A good work jacket should last a decade and look better every year. These seven are made in American factories by brands that have been doing this for generations.
Tin Cloth Short Lined Cruiser
Filson's Tin Cloth Cruiser is the jacket that convinced me to stop buying cheap jackets. The oil-finished tin cloth is practically waterproof, the wool lining adds real warmth, and the thing just refuses to wear out. I've had mine for three years of yard work, camping, and daily wear and it looks like it's barely started.
Best for: Best overall
Check price →740N Pea Coat
Schott has been making outerwear in their New Jersey factory since 1913. The 740N Pea Coat is 32 oz Melton wool that will keep you warm in the worst winter weather. This is the same company that invented the leather motorcycle jacket. They know what they're doing.
Best for: Best heritage pick
Check price →Made in USA Detroit Jacket
Most Carhartt is made overseas now, but their Made in USA Detroit Jacket is still produced in Dearborn, Michigan. It's the iconic Carhartt silhouette in domestic 12 oz duck canvas. The blanket lining adds warmth without bulk. This is the working man's jacket.
Best for: Best for heavy use
Check price →Chore Coat
LC King's Pointer Brand Chore Coat is a piece of American workwear history. They've been making it in Bristol since 1913 and the design hasn't changed much because it doesn't need to. At $95, this is absurd value for a jacket made in the same factory for over a century.
Best for: Best value
Check price →Classic Jacket
Round House keeps making affordable American workwear in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and their classic jacket follows the same formula as their jeans — no-frills, honest construction at an honest price. It's a basic duck canvas jacket that gets the job done.
Best for: Best budget option
Check price →Arena Jacket
Schaefer Outfitter's Arena Jacket is designed for the rodeo circuit but works just as well for everyday wear. The DRI-LEX lining wicks moisture and the hand-warmer pockets are perfectly placed. Fort Worth craftsmanship with western DNA.
Best for: Best premium option
Check price →Fire Hose Presentation Jacket
Duluth Trading's Fire Hose fabric is their proprietary canvas that's legitimately tougher than standard duck. The Belleville, Wisconsin production and gusseted underarms for mobility are nice touches. It's a solid jacket, though Duluth's move toward overseas production means you need to verify the specific SKU.
Best for: Best value
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