The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket 2024, According to GQ Editors
GQ Recommends13 extra-burly layers to imbue your gloomy-weather outfits with a jolt of countryside flair.By Leon HedgepethNovember 13, 2024Photo: Getty Images; Collage by Sarah CassutoSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.There aren’t many jackets that can carry you through three seasons, but a waxed canvas jacket makes it look easy. In the fall and spring, the heavy-duty cotton is just light enough for transitional strolls, but as soon as the gnarly winds and rain pick up, that wax coating springs into action, creating a barrier that helps keep you dry and warm. (Pleasingly, the typically large armholes on the sleeve also leave room for a chunky knit or light down puffer underneath, on truly frigid days.) . It’s this versatility—alongside the jacket’s rugged good looks, and the fact you can always re-wax it—that almost immediately earns them hand-me-down status.It’s been this way for a while. Waxed cotton was developed in the early 1800s in Scotland, when one manufacturer messed around with adding some oil to their strongest cotton, discovering it created a waterproof yet still breathable material. Sailors and fishermen loved them, then the Royals caught on, then the rest of the world did—including James Bond. Cut forward to last year, and when the President met with the British Prime Minister, he was given one specific gift: a personalized waxed cotton jacket.If that feels like a lot to keep track of, fear not. Below, you’ll find the best examples of waxed canvas jackets available today, from Barbour to Valstar. See you out there, slick.The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket, According to GQThe Best Waxed Canvas Jacket Overall: Barbour Bedale Waxed Cotton Jacket, $415The Best Budget Waxed Canvas Jacket: J.Crew 1983 Heritage Barn Jacket, $198The Best Upgrade Waxed Canvas Jacket: Belstaff Trailmaster Waxed-Cotton Jacket, $595The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Fashion Guys: Sunflower Waxed Leisure Jacket, $610The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Hard Labor: Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket, $465The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Fabric Nerds: Man-tle R0D3 Black Wax Jacket, $1300Looking for Something Specific?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronMore Waxed Canvas Jackets We LoveHow We Review ProductsHow We Make These PicksWhat to Look for in a Great Waxed JacketWhat Is the Best Brand for Waxed Jackets?How to Re-Wax Your JacketBest Waxed Canvas Jacket Overall: Barbour Bedale Waxed Cotton JacketBarbourBedale Waxed Cotton Jacket$415 NordstromPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsUnimpeachable pedigreeAll key design details are thereBarbour allows you to ship your jacket back to their HQ for a re-waxConsNot as insulated as some others (though sizing up to fit a chunky knit under should help there)Shorter length might not be everyone’s choiceLet's keep it a buck—when you’re talking waxed jackets, almost all roads lead back to Barbour. This British brand has helped people dodging raindrops in style for over 130 years, and the crown jewel of their lineup is the waxed Bedale. Shorter than the Beaufort and Border varieties, it’s that much easier to chase around the city in (and drive, and cycle in.) Made from medium-weight 6oz waxed cotton, it’s fully interactive—meaning you can zip in a thermal liner, or snap on a hood when things get wetter.But people really love the permanent details: The corduroy collar, a brass two-way ring-pull zip (easy to use, even with gloves on) , a studded Stormfly front (for added wind-and-rain protection), plus two giant pockets for stuff and two cozy, moleskin-lined smaller pockets for chilly fingers. If you’re in a rush to choose, this is the jacket with the Royal seal of approval—and one you’ll wear for so many seasons, people will recognize you by it in the street. Plus, you can always ship it back to Barbour HQ to be re-waxed.Best Budget Waxed Canvas Jacket: J.Crew Limited-Edition Waxed 1983 Heritage Barn JacketJ.CrewLimited-Edition Waxed 1983 Heritage Barn Jacket$198 J.CrewPros & ConsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronProsA nostalgic piece brought back from the archivesAdjustable button tabs at the wrists ensure wind and moisture don’t sneak inConsBlackwatch plaid won’t be for everyone, but single color versions existWaxed cotton isn’t always as shiny as Barbour makes theirs out to be. Just look at J.Crew’s barn coat, back on the scene this fall after debuting in 1983 as part of the brand’s first ever collection. (It’s not often that our best budget pick is also a design classic.) Every J.Crew barn jacket has a lovely mid-thigh length and more pockets than you’d expect, but thishandsome, limited-edition Blackwatch plaid version subtly stands out a little from the classic beige and grey barn coats. Beyond the handsome finish, it’s also fully lined, with ample pockets, button closures, and adjustable wrist tabs to keep you dry. And that Blackwatch outer? Straight from
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
There aren’t many jackets that can carry you through three seasons, but a waxed canvas jacket makes it look easy. In the fall and spring, the heavy-duty cotton is just light enough for transitional strolls, but as soon as the gnarly winds and rain pick up, that wax coating springs into action, creating a barrier that helps keep you dry and warm. (Pleasingly, the typically large armholes on the sleeve also leave room for a chunky knit or light down puffer underneath, on truly frigid days.) . It’s this versatility—alongside the jacket’s rugged good looks, and the fact you can always re-wax it—that almost immediately earns them hand-me-down status.
It’s been this way for a while. Waxed cotton was developed in the early 1800s in Scotland, when one manufacturer messed around with adding some oil to their strongest cotton, discovering it created a waterproof yet still breathable material. Sailors and fishermen loved them, then the Royals caught on, then the rest of the world did—including James Bond. Cut forward to last year, and when the President met with the British Prime Minister, he was given one specific gift: a personalized waxed cotton jacket.
If that feels like a lot to keep track of, fear not. Below, you’ll find the best examples of waxed canvas jackets available today, from Barbour to Valstar. See you out there, slick.
The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket, According to GQ
- The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket Overall: Barbour Bedale Waxed Cotton Jacket, $415
- The Best Budget Waxed Canvas Jacket: J.Crew 1983 Heritage Barn Jacket, $198
- The Best Upgrade Waxed Canvas Jacket: Belstaff Trailmaster Waxed-Cotton Jacket, $595
- The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Fashion Guys: Sunflower Waxed Leisure Jacket, $610
- The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Hard Labor: Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket, $465
- The Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Fabric Nerds: Man-tle R0D3 Black Wax Jacket, $1300
Best Waxed Canvas Jacket Overall: Barbour Bedale Waxed Cotton Jacket
Barbour
Bedale Waxed Cotton Jacket
- Unimpeachable pedigree
- All key design details are there
- Barbour allows you to ship your jacket back to their HQ for a re-wax
- Not as insulated as some others (though sizing up to fit a chunky knit under should help there)
- Shorter length might not be everyone’s choice
Let's keep it a buck—when you’re talking waxed jackets, almost all roads lead back to Barbour. This British brand has helped people dodging raindrops in style for over 130 years, and the crown jewel of their lineup is the waxed Bedale. Shorter than the Beaufort and Border varieties, it’s that much easier to chase around the city in (and drive, and cycle in.) Made from medium-weight 6oz waxed cotton, it’s fully interactive—meaning you can zip in a thermal liner, or snap on a hood when things get wetter.
But people really love the permanent details: The corduroy collar, a brass two-way ring-pull zip (easy to use, even with gloves on) , a studded Stormfly front (for added wind-and-rain protection), plus two giant pockets for stuff and two cozy, moleskin-lined smaller pockets for chilly fingers. If you’re in a rush to choose, this is the jacket with the Royal seal of approval—and one you’ll wear for so many seasons, people will recognize you by it in the street. Plus, you can always ship it back to Barbour HQ to be re-waxed.
Best Budget Waxed Canvas Jacket: J.Crew Limited-Edition Waxed 1983 Heritage Barn Jacket
Waxed cotton isn’t always as shiny as Barbour makes theirs out to be. Just look at J.Crew’s barn coat, back on the scene this fall after debuting in 1983 as part of the brand’s first ever collection. (It’s not often that our best budget pick is also a design classic.) Every J.Crew barn jacket has a lovely mid-thigh length and more pockets than you’d expect, but this
handsome, limited-edition Blackwatch plaid version subtly stands out a little from the classic beige and grey barn coats. Beyond the handsome finish, it’s also fully lined, with ample pockets, button closures, and adjustable wrist tabs to keep you dry. And that Blackwatch outer? Straight from Scotland’s legendary Halley Stevensons factory
Best Upgrade Waxed Canvas Jacket: Belstaff Trailmaster Waxed-Cotton Jacket
After Barbour, the next name in waxed jackets is always Belstaff. And the Trailmaster—worn by everyone from Steve McQueen to Che Guevara since arriving in 1948—is the star in their line-up. Designed for fending off the elements even as your motorbike straight towards them, the Trailmaster features Belstaff’s signature four-pocket design—two on the chest, two on the hips—each with snap closures to keep your stuff safe and sound. The waist belt helps you dial in the fit, offering comfort and shaping that can handle whatever the road throws at you. And that belted collar? It's got a snap latch to shield you from the wind. This jacket is tough, durable, and looks killer with boots and a pair of slim jeans. Honestly, meet your winter second skin.
Best Waxed Jacket for Fashion Guys: Sunflower Waxed Leisure Jacket
After founding NN07 (yes, of Carmy fame) Ulrik Pedersen gave himself a new place space to play by starting Sunflower, and it’s fast becoming the go-to source for understated menswear classics that won’t make your wallet weep. There’s an emphasis on age-old production techniques,top-notch fabrics, and technical innovation, and you can see it all in their take on the waxed jacket.
First, it covers all the essentials: a corduroy spread collar, cozy brushed flannel lining, extra-roomy pockets, and a two-way zip closure. But then the hidden placket adds a ton more sophistication at the last second. If you're hunting for the most understated waxed jacket out there, this gunmetal beauty pairs perfectly with beat-up jeans or a sharp black pant.
Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Fabric Nerds: Man-tle R0D3 Black Wax Jacket
It’s no secret MAN-TLE has a penchant for unique fabrics, but they’re also known for sticking with styles that worked, and just changing the materials on them. Here, they’ve. taken the usual spring-weight blouson and leveled it up into a winter-ready heavy hitter. The fit? Oversized with dropped shoulders, with elastic at the cuffs and hems for a bomber-like vibe.
Now, don’t let its breezy look fool you—this jacket is actually warm AF, because it’s also a down jacket. The sustainably sourced down filling comes from European silver geese, and thanks to the transparent nylon micro-ripstop, you can even get a glimpse of it. The outer shell? A hefty, wind-beating chambray with a wax coating that gives it serious character from day one, with only more to come over time.
Best Waxed Canvas Jacket for Hard Labor: Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket
Third place on the waxed cotton all-time podium goes, undoubtedly, to hardy American outfitters Filson. If Bane was born and molded by darkness, then Filson’s company was born and molded by their nearly indestructible tin cloth fabric. Their take has been around for almost 130 years—originally made for loggers, miners, and outdoorsmen, it’s now worn by baristas heading into their shift and content creators who probably still need to get out and touch grass.
Made from tightly woven cotton canvas, Filson’s tin cloth is treated with an oil and wax finish, while the collar, interior, and high-set hand pockets are all lined with the brand’s Mackinaw Wool for warmth you’ll appreciate later. There are plenty more details that justify the ticket price, too: A one-piece shoulder design that keeps all water out, a giant rear pocket, and an adjustable drawcord to keep things extra snug when the wind starts howling. In classic tan, this jacket doesn’t just look the part—it patinates beautifully, with fades that’ll remind you of your favorite jeans.
More Waxed Canvas Jackets We Love
Valstar
Valstarino Waxed Canvas Bomber Jacket
Here, we have a jacket that’s been around since 1935—because if something’s been in production longer than your parents have been alive, it must be doing something right. The Valstarino is water-repellent, with a funnel neck and ribbed waist to keep you warm, plus it’s button-only, perfect for those mornings when you're just too tired to wrestle with zippers that never quite line up.
Cawley
British Waxed Oilskin Kit Trench
Hannah Cawley was making clothes out of her bedroom seven years ago, now she’s one of the global menswear designers to be aware of. Just check out her waxed trench, the kind of piece you previously had to dig through vintage racks to find. Made from waxed oilskin with a gorgeous storm flap and adjustable belt, it boasts the fullest coverage on this list. Note: Cawley cuts her wares for lads and ladies alike, but to really dial in your size, I’d shoot her team an email to discuss any additional measurements.
Buck Mason
Roadrunner Jacket
These days, it sometimes saves time to just hand the decision over to Buck Mason. As always, their take on a heritage classic is probably exactly what you’re looking for, taking its cues from Belstaff (round high collar, chest pockets) and Barbour (there’s some cord on that collar) alike.
Evan Kinori
Dry Waxed Cotton Hooded Coat
San Francisco-based designer Evan Kinori lives just like his clothes: He’s understated, under the radar, and beloved by menswear nerds (and GQ editors). Here, he’s reimagined the waxed jacket, blending a kimono-style sleeve to keep out the wind with a shaped hood to keep you dry. Corozo buttons, two-way RiRi zippers, and a hand-numbered hangtag—Kinori creations just have more soul.
AYR
Waxed Cotton Club Jacket
If your brand’s acronym stands for All Year Round, you'd better be making garments that live up to the name. AYR knows it can. Their hit jacket, which is sort of a trucker-waxed jacket hybrid is made using waxed cotton from the esteemed British Millerain mill, in an unusually dark olive green. It’s lightweight and functional—without being over-designed—but still weatherproof enough to handle whatever the seasons throw your way.
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We make every effort to cast as wide of a net as possible, with an eye on identifying the best options across three key categories: quality, fit, and price.
To kick off the process, we enlist the GQ Recommends braintrust to vote on our contenders. Some of the folks involved have worked in retail, slinging clothes to the masses; others have toiled for small-batch menswear labels; all spend way too much time thinking about what hangs in their closets.
We lean on that collective experience to guide our search, culling a mix of household names, indie favorites, and the artisanal imprints on the bleeding-edge of the genre. Then we narrow down the assortment to the picks that scored the highest across quality, fit, and price.
Across the majority of our buying guides, our team boasts firsthand experience with the bulk of our selects, but a handful are totally new to us. So after several months of intense debate, we tally the votes, collate the anecdotal evidence, and emerge with a list of what we believe to be the absolute best of the category right now, from the tried-and-true stalwarts to the modern disruptors, the affordable beaters to the wildly expensive (but wildly worth-it) designer riffs.
Whatever your preferences, whatever your style, there's bound to be a superlative version on this list for you. (Read more about GQ's testing process here.)
What Is the Best Brand for Waxed Jackets?
For any clothing category, you can reliably look to the stalwarts and inventors of the genre. In this case, Barbour, Belstaff, and Filson are some of the best to do it. But don’t mistake these brands as the best waxed canvas jacket for you. Each jacket has its own unique characteristics and what works for a lot of people doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right option for everyone.
You can also lean on storied waxed fabric makers as a good indicator of quality. Though many of the high priests of waxed jackets don’t necessarily call out their fabric suppliers, a good deal of them use waxed fabrics from British Millerain and Halley Stevensons, both mills with generations of expertise with the unique material.
What to Look For in a Great Waxed Jacket
But beware: because they have such a reputation for quality, plenty of shysters are out here claiming their waxed jackets are the real deal to make a buck. When shopping for one, there are a few key steps to take. First off, know thy waxes—traditional wax offers a more rugged look and heavy weather resistance, while lightweight waxes can be more flexible and comfortable for everyday wear. Sealed seams are non negotiable; they prevent moisture from seeping in. And what’s on the inside matters too. A quilted lining adds insulation, while tartan adds some of that warmth, as well as a lick of Scottish style. And don’t forget about those corduroy-lined collars—they add comfort and durability where the jacket gets the most wear.
How to Re-Wax Your Jacket
Step 1: Clean your jacket by using a damp cloth to wipe away dust and debris.
Step 2: Prepare the wax. Waxes can come in different forms. Some come in a tin which you then place in warm water in order to melt the wax. Other waxes are sold as a bar which must be softened with heat, often with a heat gun or hair dryer.
Step 3: Apply the wax. For tinned wax, dip a sponge or a clean rag into the wax and wipe the jacket evenly. For bar wax, rub the bar all over the jacket, applying the wax evenly. Then use a heat gun to melt the wax into the fibers of the jacket.
Step 4: Allow the jacket to dry. Hang your jacket to dry for about 24-48 hours, keeping it away from other clothes or objects to avoid staining anything with the still-wet wax. And voilà! Good as new.
