Why Do Barbour Wax Jackets Remain So Popular?

January 25, 2017

There can be few things in life that are as hard-wearing or reliable as a Barbour wax jacket. Designed for all manner of healthy outdoor pursuits from bailing hay to wiping out wildfowl. It’s a timeless British icon loved the world over, just as much by country folk as by city-slickers, and whose level of appeal (just like the jackets themselves) seems to only improve with age. This was proven by my recent visit to the Pitti Uomo trade show in Florence, where I noticed that, amongst all the fur-lined parkas and woollen overcoats, the Barbour Bedale and Beaufort wax jackets are still the jackets of choice for Italy’s fashion elite, which is pretty incredible when you try to think of another genuine outdoor that’s as popular with urbanite peacocks as it is with those who wear Barbour jackets for the type of outdoor pursuits that don’t involve drinking prosecco or being papped.

Don’t Miss Our Barbour Jackets SALE

While other jackets have come and gone since their inception back in 1894, thanks to their combination of practicality and timeless style, the Barbour wax jacket remains a permanent fixture in our wardrobes. Worn by everyone from festival-goers to royalty and even our household pets, the Barbour wax jacket remains a uniquely British fashion statement. Barbour womens jackets have been a firm favourite of the royal family, the Queen famously owning a Barbour wax jacket since 1990 and more recently we’ve seen Kate Middleton sporting a much loved quilted Barbour Jacket It’s an iconic institution as synonymous with our sceptered isle as red buses, steamed up chip shop windows, foaming pints of beer, complaining about the weather and the excellent crack of leather on willow.

Long may Barbour continue. Here at The Sporting Lodge, we are proud to be working with such an iconic brand.

By Neil Summers.

Barbour Men's Wax Jackets:

Barbour Women's Wax Jackets:

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
Barbour Clothing Range – Since 1894
Barbour, for Queen and Country

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Barbour wax jacket considered a British icon?

The Barbour wax jacket is regarded as a British icon due to its heritage dating back to 1894, its practical weatherproof design, and its wide appeal across rural and urban settings. It represents durability, craftsmanship, and British outdoor life.

What makes Barbour wax jackets different from other outdoor coats?

Barbour wax jackets stand out through their heavyweight waxed cotton, hand-finished detailing, and commitment to repairability. They are made to withstand harsh weather while improving with age.

How long can a Barbour wax jacket last with proper care?

With regular re-waxing and basic maintenance, a Barbour wax jacket can last for decades. The brand also offers a repair and reproofing service to extend their lifespan even further.

Are Barbour jackets still made in England?

Yes, Barbour continues to manufacture its classic wax jackets at their factory in South Shields, England, maintaining high quality standards and traditional skills.

Why do Barbour jackets appeal to both country and city lifestyles?

Barbour jackets blend practicality with understated style, making them suited to both countryside pursuits and city living. Their weather resistance and heritage appeal have ensured cross-generational popularity.

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