Barbour Bedale Waxed Jacket

Barbour recommends re-waxing the Bedale jacket once a year for regular use, or whenever the wax coating begins to look dry, patchy, or areas of the cotton start to lighten. The official Barbour Thornproof Dressing is applied by rubbing it into the fabric with a soft cloth or sponge and then using a hairdryer to evenly melt and distribute the wax. Barbour also offers a professional re-waxing service if you prefer not to do it yourself.

The Bedale and the Beaufort are both classic Barbour waxed jackets, but the Bedale is slightly shorter (approximately 33 inches vs. 35 inches for the Beaufort) and features a more tailored, equestrian-inspired cut. The Beaufort includes a large game pocket on the back and was designed in the mid-1980s for country shooting. The Bedale, introduced in 1980, was originally designed by Dame Helen Barbour for riding.

The Barbour Bedale is water-resistant and windproof thanks to its waxed cotton outer, and it performs well in light to moderate rain. However, it is not fully waterproof like a Gore-Tex garment—prolonged exposure to heavy downpours may eventually result in some moisture penetration, especially in worn areas. Regular re-waxing maintains the water-repellent properties.

The Bedale has a slightly relaxed fit designed to accommodate layering underneath, so many people can wear their true size rather than sizing up. If you plan to wear thick sweaters or a blazer underneath, going up one size may be more comfortable. Barbour sizing is in UK measurements, so be mindful that a UK 40 corresponds to a US 40 chest.

No—the Barbour Bedale must never be machine washed or dry-cleaned, as this will strip the wax coating from the cotton and compromise the jacket's weather resistance. To clean it, wipe the surface with a damp cloth or use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. For thorough cleaning or re-waxing, you should hand-apply new Thornproof Dressing or send it to Barbour's professional service.