Carhartt Storm Defender Loose Fit Jacket Review

Summary

The Carhartt Men’s Big Tall Storm Defender Loose Fit Jacket is a versatile product that protects in wet and normal weather. I liked the well-made design, with every detail put together for maximum performance and durability. Its waterproof nylon material sealed out the wetness and protected me while I worked in the rain. At the same time, the breathable material (using Storm Defender technology) also allowed the heat to disperse, so I didn’t feel overly warm even while engaging in vigorous activities. I loved that this jacket can easily be adjusted for comfort and enhanced mobility without the extra weight. The hood is detachable and can quickly be adjusted using the volume adjuster for a better fit. The multiple interior and exterior pockets held all the items I needed throughout the day and didn’t easily fray. The jacket’s premium design offers remarkable durability that can withstand being used in challenging conditions without easily falling apart.

Key Takeaways

• The Carhartt Men’s Big Tall Storm Defender Loose Fit Jacket is a versatile work jacket that’s ideal for wet conditions and even for dry settings.
• Its waterproof construction and components seal out wetness to promote all-day dryness.
• This jacket is comfortable, with an adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs, so it’s easier to achieve a personalized fit that won’t restrict movements.
• The inner and outer pockets secure gadgets, small tools, and other essentials while protecting them from wetness.
• The durable construction and high-quality materials are designed to deliver high-performance benefits for a long time.

Ideal For

• Working in the rain and other wet settings
• Pairing with all types of pants and jeans
• Those who prefer comfortable, adjustable waterproof jackets

Performance Analysis

Comfort

This jacket is a clear winner regarding comfort, mainly because of its adjustable features that make it so easy to achieve a personalized fit.

It didn’t feel as unwieldy as other jackets I’ve used before, with the loose fit hanging comfortably instead of awkwardly flapping around my body. Even with all the pockets inside and outside the jacket, it still didn’t restrict my movements in any way, resulting in a truly comfortable experience.

I liked the inner lining made with soft mesh, as it felt soothing to the skin. This lining didn’t feel too bulky, giving the right amount of drape without hampering my mobility, as it doesn’t stick too tightly to the body. I appreciated the same polyester mesh material used for the hood’s inner lining. It protected my head from feeling too warm when I needed to continue working in the rain.

The hood is detachable, so I could enjoy using the jacket in sunnier weather and indoors without the hood flapping behind – although leaving the hood attached didn’t cause any discomfort, either. I adjusted the hood and cuffs to the most comfortable fit, ensuring I could work more efficiently without these jacket parts getting in the way of my movements. This jacket also lay comfortably on the hem, which I could adjust using the built-in drawcord.

Weight

I expected this jacket to be a lot heavier because of the multiple pockets and durable, solid construction. Instead, I happily discovered that it didn’t feel heavy at all. The waterproof nylon shell and mesh lining worked together to deliver wetness protection and breathability. Still, they didn’t add a bulky structure so I could move freely without the cumbersome weight.

Fit and Sizing

Thankfully, the jacket had a loose fit that didn’t feel too weighed down. I liked how this fit gave me the extra room to dress in layers, allowing me to enjoy the jacket as it is in warmer weather while having the freedom to add more clothing pieces if needed when the temperature drops. The hood can be adjusted using the attached drawcord, so I was able to keep it in place throughout the day. This adjustable quality also enabled me to enjoy an unrestricted view since the hood didn’t repeatedly cover my face and eye areas. The cuffs didn’t get in the way, and I had no trouble adjusting them to a snug fit using the hook and loop closure to keep the cold air out. Adjusting the hem to the right level of snugness was also quite easy, thanks to the built-in draw cord.

Waterproofing

This jacket’s nylon shell is reinforced by the exclusive Rain Defender DWR finish to keep the wetness out.

I confidently used the jacket in the rain. I didn’t get wet while finishing my work – thanks to the water-repellent finish and the Storm Defender waterproof technology working together to maintain the dry interior. I loved how the water slid off the exterior and didn’t weigh the jacket down. Wetness didn’t seep in because of the waterproof seams and the waterproof zipper that ran the entire length of the jacket.

Breathability

One quality that makes this jacket so comfortable is its breathability.

The polyester mesh lining helps keep the air circulating inside the jacket, promoting a comfortably cool feeling for longer, especially with long hours of use while undertaking demanding outdoor jobs. I was impressed with how the Storm Defender technology encouraged sweat dispersion, enabling me to keep wearing the jacket for extended periods without feeling extremely sweaty.

Quality and Durability

The Carhartt Men’s Big Tall Storm Defender Loose Fit Jacket is exceptionally well made, with every button, stitch, and tiny detail put together in ways that will deliver maximum benefits. I’m a fan of the black color that came in a matte finish because it gave the jacket a stylish and versatile look, pairing well with all types of jeans and pants. The materials used are of top quality, resulting in a premium appearance and construction that I believe can last for quite a few years – especially if you look after the jacket pretty well. It also offers fantastic value for money considering its specs and is backed by the brand Carhartt – one of the top brands in the field of workwear.

This waterproof jacket showcased the Rain Defender DWR finish to block water and other liquids from entering. I appreciated the Storm Defender technology as it further reinforced the waterproofing and allowed moisture to dissipate quickly before the jacket’s interior could feel uncomfortably sweaty. The waterproof seams and zipper guaranteed that liquids had no chance to seep in, even when I worked for long periods in wet weather conditions.

Multiple pockets ensure that there are spaces where essentials can fit, making them easier to carry throughout the day.

I liked the inner pockets – one on each side – with hoop and loop closures, as they kept my items secure without taking up a lot of space inside the jacket. Outside, there are 3 zippered pockets – one on the upper left side and two lower pockets on each side. Again, I’m impressed with these pockets as they kept my things completely dry and protected from wetness while I worked in wet settings.

At the top near the collar, the jacket’s interior is fitted with a large red hanging loop – which comes in handy when it’s time to take off and hang the jacket for the day. I loved the removable hood as it made the jacket more versatile to enjoy and maximize in different environments, with or without the hood. Its fit can be adjusted by pulling on the drawcord, allowing me to comfortably go about my day without the hood restricting my view while still protecting my head from the elements. The hem and cuffs are adjustable, so it’s quite easy to achieve a comfortable, personalized fit, enabling me to move more efficiently.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t an insulated jacket, so it’s not the best option for use outdoors in winter.

Other Versions

The Carhartt Men’s Big Tall Storm Defender, Loose Fit Jacket, is available in the following color options: black, navy/bluestone, and black/Carhartt brown.

The Challengers

Conclusion & Verdict

The Carhartt Men’s Big Tall Storm Defender Loose Fit Jacket is a versatile work jacket ideal for wet weather use. It showcased impressive waterproofness, featuring a waterproof nylon shell reinforced with Rain Defender DWR finish to seal out wetness. I appreciated the waterproof seams and full-length zipper, as these components guaranteed that even the smallest drops don’t have a chance to seep in. The Storm Defender technology works inside to stop liquid penetration while sustaining a breathable interior simultaneously, so I was saved from the discomfort that would’ve resulted from overheating and sweatiness. Multiple pockets inside and outside the jacket ensured that I could carry my essentials without worrying that they’ll get wet, with zipper and hook and loop closures to keep the items in place. The hood can be detached and is adjustable – just like the hem and cuffs – for a personalized fit. I believe the jacket’s durable construction can last a long time, even with heavy use, especially if properly cared for. I recommend this jacket for those looking for comfortable, breathable waterproof jackets – but since it isn’t insulated, I won’t suggest it for winter use.