For anyone interested in sustainable workwear that minimizes its impact on the environment and doesn’t employ slave labor in the manufacturing process, then you might be tempted to search out bio-cotton bib overalls and fair-trade coveralls, for example. However, there’s a phrase that keeps popping up in the textiles and clothing industry that might make you think twice—Think Global. Buy Local.
You see, when it comes to eco workwear, one of the best things you can do is buy American made. The reasons for this are pretty simple. Firstly, workers enjoy much higher standards of health & safety in the workplace and they are paid a fair wage; secondly, the impact of shipping and logistics are minimized, reducing the large carbon footprint associated with the clothing industry; thirdly, American made garments are usually made to a much higher standard than their “fast fashion” counterparts, ensuring longevity and durability while reducing the amount of clothing that ends up in landfill.
Finally, buying American made supports a manufacturing industry which, in the US in particular, is in dire need of rejuvenation. This in turn keeps locals close to home and reduces individual carbon footprints. Luckily, despite hardships over the years, there’s still plenty of American made brands to choose from when it comes to high-quality workwear. Here then, we take a look at how you can think global and buy local with the very best American made workwear on the market today.
Round House Jeans
Round House Jeans has been operating continuously since 1903, making it one of the oldest manufacturers of jeans and overalls in the US. Made to meet rigorous standards and manufactured from only the best materials, all of the garments in the Round House Jeans collection are built to last. Based in Oklahoma, the company prides itself on the values of respect for others, the strength of family, and the worth of freedom. The company also offers factory tours so you can be sure that your sustainable workwear is made in only the best conditions.
Union Line
With more than a century of experience, Union Line has been crafting high-quality, affordable clothing in the US since 1901. The company offers a broad range of heavyweight duck jackets, bib overalls, and coveralls, alongside other garments that prioritize quality and comfort. Today, Union Line also manufactures a dedicated eco workwear line that uses 50% post-consumer polyester and 50% conventional cotton fabric for greater sustainability. Finally, state-of-the-art design, cutting and manufacturing help Union Line create affordable workwear that also minimizes waste.
King Louie
A relative newcomer to the market compared to Round House and Union Line, the King Louie brand legacy dates back to 1937. With its regal outerwear and high-quality polos, the company wears its “made in the USA” badge with pride, crafting a range of custom-made and off-the-shelf jackets, coats, fleeces, and shirts that are built for everyday wear in even the most challenging working environments. As a sustainable workwear brand, King Louie’s heritage ensures you know that the workers manufacturing your clothes are fairly paid and never forced to work in some South East Asian sweatshop. It’s all from the USA baby!
Camber
Camber, based out of Pennsylvania, manufacturers a range of hi-vis, thermals, and industrial workwear in a broad range of sizes—even catering for the larger than life workers of the world. Its 80/20 cotton/polyester hi-vis garments are, quite literally, highlights in the collection. Using mainly cotton instead of polyester cuts down on the number of microfibers shed during washing, helping you to stay visible but protecting our oceans at the same time. As you might expect, everything in the Camber catalogue is manufactured entirely within the USA to exceptionally high standards.
Bayside Apparel and Headwear
Bayside is all about quality, and its range of hats, tees, jackets, and tote bags are made to go the distance. The company prides itself on paying a fair wage to its workers, and its products are entirely sweatshop free. They also offer a number of styles under the Union Brand Label that speaks directly to the American work ethic. Only the highest quality yarns are used during manufacture, and Bayside is committed to consistently providing innovative products that push the boundaries of American made workwear. It’s line of organic cotton tees are a case in point, bringing superior craftsmanship and sustainable materials to its high-quality tees.
Benchmark FR
Founded in 2002, Benchmark FR manufactures a range of flame retardant garments and accessories that are designed to withstand the rigors of high-heat environments where electrical lineman, oilfield and refinery workers, welders and other workers spend their days. Made in California, the brand also specializes in products for warm weather climates, ensuring safety even when the temperature outside is as hot as it is at the furnace. Comfort, quality, and style have pushed Benchmark FR to the top of its game, and the individually serialized & traceable garments ensure you always know the provenance of your workwear.
About the Author
Nick Warrick
Nick Warrick is the Sales Manager at All Seasons Uniforms. With over 15 years of experience in the work uniform business, he has worked with hundreds of clients across 20 different industries. Holding bachelor’s degrees in both Business Administration and Information Technology, Nick revamped the company’s online presence, offering its customers a new uniform shopping experience.