Barbour is synonymous with timeless style and practicality. Known for their waxed cotton jackets, Barbour combines functionality with rugged elegance. Below is a detailed look at ten classic Barbour jackets for men, exploring their history, key characteristics, and how to wear them.
Barbour’s Heritage of Quality
Barbour has upheld a tradition of impeccable craftsmanship since its founding in 1894. Each waxed jacket is hand-finished at the brand’s factory in South Shields, England.
Barbour’s rewaxing and repair services has an emphasis on sustainability and waste reduction. These services ensure that jackets can last for decades, aligning with environmental values.
Barbour jackets seamlessly blend practicality with timeless style, making them suitable for both the rugged outdoors and casual urban settings. This versatility is likely a key reason for their enduring popularity among the jackets.
10 Best Classic Barbour Jackets for Men
Which Barbour jacket should I choose? To make the choice easier, we have here picked the most classic models of Barbour jackets for men, their characteristics and how to dress in them.
1. Barbour Bedale
The Bedale, introduced in 1980, was designed as a lightweight, versatile riding jacket. It became one of Barbour’s most iconic styles, blending utility with urban appeal.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Mediumweight 6 oz Sylkoil waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Corduroy collar, handwarmer pockets, rear vents, and an interactive zip for linings.
- Fit: Shorter length and relaxed fit for mobility.
Styling Tips
Pair with tailored chinos and Chelsea boots for a countryside-inspired casual look, or wear it over a suit for a sharp, rainproof commute.
2. Barbour Beaufort
The Beaufort, launched in 1983, was crafted for shooting and outdoor pursuits but has since gained urban appeal due to its versatile design.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Heavyweight waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Rear game pocket, large bellows pockets, and a zip-in liner option.
- Fit: Longer length, ideal for layering.
Styling Tips
Wear with a plaid shirt and dark denim for a rugged outdoorsy vibe, or layer over a sweater for added warmth.
3. Barbour Ashby
A modern reinterpretation of the classic Bedale, the Ashby was introduced in the 2010s for a slimmer, contemporary silhouette.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Mediumweight 6 oz Sylkoil waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Streamlined design, moleskin-lined handwarmer pockets, and a tailored fit.
- Fit: Slim fit, slightly longer than the Bedale.
Styling Tips
Perfect for city living, the Ashby pairs well with slim-fit jeans and a turtleneck sweater for a polished casual outfit.
4. Barbour Border
Designed in the 1980s for long walks and extended outdoor use, the Border jacket is known for its length and durability.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Mediumweight waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Extra-long length, storm fly front, and large storage pockets.
- Fit: Generous cut for layering over heavy clothing.
Styling Tips
Ideal for rural settings, the Border pairs well with heavy knitwear, boots, and corduroy trousers.
5. Barbour Bristol
The Bristol jacket, another countryside staple, was designed for versatility and durability.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Mediumweight 6 oz Sylkoil waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Tartan lining, storm fly front, and corduroy collar.
- Fit: Regular fit, suitable for layering.
Styling Tips
Match with sturdy boots and a wool scarf for a classic autumn look.
6. Barbour Sapper
Inspired by military jackets, the Sapper has a rugged, utility-focused design, introduced to meet the demands of adventurous wearers.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Mediumweight waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Belted waist, multiple pockets, and a quilted lining.
- Fit: Modern tailored fit.
Styling Tips
Style with dark denim and lace-up boots for an adventurous, outdoorsy appearance.
7. Barbour International
First introduced in 1936 for motorcyclists, the Barbour International became a favorite among riders and icons like Steve McQueen.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Heavyweight waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Belted waist, angled map pocket, and a distinctive storm guard.
- Fit: Slim, biker-inspired cut.
Styling Tips
Pair with black jeans and leather boots for a rebellious edge.
8. Barbour Durham
Launched in 1969, the Durham was designed as a lightweight, packable jacket, perfect for warmer weather.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Lightweight waxed cotton.
- Key Features: Fixed hood, drawstring waist, and a shorter cut.
- Fit: Slim and lightweight.
Styling Tips
Wear it over a light sweater with chinos for a casual springtime outfit.
9. Barbour Powell
The Powell is a quilted jacket inspired by Barbour’s equestrian roots, blending warmth and style.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Polyester outer with quilted insulation.
- Key Features: Fleece lining, zip pockets, and a tailored fit.
- Fit: Slim fit for a modern silhouette.
Styling Tips
Pair with corduroy trousers and a scarf for a polished, cozy look in colder months.
10. Barbour Ogston
A contemporary take on traditional field jackets, the Ogston combines functionality with modern fashion.
Characteristics
- Fabric: Waxed cotton with a wool blend lining.
- Key Features: Quilted inner vest, storm fly front, and leather trim.
- Fit: Tailored fit.
Styling Tips
Layer over a cable-knit sweater and wool trousers for a sophisticated, layered winter outfit.
Why Barbour?
Each Barbour jacket carries a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and adaptability. Whether you’re braving the British countryside or navigating urban life, these timeless pieces offer style, durability, and function.
J. Barbour and Sons Ltd: Royal Court Supplier
J. Barbour and Sons Ltd, often simply referred to as Barbour, is one of Britain’s most iconic heritage brands. Known for its durable waxed jackets and timeless designs, Barbour has not only cemented itself in the hearts of country and city dwellers alike but has also earned a royal seal of approval.
As a Royal Warrant holder, Barbour is a trusted supplier to the British Royal Court, a distinction that reflects the brand’s dedication to quality, tradition, and functionality.
What is a Royal Warrant?
A Royal Warrant is a mark of recognition granted to individuals or companies who have supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five consecutive years. It is a prestigious honor that signifies exceptional standards of quality, service, and craftsmanship.
Barbour has held Royal Warrants from three successive British monarchs:
- Queen Elizabeth II
- The Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Philip)
- The Prince of Wales (now King Charles III)
Barbour’s Relationship with the Royal Family
1. Queen Elizabeth II
Barbour was granted its first Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth II in 1974, solidifying its reputation as a premier supplier of outdoor apparel.
Her Majesty appreciated the practical elegance of Barbour jackets, which were ideal for countryside activities like walking and equestrian pursuits.
2. The Duke of Edinburgh
Prince Philip, known for his active lifestyle and passion for conservation, was a fan of Barbour’s functional yet sophisticated designs. His Royal Warrant, awarded in 1974 alongside the Queen’s, highlighted Barbour’s ability to cater to the needs of an outdoorsman.
3. The Prince of Wales
Now King Charles III, the Prince of Wales granted his Royal Warrant in 1987. An environmentalist and advocate for sustainable living, King Charles III admired Barbour’s commitment to craftsmanship and the environment, particularly its repair and rewaxing services that extend the life of its jackets.
Barbour’s Products for the Royal Court
Barbour’s offerings to the Royal Family reflect its ethos of blending functionality with heritage design. The waxed jackets, known for their durability and weather resistance, have been a staple for the royals during outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and walking on the Balmoral estate.
Key models associated with the royals include:
- The Beaufort: A versatile jacket ideal for country walks and shooting trips.
- The Bedale: A shorter, more fitted jacket often favored for equestrian use.
- Custom Orders: Barbour has also created bespoke designs tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the Royal Household.
