Detroit Jacket J97
✓ 4 expert reviews · Expert-Verified
Est. ~$200 · check retailer for current price
Check price at Carhartt →Expert Intelligence
1 of 2 experts recommend it
4 reviews · Carl Murawski
The original work jacket that inspired the Workhorse, now difficult to find in good condition and commanding premium prices on the secondary market. While the design is beloved, these vintage pieces are increasingly expensive and hard to source.
- Original iconic work jacket design with excellent charm
- Built tough for actual work use
- Still available on secondary market
- Now selling for $200+ in good condition on eBay
- Hard to find and sourcing is difficult
- Model has been discontinued in original form
A naturally aged variant that achieves a worn-in aesthetic through actual use and work. Offers the desirable faded patina without the need for artificial distressing.
- Attractive faded/weathered appearance
- Achieves patina naturally through wear
- Same durability as standard J97 model
- May be discontinued or eliminated from product line according to rumors
- Limited availability as new old stock
Carl's personal favorite from his apprenticeship years (2000-2019). Praises the cropped length and wide arms for layering and tool belt access. Good all-around balance of style and function.
- Cropped hem allows easy tool belt access
- Wide arms accommodate layering with hoodies underneath
- Durable construction held up well to years of work use
- Produced in 20 different colorways including rare colors
- Good balance of style and workwear functionality
- Rare colorways (moss green, petrol blue) command significant secondhand premiums
- No longer in production (2000-2019 run)
A classic Detroit jacket that the reviewer wore throughout his entire apprenticeship. It has held up extremely well over time with minimal wear, featuring a cropped short bottom and traditional silhouette.
- Held up exceptionally well through heavy workwear use
- Traditional Eisenhower silhouette
- Performs well across all applications
- Durable construction
- Cropped short bottom (may not suit all preferences)
