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From Seamen to World Attention
Now recognised on a global scale as a premium English sports and fashion brand, Barbour first came to the world’s attention via their iconic waxed cotton jackets. Before WWII, Barbour was supplying oilskins and other outdoor garments to the surrounding northeastern community of seamen, sailors, and dockers to protect them from the treacherous North Sea weather. Although their Ursula suit became the standard issue for the Submarine service during World War II, their fame started to spread.
Global Reach and Impressive Jackets
Already established as one of the leading suppliers of durable outdoor garments, as well as being well-known for their innovation and high levels of quality, Barbour expanded its client base to a global audience. From landowners and farmers to buyers as far-flung as South America and Asia, the word was finally out that Barbour made some very impressive jackets.
Roaring Engines and Tough Jackets
In 1936, the first Barbour wax cotton International motorcycle jacket was introduced and went on to be worn by almost every rider in the International Six Day Trials circuit from the 1950s through to the 1970s, with legendary film star Steve McQueen being just one of many famous faces to have sported this rugged and iconic jacket.
The Heart of Barbour in South Shields
Cut to the modern day, and Barbour’s traditional wax jackets continue to be at the heart of the company, where they’re currently produced at their 180-strong factory in South Shields. With three Royal Warrants (the Duke of Edinburgh, Her Majesty the Queen, and HRH the Prince of Wales) to their name, it is perhaps no surprise that the order and process in which their factory operates is second to none. It takes 36 people to make just one Barbour jacket from start to finish, with each person being an essential part of the production process.
Precision and Craftsmanship
With approximately 50 styles of traditional wax jackets for men, women, and children in production, the handmade pieces are produced with precision daily, with a new garment being completed every three minutes. The South Shields factory produces approximately 3,000 garments per week and 130,000–140,000 garments per year. They also offer a world-renowned re-waxing service, where each year, approximately 13,000 Barbour jackets are lovingly repaired, reproofed, or returned to their former glory.
Barbour’s Ongoing Legacy
With roots firmly in its heritage, the Barbour brand continues to grow and develop each year, providing a beacon for English craftsmanship and family values. The Sporting Lodge is proud to present the Barbour Clothing Collection 2025.
by Neil Summers
Browse through all our Barbour Posts:
Barbour: 125 Years of Functional Style
Barbour Way of Life: Coats to Coast
Barbour: An Essential Part of Country Life
Barbour Collection: Waxing Lyrical
The everlasting and enduring appeal of a Barbour wax jacket
Barbour Clothing Range – Since 1894
Barbour, for Queen and Country
