Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overall Review

Summary

The Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overall is packed with high-performance features that I relied on heavily while at work. I was happy to discover that it had quite a few enhancements that weren’t obvious at first glance. The stretch panels on the waist were an impressive addition as they made the overall fit more closely, resulting in a more personalized feeling that, thankfully, didn’t get in the way of my mobility. The multiple pockets ensured I had plenty of storage space to stash the items I needed to bring throughout the busiest workdays. I especially liked the zippered front pocket that was large enough to hold personal gadgets that otherwise won’t feel secure in open compartments. The reinforced kick panels strengthened the hem and made it more resistant to damage, which would’ve been expected in high-wear portions of the overall. Finally, I appreciated the extended structure of the front chaps with reinforced knees as it offered better coverage than other options with almost similar features. This overall felt quite heavy, but that may be fine for those who are used to the robust structure and don’t mind the extra weight.

Key Takeaways

• The Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overall is recommended for those after high-quality, durable overalls with a comfortably loose fit.
• It has multiple pockets for ample storage space, including a zippered one in front where personal belongings and gadgets can be stashed more securely.
• The stretch side panels in the waist and elastic suspenders make it easier to move around without compromising comfort and efficiency.
• Reinforcement on pockets, as well as double layers of fabric on the knees, work together with the strength of the cotton duck material, resulting in the overall’s superior durability that can last a long time.
• The heavyweight cotton duck makes this overall quite heavy, so it’s recommended for those who don’t mind the heavy profile.

Ideal For

• Those who are after premium, durable overalls
• Tough conditions and activities
• People who prefer loose-fitting overalls

Performance Analysis

Comfort

The Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overall is quite comfortable, which is a definite plus as it made it easier for me to work on the required tasks without being held back by discomfort. In addition, the duck cotton material had a reassuring thickness that I appreciated as it gave me the confidence to tackle difficult tasks easily. The fabric had a nice softness that quickly adapted to my motion, enabling me to move freely without feeling hindered by rigid materials.

I loved the addition of stretch panels on the sides, as these made it easier for me to bend, twist, and move freely without the garment digging into my waist.

With just enough give to promote a wider range of motion, these stretchy sections also ensured that the overall didn’t become loose enough to cause an unstable feeling while I was moving around.

The elastic suspenders held up the overall in a convenient way while enhancing comfort at the same time. I didn’t need to adjust the suspenders’ length multiple times during the day to ensure continuous comfort as the stretchable material accommodated my movements. This helped me move freely without the pain from too-tight suspenders digging into my skin.

I appreciated the double layer of fabric that offered increased protection in the knee area. Kneeling on concrete, wooden and tiled floors was easier and more comfortable with the extra material cushioning my knees. This reinforcement allowed me to stay in a kneeling position as needed without suffering from intense pain.

Weight

I noticed that this overall was heavier compared to others I’ve tried. This was mainly due to the thick duck cotton that gave the garment a heavyweight feel, which also offered the benefit of extra durability. This felt hefty enough to withstand tough environments, but it can feel uncomfortable for some. I’d recommend a more lightweight pair for working in extremely warm conditions and for those who are more at ease with wearing lighter garments.

Fit and Sizing

I think this overall is true to size, although it does have a relaxed fit – something I welcomed because it allowed me to move more freely.

There was enough breathing space – and a bit more – so it was easier to bend, kneel, crouch, and stretch without the movements causing the overall to fit too tightly around my body. The loose fit also made it possible for me to use the overall with a wide variety of inner clothing options, as there was still room to accommodate my regular clothes underneath without the uncomfortably tight feeling. I also liked the adjustable elastic suspenders.

Waterproofing

This overall isn’t made with waterproof materials, so that I won’t recommend this for use in rainy weather or wet conditions.

Even if it’s made with heavyweight cotton duck, the material still won’t resist liquid penetration, so even minor spills can cause inner garments to get soaked quickly. Of course, the open sides and top also won’t offer much protection against wetness, making this overall suitable only for dry settings.

Breathability

The thick cotton duck isn’t the most breathable material I’ve encountered, so the bottom part of this overall can feel a bit warm during hot days or with all-day use in humid conditions. However, the top portion didn’t have that problem, thanks to the opening at the top and sides that allowed plenty of air to get in and circulate to prevent sweat build-up.

Quality and Durability

The Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overall is made with thick cotton duck fabric that’s strong enough to last through long days of work without quickly fraying or showing other signs of damage. It had triple-stitched seams that ensured the components wouldn’t easily fall apart, even with heavy use and abuse. This overall looks and feels durable so that it will last a long time, especially with proper care.

The material looks like denim but is thicker than the fabric commonly used in a pair of jeans. It’s versatile enough to go nicely with regular clothes or workwear without looking out of place.

This overall had plenty of pockets, so I had no trouble bringing the items I needed to be easily accessible all day. I’m a fan of the large, zippered pocket in front of the bib as it offered enough space for stashing small gadgets and other objects that I needed to secure in an enclosed area.

Three slip pockets of varying sizes were also fitted to the front to hold items that needed to be on hand. Meanwhile, two reinforced front ledge pockets (with another side hidden inside the right front pocket) provide roomier storage areas for bigger or heftier objects. Finally, I liked the two double back pockets with reinforced structures that easily held weightier items, such as tools. A hammer loop was built into the right leg, while the left was equipped with a tool and ruler pocket.

I loved the stretch panels that were built into the overall sides. This enhancement improved comfort as the waist area adapted to my movements, stretching the material to accommodate my body instead of digging into my skin the way stiff fabric does. In addition, the front elastic suspenders offered a more convenient way of customizing the fight of the bib, with the stretchable and adjustable straps allowing a wider range of motion without compromising a stable feeling.

The hems were reinforced by kick panels, making them much stronger and resistant to the damage to which these sections are often exposed.

I welcomed the dual-layer material that protected my knees, especially when I had to kneel on the floor for extended periods to finish certain tasks.

I got this overall in black and liked how the gold buckles and buttons provided a refined contrast, adding a nice shine while offering superior functionality to the garment.

It’s worth noting that the cotton duck has a heavy feel, so that I won’t recommend this overall to those looking for a lightweight option.

Other Versions

The Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib Overall is offered in 2 colors: black and Carhartt brown. It has an earlier version that didn’t have a zippered front pocket in the bib.

Conclusion & Verdict

The Carhartt Relaxed Fit Duck Bib is ideal for those after a premium overall with a loose fit and durable construction. The multiple pockets in varying sizes provided enough storage space to accommodate small tools, personal belongings, and other items I needed to be within reach throughout the day. I loved the addition of stretch panels to the sides of the waist, making it easier to move freely as the panels adapted to my movements without a restrictive feeling. The hems are strengthened with kick panels on the front and back that protect these portions from getting worn away quickly, especially with heavy use and exposure to abrasive surfaces. I appreciated the extended chaps that provided increased coverage, including a double layer of material in the knees to make kneeling on hard surfaces more comfortable. The thick cotton duck offers superior strength and is reinforced with triple-stitched main seams for reliable durability while doing challenging tasks. This overall is on the heavy side, though, so I’d recommend this to people who don’t mind the extra weight.