Carhartt Men's Rain Defender Loose Fit Midweight Full-Zip - Warm

In this review of the Carhartt Men's 104078 Rain Defender loose fit sweatshirt, the bottom line is simple: this is a practical midweight full-zip built for men who need dependable warmth and light rain protection without bulk. The garment's biggest selling point is the combination of a thermal polyester lining and Rain Defender durable water repellent, which keeps the wearer comfortable and moving in drizzly conditions. The review focuses on fit, materials, and everyday utility for work or casual wear.

Key Features

• Midweight fleece: The 10.5-ounce, 50% cotton/50% polyester fleece provides a balanced weight that warms without feeling heavy or restrictive.
• Thermal lining: Polyester thermal lining adds insulation so the sweatshirt retains heat in cool weather while remaining breathable.
• Rain Defender DWR: The durable water repellent finish sheds light rain and helps maintain comfort during damp commutes or outdoor tasks.
• Hood design: The attached, thermal-lined three-piece hood with drawcord closure protects the head and neck from wind and drizzle while allowing adjustment.
• Pocket storage: Two front handwarmer pockets with flaps, a hidden media pocket, and an inside zip pocket offer secure storage for a phone and small items.
• Durable closures: Full-length brass zipper and spandex-reinforced rib-knit cuffs and waist hold the fit in place and block drafts.

Who It's For

This sweatshirt suits men who work outdoors or spend time in variable weather and want a comfortable, durable layer that resists light rain and retains warmth. Its original, loose fit and midweight construction make it useful for layering over tees or under a shell, and the pocket layout is practical for anyone carrying a phone or small tools.

Those seeking a heavyweight winter coat, waterproof outer layer for extended storms, or a tailored slim fit should look elsewhere. If heavy rain protection or technical waterproofing is required, a fully sealed rain jacket will be a better choice than this DWR-treated fleece.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable midweight warmth without excessive bulk, making it easy to move in.
• Water-repellent finish helps keep the wearer dry in light rain and drizzle.
• Multiple secure pockets, including a hidden media pocket and an inside zip pocket, improve day-to-day utility.
• Durable construction and original fit provide long-lasting wear for work or casual use.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed experiences with zipper durability, so heavy-use buyers should check the closure regularly.
• Not intended as a fully waterproof or heavy winter outer layer.

Specifications

Material	50% cotton / 50% polyester fleece
Weight	10.5-ounce midweight fleece
Lining	Polyester thermal lining
Water resistance	Rain Defender durable water repellent (DWR)
Closure	Full-length brass zipper
Hood	Attached, thermal-lined three-piece hood with drawcord
Pockets	Two handwarmer pockets with flaps, hidden media pocket, inside zip pocket

Our Verdict

The Carhartt Men's 104078 Rain Defender loose fit midweight full-zip is a solid value for anyone needing a warm, durable sweatshirt that handles light rain and daily wear. Buy it if you want practical pocket storage, a warm thermal lining, and a dependable DWR finish; skip it if you need a heavy parka or fully waterproof shell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this sweatshirt fully waterproof?
No. It has a Rain Defender DWR that repels light rain and drizzle but is not fully waterproof for prolonged exposure.

Does it run true to size?
The fit runs a bit on the roomy side; customers often find the size runs big so consider your layering needs when choosing a size.

Are there pockets for a phone?
Yes. There is a hidden media pocket and an inside zip pocket in addition to two handwarmer pockets with flaps for secure storage.