Barbour

Founded in 1894 by John Barbour in South Shields, northeast England, J. Barbour & Sons is a British outerwear brand famous for inventing and perfecting waxed cotton jackets. Designed initially to protect sailors, fishermen, and dockworkers from the harsh North Sea weather, the brand evolved into a staple of British country wear.

The fundamental technical difference of Barbour lies in its patented paraffin- or wax-impregnated cotton fabric. This treatment turns the garment into a fully windproof and waterproof barrier, with the unique ability to be rewaxed periodically to maintain its properties indefinitely. Unlike modern synthetic membranes, waxed cotton develops its own distinct patina over the years.

Barbour holds three Royal Warrants granted by the British Royal Family (Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke of Edinburgh, and King Charles III). As a historical note, the iconic Beaufort or Bedale jacket includes functional details such as the exclusive Barbour family tartan lining and washable nylon rear pockets, originally designed to carry small game.