Top Waxed Jacket Brands for Men in 2026

Waxed jackets hold a distinguished place in British menswear, akin to how marmalade complements toast. Originating in the 1930s, these jackets have been an essential aspect of rural fashion, while also making their mark in motorcycle culture and outdoor adventures.

Initially starting with the classic four-pocket waxed cotton field jackets, the style has evolved into more modern designs, including cropped blousons and sleek minimal silhouettes. Despite these new looks, traditional styles remain the most favored due to their exceptional practicality and flattering cuts.

This guide will explore the intriguing history of the waxed jacket, from its maritime beginnings to the leading brands currently available.

History Of The Waxed Jacket

The waxed cotton jacket has roots in naval necessity. As early as the 15th century, Scottish traders braved the tumultuous seas between their homeland and Scandinavia, primarily importing flax and linen for their weaving industry.

Life on these open decks was perilous, with sailors and their ships frequently soaked. Innovative minds began applying fish oils to linen sails to render them waterproof and enhance performance. This technique soon extended to their clothing as well.

By the 1700s, linseed oil, a by-product of linen production, replaced fish oils due to its more efficient and less odorous properties. Sailors fashioned full-length capes and hats from waterproofed fabric remnants, reapplying linseed oil periodically to give their garments a distinctive bright yellow hue—now synonymous with nautical attire.

Francis Webster Ltd started weaving cotton treated with linseed oil after receiving requests from the captains of the renowned Tea Clippers, fast vessels engaged in racing to transport valuable cargoes. However, Webster’s pivotal innovation came in the 1930s.

In collaboration with British Millerain, Webster began testing a paraffin wax treatment in the 1930s. This treatment was breathable, durable, and revolutionary. Following rigorous testing on the seas near New Zealand, it was proven to effectively waterproof cotton clothing. The British Army adopted this innovation during World War II.

Soon after, the fabric gained popularity in civilian life, marketed as robust and weatherproof attire ideal for motorcyclists and outdoor workers. British Millerain acquired Francis Webster in 1987 and remains the premier global supplier of waxed cotton fabrics, consistently innovating with new finishes.

Waxed Jacket Purchase Considerations

Jacket Type

Given its roots in outdoor life, the waxed cotton jacket is most commonly found in the classic four-pocket field coat style. The four-pocket design often includes a belted option with slanted chest pockets, a popular configuration for most waxed motorcycle jackets as the slanted pockets facilitate quick access while riding. The belted variant is sportier, accentuating the waist and broadening the shoulders.

Two-pocket field jackets lean more towards country attire and rugged workwear aesthetics, particularly in longer cuts, while cropped styles fit seamlessly into both rural and urban environments.

Modern interpretations feature cropped blousons, which, although offering less weather protection, provide a sleek silhouette that pairs well with contemporary outfits, such as hoodies and black denim.

Jacket Details

When selecting a waxed jacket, pay attention to traditional features that enhance functionality, such as storm collar fastenings, double-zip front closures, flap bellows pockets with snap closures, and optional internal drawstring waistbands.

Collar designs can vary greatly—with classic biker jackets typically sporting a stand-up storm collar, while country styles often showcase a turn-down collar made from contrasting fabrics like corduroy.

Jacket Lining

Linings play a vital role in waxed jackets, serving as a barrier between your clothing and the waxed exterior. Traditionally, these linings were crafted from tartan cotton fabrics treated with fluorocarbon for enhanced water repellency and to keep wax at bay.

Contemporary brands often create modular designs, incorporating thermal liners that can be zipped or snapped into the jacket, allowing for year-round versatility.

Jacket Colour

Typically, waxed jackets come in a limited color palette of black, brown, and muted tan. This is due to the nature of paraffin-based wax, which dulls brighter colors. However, advancements in wax treatments featuring hydrocarbon coatings have allowed for more vibrant hues, maintaining the jacket’s classic aesthetics.

If you’re planning to wear your jacket in urban environments, a black option is often the best choice, offering a polished look that pairs well with formal dark attire.

The Best Men’s Waxed Jacket Brands

Belstaff

Founded in 1924 in Stoke-on-Trent, Belstaff has become synonymous with waxed and leather motorcycle jackets, catering to the world’s most daring adventurers. Iconic figures such as Sammy Miller, Steve McQueen, and Che Guevara have all donned Belstaff jackets.

The belted four-pocket Trialmaster remains the brand’s most recognized silhouette, with the unbelted Fieldmaster complementing it. The cropped Racemaster offers a riding blouson style, and any of Belstaff’s waxed cotton jackets can seamlessly enhance a modern wardrobe.

Shop now at SSENSE

Barbour

For over 120 years, Barbour has been synonymous with ‘wax’ and ‘cotton’. Established by John Barbour, a Scot from Galloway, the brand initially produced oilskins for naval use before realizing the potential for military weatherproof garments.

In 1936, Barbour debuted its first waxed cotton ‘International motorcycle jacket’, which became a staple for riders participating in the International Six Day Trials, including Steve McQueen in the 1960s.

Currently, Barbour offers more than 50 variations in men’s, women’s, and children’s lines with popular models like the Beaufort, Bedale, and Border reflecting quintessential country style.

Shop now at Farfetch

Filson

Founded in Seattle in 1850, Filson gained notoriety as the unofficial outfitter during the Great Klondike Gold Rush of 1897, helping prospectors navigate the rain-soaked Pacific Northwest.

Today, Filson offers a range of waxed garments, including the shorter Tin Cloth Cruiser Jacket and the full-length Tin Cloth Field Jacket, both crafted from durable waxed cloth that has served outdoorsmen for over a century. They feature lined interiors of dry finish cloth and polyester-lined sleeves, available in rugged tan and navy shades.

Shop now at Filson

Private White V.C.

Made in Manchester, Private White V.C. champions sustainable fabrics and utilizes Ventile—a remarkable and dense cotton used in their field jackets and Harrington styles. Although not traditionally waxed, this fabric boasts a durable water repellency finish applicable on both sides and can be annually treated with Nikwax or a similar product.

Shop now at Private White V.C.

Peregrine

Peregrine, family-run since 1796, is a testament to quality craftsmanship. The brand’s three-pocket Bexley jacket is made from antique 8oz British Millerain cloth, achieving a beautifully aged aesthetic that improves with each re-waxing.

Available in gunmetal, brown, black, and mustard, the detail of the storm collar and gun shoulder patch provide essential country style for inclement weather while the slim cut makes it suitable for city weekends.

Shop now at Peregrine

Drake’s

London-based Drake’s, traditionally known for its handcrafted ties and tailored clothing, has developed a reputable stance in outerwear.

Utilizing British Millerain cloth, their waxed jackets are produced in the UK and feature relaxed, utility-inspired shapes reminiscent of field and hunting styles. Expect practical details, such as bellows pockets and storm flaps, combined with a refined aesthetic.

The resulting waxed outerwear integrates effortlessly with both tailored suits and selvedge denim.

Shop now at Drake’s

Baracuta

Renowned for the iconic G9 Harrington jacket since 1937, Baracuta remains a staple of British outerwear. While the classic G9 is often made with cotton-poly blends, the brand has innovated to offer a waxed cotton version produced in collaboration with British Millerain.

This adaptation melds the recognizable Fraser tartan lining and umbrella yoke with waxed cloth’s water-resistant properties, creating a jacket that harmonizes heritage with contemporary style, suitable for both tailored outfits and denim.

Shop now at Baracuta