Pants of Glory.

Of all the statues along Whitehall in London (technically, the heart of the British Empire), my favorite is the sturdy Ghurka Soldier.

He stands on permanent guard outside the Ministry of Defense, rifle in hand, hat at a jaunty angle. “Bravest of the brave,” reads the memorial inscription, and it's true; Ghurka regiments in service to Britain have won a remarkable 26 Victoria Crosses for courage under fire.

I can't promise that stepping into his pants will make a person more intrepid, but the way they look is a nudge in the right direction.

Ghurka Shorts (No. 2366), reproduction of the tropical-issue “Shorts, Khaki Drill, 1949 Pattern” worn by these fearsome Nepalese recruits. Washeddown cotton, generous cut, four big pockets, and distinctive, slimming cummerbund waistband with buckles and adjustment straps.

Originally an economy measure (fewer sizes needed) that could be tightened when troops lost weight in the field; now good (for opposite reason) on gastronomic campaigns.

Men's even sizes: 32 through 46.

Color: Light Khaki.

*Contrary to what you may have heard... Ghurka shorts cannot be hemmed.