Barbour

Pre-owned Barbour wax jackets, from the Bedale and the Beaufort to field jackets, quilted jackets and vests.

Barbour since 1894

John Barbour started the business in South Shields in 1894, selling oilskins to sailors, fishermen and dock workers in the north-east of England. Waxed cotton became the material the brand is known for, and the corduroy collar and the tartan lining became its recognisable details.

Bedale and Beaufort

Dame Margaret Barbour designed the Bedale in 1980 for riding. It is the shorter of the two, with gusseted side vents and no game pocket at the back. The Beaufort followed in 1983. It is longer and looser, drew on traditional French shooting jackets and has a full-width game pocket across the back. Both are made in waxed cotton with a corduroy collar and a tartan lining. The jackets have their own page, Barbour jackets. The Bedale and the Beaufort are compared in the Barbour buying guide.

Waxed cotton and care

Waxed cotton is cotton treated with wax, which makes the fabric shed water and wind. The wax wears thin at friction points such as the cuffs, the collar and the front, and the jacket then needs re-waxing, which is routine maintenance. A wax jacket is never dry cleaned, because the solvents strip the wax coating. It is cleaned with cold water and a soft brush or sponge, without detergent. Cleaning and re-waxing are explained step by step in how to care for waxed cotton.

Size and measurements

The cut differs between models and production years: the Bedale is shorter and the Beaufort longer and looser, so the size on the label is only a rough guide. A wax jacket is often worn over a jumper, so the chest measurement is best compared with a jacket that already fits over one. The method is explained in the guide to measuring pit to pit.

More jackets from other brands are in men's jackets and vests and women's jackets and vests, and classic clothing brings Barbour together with Ralph Lauren and Lacoste.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Bedale and the Beaufort?

The Bedale is the shorter jacket, designed in 1980 for riding, with side vents and no game pocket. The Beaufort, from 1983, is longer and looser and has a full-width game pocket across the back.

How often does a Barbour jacket need re-waxing?

Most wax jackets need it every year or two, depending on use. The wax wears thin first at the cuffs, the collar and the front.

Can a Barbour jacket be washed in a machine?

A wax jacket is not machine washed or dry cleaned. It is cleaned with cold water and a soft brush or sponge, without detergent.