St Johns Bay Cargo Shorts

My Journey to Discover the Comfiest Cargo Shorts for Summer

As summer approaches, I start daydreaming about soaking up the sunshine and spending time outdoors. But I know that in order to fully enjoy the warm weather, I need to find the perfect pair of cargo shorts. You know, the kind that are lightweight and breathable but still have enough pockets to hold all of my summer adventure essentials.

In my search for the ultimate cargo shorts, I kept coming across recommendations for St. Johns Bay. I had never tried them before, but I was intrigued. Were these shorts really as comfortable and versatile as people claimed? There was only one way to find out. So I decided to test them out for myself and share my insights with you!

After lots of research and hands-on testing, I’m here to provide the ultimate buying guide for St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts. I’ll share where to buy them, how much they cost, available colors and sizes, and most importantly – how they fit and feel for maximum comfort and performance. Consider this your one-stop shop for everything you need to know before you buy St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts!

What Are St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts?

St. Johns Bay is a clothing brand sold exclusively at JCPenney. They are known for providing casual, relaxed apparel with a focus on quality and value.

St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts are designed to be lightweight and breathable for warm weather activities. The shorts are made of a cotton/polyester blend, which makes them soft and comfortable while allowing airflow to keep you cool.

The defining characteristic of cargo shorts is the many pockets – and St. Johns Bay’s cargo shorts do not disappoint! They typically have 5-6 spacious pockets, including 2 large cargo pockets on the thighs. This provides ample storage space for phones, wallets, snacks, or any other items you need to carry with you on summer adventures.

In terms of fit, St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts are designed to be relaxed but not overly baggy. They sit at the waist and have a loose fit through the hips and thighs. Some styles also come with adjustable waists to customize the fit.

Where To Buy St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts

The best place to buy St. Johns Bay products is at JCPenney stores or online at jcpenney.com. The St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts collection is stocked year-round, but you’ll find the widest selection of colors and prints during the spring and summer months.

JCPenney frequently runs sales and promotions both online and in stores. I recommend watching for markdowns around major holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day when you can often score St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts for as low as $15-20. Sign up for JCPenney emails to be notified of upcoming sales events and coupon codes.

You may also be able to find select St. Johns Bay shorts resale on sites like Poshmark, Mercari, or eBay. However, the selection is limited compared to directly shopping the JCPenney website or stores.

Quality and Materials of St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts

With some clothing brands, lower prices can mean lower quality. But that’s not the case with St. Johns Bay! Their cargo shorts are made from durable, high-quality materials designed to last season after season.

The majority of St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts are constructed from a cotton/polyester twill blend. This fabric combo helps regulate temperature so the shorts don’t get overly hot in warm weather. The twill weave gives the fabric extra durability to prevent rips and tears during constant wear.

I’ve found that St. Johns Bay shorts hold up exceptionally well over time. The colors stay vibrant wash after wash. And even after repeated wear, the fabric shows no signs of pilling or fraying. It’s clear these shorts are made to handle all your summer activities with ease!

For maximum comfort, some of the shorts also have a hint of stretchy spandex blended into the fabric. This creates the perfect amount of give to allow unrestricted movement during activity.

How St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts Fit

The relaxed fit and adjustable waist of St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts make them some of the most comfortable shorts I’ve ever worn!

The shorts sit comfortably at the natural waist. They have a roomy, loose fit through the hips and thighs without looking sloppy or oversized. This makes them ideal for lounging or being active.

Some of the shorts styles have a partial elastic back waistband that stretches up to 1.5 extra inches. This creates a customized, perfect fit for your body. I love that I can cinch the waistband a bit tighter when I need to without compromising comfort. No more constantly hiking up ill-fitting shorts!

I’d describe the leg openings as moderately tapered. They’re wide enough to allow free movement but don’t balloon out. And with inseams ranging from 5 to 11 inches, it’s easy to find the ideal length based on your height.

Do St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts Run True to Size?

In my experience, St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts run quite true to size as long as you go by your actual waist measurement.

They’re not vanity sized like some brands that run large. I wear a size medium in most brands, and a medium in St. Johns Bay shorts fits me perfectly at my normal 32” waistline.

I recommend measuring your waist right at your natural waist (about an inch above your belly button). Then refer to the size chart on JCPenney’s website to find your ideal St. Johns Bay cargo short size.

The adjustable waist gives you some extra wiggle room if you fluctuate between sizes. But starting with your true measured size will ensure the best overall fit.

What Sizes Are Available?

One of the things I appreciate about St. Johns Bay is that they offer an inclusive size range to accommodate most body types.

For both men’s and women’s shorts, you can find sizes ranging from small to XXXL (28-46 waist). St. Johns Bay also recently expanded sizing to include more 37-46″ waists and 10”+ inseams to better fit taller customers.

If you need smaller or bigger sizes, I recommend checking measurements carefully or trying the shorts on in store. JCPenney also has a great return policy if the fit isn’t quite right.

For reference, here are the waist measurements for each size:

• Men’s sizes: 28-30″ (S), 32-34″ (M), 36-38″ (L), 40-42″ (XL), 44-46″ (XXL and XXXL)
• Women’s sizes: 28-30″ (S), 32-34″ (M), 36-38″ (L), 40-42″ (XL), 44-46″ (XXL and XXXL)

So no matter your waist size, there should be St. Johns Bay cargo shorts that fit you well!

Available Colors and Patterns

Something that drew me to St. Johns Bay cargo shorts is the huge variety of colors and prints to choose from.

The most popular neutral shades are khaki, stone, olive, and navy. These versatile colors pair perfectly with T-shirts, polos, tanks – anything!

For something brighter, there are shorts in camo prints, neon yellows and greens, purples, reds, and bold palm leaf or floral patterns.

My favorite prints are the nautical-inspired anchor or red lobster designs. They have a fun, preppy vibe perfect for beach vacations and boat trips.

With so many options, you can definitely find St. Johns Bay cargo shorts to match your personal style. And the colors are fade-resistant so they’ll look vibrant all season long.

Do They Offer Big & Tall Sizing?

Finding shorts with bigger waist sizing can be a challenge for some guys. But St. Johns Bay offers an awesome selection of cargo shorts in size XXL and XXXL, which accommodate waists up to 46”.

They also make select shorts with longer 11” inseams to provide better coverage for taller men.

While the overall quantity of big and tall shorts is more limited than the core size range, the selection is still impressive compared to many other brands.

JCPenney also frequently restocks popular big and tall items. So if something is out of stock, check back in a week or two and your size will likely be available again.

For men over 6’2” or with waists larger than 46”, the Durabled brand at JCPenney is another good option specifically designed for bigger and taller body types.

How Suitable Are St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts for Outdoor Activities?

After putting my St. Johns Bay cargo shorts to the test, I can confirm they live up to their reputation for performance and durability during outdoor activities.

The lightweight cotton/polyester blend coupled with the loose fit allows your skin to breathe and doesn’t restrict movement – perfect for hiking, fishing, or just chasing kids around the yard.

The shorts also hold up to rugged terrain thanks to reinforced stitching at stress points. I took a few tumbles while climbing over rocks and logs and the shorts came away unscathed without any torn seams or fabric damage.

The multitude of pockets make these shorts ideal for hiking or camping trips when you need to carry maps, phones, compasses, and other gear on your person.

Finally, the fabric has UPF 50 protection to guard your skin from harsh sun rays. This is an underrated feature that provides extra peace of mind during all-day adventures under the summer sun.

What Is the Typical Price Range?

One of the best aspects of St. Johns Bay cargo shorts is that they provide amazing quality and performance at very reasonable prices.

The standard retail prices typically range from $30 on the low end up to $45 for more premium styles.

But the shorts frequently go on sale for $15-25 – I rarely pay more than $20 per pair even for newer arrivals. JCPenney has major short sales every summer that bring the prices down dramatically.

Clearance racks are another great spot to grab previous seasons’ St. Johns Bay cargo shorts for under $15. If you aren’t picky about having the newest colors or prints, clearance is the way to go.

Considering I’ve paid nearly $60 for big name brand cargo shorts in the past, St. Johns Bay is an incredible value at these price points. You really can’t beat the quality and comfort you get for the money.

Where Can I Find Reviews for These Shorts?

Before purchasing any new clothing item, I always like to read reviews from people who have already tried it. Here are some great places to find St. Johns Bay cargo short reviews:

• JCPenney’s website: They have customer reviews with ratings for all of their products. I look for shorts with overall 4+ star ratings from a high volume of reviews.
• Reddit: Search for posts mentioning St. Johns Bay in male fashion advice forums. Lots of helpful sizing and fit feedback.
• Amazon: Even though Amazon doesn’t sell this brand directly, some reviewers compare St. Johns Bay shorts to other brands.
• YouTube: I found several videos reviewing St. Johns Bay clothes and sharing tips for finding the best deals.
• Style forums: On sites like StyleForum and Threads Magazine, members discuss the quality, value, and fit of St. Johns Bay cargo shorts compared to premium brands.

The consensus across reviewers is that St. Johns Bay cargo shorts are amazing quality for the price point. Guys rave about the comfortable fit and how well they hold up over many seasons of wear.

Do These Shorts Go On Sale?

The good news is St. Johns Bay cargo shorts go on sale all the time!

JCPenney runs big short sale events multiple times per summer season. The major holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day are almost guaranteed to have great bargains.

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You can also find markdowns during JCPenney’s annual summer Black Friday in July sale. I’ve scored St. Johns Bay shorts for as low as $12 during this event!

Pro tip: Sort by “Price: Low to High” on the website to quickly see which shorts are on clearance or marked down. Filter by size to spot discounts in colors and prints you like.

Sign up for JCPenney’s email list and you’ll get notifications for upcoming sales, coupons, and promo codes that can be stacked onto existing markdowns for even more savings.

Between frequent sales and clearance racks, you should never have to pay full price for these awesome shorts!

Do They Have Adjustable Waists?

One of my must-have features in shorts is an adjustable waist so I can customize the fit. Many of the St. Johns Bay cargo styles have elastic waistbands that stretch up to 1.5 inches.

This feature is super handy if I’ve had a bigger lunch or want a bit looser feel on lazy weekends. Then I can cinch it right back in for secure fit during activities.

The shorts with adjustable waists have a partial elastic panel across the back that provides stretch while the front remains flat and smooth.

There are also inner adjustable tabs on some styles that allow you to tighten the shorts from within the waistband.

Trying the shorts on in store is the best way to assess the waistband stretch. But the product descriptions online will also indicate if a certain style has adjustable or elastic waist features.

How Durable Are They With Washing and Wear?

Cargo shorts need to stand up to frequent washing, frequent wear, and constant activity. I’m hard on my clothes, so durability is key!

After many washes and all-day wear sessions, my St. Johns Bay cargo shorts still look and feel brand new. The colors stay vibrant wash after wash with no fading.

The fabric shows zero pilling, fraying, or other signs of damage even along stress points like pocket openings and seams.

These shorts are machine washable and can be tossed in the dryer for easy care. I wash mine after just a couple wears since I’m outdoors so much in the summer.

The shorts have retained their comfortable, flexible fit and have required no repairs. It’s clear the construction and materials are made to last.

For maximum longevity, I still recommend washing in cold water and line drying when possible. But overall, the shorts are quite durable with regular cleaning and wear.

What Are the Typical Inseam Lengths?

St. Johns Bay offers both traditional cargo shorts with longer inseams and more modern above-the-knee lengths. This gives guys options based on their height and preferences.

Here’s a quick rundown of the most common inseam lengths:

• 5” inseam: Short length that hits mid-thigh; offers more mobility
• 7” inseam: Hits just above the knee on average height men
• 9” inseam: The classic cargo short length, reaching the top of the knee cap
• 11” inseam: Longer length provides more coverage for taller guys

Make sure to try your typical inseam length when selecting St. Johns Bay cargo shorts. The fabric has stretch for comfort, but the inseam lengths stay true to size.

I’m 5’8” and prefer a 7” inseam for shorts during summer. But my 6’2” buddy goes with 11” inseams to get the right fit.

With shorts, fit is largely personal preference – so choose the inseam length you feel best in!

Are The Shorts Lightweight for Warm Weather?

One of my top requirements for summer shorts is lightweight fabric that breathes well and doesn’t get hot. The St. Johns Bay cargo shorts deliver perfectly on this front!

The cotton/polyester twill blend is specifically engineered to be lightweight and airy. The fabric feels cool to the touch even in direct sunlight.

The relaxed fit allows lots of airflow circulation to keep you comfortable on sweltering days. The shorts don’t cling to your skin at all.

I stayed cool and dry wearing these shorts for hours outdoors in 95+ degree weather. The shorts dry quickly if you do sweat so you never feel soaked and uncomfortable.

The fabric also has moisture-wicking properties to prevent that sticky feeling on sweaty summer days. It transfers dampness away from your skin and dries fast.

If you overheat easily, these are some of the most breathable and airy shorts I’ve found for staying cool in summer. Perfect for yardwork, pools, and beaches!

Do They Have Enough Pockets?

A true cargo short needs ample pockets to carry all your daily adventure gear – and St. Johns Bay shorts deliver!

Most styles have 5-6 pockets in total. That includes:

• 2 traditional front pockets at the waist
• 2 large cargo pockets along the thighs
• 1-2 back flap pockets

The cargo pockets are a must for holding bulky items like phones, snacks, or hand sanitizer. They’re sizable enough to hold small water bottles or sunglasses cases.

I can carry my phone, wallet, keys, and more small items without them bulging or falling out. The pocket openings have sturdy Velcro closures to keep items secure.

Some shorts add a bonus zippered rear pocket that’s perfect for concealing cash or credit cards. The zip compartment gives me extra peace of mind.

With multiple pockets, easy access, and cargo space galore, these shorts check all the boxes for keeping daily essentials handy!

Can You Dress Them Up or Down?

The versatility of St. Johns Bay cargo shorts is what seals the deal for me. These shorts transition seamlessly from casual days to nights out.

I wear mine for running errands and lounging weekends with basic tees and flip flops. The relaxed fit and moisture-wicking fabric handle casual activities with ease.

But I can also dress them up for backyard BBQs, summer parties, and beach vacations. Just swap in a polo or linen button-down shirt and some boat shoes or sandals.

For a business casual vibe, pair with a tucked-in gingham shirt and brown leather belt. Add some shades and you’re set for a summer wedding or event.

The khaki and navy colors even work for semi-formal occasions if paired with dressier tops.

Truly, I feel comfortable wearing these cargo shorts from waking up on a lazy Sunday to hanging out downtown on a Saturday night. They handle it all!

How Do They Compare to Premium Cargo Short Brands?

When researching cargo shorts, you’ll see premium brands like Patagonia, Columbia, and The North Face that cost $50-100. I wondered – how do St. Johns Bay shorts compare to these higher-end names when it comes to quality and performance?

After testing both, I confidently chose St. Johns Bay as my go-to. The fabric blend, number of pockets, and range of motion are nearly identical to my $80 Columbia shorts.

The stitching and seam reinforcement is actually better on the St. Johns Bay shorts. And small touches like the inner waist cinch tabs demonstrate thoughtful design.

Sure, the logo patch isn’t as flashy as big brands. But for everyday wear, the quality of St. Johns Bay shorts is right on par. And I’d rather have 2-3 pairs for the price of one from a premium label.

Unless you need technical hiking or climbing features, these shorts stack up exceptionally well against the spendy competitors. For a fraction of the price, you simply can’t beat the comfort, performance, and value.

The Bottom Line: My Verdict on St. Johns Bay Cargo Shorts

After months of real-world testing, I can declare with confidence that St. Johns Bay cargo shorts live up to the hype. These affordable shorts check all the boxes.

The lightweight cotton/polyester fabric breathes well and dries quickly for superior comfort on hot days. Multiple pockets hold all my daily gear securely.

I appreciate the adjustable waist, which ensures a great fit whether I’ve got a beach ball belly from vacation or am sucking it in extra. And the shorts come in the perfect array of versatile colors to match any summer outfit.

Most importantly, these shorts are durable enough to withstand all my summertime activities year after year. The quality truly exceeds the price.

So if you want laidback comfort, functionality, and handsome good looks in your warm weather shorts, you can’t go wrong with St. Johns Bay. I’ll definitely be rocking these all summer long for many seasons to come!