The regular fit, jacket length, and practical field-jacket features are otherwise identical. Both provide room for layering, a full-width rear game pocket, a studded corduroy collar, and compatibility with optional hoods and zip-in liners.

What are the main differences between the Barbour Beaufort and Classic Beaufort?

The most important differences are the type of waxed cotton, initial feel, internal tartan lining, and available color options. You do not need to choose between them based on storage, jacket length, or general weatherproofing because both retain the exact same recognizable Beaufort cut and pocket setup.

AT A GLANCE: THE MAIN DIFFERENCES

What seven differences should you check before buying?

1. The Wax Finish: Sylkoil vs. Thornproof

The key distinction lies in how the cotton fabric is treated before waxing. The Barbour Classic Beaufort uses 6oz Sylkoil cotton, which remains unshorn after weaving. This leaves natural fabric variations intact, giving it a softer, matte appearance.

The standard Beaufort uses 6oz Thornproof cotton, which is calendared (shorn and pressed smooth under heat rollers) before wax is applied. This produces a sleek, uniform finish with a subtle luster.

Traditional Sylkoil finish

Barbour Classic Beaufort Men's Waxed Jacket in Olive

Choose the Classic Beaufort for its soft, matte waxed cotton, traditional Olive colour and timeless regular-fit shape.

View the Classic Beaufort →

2. Initial Hand-Feel Out of the Box

Because of their surface treatments, a brand-new Classic Beaufort feels supple, broken-in, and slightly drier to the touch right away.

In contrast, a standard Thornproof Beaufort feels crisp, firmer, and slightly waxier initially. It softens significantly with wear, but if you prefer a jacket that feels comfortable and flexible on day one, Sylkoil holds a slight edge.

For a deep dive into fabric construction, read our guide on Barbour Sylkoil vs Thornproof.

3. How Patina & Wear Creases Develop

Both jackets age gracefully, but they display wear differently over time. As movement breaks down the wax coating, Sylkoil fades into a soft, velvety vintage patina across high-friction areas.

Thornproof cotton develops sharper, contrast-heavy creases along elbow bends, pocket flaps, and seam edges. This gives Thornproof a distinctly rugged, marbled character after a season or two of heavy use.

4. Colour Palette Options

If you have your heart set on a specific shade, this may make the decision for you:

The Classic Beaufort is strictly available in iconic Olive.

The standard Beaufort comes in a broader color selection through Allweathers:

• Sage: A deep, traditional country green
• Black: A versatile, smart option suited to city wear
• Navy: A sharp alternative for smart-casual wear
• Rustic: A rich, warm chocolate brown
• Bark: A mid-brown earth tone

Classic Thornproof Beaufort

Barbour Beaufort Men's Waxed Jacket in Sage

Choose the Sage Beaufort for its smooth 6oz waxed cotton finish, traditional country colour and practical year-round design.

View the Sage Beaufort →

5. Inner Tartan Linings

When you turn back the cuffs or open your jacket, the lining visible inside reflects the exterior shell colour you selected:

• Classic Beaufort (Olive): Lined with Barbour’s signature Classic Tartan (green, gold, and navy tones).
• Standard Beaufort (Sage): Lined with Ancient Tartan (olive, navy, and dark yellow hues).
• Standard Beaufort (Navy): Lined with Dress Tartan.
• Standard Beaufort (Black): Lined with Modern Tartan.
• Standard Beaufort (Rustic): Lined with Muted Tartan.

6. Hood Finish & Color Matching

Both jackets include press-stud collar mounts for removable hoods, but you will want to match the hood's wax type and color to your jacket:

The Classic Beaufort in Olive pairs with the Classic Sylkoil Waxed Hood in Olive.

Standard Thornproof Beaufort jackets match with the Thornproof hood range available in Sage, Navy, Black, and Rustic.

Note: Barbour does not make a dedicated Bark hood, but a Rustic or Classic Olive hood provides a clean, complementary match. Reach out to our team if you need color guidance.

7. Overall Visual Aesthetic

Choose the Classic Beaufort for a traditional country heritage aesthetic. Its matte Olive surface pairs effortlessly with chunky knitwear, tweed, cords, and denim.

Choose the standard Beaufort for a sharper, cleaner profile. Colors like Black and Navy translate exceptionally well to urban commuting and outerwear over tailoring, while Sage, Rustic, and Bark preserve traditional country roots.

What features do both Beaufort jackets share?

Aside from outer fabric finish and inner lining options, both jackets share the exact same classic field design:

Interested in how the Beaufort compares to shorter jacket models? Read our Barbour Bedale vs Beaufort guide.

What size Barbour Beaufort should you buy?

Both Beaufort models feature a relaxed regular fit cut generously to allow room for sweaters or liners. Your usual suit chest size (e.g., Size 40 for a 40" chest) is the right starting point, but measuring a well-fitting jacket you already own is the best way to guarantee a accurate fit.

Lay your existing jacket flat and measure armpit-to-armpit, base-of-collar-to-hem, and armpit-to-cuff. The measurements below are for the garment itself, not the wearer's body.

BARBOUR BEAUFORT GARMENT MEASUREMENTS

Need extra help? Read our complete Barbour sizing guide or call our customer care team on 01268 293698 for personalized guidance.

Which liner should you choose for a Barbour Beaufort?

Both Beaufort versions feature internal interactive zips to accommodate Barbour warmers, turning your rain shell into a cold-weather winter coat.

Warm Pile Liner

Choose a Warm Pile liner for maximum insulation during winter walks.

• Brown Warm Pile Liner
• Sage Warm Pile Liner
• Black Warm Pile Liner

Quilted Zip-In Liner / Gilet

Choose a Quilted Zip-In liner for lightweight warmth without bulk. These liners can also be worn as standalone gilets:

• Olive with Classic Tartan
• Olive with Ancient Tartan
• Navy with Dress Tartan
• Black with Modern Lining
• Rustic with Muted Lining

How should you care for a Beaufort wax jacket?

Care instructions are identical for both Sylkoil and Thornproof cottons: wipe off mud or dirt using cold water and a clean sponge. Never use hot water, detergents, washing machines, or dry cleaners, as these destroy the wax barrier permanently.

Depending on frequency of wear, re-proof high-wear areas (shoulders, seams, and elbows) annually using Barbour Wax Dressing to keep your jacket fully water-resistant for decades.

Which Beaufort should you choose?

Both models offer timeless British craftsmanship, superb weather resistance, and classic style. The right choice simply depends on the finish, colour, and tartan aesthetic you prefer.

Frequently asked questions