Introduction
Barbour is a British company famous for its waxed cotton jackets that have been popular for more than a century. These jackets are very stylish and durable, but many people are wondering if they are actually waterproof. In this article, we will answer this question and provide you with some tips on how to maintain your Barbour wax jacket properly.
How Wax Jackets Work
Waxed cotton jackets are treated with a layer of wax that seals the fabric and makes it water-resistant. When it rains, the water beads up on the surface of the jacket and rolls off, keeping you dry. However, this does not mean that the jacket is completely waterproof. If you are exposed to heavy rain, the water can eventually seep through the fabric and wet your clothes.
Are Barbour Wax Jackets Waterproof?
Barbour wax jackets are water-resistant, but they are not completely waterproof. If you are planning to wear your jacket in heavy rain, you may need to consider an additional layer of protection such as a raincoat. However, for light rain and drizzle, a Barbour wax jacket will keep you dry and looking stylish.
How to Maintain Your Barbour Wax Jacket
To maintain the water-resistant properties of your Barbour wax jacket, you need to re-wax it regularly. Barbour recommends that you re-wax your jacket once a year or more frequently if you wear it frequently. You can buy Barbour’s own wax dressing or use any other high-quality wax dressing that is suitable for cotton fabrics.
Steps to Re-Wax Your Barbour Wax Jacket
1. Clean your jacket with a sponge and cold water to remove any dirt or stains. 2. Let your jacket dry naturally for at least 24 hours. 3. Apply the wax dressing evenly to your jacket using a sponge or cloth. 4. Pay extra attention to the seams, cuffs, and collar as they are the most vulnerable areas. 5. Hang your jacket in a cool, dry place for at least 24 hours to let the wax dry. 6. Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to melt any excess wax and spread it evenly. 7. Buff your jacket with a soft cloth to give it a glossy finish.
Conclusion
Barbour wax jackets are water-resistant and will keep you dry in light rain and drizzle. However, they are not completely waterproof and may require an additional layer of protection in heavy rain. To maintain the water-resistant properties of your jacket, you need to re-wax it regularly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your Barbour wax jacket lasts for many years and continues to look stylish.