Rediscover the Roots of an Iconic Work Jacket

When many people think of the jacket’s beginnings, they picture the familiar brown Duck canvas that has become synonymous with the style. But in fact, Carhartt didn’t introduce this popular variation until 1979. The original Active Jac that blazed onto the workwear scene in 1975, under the code 8JH, had a distinctive blue denim shell, with red flannel lining. An adjustable attached hood, knit cuffs and waistband, with front hand-warmer pockets and a heavy-duty zip made it an instant hit with workers who valued workwear that was both hardwearing and comfortable. Machine washable and with unisex styling that was ideal for men and women, the jacket ticked all the boxes for discerning workers.

As the work jacket grew in popularity, we began offering it in additional materials, including classic brown Duck, camouflage and sandstone. But the original denim workwear jacket remained influential, and we refreshed it in 1989 with a pre-washed denim shell and buffalo-check lining made from 100% cotton (JF848).

Fast-forward to 2026, and we’ve drawn on the experience of the past 50 years to reinterpret the original icon. Paying homage to the 1975 original, and building on the successful evolution of the 1989 edition, our new Denim Active Jac brings the classic into the 21st century. Reinvigorated with a modern construction featuring 12.25-ounce (415 gsm) rigid denim (DE1022), an updated fit and the high levels of durability that the current generation expects from Carhartt workwear, it brings together the best of the past and the present in one jacket.