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Waxed Jackets

Invented in a Scottish mill that wove sails for the British clipper fleet back in the 1850s, waxed cotton canvas was developed to waterproof a mariner's clothing and gear. Which is how the legendary British brands like Barbour and Belstaff got the idea to start fortifying their outerwear with a wax coating to combat wet, rainy conditions. Over the decades, the multistep process has been refined, yielding jackets that are lighter and more breathable, but still impervious to inclement weather (not to mention road burn and other potential hazards). But thankfully, the protective coating still develops that distinctive worn-in patina after some thorough wearing. They're the ideal outerwear for transitional weather, so we've searched high and low for some of the best options.

Barbour, $399

This lightweight take on a military M-65 jacket features a modern fit and is finished with four front pockets and an interior drawstring waistband.

Spiewak, $301

Like a vintage piece, this hearty but not too heavy deck jacket has a wool lining, ribbed cuffs and a shearling collar designed to keep out the chill out.

Filson, $385

All the features of Filson's famous tin cruiser jacket in a lighter weight, trimmer fit and made in the United States from yarn-dyed waxed tartan plaid cotton.

Apolis, $248

A rugged workwear-influenced jacket made in America with durable riveted construction, underarm vents for comfort and three large front pockets.

How it Wears: Because wax and cotton are both natural products, they deteriorate with use. The beauty of waxed fabric is that it wears similarly to leather or raw denim--showing wear in places and resulting in a softer, more pliable garment.