Wrangler Riggs vs. Carhartt: Brand comparison [2026 updated]

Wrangler Riggs offers functional, durable workwear at an accessible price point, making it a strong contender for those on a budget. In contrast, Carhartt is an iconic American brand known for its premium, ultra-rugged gear built to withstand the harshest conditions, but it comes with a higher price tag. The choice between them often comes down to balancing cost with the need for extreme, long-term durability.

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

Wrangler Riggs: The Affordable Workwear Specialist

Wrangler Riggs is the dedicated workwear line from the legendary Wrangler brand, created for tradespeople, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing reliable gear that won't break the bank. It focuses on practical features, durable materials, and a comfortable fit, making it a popular choice for light to moderate work environments.

• Product mix: The collection includes work pants, jeans, cargo pants, shirts, and jackets. Most items feature functional elements like reinforced knees, deeper front pockets, and hammer loops.
• Price point: Riggs is very budget-friendly. T-shirts typically sell for around $30, while work pants and jackets generally fall between $50 and $80.
• Quality & Materials: The brand uses dependable fabrics like ripstop cotton and canvas. While durable enough for most daily tasks and demanding hobbies, the materials are not as heavyweight as Carhartt's, reflecting the lower price.
• Style & Aesthetic: Riggs strikes a balance between traditional workwear and modern casual style. The designs are functional but have a slightly more refined look than purely utilitarian gear.
• Sizing/Fit: Garments generally feature a relaxed or roomier fit for a full range of motion. Sizing is known to be consistent and true to standard US measurements.

Wrangler Riggs is an excellent choice for individuals who require durable, functional clothing for everyday work without needing the extreme performance (or cost) of premium brands.

Shop Wrangler Riggs: wrangler.com

Carhartt: The Icon of Durability

With a history stretching back over 130 years, Carhartt has established itself as the benchmark for tough, long-lasting workwear in America. Worn by everyone from construction workers to farmers, Carhartt's legendary reputation is built on superior materials and construction that can endure years of abuse in the most punishing environments.

• Product mix: Carhartt offers an extensive catalog of work apparel, including its signature duck canvas jackets, bib overalls, work pants, vests, and thermal-lined hoodies. The brand is known for its heavy-duty outerwear.
• Price point: Carhartt is a higher-tier brand. T-shirts begin around $20-$25, but their iconic jackets and heavy-duty insulated bibs often cost between $100 and $150 or more.
• Quality & Materials: This is where Carhartt shines. The brand is known for its proprietary firm-hand duck canvas, triple-stitched seams, and reinforced stress points. This clothing is built as an investment to last for years, if not decades.
• Style & Aesthetic: The style is utilitarian, authentic, and timeless. Characterized by earthy tones like "Carhartt Brown" and minimal branding, the look emphasizes pure function.
• Sizing/Fit: The fit is typically generous and loose, designed to allow for layering underneath and unrestricted movement during physical labor. It runs true to size but on the looser side. Carhartt also offers an excellent range of Big & Tall sizes.

Carhartt is the industry standard for individuals who need maximum protection and durability from their work clothing and view their purchase as a long-term investment.

Shop Carhartt: carhartt.com

Wrangler Riggs vs. Carhartt Comparison

Price Comparison

There is a clear difference in pricing between the two brands. Wrangler Riggs is positioned as the more affordable option, with most of its core items like work pants and shirts priced comfortably under $80. This makes it an attractive choice for buying a full work wardrobe on a budget or for those who may need to replace clothing more frequently due to a messy job environment.

Carhartt is a premium investment. While their basic shirts are competitively priced, their signature outerwear and bib overalls command a much higher price, often double that of a comparable Riggs item. The higher cost reflects superior materials and construction intended for longevity, so while the upfront cost is greater, the long-term value can be higher for those in demanding fields.

Quality & Materials

Carhartt's biggest advantage is its uncompromising approach to materials and build quality. Its famous firm duck canvas is incredibly tough and abrasion-resistant, and features like triple-stitched seams and reinforced riveting are standard. Carhartt gear is designed to withstand daily, heavy-duty abuse from welding sparks to rough surfaces.

Wrangler Riggs produces quality clothing, using strong materials like ripstop fabric and reinforcing key areas. However, these materials are generally lighter and less robust than Carhartt's. For general construction, farm work, or an active outdoor hobby, Riggs is more than capable. For the most extreme industrial jobs, Carhartt holds the edge in long-term resilience.

Product Selection & Style

Both brands offer a full range of workwear staples, but their focus and aesthetic differ. Carhartt’s style is iconic and utilitarian, rooted in timeless workwear functionality. Its simple, rugged look has made it a favorite not only on job sites but also in streetwear culture.

Wrangler Riggs infuses a bit of modern, casual style into its designs. You'll find similar work pants and shirts, but the fits and finishing touches often feel more aligned with everyday clothing. For someone who wants their work clothes to transition easily to after-hours wear without looking strictly like industrial gear, Riggs may have more appeal.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands cater to the need for movement with relaxed fits. Wrangler Riggs generally fits true to size with a standard relaxed cut. It's comfortable without being overly baggy.

Carhartt is famous for its generous, loose fit. This is intentional, allowing wearers to layer thermal shirts or hoodies underneath jackets and bibs in cold conditions. This can make some garments feel one size too large if you are not planning to layer. Both brands are available in a wide variety of sizes, with Carhartt having a slight advantage with its well-established line of Big & Tall sizes.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both brands have initiatives aimed at improving sustainability, but Carhartt is often more vocal about its practices. It has programs focused on responsible sourcing and reducing its environmental footprint. Wrangler has also made significant strides, particularly in developing more sustainable dyeing processes for its denim products seen in its main line.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands make excellent workwear, but they are built for slightly different users and priorities.

Choose Wrangler Riggs if:

• You are on a budget and need to get the best value for your money.
• You work in light to moderately demanding conditions.
• You prefer a more modern, casual style that blends workwear with everyday appeal.
• You need reliable gear for weekend projects, landscaping, or DIY tasks.

Choose Carhartt if:

• Your job demands the highest level of durability and protection against extreme conditions.
• You are willing to invest more for clothing that is proven to last for many years.
• You plan on layering clothing for work in cold weather.
• You value a timeless, utilitarian style and the heritage of an iconic American brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wrangler Riggs or Carhartt cheaper?

Wrangler Riggs is significantly cheaper. Its work pants and shirts are often 30-50% less expensive than comparable items from Carhartt, making it the clear choice for budget-conscious shoppers.

Which is better quality, Carhartt or Wrangler Riggs?

Carhartt is recognized for having superior material quality, construction, and long-term durability. Its use of heavyweight duck canvas and triple-stitching sets it apart for heavy-duty applications. Wrangler Riggs offers very good quality for its price point but isn't built to the same extreme standards.

How do Wrangler Riggs and Carhartt pants fit?

Both brands offer relaxed fits designed for movement. Wrangler Riggs fits like a standard relaxed-fit pair of pants. Carhartt pants are typically looser and baggier to allow for layering and maximum mobility.

Is Wrangler Riggs real workwear?

Yes. Wrangler Riggs is a specialized line within the Wrangler brand specifically engineered for the needs of tradespeople and outdoor workers, featuring reinforced materials and functional designs.

Where can I buy Wrangler Riggs and Carhartt?

Both brands are widely available. You can find them on their official websites, on Amazon, and at major retailers like Tractor Supply Co. and other workwear-focused stores.

Which brand is better for cold weather?

Carhartt has a more extensive lineup of insulated and heavy-duty outerwear designed for extreme cold. With options like arctic-grade insulated jackets, fleece-lined pants, and heavyweight bib overalls, Carhartt is the standard for cold-weather work environments.

Do Carhartt and Wrangler Riggs have warranties?

Both companies stand behind their products against manufacturing defects. The specifics of their warranties can vary, so it's best to check their official websites for the most current policies on returns and defects.