Best Carhartt Jackets - Fit, Warm Ratings, and Care Guide With Sizing Charts
Carhartt is one of the most trusted makers of quality workwear, offering an array of apparel for various needs and applications. In particular, Carhartt work clothes and jackets are popular products, with many styles and materials for different climates and work environments. Given the variety the brand offers, it’s crucial for you to know these distinctions before committing to a coat or jacket you’ll own for life.
Thankfully, Shoppers Supply is here with a comprehensive guide to help you understand everything there is to know about choosing the right clothes. From understanding fit ratings to performance, this article will serve as a handy resource for all the factors you need to consider.
Fit and Size Guide
Let’s first discuss the fit and sizing of their clothing. The company has distinct sizing for men and women, which you can check out for yourself as a reference. Here are some pointers to keep in mind.
- Fit and Warmth Rating Are Linked: The roomier the fit, the warmer the feeling. However, there are some linings, like 3M Thinsulate, which are generally thinner than the others. These variations are ideal for those who want less bulk in their winter outfits.
- Longer Jackets Are Warmer: This type of jacket provides extra coverage for added protection from wind and cold.
- Carhartt Clothing Fits True to Size: As a whole, these garments don’t run big or small — no oversized or slim-fit variations.
Stiff When New?
It’s a common concern for those buying Carhartt work clothes that their jackets are stiff. This is normal for duck fabric. As such, breaking in the jacket is important so it can soften up. If you want the jacket to feel softer right away, washed duck shell is a great option. Otherwise, wear your Carhartt jacket constantly to hasten the break-in stage. We don’t recommend hacks like soaking the garment in vinegar because this practice may void the warranty. Any damage caused by misuse may not be covered by the product guarantee.
Materials: Variations in Shells and Lining
There are two considerations to keep in mind when it comes to the material: the shell and the lining. Before we get into these two categories, let’s first discuss descriptions to help you figure out the jargon.
- Ounces/Grams: The fabric’s weight per yard. Heavier fabric is warmer in most cases.
- Kissing Welt Construction: These are zippers covered by a narrow patch of fabric to protect the components from the elements.
- Ring-spun: The cotton fibers are spun or twisted for added durability.
- Denier: This is a density rating, measuring how thick each fiber is. Denser fabrics are more durable.
- Fill Power: The fill power measures the fluffiness of the down. Fluffier ones are more insulating.
Shell
Shell refers to the outer material of the jacket. Carhartt work clothes come in many types, developed over the years, but the most well-known is duck fabric. Don’t be alarmed — this is not made of ducks. “Duck” refers to the tightness of the weave, which gives the fabric its protective qualities. There are other variations of this fabric, such as the following.
- Firm Duck
- Washed Duck
- Super Dux
- Quick Duck
- Flame Resistant (FR) Duck
The company also offers Cordura and Carstrong Nylon, which offer additional protection from water, rain, and abrasion.
Lining
The lining or insulation is interior material, which traps heat and air to provide warmth. Carhartt has an array of lining materials available.
- Quilted Flannel: Made of polyester tricot fabric that offers added breathability.
- Synthetic Down: This is insulation made of polyester fiber and is often used with other materials.
- Fleece: Brushed polyester fiber for added bulk.
- Arctic-weight Polyester: Warm and thick material with high fill power.
- Blanket: This lining is thicker than fleece and feels like a blanket.
- Quilted Nylon: Smooth fabric for easy sliding of arms into the sleeves.
- Sherpa Fleece: Softer and fluffier than regular fleece.
- Thermal: Carhartt’s lightest lining material is made of polyester mesh weave.
- Thinsulate: This material is composed of synthetic microfibers that provide insulation without being too bulky.
Warmth Ratings
The combination of linings and shells creates a unique warmth for each jacket. The brand classifies warmness into four levels.
Level 1: Warm
These are ideal for cooler transitional weather, especially if hoodies are not enough for the cold. You won’t feel the chill with these items, and you also won’t experience overheating. Some popular options under this warmth rating are the Rain Defender Lightweight and the Loose Fit Washed Duck Mock Vest.
Level 2: Warmer
Level 2 coats are ideal for when it’s already cold out, but not so much that it necessitates the heavy-duty protection of the warmest jackets. Examples of Level 2 are the Loose Fit Washed Duck and the Gravel Bartlett.
Level 3: Warmest
Ideal for the harshest winter days, Level 3 provides maximum insulation and extra toastiness. The Super Dux Relaxed Fit Insulated and the Loose Fit Firm Duck Insulated Active option are popular examples.
Level 4: Extreme Warmth
Jackets at the Level 4 warmth rating are engineered to work in the coldest conditions on earth. So, those who have to face these temperatures and environments will find items like the Yukon Extremes Insulated Active as ample protection.
Additional Features and Styles To Consider
Aside from the characteristics we shared above, these coats have other features that may influence your buying decisions. Here are a few to keep in mind.
- Pleated Elbows: The small folds provide additional space, improving ease of movement without making the jacket too bulky.
- Full Swing: This patented feature provides extra space for the wearer along the shoulders, back, and elbows.
- Denim Carhartt Jackets: With this style, you can enjoy the look of denim with the added protection you’d expect from Carhartt.
- Two-way Zipper: Having a two-way zipper at the front part of the jacket allows you to unzip from the bottom, allowing for easy access to pockets or to make yourself more comfortable while sitting.
- Dual-entry Pockets: With dual-entry pockets, you can have extra space for items and another opening for warming your hands.
- Optional Hoods: Product lines like the Yukon jackets have snap fasteners for hoodies, allowing you to remove or attach hoods as needed.
Performance
Each item is suitable for a particular climate or task. Here are some of the options for specific applications.
Hunting and Fishing
For those who have to spend long hours on a boat or in the middle of a forest with a 12 gauge, wind and rain protection is critical. Carhartt has items that help you weather any storm without weighing you down. More specifically, we recommend the Storm Defender line, with additional features like storm flaps and adjustable cords on the hood.
Rain
If your work involves being outside in heavy rain, water-repellent rain jackets like the Rain Defender line are the ideal gear. The water just runs off in beads, keeping you dry and warm even in heavy downpours.
Working Outside
A multipurpose coat is ideal for general outdoor tasks, such as gardening, raising Sapphire Gem chickens or animal husbandry. You’ll want a garment that not only protects you from the chill but also allows for easy movement and weather resistance. The Rugged Flex Detroit is one example for general outdoor use.
Extreme Cold
Whether you live somewhere cold or just regularly run into bone-chilling weather, jackets for the extreme cold offer additional protection. Check out products like the Yukon Extremes line or the Cordura with Thinsulate.
Construction and Jobsite
The Active Jacket is ideal for those working on construction sites, offering abrasion resistance and other features that make it handy for such settings. Plus, the extra room provides comfort and ease of movement for demanding tasks.
Winter and Snow
Most Carhartt items are warm enough for winter wear. When choosing one, consider your local climate to match with the warmth rating. Those in the upper midwest, for example, experience freezing cold winters. As such, the ones with arctic-weight lining are ideal. For us in Arizona, mild winters call for Level 1 or Level 2, such as the Rugged Flex Detroit.
Coats For Concealed Carry
Those who need to carry a firearm on their belt will find longer jackets ideal. For example, the Super Dux relaxed fit one provides enough coverage to keep the weapon concealed.
Welding Protection
The ideal welding garment should be able to resist flames and high temperatures. Thankfully, FR Duck options are available. These can also be used for electric or utility workers performing controlled burns.
High Visibility
Jobs like traffic enforcement, heavy equipment operation, or forestry require high visibility for added safety. Carhartt has products that meet ANSI Class 3, Level 2 visibility standards, with features like reflective trims for maximum visibility — even in low-light conditions.
Fall Coats
Outdoor gear like the Sherpa-lined vest provides additional warmth during seasonal transitions without being too hot. These are ideal for layering without being too heavy.
Coats for Kids
Don’t forget protection for your children. Thankfully, Carhartt has product lines for kids, offering softer textures and a more broken-in feel. Even so, these are made of the same durable materials as the ones for adults, making them ideal for activities like hunting and outdoor chores.
Carhartt Jackets for Dogs
For fur parents, Carhartt’s dog chore coat offers additional protection for your pet. It’s easily adjustable with sizes that range from small to extra large, fitting dogs of up to 24 inches in body length. This coat is a must-have during extra cold days when your pooch still wants to go outside.
Wash and Care
After purchasing your Carhartt workwear, make sure to wash and care for the garments properly to ensure their longevity. The company has clear instructions for this practice: wash warm, do not bleach, and tumble dry on medium.
Before washing, follow these additional tips to minimize damage.
- Close zippers, snaps, and fasteners. Make sure the pockets are empty before washing.
- Wash them only when they’re visibly dirty. Carhartt jackets don’t need frequent washing.
- Keep washing to a minimum for flame-resistant (FR) offerings to maintain thermal protection.
Drying
We recommend skipping the dryer altogether or using the lowest setting if you really need to. This practice helps prevent shrinkage and may age the material faster. The best way is to air dry them, but they may become stiff for a day or so.
Dealing With Shrinking
Duck cotton can also shrink from hot water, not just high-temperature dryers. As such, pre-washing is important to minimize shrinkage later and ensure a consistent fit after subsequent washes. Warm water is the ideal setting as it’s not too harsh. Using cold water is fine, but the detergent might not be as effective.
Shop Coats, Vests, Work Shoes and Cowboy Boots at a nearby Shoppers Supply Store Today
Shoppers Supply animal feed stores is your trusted source for men’s and women’s outdoor apparel, offering hats, work shoes, boots, vests and a wide range of Carhartt jackets. Whether you’re visiting our Gilbert, Apache Junction, or Chandler locations, you’ll find the right kind of outdoor gear for your tasks or adventures. We even offer propane refills and key cutting with all the tools and hardware to match Home Depot or Lowes.
If you’re looking for quality Carhartt garments for your family, visit the store nearest you today.