Carhartt Rugged Cargo Short Review
Quick Take Review
Carhartt. It’s one of those workhorse brands – maybe THE workhorse brand – that you see workmen all over the country wearing. Known primarily for the company’s signature heavy-weight cotton duck fabric, Carhartt is taking it in new directions with an updated line of shorts and shirts designed for warm weather conditions. They’re not necessarily a brand we turn to for hiking and camping gear, but we were able to put a pair of the company’s Rugged Cargo Shorts and Force T-Shirt through their paces. They both definitely lived up to the Carhartt rep.
Let’s start with the Rugged Cargo Short. It’s made of a slightly less-heavy eight-ounce cotton canvas than standard Carhartt gear. However, the short still feels substantial. Fit through the waist was a little trim, but overall pretty spot on. No binding and plenty of freedom of movement. The pockets deliver good storage space. There are two rears with snap closures, two on the thigh also with snap closures (the right has a small additional pocket for pencils or mobile phone) and two standard slash pockets for keys and such. We liked the look and the hard-wearing nature of these shorts.
As for the Force T-Shirt, appearances can be deceiving. Our sample showed up in an unassuming package and equally unassuming color known simply as Dark Khaki. Honestly, my initial thought was “yawn, a tan t-shirt.” But was I wrong. Carhartt builds the Force T-Shirt from a cotton/polyester blend that has both a soft hand and rugged feel. There’s just a touch of stretch to the shirt so it gives in all the right places as you work it out. The raglan sleeves also provide a nice detail and extra freedom. Fit, like the short, was a touch trim but totally functional and comfortable. We also liked the tagless collar that eliminated that often annoying item from the neckline.
So where do we bottom out on this new spin from classic Carhartt? Well, we’re digging it. The products definitely deliver hard working durability with a touch of modern style and comfort. Detailing is top notch too providing solid comfort and wear-ability. If you don’t have yourself a pair of classic Carhartt dungarees already, then go shopping. Pick yourself up a pair of Rugged Cargo Shorts and a Force T-Shirt or two for those waning days of Summer while you’re at it.
