Redhead vs. Carhartt: Which brand should you buy? [2026 updated]

Redhead is focused on providing functional, affordable workwear for moderate use and budget-conscious buyers, often sold exclusively through retailers like Bass Pro Shops. In contrast, Carhartt is a premium workwear icon known for its extreme durability, heavyweight materials, and classic style that has also been adopted by streetwear culture.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right workwear brand for your needs.

Redhead: The Affordable Workwear Option

Redhead is a well-established brand built for outdoor laborers, construction workers, and DIY enthusiasts who need reliable and tough clothing without a high price tag. With a focus on function over fashion, Redhead delivers durable gear designed to handle job site demands while ensuring comfort and practicality. Think of it as the go-to choice for someone who needs a solid pair of work jeans or a sturdy jacket for occasional projects.

• Product mix: The lineup includes work jackets, rugged pants, overalls, and flannel shirts. Designs are utilitarian and straightforward, prioritizing features like reinforced knees and plenty of pockets.
• Price point: This is where Redhead shines. A heavy-duty work jacket typically costs between $50 and $80, offering significant savings compared to more premium brands.
• Quality & Materials: Redhead uses durable materials tough enough for most work environments, but they are generally lighter and less reinforced than Carhartt's. The quality is solid for moderate use but may not withstand years of daily, heavy-duty abuse.
• Sizing/Fit: Sizing tends to run standard, though some customers find the fit can be slightly small or narrow. It's best to check sizing guides, especially if you plan on layering.
• Availability: Redhead is an in-house brand primarily found at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's, making it easily accessible for hunters, fishers, and tradespeople who frequent those stores.

Redhead offers excellent value for anyone needing dependable workwear for moderate jobs or weekend projects without making a major investment.

Shop Redhead: basspro.com/shop/en/brands/redhead

Carhartt: The Icon of Durability

Crafting workwear for over a century, Carhartt has become synonymous with toughness and reliability. Built for the most demanding professions, a Carhartt jacket is considered by many to be a lifetime purchase. Beyond the job site, its classic aesthetic and rugged appeal have made it a favorite in streetwear, appealing to anyone who values durable, timeless style.

• Product mix: Carhartt offers a wide range of jackets, bib overalls, pants, and accessories. Their signature styles are built with durability in mind but feature a classic look and the iconic "C" logo.
• Price point: Positioned as a mid-range to premium brand, prices reflect the higher quality. A comparable work jacket generally runs from $80 to $150 or more.
• Quality & Materials: Carhartt is famous for its heavyweight duck cotton, triple-stitched seams, and reinforced construction. Many items include features like water-resistant and wind-resistant finishes, making them suitable for the harshest conditions.
• Sizing/Fit: Carhartt is known for its generous, roomy fit designed to accommodate layering and allow for a full range of motion. It's often recommended to size down if you prefer a closer fit.
• Sustainability: The company is public about its sustainability efforts, focusing on durable products that last, reducing waste, and ensuring fair labor practices in its supply chain.

For those in demanding trades or anyone seeking gear that will last for years, Carhartt's investment in quality, performance, and durability is hard to beat.

Shop Carhartt: carhartt.com

Redhead vs. Carhartt Comparison

Price Comparison

There's a clear difference in price. Redhead is the more budget-friendly option, with its products often costing 30-50% less than their Carhartt counterparts. For example, you can often find a dependable Redhead jacket for around $60, while a similar style from Carhartt will start closer to $100. This makes Redhead an excellent choice for those just starting in a trade or for household DIY projects.

Carhartt's higher price point is a direct reflection of its materials, construction quality, and brand reputation. While the upfront cost is greater, the long-term durability often justifies it for professionals who wear their gear daily. Think of it as an investment: paying more now for a piece that can withstand years of abuse versus replacing a cheaper item more frequently.

Quality & Materials

Carhartt is the clear winner when it comes to material quality and construction. Its use of heavyweight duck fabric, reinforced with triple-stitched main seams, is the industry standard for durability. Their garments are built to resist abrasion, tears, and harsh weather. Redhead offers good quality for its price, but the materials are generally lighter and the stitching less robust. This makes it suitable for many jobs, but it won't hold up to the same level of punishment as Carhartt gear.

For extreme environments - freezing temperatures, abrasive worksites, or heavy rain - Carhartt is engineered to perform. For more general work, outdoor activities, or projects around the house, Redhead's durability is more than sufficient.

Style & Aesthetic

The style of each brand reflects its target audience. Redhead's aesthetic is purely functional and utilitarian. The designs are straightforward and classic workwear, with minimal branding and a focus on practicality above all else. There's no pretense, it's simply gear made to get a job done.

Carhartt bridges the gap between work and life. While fundamentally workwear, its iconic look has been embraced by streetwear and casual style. The prominent "C" logo is a mark of both quality and style. Carhartt offers a wider variety of colors and modern fits, making its pieces versatile enough to wear off the clock.

Fit & Sizing

How workwear fits is critical for comfort and mobility. Carhartt is famous for its generous, relaxed fit. This is intentional, allowing workers to layer clothing underneath and move without restriction. However, it means that for everyday wear, many people prefer to size down.

Redhead offers a more standard fit. It's generally less baggy than Carhartt, which some may prefer, but it can also run slightly small or narrow in certain items. Always consult the sizing chart before buying from either brand, but be prepared for Carhartt to be roomier and Redhead to be more true to standard sizing.

Sustainability & Ethics

For shoppers who prioritize environmental and ethical practices, Carhartt provides much more transparency. The company has made public commitments to reducing its environmental impact by using more sustainable materials and has guidelines in place for fair labor conditions in its factories. This has become a key selling point for a growing number of consumers.

As an in-house brand, Redhead has significantly less public information available regarding its manufacturing processes, supply chain, and sustainability efforts. This doesn't mean their practices are poor, only that they are not a central part of their brand messaging.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer quality products, but they are designed for different users with different priorities.

Choose Redhead if:

• You have a strict budget and need the best value for your money.
• You need durable work clothes for moderate use, DIY projects, or outdoor hobbies.
• You prefer a standard fit over a brand that runs intentionally large.
• You frequently shop at Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's and appreciate the convenience.

Choose Carhartt if:

• You work in a demanding, harsh environment and need gear that will last for years.
• You view your workwear as a long-term investment in durability and safety.
• You want a versatile style that you can wear both on and off the job.
• Sustainability and brand reputation are important factors in your purchasing decisions.
• You need an intentionally roomy fit for layering in cold weather or for maximum mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Redhead or Carhartt cheaper?

By all measures, Redhead is the more affordable brand. Their jackets, pants, and shirts are consistently priced lower than comparable items from Carhartt, often by a significant margin. Redhead offers great entry-level value for workwear essentials.

Which brand has better quality?

Carhartt has superior quality in terms of materials and construction. They use heavier fabrics like their signature duck cotton, employ triple-stitching on main seams, and build their clothing to endure years of heavy, daily use. Redhead is durable for its price point but is not engineered for the same level of extreme wear.

Does Carhartt run large?

Yes, Carhartt is known for its generous and roomy fit. This allows for layering clothes underneath and for unrestricted movement. If you're buying a Carhartt jacket for casual wear, many people suggest sizing down for a closer fit. Redhead tends to have a more standard, true-to-size fit.

Is Redhead clothing durable?

Yes, Redhead clothing is durable enough for most moderate-use scenarios, including jobs, home improvement projects, and outdoor activities. While it may not last as long as premium-priced workwear under daily, intense use, it holds up well for the price.

Where are Redhead products sold?

Redhead is an in-house brand available almost exclusively at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's, both in-store and online. You generally won't find it at other hardware or department stores.

Which brand is better for cold weather?

Carhartt generally offers better options for extreme cold weather. Their materials are heavier, they offer numerous insulated options (like their Arctic Quilt lining), and the roomy fit makes it easy to add warm layers. While Redhead has insulated gear, Carhartt's specialized lines provide superior warmth and protection.

Is Carhartt more stylish than Redhead?

While style is subjective, Carhartt has undeniably crossed over into mainstream fashion and streetwear, giving it a broader style appeal. The iconic logo and classic designs are recognized worldwide. Redhead's style is purely utilitarian and functional, without the fashion-forward reputation.