Carhartt Apparel Supports America’s Textile Workers — But There’s Room for Improvement

By Jesús Espinoza
Ever attentive to the needs of its customers, Carhartt recruits members for its “Carhartt Crew” to provide feedback on prototypes and product research. The company has designed and manufactured its products in the U.S. since its founding in 1889 though in recent years the company has reduced the amount it produces domestically. | Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, by Mangan02

This American heritage brand is beloved, but be sure to check the label!

If you’ve ever owned or worn anything Carhartt, you know that this brand is something else. Its unmatched quality, durability and look have earned Carhartt a faithful following since 1889.

I come from a union household where Carhartt was a staple. Not only does Carhartt make unmatched work clothes that last, their range in variety offers utility for many occassions beyond wear on the factory floor.  

This week, Christine Lagorio-Chafkin penned an article in Inc. that perfectly highlights how the brand has exploded in popularity throughout the U.S. and the world. While Carhartt continues to be loyal to its working-class roots in its functionality and style, it has developed new trends that appeal to buyers with many tastes. 

Carhartt’s store in Hamburg, Germany, is just one of its many retail locations around the world.

The broad appeal of Carhartt — from workers to artists to even political leaders — unites Americans from all backgrounds. With Americans’ strong embrace of Carhartt, some consider the brand to be the nation's clothing of choice.

However, though Carhartt warrants praise for continuing to manufacture apparel in its Kentucky and Tennessee factories, producing 80 million garments and accessories in the U.S. over the past 15 years, the company manufactures overseas as well.  

​This holiday shopping season, check out Carhartt — but make sure to check for the "Made in USA" label before buying.

By seeking out Carhartt's made in America offerings, you can support the company's 2,200 American workers, and the communities that these workers sustain.

We can hope that Carhartt will eventually return to its roots and manufacture all of its products back home, making sure all of its goods are 100 perecent American-made. But until then, keep your eyes peeled! 

If you'd like to learn more about "Made in USA" labeling standards, be sure to read our guest post on labeling laws