Waxed canvas jackets are known for being dependable in rainy, chilly spring weather. We rounded up the best styles from brands like Filson and Barbour.
Like many menswear staples, waxed canvas jackets have their roots in the nautical world. Before the invention of modern materials such as nylon and polyester, seafarers needed clothing that could prevent them from getting soaked aboard ship. They stole the idea for these jackets from the oil-coated sails they used. Waxed canvas clothing got a big boost during World War II when the British military made liberal use of the material for soldiers. Soon, waxed canvas jackets moved into the mainstream, becoming especially popular for outdoor pursuits.
Unlike most man-made fabrics, waxed canvas only gets better with age, developing a beautiful patina over time while staying super durable. These rugged jackets are perfect for transitional weather. They do a fantastic job shedding water, and some of our picks are extra heavy for chilly spring days. We’ve gathered together the best men’s waxed canvas and cotton jackets to keep you looking like a style maven even in inclement weather. The Barbour Ogston Jacket is a top choice for a classic look and the Filson Tin Cloth Field Jacket is a great alternative for a truly rugged design. If you’re really ready to commit to the look, consider pairing your jacket with a sturdy pair of our favorite rain boots. Filson Cruiser Jacket
For nearly 130 years, Filson has been outfitting those who work and play outdoors. The brand continues to stay as relevant today as it was during the Klondike Gold Rush when it supplied treasure seekers from its home in Seattle. The Cruiser Jacket, based on the 100-year-old original, starts with the brand’s Tin Cloth, a hefty 14-ounce waxed canvas sourced from British Millerain, an equally storied company famous for its waxed canvas. Filson lines the jacket in a lightweight canvas.
Stylewise, the Cruiser could be compared to a trucker jacket — it sits at the hips — but with a few key differences. Unlike most truckers, this jacket includes two large hand pockets and two breast pockets (one with a flap and one without). This is a classic jacket that will never go out of style and will last you for years. Thursday Boot Company Field Jacket
While you’re probably already a fan of Thursday Boot Company’s footwear (if not, definitely check them out), but the brand has gone beyond boots and makes some outstanding outerwear as well, including its Field Jacket that’s crafted in Portugal. They start with a heavyweight 10-ounce waxed canvas from the go-to Scottish firm Halley Stevensons, which has been making top-of-the-line waxed canvas for 150 years.
Next, the brand lines the jacket in a flannel blanket fabric. The sleeves are lined in a smooth polyester so you don’t have to fight to pull down your shirtsleeves after slipping the jacket on. Brass buttons and corduroy detailing at the collar and waistband complete this good-looking jacket that can stand up to the elements.Buck Mason Highland Jacket
Buck Mason, the Los Angeles-based brand, ranks as one of our top menswear brands. From the t-shirts the company makes at its own U.S. mill to rugged outerwear, and everything in between, Buck Mason consistently produces winners at a fair price.
The Highland Jacket is a chore coat-style jacket with lots of extras like a blanket lining and corduroy detailing (including inside the front pockets). Like many of the best brands, Buck Mason sources the dry-waxed canvas for the Highland Jacket from Halley Stevensons.Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Trucker
Flint and Tinder is another of our favorite menswear brands. The company combines quality American-made craftsmanship with timeless designs for hard-wearing clothes that are always on point. We’re not alone in our assessment. If you happen to be one of the millions who watched HBO’s « The Last of Us » and found yourself wondering where Pedro Pascal’s Flannel-Lined Trucker jacket came from, this is it.
