<p>English sailors developed the method of treating heavy cotton fabric with oils and waxes back in the 1700s. Initially it was used on ship sails to better hold the wind and prevent the added drag created when sails get soaking wet. Not long after, they started turning scraps of those sails into smocks, capes, hats, and eventually jackets. Sailcloth outerwear was so effective that it soon spread inland. In the 1920s, several companies began using paraffin wax to make the canvas even stronger and more weather resistant. The process used to create this resilient fabric hasn’t changed much since. It also allows for easy rewaxing, another benefit that modern fabrics can’t match. Ahead, we found the absolute best waxed canvas jackets to keep you stylishly dry, land or sea. </p><p><strong><a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/style/g26014395/best-spring-jackets-men/” target=”_blank”>Best Spring Jackets</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/style/g34212801/best-bomber-jackets-for-men/” target=”_blank”>Best Bomber Jackets</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/style/g42103089/best-chore-coats-for-men/” target=”_blank”>Best Chore Coats</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/style/g42435841/best-mens-wool-coats/” target=”_blank”>Best Wool Coats</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/style/g41713228/best-leather-jackets-for-men/” target=”_blank”>Best Leather Jackets</a></strong></p>” />
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Best Overall Waxed Canvas Jacket
Flint and Tinder Flannel-lined Waxed Trucker Jacket
Best Overall Waxed Canvas Jacket
Flint and Tinder Flannel-lined Waxed Trucker Jacket
Pros
- Insulated blanket lining
Cons
- All 3 pockets are on the smaller side
For years now, the Flint and Tinder’s Waxed Trucker has been one of Huckberry’s bestselling duds. Then it got supporting role in The Last of Us and became one of the most talked about pieces of menswear on the internet. Trust us when we say that all the hype is well deserved. The Waxed Trucker has as much style range and functionality as you’ll find in any outerwear. Its classic Americana look fits in with any wardrobe, 3 exterior and 1 interior pocket provide ample cargo space, and the blanket lining provides comfort and insulation.
Pros
- Large, button flap pockets for ample storage
- Zip and Button closure to lock out the elements
Cons
- No insulation
If you ask around about waxed canvas jackets, Barbour is the name that you will hear most frequently. The brand is practically synonymous with the fabric because it’s been making waxed canvas jackets longer than anyone else. The style made the cross over into popular fashion when British aristocrats and yuppies started wearing Barbour jackets designed for farmer work. While the brand makes them in a bunch of different styles, you can’t go wrong with its marquee Ashby.
Most Durable Waxed Canvas Jacket
Filson Ranger Anorak
Most Durable Waxed Canvas Jacket
Filson Ranger Anorak
Pros
- Two huge, easy access cargo pockets
Cons
- No lining or insulation
When you think about it, Anoraks are just glorified rain coats. That said, the Ranger from Flison is as tough and functional as a rain jacket can get. The high zip neck only goes down to the upper chest, so the rest of your body is sealed from the elements, and a three panel hood will keep your head protected. On top of that, pretty much the entire front is cargo space with a flap cover pouch sitting over a huge kangaroo pocket. This is probably the only jacket on the list that built for true wilderness adventures.
Todd Snyder’s signature coat is functional and handsome, with a light tan color that will darken and crease beautifully with age. This is the only Dylan jacket with a contrast collar, using a light brow corduroy in the waxed canvas tradition.
As usual, Ralph Lauren took a classic design and elevated it. This spiffed up biker jacket has a hood a corduroy-lined throat latch, a back hip cargo pocket, and leather cuffs. Looks great on the road, at the trails, or your corner office.
Pros
- Easy access interior zip pocket
- Hand warmer pockets
Cons
- No insulation
The added elastic waist pulls, an interior zip pocket, a roll up hood, and velcro waist clasps means you’ll always dry. Plus, its canvas is sourced from Halley Stevensons for a beautiful finish.
Pros
- Tons of cargo space
- Fully lined
Cons
- No hand pockets
A hybrid between American trucker and English country style, The Bedford Barn Jacket has a ton of cargo space thanks to two large bellowed pockets that open in the front and the back for easy access. Along with a two way zipper, eight snaps and a corduroy lining provide abundant insulation at the front opening.
Dehen 1920 Flyer’s Waxed Canvas Bomber Jacket
Dehen 1920 Flyer’s Waxed Canvas Bomber Jacket
Now 40% Off
Pros
- Shearling collar
- Solid brass handware
Cons
- Minimal pocket space
Dehen makes the classic bomber jacket even more durable with a heavy duty waxed canvas that can handle harsh winter conditions. Extra wide elastic cuffs and waist combined with a genuine sheep shearling collar helps trap body heat.
Legendary Whitetails Lonestar Waxed Canvas Shirt Jacket
Legendary Whitetails Lonestar Waxed Canvas Shirt Jacket
Now 13% Off
Pros
- Velcro-closure interior pocket
Cons
- Might be too light for colder weather
The contrast front and back yoke along with the blanket style lining make this a perfect western style lightweight jacket.
Pros
- Incredibly weather-resistant
Cons
- Expensive
This Anorak (think: a better-fitting poncho) sources its shell from Fjallraven’s legendary Greenland fabric, which works in tandem with the company’s wax for water resistance in perpetuity. While the design is comfortable and encourages movement, it’s also a killer piece from a company that’s seen its gear tested in the most extreme climates and places.
When to Rewax Your Waxed Canvas Jacket
Maintaining the wax layer on your jacket is crucial to keeping out the cold, wind, and rain. You can easily tell by the look and the feel of your jacket when a fresh coat is required. A new jacket will have a slight shine to it when the wax is fresh, which will also be slick and smooth to the touch. When the wax wears off, the fabric takes on a matte finish and feels rougher to the touch. You will notice wear and tear in high friction areas like the lower back, elbows, and cuffs. Always pay attention to the shoulders, however. This is where rain will wash away the wax first, making it the spot where moisture will sneak in first. On average, you should rewax your jacket every 2 to 3 years.
Contributing Commerce Style Writer
Brad is a contributing style commerce editor. After a decade working for menswear brands including J.Crew and Ralph Lauren, Brad switched from selling fashion to writing about it. His words have appeared in Huckberry, Heddels, and The Manual.
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