There’s A Cozier Version Of Carhartt’s Beloved Pocket-Tee, And It’s Still Under $30

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For all the good traits I got from my father, I did not get his appreciation for simplicity. He is the plain vanilla cone to my chocolate twist with sprinkles, and while I don’t always nail his birthday presents, this year, I think I did.
Stopping at the Connecticut Bass Pro Shop on my drive from Philly to Boston, I hoped to find something my dad would pick out for himself. He is a middle-aged man from New England who likes to ski and go to the farmer’s market. I am a non-binary artist in Philadelphia with stick-and-poke tattoos. The classic workwear brand, Carhartt, is our beautiful unifier.
While the brand’s iconic pocket tee is a HuffPost bestseller and timeless classic, I wanted something a touch dressier and more fall- and winter-friendly. I was delighted to find their loose-fitting henley in a selection of neutral hues.
Like the brand’s T-shirt, the long-sleeved henley is made from 100% heavy-weight cotton with a left chest pocket. With a 4.7 rating on Amazon and over 22,000 reviews, it’s a beloved shirt that can be worn in the mountains, on the farm or out to a casual dinner.
The rib-knit collar and cuffs give the shirt a little something-something, while the straightforward shape makes it a perfect option for minimalists (like my father).
As the name states, the shirt is indeed loose-fitting through the shoulder and body — and many reviews say they ordered a size or even two down. Yet, others like the roomy feel, saying the shirt is comfortable when working or moving around a lot. You can snag it in 10 colors and in men’s sizes S-4XL on Amazon. I, of course, am eyeing the neon orange, though it’s sold out in my size.
If you’re looking for a universal dad gift that’s high-quality and from a trusted brand without breaking the bank, I recommend the long-sleeved Carhartt henley. And if you like a cozy, soft and thick henley, grab one for yourself while you’re at it.
“My husband loves these shirts, They are heavy and tough, yet comfy. I buy them for all the men in my life, (husband, brother, and Dad) they all love them!” —Alisaanne
“I bought it for a woman (myself) because I couldn’t find the same kind of shirt in a woman’s size. I like it a lot.” —Patsygail W Calhoun”
Bought as a gift for my dad, he wears it all the time, then my brother in law has been asking for one since he saw my dad wearing it, so that will be his Christmas gift!” — Kiersten Snyder
“I bought this for my boyfriend but I’m keeping it for myself! Super comfy, material is nice.” —Courtney
“I bought them for work, but I wear one pretty much every day. Work or not. Comfortable and sturdy.” —O’Shlanker
“I’m extremely picky when it comes to my clothing and how it fits and feels and this is a top tier shirt it fits perfectly and I have bought it in multiple colors once again carhartt delivers the best quality” — Corey
Gildan’s most popular T-shirt, this cotton option feels great on and is thick enough to be worn alone. Its classic fit gives you loose comfort, with a rib collar and tear-away label for extra ease. The midweight fabric makes it great for all-year wear. Promising review: “These shirts are thick, soft, and true to size. I own 5 different colors currently and will definitely be purchasing more. Top Quality Product 10/10 I highly recommend.” — Jack Pickens
The name says it all. Comfort Colors makes incredibly comfortable and colorful cotton basics. If you don’t know about their beloved T-shirts, get the multipack — you’ll be glad you did. With a relaxed fit and a heavyweight ring-spun cotton construction, they promise to get softer with every wear without losing their shape. This retailer allows you to choose the colors of your multipack and also has an option for collections of pocket tees. Promising review: “Love fabric and color selection. Order the 4 pack for the wife and kids. This is my 3rd order and very satisfied with the product.” — Bounsong C.
These midweight crewneck T-shirts are made with a European cut for a slimmer feel. They have an extra-secure inner collar band to ensure the neck stays taut, and they come in a great selection of solid colors for all sorts of styles. Promising review: “Best quality T-shirts I have ever bought for my Husband. Really good selection of colours and a good fit too. The banding around the neck stops it from getting stretched and loose, unlike cheap T-shirts, brilliant idea.” — Mrs. Pamela A. Lowth
Ah, the pocket tee: a timeless piece that looks great on its own or with layers. This set comes with six cotton/poly blend shirts and is available in two color combos. Find them in sizes S-3XL.
Promising review: “I recently purchased these T shirts, and I absolutely love them. They fit GREAT and are so comfortable that I had to check to make sure that I had a shirt on.” — Tony Walker
While they’re described as sleepwear shirts, many reviews say these short-sleeve Henleys are also great for daily outdoor wear. They come in long and short sleeve options, in many colors in sizes S-5XL with tall options. It’s made from a lightweight jersey fabric that’s designed to be quick-drying and feel super smooth on the skin.
Promising review: “I bought the shirts for my husband because we were going to be going away. They are very nice quality and they wash very nice. Also they did not shrink they do not get wrinkled and they’re not see-through. I think they’re great value for the money. I plan on buying him a couple more. I recommend these shirts.” — VA DZ
Whether you’re looking for something to wear under another shirt or just prefer room around your neck, this set of six V-neck tees is made from soft breathable cotton that’s designed to keep its shape through washes. The shirts are moisture-wicking to keep you cool and dry with durable stitching and a lay-flat collar that’s easily hidden when layering. These come in S-XXL in white, black and multicolor packs.
Promising review: “As far as I am concerned these are the only t shirts worth buying. They are high quality COTTON – don’t shrink up-wash and dry like a dream and stay WHITE!!!!” — Chris Hutchin
Breathable and soft jersey cotton make this multipack of shirts super wearable. They’re made from 100% ribbed cotton and have a banded neckline that will keep its shape through wash and wear. Promising review: “I grabbed two packs of these. Working around the house or lazy day I want comfortable and simple. These shirts deliver the same comfort you’d expect from the big brands at a lower price point. If you like to chill or work in cotton tees grab a pack.” — Bob Mariani
Calling all tall wearers and those who like to tuck their shirts in. These moisture-wicking “stay tucked” shirts from Fruit of the Loom are long in the torso, allowing for a full range of movement without popping out of your pants. The soft-covered seams along the neck and shoulders make them extra comfortable, and the flat collar makes them great to layer under dress shirts. Promising review: “Bought for husband’s work shirts. They’re sooo comfy I have even stolen them for bed. Super long covers his dad belly perfectly even enough to Tuck into jeans Very light weight but durable enough for construction work! Will buy again” — scoobie
Many reviewers noted grabbing these dry-fit crewnecks for active hiking and trekking travel in hot climates and liking them so much that they wore them back home. Whether you’re working out or just hanging out, these polyester and spandex blend shirts will keep you dry and comfy. Promising review: “I bought this set of shirts for a safari in Tanzania. In fact, another gentleman on our trip had purchased the same set. They are light and comfortable. They wash and dry easily. No fabric ‘pilling’ after laundry and the seams have held up very well. We were pleased with our purchases.” — Ray
A cotton-polyester blend makes this set of T-shirts breathable and quick-drying. They’re made with odor protection to keep you from getting funky, and the longer hem will keep them tucked in and covered, even when you move and groove. Promising review: “I order these tshirts to wear under my other shirts. They are thin and lightweight and don’t bunch up under my other tshirts. I ordered enough to have some to wear under my pjs in the winter when it’s really cold. These are so nice and wash and dry on hot. Because they are all cotton, they can easily be stretched a little if I want them loose under my clothes I wear a med to large tshirt and I ordered these in medium. They are soft and fit well. These work for male and female.” — Happy Shopper
The definition of versatility, these soft cotton Hanes shirts can be worn alone or as a base layer throughout the day. The double-needle stitching and shoulder-to-shoulder taping make the shirts feel a little extra high-end, but the crewneck and relaxed fit keep it casual and easy. Promising review: “I only buy these Tshirts because I love the Cotton feel and the thickness. I am a bigger person so I buy the xx sizes. I have never been unhappy with Hanes. Love it and I will continue to buy these shirts. Cotton feels better rather than the stretchy stuff especially when you live in a hot, humid climate like I do.” — Denise KS
If you’re a Ralph Lauren fan, you probably need little convincing to snag this trio of soft, breathable shirts. They’re great for layering but can also be worn alone and are made from 100% combed cotton that feels great on the skin. Promising review: “These shirts are comfortable, long lasting, and great for throwing something on to go for a walk to the park or to the beach! They are great undershirts too!” — Eric Kisela
These soft, heather-dyed shirts are designed to look and feel like your old favorite shirt, without the pit stains and holes. They’re made from a cotton/polyester blend with a wrinkle-resistant finish, keeping them fast-drying and super durable. Promising review: “The fit of these shirts is spot on. They were purchased in size XXL and are true to size. I’m 6’ 2” tall and weigh 220 pounds and these shirts fit me really well. I usually have issues with shirts having a tight fit in the shoulders when I move. They have enough flex so they don’t feel tight when I move and the material is extremely comfortable” — Derek Lea