Carhartt: the original

Carhartt was founded in Detroit in 1889, making overalls for railroad workers. It has made workwear for people doing physical jobs ever since: tough fabrics, reinforced seams, and fits cut for movement and layering over thermals. Function comes first. Style is a side effect.

It's still very much a workwear brand, and it's still sold mainly in the US.

Carhartt WIP: the European take

In 1989, Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress) was set up in Europe, first to bring the American pieces over. By the mid-1990s it was designing its own collections, taking the original workwear and recutting it for people wearing it off site.

It found its audience through skateboarding, hip-hop and club culture, which is why it sits on the rails of independent stores rather than trade suppliers. It operates as its own business, with its own designers and its own collections each season.

The differences that matter

Fit. This is the big one. Mainline Carhartt is cut generously for work. WIP is trimmer, more considered, and sized to European measurements. If you know your size in one, don't assume it carries over to the other.

Range. Mainline Carhartt focuses on core workwear. WIP builds full seasonal collections — knitwear, trousers, tees, accessories and collaborations — alongside the classic jackets.

Fabric and finish. Both use heavy canvas, but WIP often uses organic cotton and offers a wider choice of washes and colourways.

Where you'll find it. Mainline Carhartt is sold through workwear and outdoor suppliers. WIP is sold through its own stores and selected independent retailers.

Which one is for you

If you need workwear for a job, the original Carhartt is built for it. If you want pieces with that same durability, made to wear every day and look right doing it, that's Carhartt WIP.

Carhartt WIP at Triads

We're a Carhartt WIP stockist on Yarm High Street, carrying the Detroit Jacket, OG Active Jacket and the wider FA26 collection. Come and try the fit in store, 10am–5pm, Monday to Saturday, or shop online at triadsclothing.co.uk with free UK delivery over £100 and next-day dispatch on orders before 3pm.