Our mission has always been to outfit fun in the workplace. Because as the old saying goes, work doesn’t feel like work when you’re having fun doing it. That’s the way we like it and we’re sticking to it.


We believe hard days go down easy when crews works hard, play harder, and don't take themselves too seriously — at least every now and then. And when you love what you wear as much as what you do, job site magic happens.


Red Kap workwear is here to keep you comfortable for every clock in, over-time shift, eagerly exchanged hi-five, and whatever else in between. Because we’ve been outfitting a fun-loving and fulfilled workforce since 1923. And we’re just getting started.

IT'S BEEN A FUN RIDE SO FAR

HEY BRO, HEY CUZ, HEYDAY

1923

In 1923, William Wirt Harlin, Sr., Alexander F. Harlin and Claude H. Williams – two brothers and their cousin – set up shop to sell bib overalls as “Harlin Bros. & Williams.” The team built their humble operation with a few simple values in mind: great service, comfort and durability. Those values have stood the test of time for Red Kap workwear, and as the company has grown far beyond a team of three, the power of teamwork continues to drive its success.

ROARING, NEVER BORING

1920's

The roaring twenties saw the company go from selling shirts to overalls to offering a better grade of shirts. It also went from being called Harlin Bros. & Williams to Central Overall Company

GROWTH SPURT

1930's

The first independently owned Red Kap manufacturing facility opens in Nashville and a second manufacturing plant opens in Clarksville, TN. The brand moves its corporate headquarters to Nashville s newest skyscraper as the name changes again to Central Manufacturing Company, and eventually to Red Kap Garment Company.

ANSWERING THE CALL

1940's

Red Kap started the decade by shifting to supplying shirts, pants, field jackets and even gas mask carriers for the U.S. Army and Navy. By the end of the decade, focus shifts to the industrial laundry market, developing the first laundry-friendly industrial pant and shirt.

ALL-IN ON INDUSTRIAL LAUNDRY

1950's

Red Kap focuses exclusively on the industrial rental laundry business. They open a pants manufacturing plant in Cookeville, TN.

ACING TESTS, SETTING STANDARDS

1960's

Red Kap opens its first testing laboratory and later goes public, while changing the name to Red Kap Inc. The company also introduces the first laundry-friendly durable press garments: Red-E-Press. Plants and distribution centers are opened, expanded and acquired, while the 65% poly/35% cotton blend becomes the industry standard. Thanks to Red Kap, of course.

FIFTY SURE IS NIFTY

1970's

Red Kap marks its 50th anniversary with $50 million in sales and its 50,000,000th shirt. A new national headquarters and distribution center is built in Nashville. Business is booming with expansion around the country, and they begin manufacturing women's uniforms. (‘Bout time!)

BIG HAIR BOOMIN'

1980's

The decade began with three new plants and one new distribution center opening, with more to come. This was also when we partnered with General Motors to develop the first of many service technician uniforms for a major auto manufacturer. The SP14GM and SP24GM are still in the line today.

STEPPING UP OUR REP

1990's

Red Kap acquires an arch competitor, Workwear, as well as four new plants. Red-E-Service customization which began in the 1970s comes into its own with a period of rapid growth and sophistication allowing embroidery, emblems and more. Red Kap became a brand within the VF Corporation family.

GET IN, WE'LL DRIVE

2000's

Red Kap makes its debut appearance at the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show in Las Vegas, NV. Growth accelerates in the auto manufacturer arena with exclusive uniform programs for major car companies like Ford, Honda and GM.

WINNING THE TECHNOLOGY RACE

2010's

Red Kap introduces the Performance Shop Pants and Shorts made specifically for the automotive industry. Then takes flex panels in workwear to another level with MIMIX™ through scientifically proven placement to enhance performance, and revolutionizes stain resistance with the introduction of OilBlok technology.

A FUN & FULFILLED WORKING WORLD

2020's

A new era begins with a century down, and our Day One mentality is as strong as ever under new ownership with Workwear Outfitters. We’re committed to our purpose to outfit a fun and fulfilled working world with purpose-built teamworkwear.

BEHIND THE SEAMS.

While we’re proud of how far we’ve come, there’s work to be done. It’s why we geek out on product innovation, investing in tech, and developing corporate initiatives that will help the future of work.

WHY RED KAP?

After a hundred plus years of making hard-working workwear for people just like us, we make sure everything we do is for good reason. This mindset is what leads us to purposeful innovations for the skilled trades, keeping affordability, fit, and technology front and center.

WALLET-FRIENDLY WORKWEAR

First off, don’t get us started on our love of pockets, because we do have a thing for them. But when we say pocket-friendly workwear, we’re talking quality that cuts no corners at a price that won’t break the bank.

SIZES FOR EVERY TOM, DICK, HARRY & LESLIE

No two workers are alike. Whether you’re tall or short, big or small, we’ve got you covered. Shop XS to 6XL with extended waists and longer inseams. No matter your size, you’re fit to move.

WEAR THE FUTURE

A shirt is just a shirt until it’s not. With an eye on the kind of innovations you’ll need on the job site, our technology-focused workwear keeps you a step ahead. Fear no oil, don’t sweat stains, flex to the max. We have tech-based workwear solutions made specifically for the way you work.

THE OFFICIAL UNIFORM OF WORK DONE RIGHT

Given our roots as a uniform company, we’ve learned a thing or two about all kinds of industries and occupations. Without patting ourselves on our work shirt back, we know how to make a durable, comfortable uniform that stands up to the rigors of any job site. And we’re committed to bring our expertise to the working world.


So, here we are. Modern workwear with a rich history that stands for work done right.

WITH PURPOSE, ON PURPOSE:

WORDS FROM OUR VERY OWN

MORE AWESOMENESS

Military Discount

Education Discount

Loyalty Program