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

Strauss offers contemporary workwear that blends technical fabrics and modern, tailored fits, while Carhartt is rooted in traditional, rugged American workwear known for its classic designs and extreme durability. The primary difference lies in their approach: Strauss focuses on innovation, a sleek aesthetic, and sustainability, whereas Carhartt emphasizes timeless toughness and its iconic duck canvas.

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

Strauss: The Modern, Technical Workwear

Strauss is a modern workwear brand that bridges the gap between high-performance outdoor apparel and durable on-the-job gear. Their target customer is someone who needs clothing to withstand demanding work environments but also wants a sleek, stylish aesthetic suitable for everyday life. With a strong focus on technical materials and sustainable manufacturing, Strauss appeals to those who value innovation and versatility.

• Product mix: Their lineup includes heavy-duty jackets, technical work pants, and versatile layering pieces. The focus is on practical features like reinforced seams, multi-pocket designs, and advanced water-resistant fabrics.
• Price point: Positioned in a mid-range to premium space, with prices reflecting the technical materials used. Basic T-shirts are around $80, while advanced technical jackets can cost over $300.
• Quality &, Materials: Known for innovative fabrics like breathable waterproof membranes, ripstop nylon, and abrasion-resistant panels. A major selling point is their use of materials from recycled sources.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a modern, tailored fit that runs true to size. Unlike traditional workwear, styles are less bulky, providing a sleek silhouette with options for both slim and regular fits.
• Sustainability: The brand emphasizes eco-conscious manufacturing, using recycled fabrics and water-saving dye processes. They are often transparent about their supply chain and hold certifications like OEKO-TEX.

Strauss is ideal for those who need high-performance, weather-resistant gear that transitions seamlessly from the job site to city life, with a strong focus on sustainable materials.

Shop Strauss: straussclothing.com

Carhartt: The Legendary American Workwear

Established in 1889, Carhartt is the face of authentic American workwear, famous for its exceptionally rugged clothing designed for manual labor. The brand serves construction workers, tradespeople, and anyone who needs gear that prioritizes durability above all else. In recent decades, Carhartt's timeless, functional aesthetic has also been embraced by streetwear culture, cementing its status as an American icon.

• Product mix: Signature offerings include heavy-duty jackets, bib overalls, durable work pants, and thermal insulated gear. Most pieces are built to withstand the toughest conditions and last for years.
• Price point: Firmly in the mid-range segment, Carhartt offers excellent value for its durability. T-shirts typically cost between $20-$35, while classic insulated jackets range from $150 to $220.
• Quality &, Materials: Renowned for its heavyweight canvas and signature cotton "duck" fabric. Their gear is built with reinforced stitching and is made to handle heavy, prolonged wear in abrasive environments.
• Sizing/Fit: The sizing is generally true to size but features a relaxed, roomier fit. This is intended to allow for maximum movement and comfortable layering underneath pants and jackets.
• Style & Aesthetic: The look is classic, utilitarian, and straightforward. Its timeless silhouettes and iconic branding have changed very little over the years, emphasizing function over passing trends.

With its unwavering focus on durability and timeless American workwear style, Carhartt is the top choice for tough jobs and those who value tradition and reliability.

Shop Carhartt: carhartt.com

Strauss vs. Carhartt Comparison

Price Comparison

Strauss is consistently priced higher than Carhartt across comparable product categories. A waterproof jacket from Strauss might run you $250–$300, while a similar performing jacket from Carhartt typically falls in the $150–$220 range. The same pattern holds for basics, a Strauss t-shirt is around $80, compared to a Carhartt one at $20–$35.

The price difference is largely due to Strauss's focus on specialized technical fabrics, advanced weather resistance technologies, and a more fashion-forward design process. Carhartt's pricing reflects its use of more traditional, straightforward materials, though the value in terms of longevity is exceptional.

Quality & Materials

Both brands produce high-quality, durable clothing, but their material choices define their strengths. Strauss shines with modern, technical fabrics like water-resistant membranes tailored for weather protection, flexible ripstop materials, and reinforced high-wear zones. Their gear often feels lighter and more technologically advanced.

Carhartt's legend is built on its heavyweight duck canvas. This material is incredibly tough and highly resistant to abrasion, making it ideal for environments with a lot of friction and rough surfaces. While not as innately waterproof or breathable as Strauss's options, an item from Carhartt will feel substantial and is designed to take a beating for years.

Product Selection & Aesthetics

The aesthetic difference is clear. Strauss offers a sleek, minimalist style with clean lines and muted color palettes. Its clothing easily transitions from a work environment to casual social settings without looking out of place. It's workwear with a clear modern design sensibility.

Carhartt is classic, bold, and unapologetically utilitarian. Its silhouette is iconic and emphasizes function, with a rugged look that has maintained its appeal for over a century. While now popular in streetwear, its core identity remains firmly planted in traditional, no-nonsense American workwear.

Fit & Sizing

Sizing is a key differentiator between the two brands. Strauss provides a modern, tailored fit. Their jackets and pants are designed to sit closer to the body for a sharper silhouette, with options for slim and regular fits that run true to size.

Carhartt clothing is known for its relaxed and roomy fit. This is intentional, allowing for comfortable layering in cold weather and providing complete freedom of movement. If you prefer a more fitted look, some shoppers recommend sizing down in some of Carhartt's outerwear pieces.

Sustainability & Ethics

Strauss places a strong emphasis on sustainable practices. The company often highlights its use of recycled materials, eco-friendly dye processes, and transparent supply chain, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Carhartt has also taken steps to improve its environmental impact, incorporating recycled polyester and adopting water-reduction strategies. However, the brand's primary message has always been centered on extreme durability, which in itself is a form of sustainability since the products last so long they do not need to be replaced often.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer excellent durability, but they cater to different needs and styles.

Choose Strauss if:

• You want modern workwear with a contemporary, tailored fit.
• You need high-performance technical fabrics for protection against rain and wind.
• Brands that use sustainable and eco-conscious manufacturing are important to you.
• Your gear needs to perform on the job and in casual settings around town.

Choose Carhartt if:

• You need ultra-durable gear built to withstand heavy manual labor.
• You prefer a classic, rugged workwear style with a relaxed, roomy fit.
• Your priority is maximum durability against snags, tears, and abrasion.
• You value a brand with a long history of American craftsmanship and tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Strauss or Carhartt more expensive?

Strauss is generally more expensive. Their focus on advanced technical fabrics, modern designs, and sustainable materials results in a higher price point compared to Carhartt's traditionally built, function-first apparel.

Which brand is more durable?

Both brands are exceptionally durable, but for different situations. Carhartt's heavyweight duck canvas is superior for resisting abrasion and tears from rough physical work. Strauss is better for durability against the elements, with its water and wind-resistant technical fabrics.

What is the fit difference between Strauss and Carhartt?

Strauss offers a modern, tailored fit that is closer to the body and runs true to size. Carhartt is known for a much more relaxed, roomy fit designed to be worn over layers and allow for maximum movement.

Which brand is better for cold weather?

Both have excellent insulated options. Carhartt offers famous thermal-lined duck jackets that are incredibly warm. Strauss provides advanced, lightweight insulation that can be just as warm without the bulkiness of traditional workwear.

Can you wear Strauss clothing for things other than work?

Absolutely. Strauss designs its clothing to be versatile. The sleek, minimalist aesthetic makes it perfectly suitable for hiking, general outdoor activities, and everyday city wear.

Is Carhartt still in style?

Yes. Beyond its core audience in the trades, Carhartt has become a staple in streetwear fashion. Its authentic, rugged look is celebrated for its timeless and functional appeal.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Strauss makes sustainability a more central part of its brand identity, actively promoting its use of recycled fabrics and transparent, eco-friendly manufacturing methods. While Carhartt is improving, Strauss leads in this area.

What are Carhartt's signature materials?

Carhartt is most famous for its tough, heavyweight cotton duck fabric. This material is what gives its jackets and bib overalls their legendary reputation for being rugged and incredibly long-lasting.