Man Outdoors Wearing Quality Barbour Quilted Jacket

How Has Barbour Built Its Clothing Legacy Since 1894?

Since 1894, Barbour has been a leading name in heritage outdoor clothing, combining practical design with enduring style. Rooted in the traditions of British country wear, Barbour jackets and garments continue to serve those who appreciate craftsmanship, durability, and a strong connection to the outdoors.

J. Barbour and Sons Ltd was founded by Scottish native John Barbour in South Shields, England, in 1894. Initially, the company made its name as an importer of oilcloth. By 1908, Barbour had utilised its specialist knowledge to manufacture waterproof clothing.

They targeted all manner of active individuals and attracted orders from far and wide. Using a mail-order catalogue helped cement Barbour as the go-to brand for reliable outdoor clothing. By 1917, 75% of their orders were placed via mail-order catalogues.

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Fast forward to the modern era, and in 2004, Barbour began to work with Lord James Percy in the design and marketing of its flagship shooting clothing range – the Northumberland range.

Technically advanced and highly acclaimed in 2005, the Northumberland Range won the Shooting Industry Award for Best Clothing Product. More recently, the Linhope 3-in-1 won the Shooting Industry Award for Best Clothing Product in 2008. More recently, he was involved, alongside Vice Chairman Helen Barbour, in designing the new Barbour Sporting collection.

Barbour Mens Jackets:

There are now over 5,000 products across the two seasons, and the collections cater to men, Ladies, and Children. Broadening out from its countrywear roots, the heritage and lifestyle clothing brand today produces clothing designed for a complete lifestyle wardrobe. In addition to jackets and coats, the Barbour wardrobe comprises trousers, shirts, socks, knitwear, and a range of accessories.

Nevertheless, in whichever area the company now operates, it remains true to its core values as a family business which espouses the unique values of the British Countryside and brings the qualities of wit, grit and glamour to its beautifully functional clothing.

We are proud to stock a wide range of arbour jackets, hats, scarves, and bags at The Sporting Lodge.

Browse through all our Barbour Posts:

Barbour: 125 Years of Functional Style
Barbour Way of Life: Coats to Coast
BARBOUR: Macs, Facts and Lots of Wax
Barbour: An Essential Part of Country Life
Barbour Collection: Waxing Lyrical
The everlasting and enduring appeal of a Barbour wax jacket
Barbour, for Queen and Country

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Barbour founded and what was its original focus?

Barbour was founded in 1894 in South Shields, initially focusing on importing oilcloth and creating waterproof garments for seafarers and outdoor workers.

What role did Barbour’s mail order service play in its growth?

The mail order service introduced by Barbour in 1908 significantly expanded its reach, with 75% of orders made by post by 1917.

What is the Northumberland Range and why is it important?

The Northumberland Range, developed with Lord James Percy, is Barbour’s award-winning shooting collection, blending technical innovation with heritage craftsmanship.

How has Barbour expanded its product range?

Barbour now offers a full lifestyle wardrobe, including trousers, shirts, knitwear, socks, and accessories, while maintaining its outdoor heritage.

How does Barbour maintain its identity as a family business?

Barbour remains family-owned, preserving values of craftsmanship, heritage, and a strong connection to the British countryside in its clothing designs.

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