Does vintage Carhartt run big or small?
Jackets run big and boxy — they were cut to layer over a hoodie on a job site. Pants run closer to the tag in the waist but shrink with washing, so measured waist often comes in under the tagged size. Tees run boxy and wide at the same label size compared with modern cuts.
Should I size down in a vintage Carhartt jacket?
Most people should size down one for a modern fit. An Active Jac in your usual size will wear noticeably oversized. If you want the oversized look deliberately, stay true to size. Detroits fit closer to the body than Active Jacs, so true to size usually works there.
Why is the waist smaller than the tag says?
Duck canvas shrinks with repeated hot washing, and most vintage pants have had decades of it. A pair tagged W34 can measure W32 flat. This is why you should always buy on flat measurements rather than the tag.
How do I measure to compare?
Lay a garment you already own flat and measure: for jackets, pit-to-pit across the chest and length from collar seam to hem; for pants, waist across the top edge and inseam from crotch seam to hem; for tees, pit-to-pit and length. Send us those numbers and we will tell you which pieces in stock match.
What does 'all sizes available' mean on your listings?
Our stock rotates constantly as bales are graded, so rather than list one size we confirm fit per piece. Message us with the reference number and we send flat measurements for that exact garment before you order.
Do vintage Carhartt pants stretch out?
Duck canvas softens and relaxes with wear but does not stretch much in the waist. It will mould to you over months rather than growing a size. Buy to fit, not to grow into.
We grade 97 pieces by these rules
Everything written here is how we actually assess stock before listing it. Browse what's in now, or message us and we'll send photos and measurements of anything.