The Barbour Jacket Buying Guide
The ultimate in country-chic, Barbour is a well-established outerwear brand that has been perfecting its iconic wax jackets and quilted coats since its launch in 1894. Aiming to improve the stiff, uncomfortable waterproofs worn by fishermen at the time, John Barbour introduced coats made from flexible, hardwearing oilcloth to the workwear market. Now a widely popular label with fashionable fans around the world, Barbour clothing bridge the gap between style and function. A favorite of outdoor types, festival goers and country sportsmen, men's Barbour jackets are a part of British fashion history. Stylish, practical and timeless, these classic cover-ups are the ultimate in weatherproof outerwear.
Representing the best in traditional British style and craftsmanship, family-run company Barbour has established itself as the go-to for high-performance outerwear. Renowned for its iconic waxed jackets, the label has expanded to include a wide range of jackets designed to withstand the elements. Ahead, take a look at our men’s Barbour jacket buying guide, which will help you decide on the styles and size that work best for you.
The Most Wanted Barbour Jackets
Barbour Ashby Wax Jacket
A fresh take on the Engineered Bedale, the Ashby Jacket not only looks good but will keep you warm when temperatures drop too. Crafted from the brand’s signature 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton and cut to a tailored fit, the Ashby has a matt-effect finish for a lived-in feel. Expect classic details like a storm fly front, handwarmer pockets and a cord collar, as well as an interactive front zip and heritage tartan lining. Available in multiple colors, it’s ideal for layering over winter knitwear.
Barbour Heritage Liddesdale Quilted Jacket
The versatile Heritage Liddesdale Quilted Jacket is crafted from a wind-resistant synthetic outer and designed with quilted warm wadding and a durable Nylon inner that is lightweight yet insulating. The signature diamond quilt, contrast corduroy collar and snap-close front gives a nod to classic styling, while the slimline fit adds a contemporary touch.
Barbour Classic Bedale Wax Jacket
Originally introduced for riding, the Classic Bedale Wax Jacket has since become one of the English brand’s most popular styles. It’s cut from Barbour's 6oz Sylkoil, a medium-weight waxed cotton outer that's both highly durable and comfortable. The two-way front zip and handwarmer pockets provide protection from wind and rain, while a corduroy collar and tartan-print cotton lining introduce Barbour’s heritage style.
The Barbour Jacket Sizing Guide
Barbour jackets use alpha sizing, and range from XS to XXL. It is worth noting that Barbour International, Lifestyle and Heritage jacket sizes are different to Barbour Sporting, Classic and Countrywear.
To help you find the perfect fit, you can use the two charts below to convert Barbour’s sizing into UK, US and European.
For example, if you usually take a UK/US size 38 or a European 44-46, you should take your Barbour International, Lifestyle and Heritage jacket in a small. If it is an International, Lifestyle and Heritage jacket, you should take a size medium.
Depending on the style, Barbour jackets come in a slim, regular or relaxed fit.
Slim Fit: This cut is designed to flatter and give a modern, streamlined silhouette.
Regular Fit: Sleek and smart, it still has plenty of room for comfort and ease of movement.
Relaxed Fit: This versatile and practical fit allows for layering underneath and without compromising the classic style.
| International, Lifestyle and Heritage jackets: | UK/USA | EURO | Sporting, Classic & Country Jackets: | UK/USA | EURO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 36 | 40-42 | XS | 30-32 | 40-42 |
| S | 38 | 44-46 | S | 34-36 | 44-46 |
| M | 40 | 48-50 | M | 38-40 | 48-50 |
| L | 42.5 | 52-54 | L | 42-44 | 52-54 |
| XL | 45.5 | 56-58 | XL | 46-48 | 56-58 |
| XXL | 49 | 60-62 | XXL | 50-52 | 60-62 |
How To Care For Your Barbour Jacket
As materials used will vary depending on the jacket, always refer to the washing instructions found on the care label that is stitched into each piece.
It is recommended that you sponge clean your wax cotton jacket only, and avoid putting it in the washing machine. The chemical process used in dry cleaning can also permanently damage or remove the proofing.
Generally, most Barbour waterproof breathable jackets can be machine or hand washed at 30 degrees. Fabric softeners should not be used as these can affect the efficiency of the durable water-repellent finish. All jackets should be stored in a cool, dry place.
FAQ
- Which Barbour jackets are the warmest?
Some of the brand’s warmest jackets are quilted for extra insulation, or feature a cozy Berber fleece lining at the body and hood. The Liddesdale Quilted jacket and parka-style Brindle waxed-cotton jacket are both ideal options for winter wear.
- How do I re-wax a Barbour jacket?
To ensure your Barbour jacket retains its wax quality, Barbour recommends re-waxing every year.
- Use cold water and a sponge to clean your jacket.
- Soften a tin of Barbour Wax Thornproof dressing in hot water for around 20 minutes
- Work the melted wax into your jacket, ensuring wax does not go on the corduroy collar, jacket lining and inside the pockets
- Wipe off any excess wax
- Dry with a hair dryer to even the spread of wax
- Hang the jacket up and allow to dry overnight
- Are Barbour jackets waterproof?
From the Stanley jacket to the Reginald, Linfield and Ashdown styles, many Barbour jackets are designed to shield from rain. The brand’s waterproof breathable jackets are made from a cotton and polyester blend that is ideal for wearing in unpredictable weather.