Waxed jackets: 4 alternatives to Barbour
- Mr. Darcy Downpour
- Nov 29, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 12, 2025
If you're relatively new to the world of waxed jackets, I dare say you'll have heard of Barbour. Yes indeed, those jackets worn by the British Royals. One could certainly argue that Barbour has their brand awareness well and truly sorted. However, that doesn't mean they're the only producer of high-quality waxed jackets. So, if you're in search of wax jacket alternatives to Barbour which you can wear for the rest of your life, this article is for you.
As I've just mentioned, Barbour isn't the sole purveyor of exceptional waxed jackets. There are numerous wonderful brands deeply rooted in the waxed jacket tradition that fly somewhat beneath the radar of the general public. Therefore, in this article, I'm going to introduce you to several brands comparable to Barbour that you might wish to consider when searching for a wax jacket.
Belstaff: heritage and legacy
This is rather a legendary marque of which you've probably never heard. Belstaff, founded in 1924 in England, pioneered waxed cotton motorcycle clothing that was both waterproof and durable. The brand evolved from a military supplier during the Second World War into an icon of adventure, with legendary designs such as the Trialmaster jacket from 1959.
Worn by racing drivers and film stars alike, Steve McQueen being a notable devotee, Belstaff became synonymous with British heritage fashion and motorcycling culture. A number of their most iconic jackets remain available today and have since achieved cult status. Should you be interested, I'd recommend looking at the Trialmaster, the Racemaster, and the Black Prince, which was designed in 1948. Talk about classics.
What I particularly admire about Belstaff is how they've managed to maintain that authentic motorcycling heritage whilst adapting to contemporary tastes. Their waxed jackets aren't merely functional, they're pieces of British design history that happen to keep you wonderfully dry. The construction quality is absolutely first-rate, with particular attention paid to the details that matter: storm cuffs, throat latches, and those signature buckled belts. These are jackets built to last generations, not seasons.
John Partridge: pragmatic and functional
John Partridge has been offering an excellent range of waxed jackets for years and years. The company emerged in 1969 in Staffordshire, England, as 'Landowner', a business that grew out of an agricultural supplies merchant. The brand emphasises sustainability and comfort, with products inspired by English country life. All items are handcrafted in their British factory using ethically sourced materials.
Over five decades, John Partridge has evolved into a premium country clothing brand focused on functionality and quality craftsmanship over mass production. The iconic Landowner wax jacket remains central to their offering, reworked in various colours whilst preserving the classic styling. Manufactured from high-quality waxed cotton, featuring numerous pockets and weather protection, these jackets are celebrated for their practical utility and vintage appeal. John Partridge produces them traditionally and offers re-waxing services to extend their lifespan.
What sets John Partridge apart, in my view, is their unwavering commitment to British manufacturing. In an era where so many heritage brands have outsourced production, they've steadfastly maintained their Staffordshire workshop. The result is jackets that feel genuinely authentic, you can sense the care and attention in every stitch. Their re-waxing service is also splendid; rather than encouraging you to buy new, they'll help you maintain your jacket indefinitely, which speaks volumes about their confidence in their own craftsmanship.
I'm particularly fond of their Speed 6 Wax Biker Jacket. One might say it's somewhat inspired by Belstaff. But we shan't say that too loudly.
Dubarry: the Irish alternative to Barbour
Dubarry of Ireland was established in 1937 in Ballinasloe, County Galway, initially specialising in high-quality leather shoes, particularly hand-sewn moccasin deck shoes which earned the brand international fame as a manufacturer of excellent sailing footwear.
Throughout the decades, Dubarry has grown to become synonymous with innovation and quality in the sailing and outdoor sector, expanding their range to include outerwear, knitwear, and country lifestyle clothing that combines technical features with classic Irish styling.
My favourite jacket from Dubarry is quite possibly the Chalkhill wax jacket. What I find rather appealing about Dubarry's approach is how they've brought their sailing heritage to bear on country clothing. The technical innovations developed for harsh marine environments translate beautifully to countryside wear. Their waxed jackets offer exceptional weather protection, as you'd expect from a brand that understands what it means to be truly waterproof, whilst maintaining a refined, elegant aesthetic that's distinctly Irish rather than overtly British.
The Chalkhill, in particular, strikes a lovely balance between practicality and style and in some sense an alternative to Barbour. It's cut slightly more generously than some continental jackets, which makes it ideal for layering during those bitter winter shoots or country walks. The detailing is exquisite, and the quality of the waxed cotton is superb, it develops the most wonderful patina over time, if properly maintained of course.
Oxford Blue: affordable but excellent
Oxford Blue was founded in 1968 as a family business in the United Kingdom, initially focused on producing waxed jackets with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and affordable pricing. The brand draws inspiration from the historic Oxford Blue heritage and positions itself as a supplier of authentic British country clothing.
Over five decades, Oxford Blue has grown into one of Europe's leading leisure and country clothing brands, distributed across 17 countries. It specialises in innovative designs featuring classic wax treatments, high-quality materials, and British manufacture for durability.
Oxford Blue's waxed jackets form the core of their range, refined since their founding for weather resistance, comfort, and timeless style suitable for country pursuits. Iconic models include the Countryman Padded Wax Jacket for gentlemen, featuring quilted insulation and classic details, and the Katrina Waxed Cotton Jacket for ladies in various colours. These British-made jackets employ premium waxed cotton, with vintage styling that's praised for numerous pockets and remarkable longevity; the brand also supplies wax dressing for maintenance.
What I particularly appreciate about Oxford Blue is their 'democratic' approach to quality. They've managed to maintain proper British manufacturing standards whilst keeping prices remarkably reasonable, as in, very reasonably priced. This isn't about cutting corners, it's about efficient production and fair pricing. Their jackets may not carry the cachet of some more illustrious names such as Barbour or Belstaff, but they'll serve you just as faithfully through years of countryside rambles, shooting parties, and in heavy downpours.