khaki’ after the Hindu word meaning ‘dust’.
Khakis and chinos are often used as interchangeable terms, but the first recorded use of the latter came in 1898 in the Philippines. The American Armed Forces were fighting in the Spanish-American War, wearing khaki uniforms sourced from tough twill cotton, which at the time almost exclusively came from China. Spanish was the official language of the Philippines at the time, and so the local manufacturers referred to the fabric as ‘Chino’.
Like the parka jacket, field jacket and many other military classics, the end of World War II saw a massive amount of chinos hit Army Surplus stores in the US, which were a cheap hunting ground for students. They soon became popular on campuses across the US but notably on the East Coast where Ivy League students slid them straight into their early preppy aesthetic.
Ever since, chinos have had a decidedly preppy feel, but are now completely democratised across many styles and cultures, thanks to modern slim fits that can be worn in both a smart and casual way.