Carhartt Soft Shell Jackets - Any Good?

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I have one. I can't say its been my best jacket. It is built really well as are all Carhartts. But the sleeves are too skinny to wear while layering. Anything more than a base layer and I can't really bend my arms. For a soft shell, I don't think its that breathable. I have a Patagonia Core Skin jacket that is warmer, breathes better, and it more weather resistant. But it is almost more than twice the cost. If I had it to do over I would not get this jacket. You want a size large tall for cheap? :D
 
Whether it's Carhartt or TNF or Filson, you have to look at the material. Most of Carhartt's pieces are 100% cotton, which is a no-no if you ever get rain or snow.

Regarding TNF and others, there are MANY different lines of jackets made, and the reason some of the jackets are $300-$400 is because of the seems, zippers, insulation and overall construction. Unfortunately, many of the better quality jackets you won't see on the racks in an REI, Basspro, Cabelas, etc. Stores order what will sell the best at a particular price point, and most consumers don't know the difference.

(King of the Mountain wool jackets are incredible, but you can't sell them as a retailer because they are rather expensive, but if you buy a set once, that's all you will need in a lifetime.)

Also, if you hunt, you have to consider the quietness of the garment. Many of the synthetics are just too noisy, and unfortunately, there is not a good blend between the hunting and non-hunting garments.

Cabelas sells some decent jackets that you may want to look at. We are very disappointed at the choice of garments offered at most retail locations.
 
profro said:
.. I have a Patagonia Core Skin jacket... You want a size large tall for cheap? :D
Click to expand...

How cheap, and what color? Seriously, pm me.

Spent of plenty time throwing snow and walking dogs in my Pg jacket, could use a lighter weight for those endevours.

Patagucci is best suited for travel wear, not wrenching, chain-installing, wood-chopping duties. That's where Carrhart excels.

But they each have their place.
 
Love the fact that I can throw my Carthartt in the washer, just gets better with age. Love my Filson jackets as well, especially the wool lined ones and of course my Mackinaw Cruiser. Never heard of King of The Mountain apparel.
 
I don't own any carhartt jkts, but with soft shells I have had great performance with the MAMMUT brand.... a few years now and going strong...
 
I bought a blemished Propper brand (military contractor) soft shell some years ago - I think this is its 3rd winter - and I really like it. It's my go to jacket unless it's below 25 F. Relatively thin material that is wind resistant and surprisingly warm compared to the standard fleece. I'm impressed with soft shell as a material and the best part is I bought mine for less than $25 so unless the label is important to you (not judging here) look around for deals.
 
Just ordered a Carhartt soft shell. Will report.
 
My Carthartt Crowley soft shell arrived. Love the fit, more roomy in the shoulders than my North Face. Like the fact that I can draw in the waist. I have very large forearms and this jacket gives me plenty of room. I hate a skinny cut (French arm) jacket or shirt! Have yet to test it in the rain but it feels like it will suffice. For heavy rain my Barbour can't be beat. No complaints for $100. I wear a large and I would say it is true to size or even slightly roomier.
 
I have a Carhartt soft shell that I bought about 4 or 5 years ago. I honestly haven't been that impressed with it. I get damp wearing it in heavy rains and the fit is funny. I still reach for my old Filson 99% of the time.
 
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