Men's wax jackets; the good, the bad... and the affordable

So, you’re a man, new to the world of wax jackets, and on the brink of buying one. I can imagine it’s a bit of a puzzle figuring out which wax jacket is the best fit for you. I’ve been there myself, and I must confess, it took me quite a bit of research before I finally made a decision. And, let me tell you, that decision wasn’t what you might expect. But more on that later.

The Good

The finest wax jackets for men are, for the most part, (still) proudly produced in the UK. These jackets have become an integral part of the nation's visual identity, worn by everyone from countryside dwellers to city slickers. Most famously, the British Royal Family are often spotted in their impeccable Barbour jackets, 'holidaying' at one of their many country retreats.

Barbour wax jackets

Best known wax jacket producer Barbour is a brand steeped in tradition, and their craftsmanship speaks volumes. In the early 1900s, Barbour expanded its range to include outdoor clothing for hunting, shooting, and other country pursuits. The brand introduced its signature waxed cotton fabric, which became synonymous with Barbour jackets. These jackets are cherished for their durability, water resistance, and practicality.

And, of course, we must tip our hat to style icon James Bond. He graced the fictional world stage clad in a wax jacket from Rogue Territory in No Time to Die and a Barbour in Skyfall.

Another legendary brand and manufacturer of wax jackets for men is Belstaff. Founded in 1924 by Eli Belovitch and his son-in-law, Harry Grosberg, in Longton, Staffordshire, Belstaff's name is a blend of "Belovitch" and "Staffordshire." The brand initially specialized in waterproof garments made from waxed cotton, catering to the needs of motorcyclists, aviators, and the military.

In 1948, Belstaff unveiled one of its most iconic designs, the Trialmaster jacket, crafted specifically for the Scottish Six Days Trial—a grueling motorcycle race through the Scottish Highlands. Belstaff jackets quickly achieved iconic status, especially after heroes like Steve McQueen donned them. The Trialmaster, in particular, has become a bona fide classic, worn with panache by the likes of David Beckham. Belstaff jackets have also starred in a slew of blockbuster films, including The Dark Knight, Skyfall, and, of course, Mission Impossible.

Ireland’s Dubarry is another benchmark producer of wax jackets. Dubarry of Ireland, a prestigious brand with a rich history, is celebrated for its high-quality footwear and outdoor clothing. Founded in 1937 in Ballinasloe, County Galway, the brand originally specialized in crafting shoes. Over the decades, Dubarry expanded its offerings to include premium country and sailing wear, earning a reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Among their impressive range is a line of exquisitely crafted wax jackets.

By now, you’ve likely gathered that this isn’t just about fashion; it’s about jackets so well-made they’ll outlast generations, given the right care. Whether it’s Barbour, Dubarry, Belstaff, or other heritage brands, these are investments in quality and longevity.

The Bad

In my experience, there’s no such thing as a truly bad wax jacket. The basic principle remains the same: a cotton outer shell treated with a wax mixture. Of course, there are differences in finish, but this is something you’ll need to judge for yourself when you’re on the verge of buying a wax jacket.

However, there is one thing you must be particularly vigilant about when buying a wax jacket online. The market is awash with rip-offs and knock-offs that are sold as wax jackets, look somewhat the part, but are actually made with a polyester outer shell. These knock-offs often fall far short in quality, made with cheap synthetic materials, and are designed merely to look like a wax jacket without offering any of the functional qualities of a genuine one. Always ensure you’re buying a wax jacket with a cotton outer shell.

The Affordable

Let me start by saying that a decent new wax jacket will set you back around $200. But considering that this jacket will likely remain in your wardrobe for the rest of your life, it’s actually a negligible price. If you’re on a budget, there are still a few manufacturers worth considering. John Partridge jackets are of excellent quality and appearance. If you opt for an unlined wax jacket, you might even snag one in a sale for under $100 if you consider to shop at Walker & Hawkes for example. Otherwise, have a little patience my man. Every now and then all brands as mentioned above engage in factory sales. That's your chance.

But my top tip for an affordable wax jacket is to buy second-hand, which I did plenty of times. These jackets are of such incredible quality that it doesn’t really matter if you buy new or used. In my humble opinion, they only get better with age. That patina they develop over time gives them character and evokes a delightful sense of nostalgia.