Supershorts - our original “free standing” shorts. Supershorts are constructed with our tough, comfortable C-Canvas. Not the cheapest material in the world but we’re yet to find a better material – its combination of durability and breathable comfort is what makes these shorts possible.
Antelope, Black and Olive are all made from our new Premium C-Canvas, a durabe 12oz canvas with a softer finish.
These will end up being possibly the most comfortable shorts you own - and they’ll stay that way for a long, long time; truly shorts that wear in, not out. If you need proof of the comfort and durability, James chose them for a 18,000km bicycle ride around the globe. We’ve got them framed up on the wall of fame here at Cactus HQ. Think a lighter weight pair might suit you better? Go and visit our SOS Supershorts. Don’t want to inflict your lower legs on innocent bystanders? Try our Supertrousers. Proudly made in NZ.
- Premium 12oz C-Canvas for excellent wear-ability and unrivalled durability
- Perfectly balances on the smart/casual continuum
- When the going gets tough bar-tacked stress points hold it together
- YKK zip – smooth and strong
- Phone pocket
- We can custom hem to what ever length you like (for an extra $25) - just add 'Hem Shorter' to your cart
- Construction backed by a lifetime warranty on materials and workpersonship
- Weight: 530grams
- Fabric: Premium C-Canvas
- Essentially, Canvas Supertrousers and Supershorts require a bit of a wear-in period to soften the fabric.
- The first three or so washes should be done by hand, then you should be right to machine wash.
- Use cold water with a mild powder detergent, rinse thoroughly, very gentle or no spin and line-dry.
-
Do not iron, dry clean, spin-dry or use bleach.
- When new, the stiffness of the fabric means it creases in points rather than soft folds - washing them in an aggressive or hot machine can cause damage on the crease points.
-
Our canvas also has a waterproofing agent which, if washed in an aggressive or hot machine, can shift and discolour. This will appear as white lines which cannot be removed.
-
Washing inside out will minimise lighter coloured creases on the outside of the fabric, but won’t remove stains quite as well.
- Drip dry without creases (it won't take long as the polyester in the fabric doesn't hold much water)
- Close zips while washing (they'll last longer)
- Note that all the colours will lighten with use and washing as the natural cotton content of the fabric won't take a dye fixative in the same way as a 100% synthetic fabric.
- If you get attacked by a pig and the fabric gets holed while saving your reproductive potential send them back and we'll patch ‘em for a small fee
- If you are still not sure, give us a call or flick us an email
SIZE | XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL |
Waist (cm) | 76 | 81 | 86 | 91 | 96 | 103 | 110 |
Waist (inches) | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 44 |
Leg Inseam (cm) | 29 | 32 | 33 | 35 | 36 | 36 | 36 |
Leg Inseam (inches) | 11.5 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
Measurements
Please note that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
Waist
Measure around your waistline, keeping the tape comfortably loose.
Inseam - Measure from crutch seam to hem.
The Trade Supershorts are a true, fully featured work short for those who's work demands it. We've taken the Trade Supertrousers kept all the best bits and removed everything below the knee. Your essentials are all close at hand with dedicated pockets for a cellphone, ruler, and punches or measuring tape and a reinforced hammer loop that stands out for easy use. The large main pockets at the waist are external so the contents don’t get in the way so much when you crouch down. Those pockets are tough enough for a handful of nails or screws occasionally, but we’ve tried crouching down with screws in our pockets and it isn’t that pleasant. Two full size pockets at the back give you a place for the “can you just pick some stuff up from the supermarket on your way home” shopping list. The belt loops are wide enough to take a full width equipment belt.
Antelope, Black and Olive are all made from our Ultra C-Canvas.
Need tool carrying capacity but don’t think people want to see your legs? Our Trade Supertrousers and Trade Plus Supertrousers are for you. Don’t get to use a hammer much at work but love our shorts? Have a look at our Supershorts.
- Super durable and highly wearable Ultra C-Canvas
- Cellphone pocket
- Two hammer loops for when it’s hammer time
- Ruler and measure pockets help you only cut once
- Roomy external main pockets for durability and easy access
- Wide belt loops for utility belts
- Construction backed by a lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship
- Weight: 610 grams (Large)
- Fabric: Ultra C-Canvas – durable, hard-wearing exclusive proofed 12oz canvas with a stiffer finish.
- Essentially, Canvas Supertrousers and Supershorts require a bit of a wear-in period to soften the fabric.
- The first three or so washes should be done by hand, then you should be right to machine wash.
- Use cold water with a mild powder detergent, rinse thoroughly, very gentle or no spin and line-dry.
-
Do not iron, dry clean, spin-dry or use bleach.
- When new, the stiffness of the fabric means it creases in points rather than soft folds - washing them in an aggressive or hot machine can cause damage on the crease points.
-
Our canvas also has a waterproofing agent which, if washed in an aggressive or hot machine, can shift and discolour. This will appear as white lines which cannot be removed.
-
Washing inside out will minimise lighter coloured creases on the outside of the fabric, but won’t remove stains quite as well.
- Drip dry without creases (it won't take long as the polyester in the fabric doesn't hold much water)
- Close zips while washing (they'll last longer)
- Note that all the colours will lighten with use and washing as the natural cotton content of the fabric won't take a dye fixative in the same way as a 100% synthetic fabric.
- If you get attacked by a pig and the fabric gets holed while saving your reproductive potential send them back and we'll patch ‘em for a small fee
- If you are still not sure, give us a call or flick us an email
SIZE | XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL |
Waist (cm) | 76 | 81 | 86 | 91 | 96 | 103 | 110 |
Waist (inches) | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 44 |
Leg Inseam (cm) | 29 | 31 | 33 | 34 | 36 | 37 | 39 |
Leg Inseam (inches) | 11.5 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 |
Measurements
Please note that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
Waist
Measure around your waistline, keeping the tape comfortably loose.
Inseam - Measure from crutch seam to hem.
Hangdog Shorts are a reinvention of our classic Hangdog climbing shorts from the 90s. Only nowadays they've been revamped to suit to a more holistic, lifestyle-based approach to recreating outdoors.
Hangdog Shorts are made from a soft but durable polycotton drill fabric that also has a wee bit of mechanical stretch. We've rigorously wear-tested these by spending heaps of time out biking and climbing in the Port Hills. Product development can be a hard job eh, but someone's gotta do it! We've come to the firm conclusion that Hangdogs are the ultimate go-to shorts for doing good, active stuff outdoors, and they don't leave you feeling like a dork at the cafe or bbq afterwards.
Available in any colour, as long as it's slimming black.
- Low-profile zippered thigh pocket
- Reflective strip above back pocket (safety first)
- Triple stitched crotch
- YKK zips
- Lifetime warranty on faulty materials and workpersonship
- Made right here in NZ (of course)
• Polycotton Drill (60% Polyester, 40% Cotton) with mechanical stretch.
SIZE | XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL |
Waist (cm) | 76 | 82 | 87 | 92 | 97 | 102 | 107 |
Waist (inches) | 30 | 32 | 35 | 37 | 39 | 41 | 43 |
Leg Inseam (cm) | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 |
Leg Inseam (inches) | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 |
Measurements
Please note that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
Waist
Measure around your waistline, keeping the tape comfortably loose.
Cactus's answer to 'softer' shorts. These have been through some rigorous wear testing and we have come to the firm conclusion that they are the ultimate summer go-to shorts for biking, tramping and heading to the beach.
The SOS's are the shorts version of our SOS Trousers. The same cut and fit, only shorter.
They're made from a lighter, polycotton drill fabric, which has mechanical stretch and is super durable - and our idea of durable is based on the Cactus Supershorts so we don't make that claim lightly.
Great features like quick drying fabric and mesh pockets, ideal for water drainage post jetty jumping. Triple stitched crotch. YKK zip and of course they come with our lifetime warranty on faulty materials and workpersonship.
Available in any colour, as long as it's slimming black.
Made right here in NZ.
Please note: In June 2020, the fit of the SOS was changed. Please check your size against the size chart if you are re-purchasing.
If the size you want is not showing, we are probably out of stock. Email or call us on 0800 122 682 to find out when they will be here or to place a backorder.
• Polycotton Drill (60% Polyester, 40% Cotton) with mechanical stretch.
• 330g (size M)
SIZE | 2XS | XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL |
Waist (cm) | 71 | 76 | 81 | 86 | 91 | 96 | 103 | 110 |
Waist (inches) | 28 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 44 |
Leg Inseam (cm) | 30 | 30 | 30 | 33 | 36 | 39 | 42 | 45 |
Leg Inseam (inches) | 12 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 18 |
Measurements
Please note that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
Waist
Measure around your waistline, keeping the tape comfortably loose.
- The leg lengths of the standard SOS Shorts fit 95% of people just fine, but for those of you who need them shorter we can customise.
- If you would like your SOS Shorts hemmed to be shorter then you need to add Hem Shorter to this order where you can specify the length. Please note: you cannot return hemmed shorts.
-
Please note that custom length shorts and trousers cannot be returned so please choose and measure carefully - call or email us if you are not sure.
Love Cactus Trade Supershorts, but wish they came in a lighter, softer fabric? The Cactus CNC Fabric is for you. These shorts are exactly the same design as our classic C-Canvas Supershorts, but made from our CNC Fabric, which is less stiff and lighter.
CNC Trade Supershorts are designed for indoor trades, work outdoors in warmer temps, or for those who want off-the-shelf comfort, but compromising on durability is not an option.
CNC Trade Supershorts are true, fully-featured work shorts for those whose work demands it. Your essentials are all close at hand with dedicated pockets for a cellphone, ruler, and punches or measuring tape, plus reinforced hammer loops that stand out for easy use. The large main pockets at the waist are external so the contents don’t get in the way so much when you crouch down. Two full size pockets at the back for your wallet full of cash because you never have to replace your work shorts. The belt loops are wide enough to take a full width equipment belt.
- Lightweight, wearable, but still super durable CNC Fabric
- Cellphone pocket (large enough to fit a big phone)
- Dual hammer loops for when it’s hammer time
- Ruler and measure pockets help you only cut once
- Roomy external main pockets for durability and easy access
- Wide belt loops for utility belts
- Construction backed by a lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship
- Made in NZ
Fabric: CNC, 65% polyester 35% cotton
Weight: 490g (size Medium)
Cold machine wash with similar colours
Do not bleach
Do not use fabric softener
Cool tumble dry
Warm iron
Do not dry-clean
Size | 2XS | XS | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL |
Waist (cm) | 71 | 76 | 81 | 86 | 91 | 96 | 103 | 110 |
Waist (inches) | 28 | 30 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 44 |
Leg Inseam (cm) | 73 | 76 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 |
Leg Inseam (inches) | 28.25 | 29.25 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 34 | 34 |
Please note that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
Waist
The measurements shown are of the garment itself. Measure around your waistline (top of hips), where trousers sit, keeping the tape comfortably loose.
Inseam
Measure pants that fit you well. Lay them flat and measure from the crotch to the bottom of the leg hem. If you don't have suitable pants, measure from your crotch to your desired pant leg length.
- The leg lengths of the standard CNC Trade Supershorts fit 95% of people just fine, but for those of you who need them shorter we can customise.
- If you would like your CNC Trade Supershorts hemmed to be shorter then you need to add Hem Shorter to this order where you can specify the length.
-
Please note that custom length shorts and trousers cannot be returned so please choose and measure carefully - call or email us if you are not sure.
Our City Slicker Shorts are designed for the urbanites who are keen on a bit of Cactus but not our super tough 12oz canvas.
These are designed for afternoons around the barbie, a trip to the beach and if your boss allows, fantastic office-wear for warm days. They're perfect for any smart-casual situations you might find yourself in.
Matches nicely with a Flannel Shirt or a simple Tee.
Fabric: 100% Cotton, 240gsm
Weight: 0.37 kg
Made in New Zealand
Cold machine wash with similar colours
Do not bleach
Do not use fabric softener
Cool tumble dry
Warm iron
Do not dry-clean
S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL | |||
WAIST | 84 | 89 | 94 | 100 | 107 | 114 | ||
INSEAM | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
Pls note, that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself, you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
WAIST LENGTH - Measure around waistline keeping tape comfortably loose.
INSEAM LENGTH - Measure from crutch seam to hem.
- The leg lengths of the standard City Slicker Shorts fit 95% of people just fine, but for those of you who need them shorter we can customise.
- If you would like your City Slicker Shorts hemmed to be shorter then you need to add Hem Shorter to this order where you can specify the length.
-
Please note that custom length shorts and trousers cannot be returned so please choose and measure carefully - call or email us if you are not sure.
Since 1992 we've been pretty off-trend and slow to react. Maybe it was a coincidence, pure luck or some very smart design choices - either way, most products remain the same, colours don't often change and we certainly don't do seasons!
We'd love to claim that our Trade SuperJorts was reactionary to the trend, but sadly it wasn't. We sampled them 12 months ago, but only got around to making them recently due to delays on denim. In the same cut and style as our existing Trade Supershorts, the only difference is we've swapped out the 12oz canvas for our super-tough Dyneema Denim.
So, we've unexpectedly jumped on a trend. If you're a youngster at varsity who has always wanted a pair of Cactus Jorts, now is your chance. But if you're a tradie or DIY expert who just fancies wearing denim to work, we're not going to stop you. One of the Cactus Crew has been wear-testing these for 12 months now and swears by them.
Because Cactus customers demand more than a pair of Jorts to just drink a latte in, we needed to find a fabric that could withstand a bit of a thrashing. This is why we went for the Dyneema Denim which is 4x more abrasion resistant than normal cotton denim. The inclusion of high-tenacity nylon fiber helps resist tears, rips and punctures.
These shorts have potential to become the greatest looking pair of denim shorts you ever put on. Like the Canvas Supershorts, after about 6 months of hard wear and tear, they will have taken on that feeling of a second skin and look like they were made especially for you.
- Dyneema 12oz Denim is super durable, comfortable and wears in like nothing else
- 4x more abrasion resistant than normal cotton denim
- Made in New Zealand
- Cellphone pocket
- Two hammer loops for when it’s hammer time
- Ruler and measure pockets help you only cut once
- Roomy external main pockets for durability and easy access
- Wide belt loops for utility belts
- Construction backed by a lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship
Need tool carrying capacity but don’t think people want to see your legs? Our Trade Supertrousers and Trade Plus Supertrousers are for you. Don’t get to use a hammer much at work but love our shorts? Have a look at our Supershorts.
- Made in Christchurch, New Zealand
- 12oz Denim - 94% Cotton 6% Dyneema
- The first three or so washes should be done by hand, then you should be right to machine wash.
- Machine wash in cold water only. Rinse thoroughly, line dry.
- Do not dry clean or bleach.
- Short length will reduce by approx. 4cm during initial wash.
- Please note: When new, be careful not to ruin your mates brand new white leather seats in his/her Mercedes - the indigo dye does tend to bleed a little (this is common on all quality denim products).
- When new, the stiffness of the fabric means it creases in points rather than soft folds - washing them in an aggressive or hot machine can cause damage on the crease points.
- If you get attacked by a pig and the fabric gets holed while saving your reproductive potential send them back and we'll patch ‘em for a small fee
- If you are still not sure, give us a call or flick us an email
SIZE | S | M | L | XL | 2XL | 3XL |
Waist (cm) | 81 | 86 | 91 | 96 | 103 | 110 |
Waist (inches) | 32 | 34 | 36 | 38 | 41 | 44 |
Leg Inseam (cm) | 32 | 33 | 35 | 36 | 38 | 39 |
Leg Inseam (inches) | 13 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
Measurements
Please note that the measurements are of the actual garment size so this means that when you measure yourself you'll be wanting a size that measures a bit bigger than your body.
Waist
Measure around your waistline, keeping the tape comfortably loose.
Inseam - Measure from crutch seam to hem.