BRAND PROFILE: BARBOUR

THE BARBOUR STORY

What is Barbour?

Barbour is a British brand with over a century’s experience curating functional, hard-wearing and weatherproof clothing. It’s best known for its waxed cotton coats and jackets, originally designed for local workers and now lovingly adopted across the globe as a symbol of the grit and glamour of the British countryside.

Where and when was Barbour founded?

Originally named J. Barbour & Sons, Barbour was established in 1894 by Scotsman John Barbour. The coastal town of South Shields in the North East of England was home to masses of sailors, fishermen and mariners, all of whom were in need of dependable protective clothing to defend themselves against the unforgiving North Sea. J. Barbour & Sons answered the call, initially supplying oilskins before expanding to offer a range of hardy outer garments that quickly became an essential in the local’s workwear arsenals. 

In 1908, John’s son Malcolm Barbour introduced a mail order catalogue, taking Barbour far beyond the South Shields marketplace. Orders arrived from as far as Chile and Hong Kong — and the brand has retained its global prowess to this day.

What are Barbour’s values? 

First and foremost, everything at Barbour is underpinned by family values. Since 1894, the brand has been under the stewardship of five generations of the Barbour family which has upheld an intimate and real sense of pride in the brand’s history. The brand’s longevity isn’t just about craftsmanship; it’s about the people behind it, and the values they’ve never let go of.

Who owns Barbour now?

Dame Margaret Barbour is the current Chairman, joined by her daughter Helen Barbour as Vice Chair. It’s a family affair.

Where is Barbour HQ? 

Barbour’s HQ is situated in Simonside, South Shields — staying at the heart of where it all began. And it’s much more than just an administrative hub: the brand’s iconic Bedale and Beaufort wax jackets are still crafted here by the hands of highly-skilled staff. 

What is Barbour International?

Barbour International is a standalone brand under the Barbour umbrella, inspired by a rich motorcycling heritage. The story began in 1936 when keen motorcyclist Duncan Barbour designed a one-piece suit for the track. Hard-wearing and protective, it was adapted into a two-piece set for the submarine services during WW2 and was later adopted by virtually every British motorcycling team. It was built for speed, grit and utility — and it delivered a feeling that stuck. 

Barbour International officially launched as a standalone brand in 2013, fueled by Duncan’s legacy. A little more adventurous than mainline Barbour, you can expect throat tabs, yellow logo patches and more than one reference to the legendary Steve McQueen.

A RICH HISTORY IN DESIGN

With over a century of experience under its belt, Barbour’s design performs the perfect balancing act between preservation of the past and embracing the future. Barbour’s early days were spent outfitting fishermen and mariners — people who needed gear that could handle the worst of the British weather. But by the 1980s, the brand had found a new audience: country estates, royal endorsements, and a shift towards aristocratic style. The Queen and Prince of Wales both issued royal warrants, cementing Barbour’s place in British heritage. Still, much has stayed the same. It’s a family-run brand, and the Barbour name continues to guide the business. The focus remains on quality fabrics, solid construction, and a commitment to making garments that last.

Barbour’s Design Philosophy

In its infancy, Barbour was made to serve working people, and while the brand has attracted a much wider audience over time, it’s never lost sight of its roots. Primarily, Barbour’s designs are made to perform; from fishing, to horseriding, to countryside strolls, protection and functionality are a guarantee. And with waxed cotton, roomy patch pockets, corduroy collars and tartan linings, there’s no doubt you’ll know a Barbour when you see one. 

Equally, quality is key. Barbour has a proud history of craftsmanship and is intent on preserving it. Some jackets are still made by hand in South Shields, while others are produced by trusted experts further afield. No matter where the garment is made, one thing is true: a Barbour piece will last for life.

Why Waxed Cotton?

Barbour is by no means the only brand to use waxed cotton, nor was it the first — but it’s certainly the most iconic. Barbour's relationship with waxed cotton goes back to the very beginning, making it one of the longest and most trusted partnerships in outdoor clothing. John Barbour distanced himself from the competition by using paraffin wax rather than linseed oil, creating waxed cotton that had less of a tendency to crack and delivered better comfort and breathability than its alternatives.

One of the oldest technical fabrics in the book, waxed cotton offers a whole host of tried-and-trusted benefits. It delivers excellent protection against wind, rain and abrasion — and it can be easily repaired if it ever catches a tear. Plus, unlike its modern synthetic counterparts, it picks up creases, fades, and marks over time that tell its own story. The wax draws out the texture of the cotton, exaggerating every fold and scuff and developing a unique patina. It’s not pristine, and it’s not meant to be. It’s the kind of material that rewards repeat wear; the more you wear it, the more it becomes yours.

What’s the difference between Thornproof and Sylkoil? 

Barbour offers two main wax types: Thornproof and Sylkoil. Sylkoil has a matte, softer, and drier finish due to its "unshorn" cotton, giving it a more traditional, almost suede-like look. Thornproof, in contrast, is typically shinier, stiffer, and more waxy, resulting from a smoother, "shorn" cotton that offers increased initial weather resistance and a tackier feel. Both Thornproof and Sylkoil offer powerful protection and longevity, so the choice often comes down to personal preference regarding the material's feel and appearance. 

Both finishes are made from the same wax and will age and require re-waxing in the same way, providing years of service against the elements.

Barbour Tartan

A key Barbour design feature is the custom tartans that line its garments. First introduced in 1998, the Classic Tartan nods to the Barbour family’s Ayrshire roots, designed by Margaret and Helen Barbour with tartan specialists Kinlock Anderson. With shades of dark green and navy and accents of yellow and red, it’s become a visual representation of the British countryside. Now, the brand boasts several custom tartans that grace linings, scarves and accessories each season. Every tartan starts from the same place: the original Ayrshire sett. That consistency keeps the lineage intact, even as new colourways are introduced. 

You may not always see it, but Barbour’s tartan is a constant — a quiet marker of heritage stitched into every jacket.

More Than Just Outerwear

Barbour may be best known for its heritage coats and jackets, but the collection goes far beyond outerwear. There are Barbour boots built for knee-deep mud on festival fields, holdalls made for weekend escapes, and gloves that actually hold up in cold weather. You’ll find hats, scarves, trousers, knitwear, shirts, and shorts — all crafted with the same attention to detail and focus on functionality. Plus, there's many styles especially for women, with more cropped jackets, wool jumpers and tartan-clad tote bags joining the line-up. There’s even something for your furry friend! 

Whether it’s a countryside retreat or a city commute, Barbour clothing is made to last and ready for whatever’s next. And it's all available here at END.

KEY BARBOUR STYLES

Barbour keeps rewriting what a classic can be. This season, the icons return with subtle shifts and modern details. Here's our picks from the jackets that define the brand today, and the ones worth knowing if you’re starting your Barbour story.

Barbour Spey Jacket

The Spey is Barbour’s first ever dedicated fishing jacket, introduced in 1981. Made to be worn with waders, its cropped silhouette was handy for fly fishermen to prevent their coats getting wet in waist-deep water. A modernised version is revived with a sharp, boxy cut, a corduroy collar and throat flap and a D-ring on the chest. Over the years, this beloved jacket has been remixed and updated with all kinds of added details. Tartan cuffs, oversized peter pan collars, detachable hoods and touches of bright colour make sure it keeps going strong every season.

Barbour Transport Jacket

First introduced in 1999, the Transport jacket (formerly the Beaulieu or the Transporter) repackages elements from the Beaufort and Bedale jackets into a more cropped silhouette inspired by mountain biking. A true all-rounder for countryside and city pursuits, it’s crafted from proprietary 6oz waxed cotton and features an inner storm skirt for extra protection against unpredictable weather.

Barbour Solway Jacket

A faithful echo of the past, the Solway jacket returns with the quiet confidence of a piece that’s steeped in heritage and shaped by time. Named after the dramatic coastline and dynamic sandflats of Solway Firth, it first surfaced in the Barbour catalogue in 1960 as a dependable layer for farmers and outdoorsmen. With its waxed cotton shell, detachable hood and signature bellow pockets, the Solway's practical design and distinctive details have secured its status as a classic. Now reimagined for the Heritage+ line, it returns with a fresh perspective — proving it works just as well today as it did decades ago.

Barbour Bedale Jacket

Designed in 1980 by Margaret Barbour, the Bedale has roots in the equestrian world. It’s retained many of the functional features of the original, including an inner ‘drip-strip’ sewn at the base which originally prevented dampness seeping into the jacket when riding on horseback. A slightly shorter silhouette, a traditional corduroy collar and a four pocket front design (with a cosy moleskin lining for cold hands) define the Bedale’s beloved look. For a modern interpretation, look to the Barbour Ashby: a tailored update with a longer cut, crafted from 6oz Sylkoil for a refined yet rugged finish.

Barbour Beadnell Jacket

Inspired by the original Bedale, the Barbour Beadnell reworks a classic into a tailored fit for women. Cut from weatherproof waxed cotton and lined with Barbour’s signature tartan, it’s built for year-round wear. The corduroy collar, roomy pockets, and optional hood or liner are practical and timeless in equal measure. A consistent favourite, the Beadnell is a dependable piece with all the Barbour character you’re looking for.

BARBOUR CARE

By correctly caring for your Barbour jacket, you can make sure it lasts a lifetime. Whether it's an Ashby or a Beaufort, waxed cotton generally takes care of itself — but there are a few easy steps you can take to ensure you get the best out of the garment for as long as possible.

How to Wash Your Barbour Jacket

Barbour jackets must be cleaned by hand — that means no machine washing, no dry cleaning and no harsh chemicals. This is to protect the coating which makes the jacket weatherproof.

To clean your Barbour jacket simply brush away excess dirt, wipe down with cold water (no soap!), sponge the lining with white vinegar and leave to dry out of direct sunlight. 

Can You Re-wax a Barbour Jacket at Home?

It’s good practice to re-wax a Barbour jacket annually to maintain its water resistance and protect the fabric — and it couldn’t be easier to do it at home. Here’s how.

You’ll need a tin of Barbour wax, a bowl, hot water and a sponge or rag.

First, clean the jacket with a sponge as instructed above, and leave it to dry completely. Next, soften your wax by removing the lid of the tin and placing it in a container of hot water. In around 20 minutes, the wax will change into a liquid ready for application. 

Taking a sponge or a rag, work the liquid wax into the jacket, taking extra care around the seams, dry patches and creases. Avoid applying any wax to the cord collar, the lining and the inside of the pockets. Wipe away any excess. 

When you’re finished, hang the jacket somewhere warm to dry overnight. 

Give your Barbour jacket the care it deserves and it’ll continue doing what it does best for many years to come.

Barbour Wax For Life

Wax For Life is Barbour’s commitment to circularity, offering a service that keeps your jacket ready for whatever’s next. The team in South Shields will lovingly re-wax, clean, alter and repair all Barbour waxed cotton garments by hand, breathing new life into trusty old companions so that they can continue to be cherished for many more years to come. 

And it doesn’t stop at jackets; Barbour offers its Repair and Re-wax scheme for smaller items like hoods, hats, bags and even dog coats.

A HERITAGE BRAND WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE

Although Barbour is a proud upholder of its historical legacy, it’s anything but dated. In fact, it’s the brand’s past that is driving such an exciting future. Each season, Barbour sources new ways to reimagine classic styles, introduce new ideas and even offer up some collaborative projects with some of the biggest names in the game. Signature wax jackets will always resonate, of course, but now they’re reworked, remixed and reintroduced in ways that keep the brand firmly in the now.

One method Barbour has harnessed with particular mastery is collaboration. Welcoming different perspectives and creative ideas into its archival fold has birthed a fresh catalogue of clothing and accessories, driving the brand forwards in new ways — all while staying true to its core identity.

Barbour x GANNI

From South Shields to Copenhagen. Now in its third season, the collaboration between Barbour and GANNI brings Scandi direction to the British brand’s signature designs. Exaggerated collars, cropped fits and a touch of leopard print have earned it huge success amongst the it-girls across the globe, taking waxed cotton from the country to the city for a whole new audience. Plus, with shared beliefs in sustainability and a commitment to making garments that last, Barbour x GANNI is a real match made in heaven. 

Barbour x The Edit by Alexa

Rooted in nostalgia but made for the now, “The Edit by Alexa” channels Alexa Chung’s lifelong love of Barbour into a collection of outer garments, knitwear and footwear — showcasing the brand’s heritage in a whole new light. An English model, TV presenter and all-round style icon, Alexa Chung has always been a dedicated advocate for Barbour, most notably with some iconic looks showcased on the muddy festival fields of Glastonbury. This close affinity to the brand can certainly be felt across the collection, with longline trench coats, fishing-style vests and showerproof bombers that reinvent Barbour’s design language with effortless poise. 

Barbour x Kaptain Sunshine

Shinsuke Kojima’s Kaptain Sunshine was founded in Tokyo in 2013, offering a unique perspective on traditional work and military wear. Barbour and Kaptain Sunshine first united in 2020, rejoining 5 years later for a second capsule. Bringing together the heritage and precision of British and Japanese craft, the latest collection focuses on modularity and layering with some updated takes on the Bedale, Short Cruiser Casual and a classic quilted liner.  Each piece is built from original fabrics using carefully sourced materials and crafted with serious attention to detail. Designed for day-to-day wear, the range is made to handle repeated washes and sun-drying without losing shape or character. Inspired by traditional field and naval gear, it’s made for real-world use — dependable, durable, and wildly functional. 

You can shop the latest Barbour x Kaptain Sunshine collection here at END.

Barbour x Baracuta

Barbour x Baracuta is an ongoing collaboration between two British institutions, each with a legacy built on craftsmanship, culture, and character. Together, they revisit archival pieces and rework them with a modern eye — combining Barbour’s functional signatures with Baracuta’s subcultural tailoring and Ivy Style. The partnership reflects a shared respect for heritage and a commitment to making garments that last. Waxed cotton, refined cuts, and thoughtful detailing come together in limited-edition collections that feel considered, not nostalgic. Throughout, tartan plays a central role. Barbour’s Classic Tartan — rooted in Ayrshire — is woven alongside Baracuta’s Fraser Tartan, a symbol of lineage and pride since 1938. It’s a subtle but powerful detail that ties each piece to its origins.

Barbour x Margaret Howell

Barbour and Margaret Howell reunite for their fourth collaboration, refining heritage design through a modern lens. Margaret Howell brings a sharp eye for detail and natural instinct for purpose, perfectly melding with Barbour’s archival outerwear with a focus on proportion, fabrication, and function. Including a new Kelp colourway exclusive to the capsule, iconic styles like the Bedale and the Transport jacket are revitalised with subtle tweaks and alterations. Rooted in shared values of utility and longevity, it’s classic British design; quietly and respectfully evolved.

The latest Barbour x Margaret Howell collection is here to explore at END., available for both men and women.

Shaun Crawford

Together with Barbour and END., Harlem-native artist Shaun Crawford lent his creative expertise to Barbour’s Solway Re-Loved project. Shaun put his own stamp on a one-of-a-kind jacket, shaped by his creative instincts and personal style. Using the Solway as a starting point, he reimagined the heritage piece through his own lens, turning a Barbour icon into something uniquely his. Every detail reflects his own connection to the brand.

Watch the short film here.

Barbour Heritage+

Honouring the past while striding forwards, Barbour's Heritage+ line is home to perfected archival silhouettes with reimagined contemporary details. It’s built on the bones of tradition, drawing the best of the best from decades of outerwear excellence. Bomber jackets, parkas, utility layers and quilted staples are all reworked with a clear purpose: to last, to function, and to feel right in your wardrobe year after year.

You’ll find key Heritage+ pieces in our men’s Barbour collection, including the Modified Solway Jacket, the Westmorland Showerproof Jacket and the Modified Durham Jacket.

Sustainability

More than most, Barbour recognises that looking towards the future requires a commitment to sustainability. Whether that’s reducing impact on the environment or directly supporting communities, the brand always gives back. There’s plenty of actions that Barbour is taking to achieve this: a goal to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by FY2050, ensuring circularity with the Wax For Life and Barbour Re-Loved schemes, and the charitable work carried out by The Barbour Foundation. 

WHICH BRANDS ARE SIMILAR TO BARBOUR?

Universal Works

Much like Barbour, Universal Works is rooted in British design, but with a more contemporary, workwear-focused edge. Based in Nottingham, the brand was founded by David Keyte around his kitchen table back in 2009. The aim was to make honest clothing with good, solid fits, inspired by Keyte’s formative years in the provincial Midlands in the seventies. The working class pride of dressing well shines through in each collection. It’s real clothes for real people, made to be cherished: worn, scuffed, repaired and worn all over again. Independent, understated, and quietly confident, Universal Works is built on values that last.

Drake’s

Drake’s started out in East London, but its take on ‘relaxed elegance’ has earned it a place in wardrobes from Tokyo to New York. Under the creative eye of Michael Hill, Drake’s garments are easy to wear and hard to beat, bringing a modern sensibility to traditional craftsmanship. Tailored in Italy, knitted in Scotland, and stitched in Somerset, every step of Drake’s process is guided by a commitment to quality — and, like Barbour, the result is pieces made with the kind of care you can see and feel for years to come.

FrizmWORKS

South Korean craftsmanship with a military-meets-workwear edge, FrizmWORKS takes inspiration from the past and rebuilds it for the now. Much like Barbour, FrizmWORKS is much more than just a heritage brand; it brings a modern perspective into the fold with a forward-thinking, no-nonsense approach. Designed to blend into your wardrobe but stand out in the details, classic shapes with unexpected tweaks are the past reimagined — not repeated. 

KESTIN

Kestin Hare built his namesake brand on the principles he holds dear, championing vintage research, the function of material, and British production. Both Barbour and KESTIN are rooted in their specific cultural landscapes, drawing from a shared Scottish heritage. Self-described as technical, functional and a little unconventional, KESTIN’s solid menswear offering is tradition through a new lens. 

MHL. by Margaret Howell

MHL. by Margaret Howell is inspired by workwear, using coarse, tough fabrics and manufacturing processes. Leading the way in contemporary British design since 1970, function and utility lie at the heart of MHL., offering a more utilitarian character than mainline Margaret Howell. Like Barbour, durability is key, with techniques and fabrics field-tested  in the world of work taking precedence in each collection.

Paraboot

Paraboot has been handcrafting footwear in the French Alps since 1908. Known for its signature Norwegian welt and robust leather builds, the brand crafts shoes for men and women that are made to be worn, not just admired. From the Michael to the Clusaz, Paraboot’s enduring silhouettes speak to over a century of craftsmanship, while simultaneously being able to handle movement off the beaten track. Like Barbour, Paraboot is rooted in tradition and guided by generations of family expertise, resulting in designs that work for the long run.