Barbour Countrywear – British Tradition Woven into Waxed Cotton

When one thinks of classic British country attire, Barbour is a name that inevitably comes to mind. Established in 1894 in the North East of England, Barbour has over a century of heritage in outfitting country folk – from farmers and fishermen to royalty – with durable, weather-resistant clothing. The term “Barbour Countrywear” evokes images of rolling hills, muddy wellies, and of course the brand’s iconic waxed jackets that have become synonymous with British rural life.

The Barbour Story

Barbour’s story began in South Shields, England, where founder John Barbour started supplying oilskin coats to mariners and dockworkers who needed protection from the harsh North Sea weather. The early Barbour coats were all about function – waterproof and hard-wearing – but they quickly gained a reputation for quality. By the mid-20th century, Barbour’s waxed cotton jackets, like the famous Bedale and Beaufort, had evolved into versatile garments beloved not only by workers but also by country squires, motorcyclists (Barbour made motorcycle suits and sponsored riders in the International Six Day Trials), and even the British royal family. A Barbour jacket isn’t just a coat; it’s part of British culture, with references in films, TV (think of the Barbour-clad characters in Skyfall or The Crown), and countless country fairs.

What makes a Barbour a Barbour? First, the waxed cotton material – a densely woven cotton impregnated with a special wax formula. This gives the jackets their trademark weatherproofing (rain literally beads off) and also that distinctive slightly oily feel and matte appearance. Barbour’s wax jackets come in colours like olive green, navy, rustic brown, and black – hues that match the earthy tones of the countryside. Over time, as the jacket is worn, the waxed cotton develops a patina unique to the wearer, so each Barbour tells a story. Importantly, they are made to last and be maintained: Barbour offers re-waxing services, and it’s common for people to send in a beloved jacket after a few years for a reproof and perhaps a patch on the sleeve. Some customers proudly mention wearing the same Barbour for 20 or 30 years, making it a sustainable choice in an age of disposable fashion.

Barbour Countrywear Range

While Barbour is most famed for its jackets, the term “Barbour Countrywear” encompasses a broad range of clothing ideally suited for life in the country (or for bringing a touch of country style to town). In our store, we stock a variety of Barbour items:

• Waxed Jackets: The heart of Barbour’s range. We typically have the Barbour Beaufort (a mid-length jacket with a game pocket and optional zip-in liner) and the Barbour Bedale (a shorter equestrian-style jacket) available, as these are perennial favourites. These jackets feature classic Barbour details – a corduroy collar (with studs for an optional hood), large bellow pockets for cartridges or gardening gloves, handwarmer pockets lined with moleskin, and robust two-way zips with press-stud storm flaps. The Beaufort and Bedale are part of Barbour’s Classic collection, lined with the signature Barbour tartan. They are as functional as ever: wear one for a walk with the dog in pouring rain, and you’ll stay dry; wear it to a weekend country pub lunch, and you’ll fit right in with the rustic chic crowd.

• Quilted Jackets & Gilets: Barbour popularised the diamond-quilted jacket as a lighter-weight option. We carry Barbour quilted jackets like the Liddesdale, which is a boxy, lightly insulated jacket ideal for spring/autumn or layering in winter. It has the diamond quilt pattern, cord collar, and snap front – easily recognizable. For those who prefer something sleeveless, Barbour gilets (vests) like the Lowerdale provide core warmth and can be zipped into some Barbour jackets as liners or worn standalone over a jumper.

• Country Shirts: Barbour’s countrywear line includes a lovely selection of shirts, often in tattersall or plaid patterns, made from hearty cotton twill or brushed cotton. These shirts usually come in autumnal colour palettes – e.g., olive greens, burgundies, navy – sometimes with a subtle Barbour logo on the chest pocket. They’re cut generously for comfort and ease of movement (after all, one might be casting a fishing line or handling a shotgun in them) and have a traditional look that pairs perfectly with the jackets. We tend to stock Barbour shirts in both long-sleeve and tattersall designs because they complement the jackets so well. A classic outfit is a Barbour tartan shirt under a waxed jacket – timeless.

• Knitwear and Layering: As part of the countrywear ethos, we also bring in Barbour’s knitwear for layering. Think chunky wool sweaters or half-zip fleece-lined jumpers. These pieces often feature subtle country motifs (like a diamond pattern reminiscent of argyle, or elbow patches) and muted colours. They’re practical for adding warmth on chilly mornings and coordinate with Barbour’s outerwear.

• Hats and Accessories: No Barbour country ensemble is complete without the accessories. Barbour makes waxed cotton hoods that snap onto jacket collars, but also standalone hats like waxed cotton bucket hats and flat caps in tweed or waxed cotton. We often have the classic Barbour thornproof flat cap which is made of the same wax cotton as the jackets – a handy item to keep rain off and match your coat. Barbour’s lambswool tartan scarves and robust leather belts with brass buckles are other accessories we may stock to round out the look.

Fit for the Field (and the Festival)

Barbour Countrywear is designed to handle outdoor activities. If you’re into shooting or hunting, jackets like the Barbour Shooter’s Jacket or Powell fleece-lined coat have features like recoil patches and bellows pockets for cartridges. For equestrian pursuits, the shorter Bedale was actually originally designed to be worn riding (hence its shorter length and rear vents). Even if one’s country activities are milder – say weekend walks or doing chores in a rural garden – Barbour gear is appreciated for being tough and user-friendly. The wax jackets repel thorny brambles and can be easily cleaned (just sponge off mud and re-wax periodically). The quilts and gilets are machine washable and surprisingly warm for their weight.

Interestingly, Barbour’s appeal isn’t confined to rural folk. The “countrywear” has been adopted by urban fashion in waves – notably in the Britpop era of the 1990s and again in recent years where a waxed Barbour paired with jeans and boots is a common sight in cities. Music festivals like Glastonbury often see a plethora of Barbour jackets, as they are practical for muddy fields but also carry a certain cool cachet. When Alexa Chung or Daniel Craig sport a Barbour, it fuels interest among younger clientele. Barbour has even done designer collaborations (for example, with Japanese brand Tokihito Yoshida or more recently with the likes of Alexa Chung and Noah) blending contemporary fashion with Barbour heritage.

That said, at its core, Barbour Countrywear remains delightfully un-trendy – it’s the definition of classic. These are items you buy and expect to use for decades. They don’t really go out of style because they were never merely a fashion statement; they were built for purpose. The style flows naturally from function, which gives them an enduring, authentic look.

Taking Care of Barbour Gear

We often get questions on how to care for waxed jackets since they’re a unique beast compared to typical coats. We advise customers that after a couple of years of wear (or sooner if you wear it very frequently in rough conditions), the jacket may start to look dry or show patches where the wax is thin (you might see the cotton looking lighter or feel damp coming through). That’s the time to re-wax. Barbour sells small cans of wax (thornproof dressing) and provides instructions. Essentially, you clean the jacket, warm the wax tin, then apply with a cloth or sponge, rubbing it into the cotton, and gently heating (a hairdryer works) to let it absorb. It’s a bit of an effort, but many Barbour owners find a certain satisfaction in this maintenance ritual – it reconnects you with the garment and extends its life. Or, as mentioned, one can send it to Barbour’s workshop for re-waxing and repairs – they’ll return it almost as good as new, preserving even decades-old jackets (Barbour proudly notes some jackets are handed down through generations).

For quilts and cloth garments, normal cold wash and air dry is recommended (avoid high heat due to insulation). These garments are relatively low-fuss, and any wear and tear they gather often just adds to that countryside character.

Conclusion

Barbour Countrywear represents the epitome of British country life in clothing form. From its waxed jackets that laugh in the face of rain, to the quilted layers that add warmth without bulk, Barbour has mastered the art of making apparel that is as functional on a windswept farm as it is stylish on a city street​. There’s a reassuring feeling when you put on a Barbour – it’s like a wearable piece of history that also equips you for whatever the day might bring, be it drizzle, mud, or a chilly wind.

In our retail offering, Barbour is a cornerstone brand because we know our customers value that mix of heritage, durability, and style. A Barbour wax jacket or country shirt is an investment, but one that rewards you over and over with years of use and a look that never ages. Whether you’re an avid countryside dweller or just someone who appreciates classic outdoor fashion, Barbour Countrywear holds a timeless appeal. As the saying goes, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing” – and with Barbour, you’ll rarely find yourself unsuitably dressed for the great British outdoors.