Waxed jackets are the perfect outerwear choice for men who appreciate fine men’s clothing that also features a classic appeal.

Waxed jackets fit this style preference perfectly. The classic appeal of a waxed jacket comes from a long history of being favored by many, particularly in Great Britain and other European countries.ish

In fact, waxed cotton can be traced back to the 15th century when it was first used by Scottish fishermen. These fishermen realized very early on – and others also quickly caught on – that they could improve the performance of the sails on their ships by rubbing fish oil onto the cotton. This helped the sails both catch more wind to move more quickly. It also helped repel water away from the fabric, keeping them lighter and easier to operate.

Over the years, linseed oil was substituted for the fish oil and then paraffin for the linseed oil. These changes made the fabrics even more water resistant.

From there, the idea was born that similar uses could be applied to clothing to create water-resistant apparel for fishermen.

Why waxed jackets are popular

It is thanks to these innovators that we have what are today’s waxed cotton jackets. They are known for being both water-resistant and breathable. That’s because the jackets themselves are not coated in wax, but rather the fibers of the coat are filled with wax. So, rather than absorbing water – which regular cotton is prone to do – the jackets are able to repel water away.

They are also wind-resistant, making them a favorite outerwear option for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who may find themselves facing wet and cold weather from time to time.

What’s more, like leather, waxed cotton can last for decades and will even begin to form a fit that’s unique to you if worn often enough.

There is a catch, though. You need to know how to care for and properly clean the waxed jacket.

You can’t just wash a waxed jacket

Before you buy a waxed cotton jacket, there’s one thing you need to know how to do: clean it. You can’t simply throw the jacket in a washer like you can other fabric styles.

No, according to Barbour’s guide to cleaning waxed cotton, there’s a certain way to go about cleaning these jackets.

You should go through this process of rewaxing a waxed jacket once per year.

Step 1

The first step to clean the jacket is to use cold water and a sponge to wipe down the outside of the jacket. This should be sufficient to remove any dirt and clean any other soiled area. Do not use hot water or any kind of soap.

Also – and this point needs to be stressed – do not ever put a waxed cotton jacket in the washing machine. A washing machine cycle will remove the wax coating from the jacket. They cannot be rewaxed, either, so this effectively ruins the jacket if you want to enjoy the benefits of waxed cotton.

Step 2

The next step is to soften the wax. Barbour offers its own Barbour Wax Thornproof dressing for this.

To soften the wax, set the container of dressing in water that is a hot enough temperature to soften the wax. This should take about 20 minutes and will melt the wax into a liquid.

Step 3

Next, you need to wax the jacket. Take an old cloth or a sponge and apply the wax you have just melted to the jacket. Work it into the jacket thoroughly and pay special attention to the garment’s seams, creases and any dry patches.

From there, be sure to wipe off any excess wax.

While you are working the wax into the jacket, you will want to keep the wax tin in a container of hot water to keep it soft. Add more hot water to the container if the wax begins to harden.

While reapplying the wax, make sure you do not get wax on the collar, the inside and in the pockets of the jacket.

Step 4

Now it’s time to dry the jacket. Take a hair dryer and blow air over the jacket to spread the wax in an even application. This will help make sure the jacket has a smooth finish when you are done rewaxing.

However, it is important not to hold the hair dryer too close to the jacket. This could heat up the wax again and make it run.

Step 5

Finally, you will need to hang up the jacket once you have finished rewaxing its surface. It will need to hang up overnight in order for it to dry. Try to keep it in a warm location that is also away from other clothing.

In addition, it is normal for the jacket to lose excess wax for a short amount of time following a rewaxing. During this time, it is best not to get the jacket too close to leather and upholstery.

See the process for yourself

If you would like to see a visual of what this waxed jacket cleaning and rewaxing process looks like, then you can watch this video from Barbour.

Barbour waxed jackets: A staple of this style

When it comes to waxed jackets, few if any brands come to mind before Barbour. Barbour has been a family business since 1894 and has built a brand that proudly displays its British countryside roots.

That lengthy history is likely one reason why the Barbour waxed jacket has become such a staple. Combined with their Tartan Collection, Barbour’s jackets offer a contemporary look that is welcomed in both country and city settings.

Shop waxed jackets at Hansen’s Clothing

Hansen’s Clothing is proud to offer the Barbour collection of waxed jackets, men’s shirts and knitwear.

We also have many other outerwear options from men’s clothing brands that offer only the finest garments that are sure to find a place in your wardrobe.

Be sure to shop Barbour and our other high-end men’s clothing brands today.