Waxed cotton is an extremely waterproof material created by applying paraffin, natural waxes or hybrid blends to cotton. Although it is stiff when cold, it softens and moulds to your form with body and environmental temperature.

It is best to take wax jackets to a professional cleaner. If you want to wash the jacket at home, hand washing in cold water or gently wiping with a soft sponge is advised. Avoid using detergents or a washing machine or hot water, as they can damage the wax coating.

A waxed jacket is conventionally for outdoor rural pursuits and sports but is commonly worn in both urban and rural settings. Waxed cotton is an extremely waterproof material and very robust, and periodic redressing gives waxed clothing significant longevity, making it a sustainable choice.

Wax jackets are best known for waterproof and windproof protective qualities rather than warmth. They are traditionally lined with brushed cotton and have corduroy collar linings but often need layering underneath in colder temperatures.

Dubarry offers a wax collection with Primaloft. This lightweight filling, stitched to the inner lining, gives warmth without bulk, so it doesn’t compromise the traditional style of the wax jacket or add to the weight significantly. Instead, Dubarry wax jackets offer fantastic warmth as well as waterproof protection for a great autumn winter jacket.

Designed to visibly age well, temperature variations and movement of the fabric creates marks in wax jackets that give them a unique patina, personal and comfortable to the wearer. To remove unwanted lines in the surface, gentle heat can be applied (such as hair drying) to soften and blend the wax.

Time and use can lessen the waterproofing of a wax jacket and it may need redressing. This is a simple process, easily done at home, or there are specialist services such as Dubarry’s approved Boot Repair Company who can do it for you. For tips on how to clean and maintain your jacket using Dubarry’s Waxed Cotton Dressing.