The History of Waxed Jackets

The history of waxed jackets starts way back in the 15th century, when Scottish and English sailors began coating linen and cotton sails with fish oil or linseed oil to make them more waterproof. Soon, the same technique was applied to outerwear to create special garments or "oilskins" that protected fishermen and sailors from the elements. In the late 19th century, paraffin wax replaced the oil coating. Not only was the new coating more lightweight and longer lasting, but it also had less odor. Then Barbour, an English company founded in 1894, began using the technique. While Barbour originally supplied oilskin garments to dockworkers and sailors, the company also began offering a more refined waxed jacket that quickly became a sporting essential and staple of country life for British gentlemen. Two models known as the Bedale and Beaufort were introduced in 1980 and quickly became icons of British fashion. Other brands followed suit, including Belstaff, a British company that was founded in 1924 and was known for making waxed jackets for motorcyclists and aviators. Today, the waxed jacket remains a staple in many men’s fashion circles and is available in a variety of colors and cuts.