When you need branded outerwear that works as hard as your team, Carhartt jackets deliver the durability and professional appearance that builds trust with both employees and clients. We've identified the five top-selling custom Carhartt jackets based on real order data, breaking down each style's construction, weather protection, and ideal use cases to help you choose the right fit for your organization. For each jacket, we include expert customization tips to ensure your logo looks sharp and lasts as long as the garment itself.
Why Carhartt for Branded Outerwear?
Carhartt has been the benchmark for rugged workwear since 1889, originally built for railroad workers who needed clothing that could survive anything. Over 130 years later, that reputation for producing the toughest, most reliable gear on the market hasn't wavered. The brand's signature heavy-duty fabrics like duck canvas and heavyweight cotton, combined with triple-stitched seams and reinforced construction, have become synonymous with apparel that outlasts the competition. Carhartt's practical, no-nonsense aesthetic embodies strength and dependability, making it a natural fit for organizations wanting to align their brand with these values.
Carhartt jackets deliver both performance and brand impact. They're designed to handle the toughest conditions with features like water-repellent finishes, thermal linings, and ergonomic fits that allow maximum mobility on the job. Their legendary durability means these jackets often last decades, sometimes passed down through generations. For companies, branded Carhartt jackets project reliability and resilience that resonates across industries. Whether outfitting jobsite crews, field teams, or using them as high-value corporate gifts, custom Carhartt jackets ensure your logo gets associated with quality and hard work every time the jacket is worn.
How to Evaluate Carhartt Jackets for Custom Orders
Choosing the right Carhartt jacket for your team takes a bit more thought than just picking a style you like. The best choice depends on matching the jacket's features to your team's environment, your branding goals, and how the jacket will actually be used day-to-day. Below are the main factors to consider.
Warmth & Weather Protection
Consider the climate and conditions your team faces daily. Carhartt jackets range from lightweight, unlined shells for mild weather to heavily insulated parkas built for frigid temperatures. Look for thermal or quilted linings for warmth, Storm Defender® or Rain Defender® technologies for water resistance, and wind-blocking materials for added protection. Matching the insulation and weatherproofing to your team's environment ensures comfort and functionality.
Fabric & Construction
Carhartt's reputation rides on rugged construction. Duck canvas offers exceptional durability and abrasion resistance for tough jobsites, while nylon shells provide lighter weight and greater flexibility. Pay attention to triple-stitched seams, reinforced pockets, and heavy-duty zippers that contribute to long-term durability. The lining—whether quilted, thermal, Sherpa, or fleece—affects both warmth and comfort.
Fit & Style
Jacket fit impacts both comfort and appearance. Carhartt offers loose, relaxed, and active fits, plus classic and modern silhouettes. Consider whether your team needs extra room for layering or a more tailored, professional look. The Detroit Jacket offers a traditional cropped fit, while the Active Jacket provides a roomier cut for mobility.
Custom Branding Locations
Evaluate where your logo will be placed. Carhartt jackets typically offer multiple branding zones: left/right chest, sleeves, back yoke, and custom tags. The material and construction of each area affects embroidery or printing results. Some jackets have reinforced panels or seams that may limit decoration options, so coordinate with your decorator for optimal placement.
Use Case
Think about how and where the jackets will be worn. Heavy-duty jobsites require different features than seasonal uniforms or corporate gifts. Matching the jacket's features to the intended use—water resistance for outdoor crews or lightweight insulation for transitional seasons—maximizes satisfaction and utility.
Durability & Care Requirements
Assess how much wear and tear the jackets will endure and how easy they are to maintain. Heavier duck fabrics may require a break-in period and specific washing instructions, while nylon and softshells are generally easier to care for. Durability becomes especially important for teams working in harsh environments.
Budget & Sizing Range
Carhartt offers options across different price points and sizes, including men's and women's fits. Factor in your budget per piece and the need for inclusive sizing to outfit your whole team. Extended sizes may carry upcharges, so plan accordingly for diverse groups.
Our 5 Best-Selling Custom Carhartt Jackets
These five jackets consistently rank as our top sellers for custom orders, based on real order data and customer feedback. Each offers distinct advantages for different environments and budgets, from heavy-duty worksite protection to versatile layering options that work across seasons.
1. Carhartt Thermal-Lined Duck Active Jacket (CT106678)
The Carhartt Thermal-Lined Duck Active Jacket is built from rugged 12-ounce, 100% ring-spun cotton duck canvas with a 100% polyester thermal lining for reliable warmth. Key features include an attached thermal-lined three-piece hood, full-length brass front zipper, and rib-knit cuffs and waistband for a secure fit. Storage comes via two large lower-front pockets and two interior pockets (one zippered, one hook-and-loop). Carhartt's triple-stitched main seams and loose fit design enhance both comfort and longevity.
Best for: This jacket excels for outdoor laborers, construction crews, and anyone working in unpredictable or cold conditions. The tough duck canvas exterior repels wind and resists abrasion, while the thermal lining provides warmth without excessive bulk, making it ideal for layering. The loose fit allows freedom of movement and accommodates additional layers beneath. For teams needing reliable, long-lasting outerwear that can be customized with logos for a unified look, the CT106678 remains a top pick.
Tips: The slightly textured duck canvas surface works great for embroidery or printing, but keep designs fairly simple if printing to avoid detail loss. Left chest embroidery or patches look classic, while the right chest offers space for names or additional personalization. Sleeves provide extra branding real estate, but avoid the upper back yoke since the hood typically covers it. The full back remains open for larger designs. Available in three colors, with dark navy offering an especially handsome appearance and black hiding stains best for dirty work environments.
2. Carhartt Storm Defender Shoreline Jacket (CT104670)
The Storm Defender Shoreline Jacket features Carhartt's proprietary Storm Defender® waterproof, breathable technology with a 7.3-ounce, 100% nylon oxford shell. Fully taped seams and a 10K/10K waterproof/breathable rating ensure rain stays out while sweat escapes. Wind Fighter® technology tames blustery conditions, and a polyester mesh body lining adds breathability. The jacket includes an adjustable, removable roll-away hood, full-zip front with inner and outer storm flaps, and multiple pockets including a waterproof chest pocket and two zippered lower-front pockets. Adjustable cuffs and a drop tail hem provide added protection.
Best for: Ideal for teams working in rainy, muddy, or unpredictable climates, the Shoreline Jacket is favored by utility workers, landscapers, and field crews. Its waterproof yet breathable construction keeps wearers dry and comfortable during long shifts outdoors. The customizable surface makes it popular for branded workwear, and its robust construction ensures it stands up to repeated use. For organizations seeking reliable rain protection without sacrificing comfort or mobility, the Storm Defender Shoreline Jacket delivers.
Tips: The smooth nylon surface works well for both printing and embroidery, with rubber patches complementing the waterproof aesthetic nicely. Since the Carhartt logo sits on the left chest, place your customization on the right side. The back offers plenty of space for larger designs, but avoid the upper back collar area since the hood covers it (though it is removable). Available in four darker color options that hide dirt and maintain a professional appearance in demanding work environments.
3. Carhartt Gilliam Jacket (CT102208)
The Gilliam Jacket weighs just 1.75 ounces but delivers impressive durability through its 100% nylon CORDURA® shell. Insulated with 100g polyester and featuring a quilted nylon lining, it provides warmth without bulk for easy layering. Rain Defender® durable water repellent (DWR) finish helps shed light rain, while Wind Fighter® technology offers wind resistance. Design details include a mock-neck collar, full-zip front, adjustable cuffs, drawcord-adjustable drop tail hem, and multiple storage options: chest map pocket, hand pockets, and two interior pockets. Triple-stitched main seams and a relaxed fit complete the practical features.
Best for: Perfect for teams needing versatile layering that balances warmth with mobility, the Gilliam Jacket appeals to delivery drivers, warehouse staff, and technicians who move between indoor and outdoor environments. The lightweight, water-repellent, and wind-resistant design works alone or as a mid-layer under heavier coats. Its surface proves ideal for custom embroidery, making it a smart choice for branded uniforms across various industries.
Tips: The quilted construction and multiple seams make embroidery the preferred decoration method over printing. Small patches also work nicely with the jacket's technical aesthetic. Since the Carhartt logo occupies the left chest, place your branding on the right side. All other print areas remain open for customization. A small logo on the upper back collar can look particularly sharp and add a professional finishing touch to the overall design.
4. Carhartt Duck Detroit Jacket (CT103828)
The Duck Detroit Jacket is crafted from 12-ounce, firm hand, 100% ring-spun cotton duck canvas with a blanket-lined body for warmth and quilted nylon sleeves for easy on-and-off. The jacket is water-repellent and wind-resistant, featuring a corduroy-trimmed collar and hidden snaps for an optional hood. A two-way brass zipper, pleated bi-swing back, and snap-adjustable cuffs and waist enhance fit and mobility. Storage includes a zippered left chest pocket, two lower-front pockets, and two interior pockets. Carhartt's signature triple-stitched seams ensure lasting durability.
Best for: Favored by tradespeople, mechanics, and those in agriculture, the Detroit Jacket excels in cooler conditions where mobility and durability are paramount. Its shorter length allows easy access to tool belts, while the rugged duck canvas stands up to years of wear. The style's legacy—popularized in both workwear and pop culture—adds appeal for teams seeking a classic, functional jacket that can be customized for a cohesive look. This iconic silhouette remains the quintessential work jacket.
Tips: The textured duck canvas surface mirrors jacket #1, so avoid highly detailed logos if printing and keep designs fairly simple. Embroidery looks exceptional on this jacket and complements its durable construction perfectly. Front customization goes on the right chest, with all other areas open except the left chest Carhartt pocket. Consider adding personalized names above the zipper for a nice touch. A modest single-color logo works well on the back. Available in only two classic colors, so choose neutral thread colors to maintain the authentic workwear aesthetic.
5. Carhartt Crowley Soft Shell Jacket (CT102199)
The Crowley Soft Shell Jacket is built from a heavyweight 13.9-ounce, 90/10 nylon/spandex shell bonded to a water-resistant film and polyester fleece backing, combining flexibility with warmth. The Rain Defender® DWR finish repels water, while Wind Fighter® technology blocks cold gusts. Rugged Flex® technology ensures ease of movement, and the jacket features a zip-through cadet collar, adjustable cuffs and hem, and a range of pockets including a large internal document pocket. Triple-stitched seams and a relaxed fit complete the design.
Best for: Ideal for teams working in variable outdoor conditions who need a balance of protection and flexibility, the Crowley Jacket suits utility crews, surveyors, and field service teams requiring freedom of movement and weather resistance without traditional work coat bulk. The jacket's professional appearance and customizable surface make it a strong choice for branded corporate outerwear across various industries.
Tips: The smooth nylon surface works exceptionally well for printing, whether DTF or screen printing methods. Since the left chest features Carhartt branding, place your front customization on the right side. The back offers ample space, with a sewn section near the collar that fits logos particularly nicely for a professional finishing touch. Available in four neutral, darker colors that maintain a polished appearance while hiding dirt and wear from daily use.
General Tips for Customized Carhartt Jackets
Getting the most from your custom Carhartt jackets means understanding how different decoration methods work with heavy-duty fabrics and choosing the right approach for your brand goals.
- Choosing the Right Decoration Method: Match your decoration method to the jacket's surface and your design complexity. Smooth nylon shells handle detailed screen printing or DTF transfers beautifully, while textured duck canvas works better with simplified designs or embroidery. Consider your logo's detail level and color count when deciding between printing and embroidery. For large orders, discuss cost differences between methods with your decorator.
- Embroidery: Carhartt's heavy-duty fabrics like duck canvas and rugged nylon require specific embroidery techniques for professional results. Expect your decorator to use larger needles and high-quality polyester thread that withstands frequent laundering and tough use. Keep designs simple with shorter stitch lengths that flex with the garment and prevent puckering over time. Choose locations that avoid thick seams or reinforced areas, and follow size guidelines for maximum impact. For a design that truly stands out, consider puff embroidery.
- Patches as a Versatile Alternative: Custom patches offer a sturdy, durable alternative to embroidery and printing. You have several options to match your desired aesthetic: leather or faux leather for a premium look, PVC rubber patches that complement waterproof jackets, traditional embroidered patches for classic appeal, or FlexStyle 3D patches with special effects for modern branding. Patches work great on textured fabrics where direct embroidery might be challenging.
- Placement Strategy: Since most Carhartt jackets feature left chest branding, plan your customization for the right chest, sleeves, or back areas. Avoid placing designs where hoods, collars, or seams might interfere. The upper back collar often gets covered by hoods, but removable hoods open up this area. Full back designs work well for larger logos or company names.
- Care Instructions: Proper care maintains both the garment and custom branding. Wash jackets inside out in cold water with mild detergent, avoiding bleach and fabric softeners. Close all zippers before washing to prevent snags. Air drying preserves fabric structure and prevents shrinkage, though medium heat tumble drying works for most styles. Following care instructions ensures your investment lasts for years.
Choosing the Right Carhartt Jacket
Selecting the ideal Carhartt jacket depends on your team's specific environment, branding goals, and budget. Here's how the top use cases match up with our featured jackets:
Heavy-Duty Winter Work: Thermal-Lined Duck Active Jacket
For crews exposed to harsh winter conditions, the Thermal-Lined Duck Active Jacket delivers maximum protection. Its heavyweight duck canvas, thermal lining, and hood provide serious defense against wind, cold, and abrasion. The loose fit accommodates layering, while the rugged construction handles demanding jobsites and outdoor labor where durability matters most.
Wet Weather Protection: Storm Defender Shoreline Jacket
Teams working in rainy, muddy, or unpredictable climates need the Shoreline Jacket's waterproof, breathable technology. Utility workers, landscapers, and field crews appreciate staying dry during long outdoor shifts. The fully taped seams and 10K waterproof rating provide serious weather protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort.
All-Weather Versatility: Gilliam Jacket
When your team needs year-round flexibility, the lightweight Gilliam Jacket excels at layering. Delivery drivers, warehouse staff, and technicians moving between indoor and outdoor environments benefit from its packable warmth and water-repellent finish. It works alone in mild weather or as a mid-layer when temperatures drop.
Classic Workwear Style: Duck Detroit Jacket
For traditional trades and industries valuing heritage workwear, the Detroit Jacket remains the gold standard. Mechanics, tradespeople, and agricultural workers appreciate the iconic style, shorter length for tool belt access, and rugged duck canvas construction. It's perfect for teams wanting authentic Carhartt legacy with modern branding options.
Professional Corporate Use: Crowley Soft Shell Jacket
Organizations needing polished, weather-resistant outerwear choose the Crowley Soft Shell for its professional appearance and technical performance. The smooth surface, modern fit, and neutral colors work well for field service teams, surveyors, and corporate environments where performance meets professional standards.
Gear Up Your Team with Confidence
Carhartt custom jackets deliver the perfect combination of legendary durability, weather protection, and professional appearance that makes your team look good while working hard. Each of these five top-selling styles offers distinct advantages for different environments and budgets. Choosing Carhartt means investing in outerwear that projects reliability and quality every time your team wears it.
As industry leaders in custom apparel, RushOrderTees brings decades of experience to customizing these rugged jackets. Browse our full Carhartt collection to explore all available styles, or connect with our product specialists who understand exactly how to match the right jacket to your specific needs. Our art department provides free graphic optimization to ensure your logo looks sharp and professional on whichever style you choose. Get that order in and let us get to work for you.
About the Author
A graduate of the Multimedia program at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Imri Merritt is an industry veteran with over 20 years of graphic design and color separations experience in the screen printing industry.