Barbour Ski

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes Barbour's waxed cotton jackets distinct from other outerwear?

  Barbour's signature pieces use a medium‑weight 100% cotton canvas treated with a silk‑oil wax finish that sheds water and develops a rich patina with wear. Classic models like the Bedale, Beaufort and Border combine functional details—moleskin or corduroy collars, raglan sleeves, bellows pockets and tartan linings—with reinforced stitching for long‑term durability and country style.
• How should I care for a Barbour waxed jacket to keep it weatherproof?

  Spot clean with a damp cloth and avoid machine washing or dry cleaning, which can strip the wax finish; reproofing with a suitable wax dressing restores water resistance as needed. Barbour also offers professional rewaxing and repair services to revive the finish and extend the garment’s life rather than replacing it.
• How does Barbour’s waxed cotton compare to their quilted jackets like the Liddesdale?

  Waxed cotton is primarily about durable, weather‑resistant outer protection and a classic country aesthetic that improves with age, while quilted jackets such as the Liddesdale prioritize insulation and lighter weight for colder, drier conditions. Many shoppers pair a waxed outer layer with a quilted liner or layer beneath for added warmth and versatility.
• How has Barbour’s heritage shaped its product design?

  Founded in 1894 in South Shields, Barbour began making oilcloth and weatherproof garments for fishermen and evolved into country and motorcycling staples, so durability, practical detailing and British tailoring remain core to the design language. That history explains recurring features like tartan linings, utility pockets and collars finished in corduroy or moleskin.
• What materials and construction choices make Barbour jackets repairable and long‑lasting?

  Barbour relies on robust cotton canvas, wax finishes, moleskin and corduroy trims, plus reinforced seams and classic tailoring that tolerate repeated rewaxing and patch repairs. The combination of durable fabrics and a manufacturer rewax/repair program encourages restoring a jacket rather than discarding it, increasing its usable lifespan.