ShirtsBargain Blog | Wholesale Apparel Guide, Apparel Trends, Customization Options, and more.

How to Soften a Stiff Carhartt Jacket: 5 Proven Methods

New Carhartt jackets feature intentionally stiff "Firm Hand" duck canvas engineered for snag and abrasion resistance, requiring break-in periods before achieving comfortable fit. While natural wear over weeks provides the safest softening method creating custom body-contoured fits, five proven techniques accelerate the process. The vinegar wash method preserves DWR and FR coatings by adding one cup white vinegar to cold water cycles, soaking for one hour to dissolve factory starch. Washer/dryer agitation with tennis balls or sneakers mimics years of wear in 60 minutes through mechanical pummeling. Steam or damp towel techniques offer no-wash alternatives for spot-treating stiff collars and hoods. The unconventional freezer method uses water expansion to fracture sizing agents. Critical maintenance warnings include avoiding fabric softeners that compromise water-repellent coatings, never using high heat causing shrinkage, and eliminating bleach that degrades cotton fibers. CornerStone enzyme-washed alternatives offer instant softness versus Carhartt's legendary durability requiring earned comfort through proper break-in techniques.

ShirtsBargain, 01/22/2026

Carhartt Jackets vs. CornerStone Jackets: Which Work Jacket Will Work For You?

Carhartt and CornerStone represent two approaches to durable work jackets, each serving different budget and performance requirements. Carhartt, the legendary American workwear brand, delivers exceptional durability with premium cotton duck fabric, specialized treatments, and decades-long lifespan expectations. Their jackets feature blanket lining insulation, tailored structured fits, and multiple reinforced pockets, priced from $75-$150 wholesale. CornerStone offers functional alternatives with tough cotton duck construction, effective polyfill insulation, and practical features including embroidery-friendly Port Pockets. Their roomier fits accommodate layering, with wholesale pricing ranging $49.66-$96, representing 30-40% savings versus comparable Carhartt models. Key differences include fabric treatment philosophy (Carhartt's superior molecular-level strength vs CornerStone's functional toughness), insulation strategies (extreme cold vs moderate winter protection), fit styles (tailored structured vs relaxed roomy), and pricing approaches (premium investment vs exceptional value). Both feature cotton duck fabric, triple-stitching at stress points, and work-specific design elements for construction, warehousing, and outdoor work environments.

ShirtsBargain, 01/12/2026

What is a Shell Jacket? Complete Guide to Soft & Hard Shell Jackets

Shell jackets serve as protective outer layers engineered to shield wearers from wind, rain, and snow while maintaining breathability and comfort. Two main types exist: soft shell jackets offering flexibility and breathability through stretchy nylon or polyester with DWR finish and fleece lining, ideal for moderate weather conditions; and hard shell jackets providing maximum waterproof protection through sealed seams, waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex, designed for extreme weather. Key benefits include weather protection with water-resistance ratings like 1000MM found in the Port Authority J317, lightweight construction for easy layering, and versatility across industries from construction to corporate offices. Technical features encompass waterproof-breathable membranes measuring 0.01mm-0.003mm, reverse coil zippers for water resistance, cadet collars, and adjustable cuffs. Shell jackets excel as team uniforms and corporate wear, accepting custom embroidery and screen printing for branding. Wholesale purchasing through platforms like ShirtsBargain offers exceptional per-unit pricing with sizes XS-5XL from trusted brands.

ShirtsBargain, 01/02/2026

Eddie Bauer Jackets Vs The North Face Jackets Comparison for Warmth, Weather, and Value

Eddie Bauer and The North Face represent two distinct approaches to premium outerwear, each serving different needs and budgets. Eddie Bauer, founded in 1920 as America's first patented down jacket creator, emphasizes accessible adventure with practical designs, relaxed fits, and exceptional value. Their WeatherEdge technology delivers reliable weather protection for everyday commuting, travel, and business casual environments. The North Face positions itself as the premier choice for outdoor enthusiasts since the 1960s, featuring advanced proprietary technologies including DryVent waterproofing, WindWall fabrics, and ThermoBall synthetic insulation. Their athletic-fit designs combine technical innovation with modern streetwear appeal and higher price points. Key differences include warmth delivery (Eddie Bauer's ThermaFill vs The North Face's high-fill down and ThermoBall), weather protection systems (WeatherEdge vs DryVent/GORE-TEX), material philosophy (durable substantial fabrics vs lightweight performance materials), fit styles (relaxed classic vs trim athletic), and pricing strategies (excellent value vs premium investment).

ShirtsBargain, 12/24/2025

What are the Different Types of Jackets: Features and Usages?

Understanding jacket types ensures optimal selection for corporate uniforms, decoration projects, and team outfitting needs. Jackets serve different purposes based on construction, fabric, and intended use across four main categories: performance jackets for outdoor activities, fashion jackets for style, teamwear jackets for group identification, and workwear jackets for industrial environments. Core jacket types include softshell jackets offering wind and water resistance with breathability, fleece jackets providing warmth through brushed polyester insulation, windbreakers featuring lightweight packable shells, insulated jackets with thermal fill for cold weather, and rain jackets with waterproof membranes for heavy rainfall protection. Specialized options encompass bomber jackets for street style, work jackets with heavy-duty canvas construction, sleeveless vests for mobility, hybrid jackets combining insulation with stretch, fashion jackets prioritizing appearance, and parkas plus puffer jackets for extreme cold conditions. Customization compatibility varies by fabric type, with embroidery excelling on softshell and canvas materials, while DTF transfers work best on windbreakers and nylon shells.

ShirtsBargain, 12/15/2025