Carhartt Shirt Fits Explained

Shirt Guide

As with any apparel purchase, fit means everything. This is especially true when it comes to choosing Carhartt shirts. We know what you're thinking – It's a shirt, how complicated can it be? While it's certainly not rocket science, fit and comfort really matter when you consider how often you wear a shirt and all the things you do in it. Does it restrict arm movement? Is it too baggy? Is it too short when you bend over or kneel? Are the sleeves long enough or too short? Whether you realize it or not, these factors impact your overall comfort and performance, especially when you're moving around all day on a job site.

Types of Carhartt Shirt Fits

Carhartt shirts are available in one of two fit options – loose or relaxed. Generally speaking, the fits described below apply to Carhartt tops, which include t-shirts, sweatshirts, and button-ups.

Carhartt Shirt Fits Explained

Loose Fit, formerly known as Original Fit: Just like the name suggests, tops in this category are loose fitting. They're cut larger so they're roomier in the arms, chest and waist and allow for more freedom to move. Carhartt's iconic pocket t-shirt – the K87 – is the most popular example of a Loose Fit Carhartt t-shirt. Customers often comment that Carhartt's Loose Fit shirts run a full size larger than similar t-shirts from other brands. In other words, if you normally wear an x-large t-shirt, you may need to size down to a large in an Original Fit Carhartt shirt. Shop new

Popular Carhartt Loose Fit Tops



Relaxed Fit: Relaxed fit Carhartt shirts have a snugger fit. While they still offer room for movement, they're noticeably less baggy than Original Fit tops. The Carhartt Force® Pocket T-Shirt is the most popular example of a Relaxed Fit shirt. Generally speaking, Relaxed Fit Carhartt shirt sizes are more in line with t-shirts from other brands. If you normally wear a large, for instance, then a large Relaxed Fit Carhartt shirt will probably fit you well too.

Popular Carhartt Relaxed Fit Tops



Carhartt T-Shirt Size Chart

SIZE CHEST
SMALL 34 - 36
MEDIUM 38 - 40
LARGE 42 - 44
XL 46 - 48
2XL 50 - 52
3XL 54 -56
4XL 58 - 60
5XL 62 - 64
6XL 66 - 68

Units are expressed in inches and reflect general body dimensions. Measurements are approximate.

Note: If your measurement falls between sizes, buy the larger size.

What about Big & Tall Sizing?

When it comes to shirts, there are three key differences between regular and big & tall t-shirt sizing:

  • Shirt Lengths: Tall sizes are 2" longer than regular sizes
  • Long Sleeve Lengths: Tall long-sleeve lengths are 2" longer than regular sleeve lengths
  • Short Sleeve Lengths: Tall short-sleeve lengths are 1/2" longer than regular sleeve lengths

If you think the overall length of a shirt is too short, or its sleeves aren't quite long enough, then a big & tall size may be for you. Note: Big & tall sizes are available in both Loose and Relaxed Fit shirts.

 

Which Carhartt Fit is Right for You?

So, what'll be? Loose or Relaxed fit? Big & tall or regular? The fit that's right for you ultimately comes down to body type and personal preference. Do you have a larger chest and waist that requires a looser fit? Then Loose Fit is the way to go. Do you prefer a slightly more fitted top that sits closer to your body? Then Relaxed Fit is your choice. Do you have long arms or a long torso and need additional coverage? Then you may need to consider a big & tall option in either of those fits.

Armed with this new knowledge about the fits and features available to you, picking your next Carhartt shirt should be a snap. What you do in that shirt is completely up to you!

Dungarees carries a wide range of new and discounted Carhartt factory seconds.

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