Few garments carry the heritage and practicality of a Barbour waxed cotton jacket. Since 1894, Barbour has been crafting outerwear built for the British countryside and today, their wax jacket range spans everything from classic field coats to refined town styles. If you're trying to decide which is right for you, here's a breakdown of the key differences across the core styles we carry.
What Makes a Barbour Wax Jacket?
All Barbour wax jackets share a foundation: a tightly woven cotton fabric impregnated with a wax compound that repels wind and rain without the crinkle of synthetic shells. The result is a jacket that softens and moulds to your body over time, developing a patina that's entirely your own. They're also re-waxable, meaning with proper care, a Barbour jacket can last decades.
The Core Styles and How They Differ
Barbour Bedale
The Bedale is Barbour's shorter, more versatile silhouette, originally designed for horse riding, which is why it features a longer back vent and a hip-length cut that sits comfortably in the saddle. Today it translates equally well to country walks and city streets. It's the go-to if you want something that layers easily over knitwear without bulk.
- Hip-length cut
- Corduroy collar and storm cuffs
- Two large bellows pockets
- Ideal for layering, riding, everyday wear
Barbour Beaufort
The Beaufort is the field jacket of the range, longer, roomier, and built for serious outdoor use. It features a large internal map pocket, four external pockets, and a longer hem that provides extra coverage in wet conditions. If you're spending time outdoors or need a jacket that can carry more, the Beaufort is the workhorse.
- Longer, fuller cut
- Four external pockets plus internal map pocket
- Corduroy collar and storm cuffs
- Ideal for field sports, country pursuits, active outdoor use
Barbour Corbridge
The Corbridge is a more contemporary take on the classic wax jacket, with a cleaner, less utilitarian silhouette that suits town wear particularly well. It's cut slightly slimmer than the traditional styles and features a quilted lining for added warmth, making it a practical choice for cooler months without the bulk of a full field jacket.
- Slim, tailored cut
- Quilted lining for warmth
- Corduroy collar
- Ideal for urban wear, smart-casual dressing, cooler weather
Barbour Bristol
The Bristol sits at the more refined end of the wax jacket range, designed with a longer, relaxed fit that works well as a transitional layer. It carries the hallmark waxed cotton construction but with a softer, more casual drape that suits relaxed weekend dressing as much as country use.
- Longer, relaxed fit
- Waxed cotton with a softer hand
- Corduroy collar
- Ideal for weekend wear, casual layering, transitional seasons
Barbour Beacon
The Beacon is one of Barbour's more heritage-focused styles, drawing on archival designs for a look that feels both classic and considered. It's a mid-length jacket with a structured silhouette and traditional detailing, suited to those who want something with a strong sense of provenance alongside everyday practicality.
- Mid-length, structured silhouette
- Heritage-inspired detailing
- Corduroy collar and storm cuffs
- Ideal for heritage dressing, country use, everyday wear
Wax Weight: Lightweight vs. Classic
Within each style, Barbour often offers both a classic wax and a lightweight wax option. Classic wax is the traditional, heavier compound, more robust and better suited to harsh conditions. Lightweight wax uses a thinner fabric and a softer wax finish, making it more packable and comfortable in milder weather. If you're primarily wearing your jacket in an urban setting or during shoulder seasons, lightweight is worth considering.
Which One Is Right for You?
Here's a quick guide:
- Bedale — best for layering, riding, and a cleaner silhouette
- Beaufort — best for outdoor use, field sports, and maximum practicality
- Corbridge — best for smart-casual town wear with added warmth
- Bristol — best for relaxed weekend dressing and transitional layering
- Beacon — best for heritage styling with everyday wearability
All six styles are available in-store and online at Oliver Campbell Trading. If you'd like help choosing the right style or fit, our team is happy to assist. Come in and try them on, or reach out via the contact page.