What does UPF 50+ mean on these pants?

It means the fabric blocks most UV radiation, rated UPF 50+. That protects covered skin during long sun exposure, though it is not a substitute for sunscreen on exposed areas.

How do these compare with Carhartt's canvas work pants?

They are much lighter and more breathable, with stretch and quick-drying fabric. Canvas pants resist abrasion better but run hotter, so the Sun Defender suits heat over heavy scraping.

Are they good for hiking as well as work?

Yes. The light fabric, stretch and sun protection work well on hot trails. The relaxed cut is roomy, and the thin material is less suited to brushy, abrasive terrain.

Carhartt Force fabric is treated to wick sweat and fight odors, which helps on multi-day wear between washes.

What is the fit like?

They are a relaxed fit, roomy through the seat and leg. Shoppers who prefer a trimmer cut may want to size down or look at a straight-fit option.

What pockets do they have?

They have standard front and back pockets for storage. Check the specific style for any additional utility pockets.

What do buyers say about the Carhartt Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant?

Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 96 ratings.

Where can I buy the Carhartt Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant?

10 stores we checked sell it, including Carhartt, H.N. Williams Store, Theisen's, eBay, Thruway Sporting Goods.

Carhartt Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant

Q: Where is the Carhartt Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant cheapest?

At Carhartt, for $29.99, 50% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$29.99at CarharttChecked Nov 4

50% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 10 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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What reviewers say

4.3 / 596 ratings

Owners rate the Sun Defender highly for hot-weather comfort, praising the light fabric, stretch and sun protection. Some note the thin material and relaxed cut as trade-offs.

What people mention

BreathabilityPraisedOwners say the light fabric keeps them cool in high heat.
StretchPraisedRugged Flex lets them bend, kneel and climb without binding.
Quick dryingPraisedFastDry fabric dries fast after sweat or a soaking.
Sun protectionPraisedUPF 50+ is valued for long days outdoors.
BuildMixedSome find the thin fabric less durable than heavier canvas pants.
FitMixedThe relaxed cut is roomy through the leg for some wearers.

About the Carhartt Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant

The Carhartt Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant is a men's work pant made to hold up under strong sun. It is the lightest pair of pants Carhartt makes, with a light, airy feel. It has a UPF 50+ rating for UV protection.

The fabric is a 5.6-ounce stretch dobby made of 90% polyester and 10% spandex. Carhartt Force technology wicks sweat, dries fast, and fights odors. FastDry technology helps keep you cool, and Rugged Flex stretch technology allows freedom of movement. The pants have pockets for storage.

The fit is relaxed. The mid-rise sits just below the waist, with a roomy seat and thigh and a tapered leg opening.

Material

90% polyester, 10% spandex stretch dobby

Fabric weight

5.6 ounces

Sun protection

UPF 50+

Fit

Relaxed

Rise

Mid-rise, sits just below the waist

Leg opening