Duluth Trading Co.
Overview
I have a complicated relationship with Duluth Trading. On one hand, I genuinely enjoy their products — the Fire Hose Pants are some of the toughest work pants I have worn, and the Buck Naked underwear lives up to the hype. They make practical, no-nonsense gear for people who actually use their stuff hard. The brand has a sense of humor about itself, which is refreshing in a space full of self-serious heritage marketing.
On the other hand, I need to be honest: Duluth Trading is not primarily a made-in-USA brand. They are headquartered in Belleville, Wisconsin, and they do carry a "Made in USA" line of products. But the majority of their catalog is imported. If domestic manufacturing is your top priority, you need to filter their site carefully and check labels.
That said, I include them here because their American-made products are solid, their prices are fair, and they are transparent enough that you can make informed choices. Just do not assume everything with the Duluth name is made stateside.
What They Make
- Workwear (pants, shirts, overalls)
- Underwear and base layers
- Outerwear
- Bags and accessories
- Belts and wallets
Where They Make It
Duluth Trading is headquartered in Belleville, Wisconsin. Their "Made in USA" products are domestically sourced and manufactured, but they do not operate a single flagship factory the way brands like Red Wing or Schott do. Many of their products are manufactured overseas. When shopping Duluth, look for the "Made in USA" designation on individual product pages to know what you are getting.
Price Range
Duluth runs $20 to $200, which makes them one of the more accessible brands in the American-made space. Underwear and basics start low, while outerwear and heavy-duty work pants sit at the higher end. Good value across the board.
Notable Products
- Buck Naked Underwear — Their best-seller and the product that put them on the map. Moisture-wicking, breathable, and genuinely comfortable for long days. The name is silly, but the performance is real.
- Fire Hose Pants — Built from a canvas fabric that Duluth calls "fire hose" material. These are work pants that can take serious abuse — think construction sites, yard work, or crawling around under a truck.
- Ballistic Backpack — A tough, no-frills pack built for daily carry or job sites. Nothing fancy, just durable materials and smart pocket placement.
Appears In
- Best American Made Underwear
- Best American Made Workwear
- Best American Made Backpacks
- Best American Made Belts
- Best American Made Wallets
- Best American Made Tool Bags
- Best American Made Duffel Bags
- Best American Made Rain Jackets