Discover the Barbour Bedale Wax Jacket: A Timeless Classic

Both jackets share the same classic relaxed fit, short riding-inspired shape, and can be adapted with compatible zip-in liners and detachable hoods.

Classic Bedale in Olive

Bedale in Sage

AT A GLANCE: THE MAIN DIFFERENCES

1. What is the main waxed cotton difference?

The most important difference is the way the outer cotton is finished.

The Barbour Classic Bedale in Olive uses 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton. Sylkoil has a softer and less uniform surface, giving the jacket the matte, lived-in character many people associate with a traditional Barbour.

The standard Barbour Bedale uses medium-weight 6oz waxed cotton, commonly referred to as Thornproof. It has a smoother surface and a slightly shinier, more contemporary appearance.

Neither finish is automatically better. Your choice should depend on whether you prefer softer heritage character or a cleaner-looking waxed outer. You can explore the distinction in more detail in our Barbour Sylkoil vs Thornproof guide.

2. Which Bedale has the softer, more traditional finish?

The Classic Bedale is the stronger choice if you want the softest and most traditional-looking finish.

Its Sylkoil outer has a matte appearance and may show subtle natural variations across the fabric. This is part of its character rather than a fault. It works particularly well with knitwear, checked shirts, denim, cords and country footwear.

The Thornproof Bedale begins with a smoother, slightly more polished surface. It remains unmistakably Barbour, but often looks cleaner when paired with smart-casual trousers, a simple jumper or everyday urban clothing.

The difference is subtle when the jackets are viewed separately. Side by side, the Classic Bedale usually appears softer and more relaxed, while the standard Bedale looks smoother and more defined.

3. How do the two wax finishes change with wear?

Both wax finishes develop more character with regular use, although they start from different points.

The Classic Bedale already has a softer and more lived-in quality when new. Creases and subtle changes in tone tend to complement its traditional appearance.

The standard Bedale starts with a smoother finish. Over time, its wax may become less uniform around areas that move or receive frequent contact, including the sleeves, shoulders, pocket edges and front fastening.

This ageing process is one of the attractions of waxed cotton. Regular care helps the fabric remain weather-resistant and prevents high-wear areas from becoming excessively dry.

Neither jacket should be machine washed or dry cleaned. Remove surface dirt carefully and re-wax the outer when it begins to look dry or when light rain no longer beads effectively. Our guide to looking after a Barbour wax jacket explains the process step by step. You can also consult Barbour's official wax-jacket care guidance.

4. Which Bedale colour should you choose?

The standard Bedale provides the wider colour selection at Allweathers.

The Classic Bedale is the clear choice for the traditional Olive Sylkoil finish. The standard Bedale is available through individual colour pages:

• Sage, the familiar green Thornproof option
• Navy, an easy everyday and smart-casual choice
• Black, the most understated and urban-looking option
• Rustic, a warm brown with strong country styling
• Bark, a versatile earthy brown

Sage is the closest standard Bedale option to the familiar green appearance of a traditional Barbour, although it is not the same colour or finish as Olive Sylkoil. Navy and Black work particularly well with modern wardrobes, while Rustic and Bark provide warmer alternatives to green.

5. Which Bedale is better for wet British weather?

Both jackets provide practical protection from changeable British weather, but neither should be confused with a modern, seam-sealed technical waterproof.

The wax treatment helps rain bead and run from the cotton surface. Barbour describes the standard Thornproof Bedale as having increased weather resistance, while the Sylkoil Classic Bedale prioritises its softer, matte character.

The condition of the wax is also important. A well-maintained jacket will handle passing showers more effectively than a dry, neglected one, whichever finish you choose.

For country walks, commuting, outdoor events and everyday use in mixed weather, either jacket is a practical option. For prolonged heavy rain or more demanding hill use, a technical waterproof jacket is the more suitable choice.

A matching detachable hood improves coverage during showers, while a compatible liner adds insulation without changing the outer jacket.

6. Which hood and liner match each Bedale?

Although the Classic Bedale and standard Bedale can take compatible Barbour zip-in liners and detachable hoods, their recommended colour combinations are different.

Which warmer liner works with both jackets?

Both jackets also pair well with a Warm Pile liner when more insulation is needed:

• Barbour Warm Pile Zip-In Liner in Brown
• Barbour Warm Pile Zip-In Liner in Sage

The Brown Warm Pile liner gives either jacket a traditional contrast, while the Sage option creates a more tonal look. The liner colour is most visible around the opening when the jacket is worn unfastened.

Classic Sylkoil Hood in Olive

Waxed Hood in Sage

Other standard Bedale colours can be paired with the corresponding Navy, Black or Rustic hood. A matching Bark hood is not currently available from the supplied Allweathers range.

7. Should you buy the Classic Bedale or the Bedale?

Choose the Classic Bedale when you want:

• The traditional Olive Barbour appearance
• A soft and matte Sylkoil finish
• A jacket that feels characterful from the start
• The most heritage-focused version of the Bedale

Choose the standard Bedale when you want:

• A smoother Thornproof waxed finish
• A broader selection of jacket colours
• A cleaner and slightly more contemporary appearance
• The finish Barbour describes as offering increased weather resistance

There is little reason to choose between them based on fit alone. Both have a regular, relaxed shape intended to allow useful movement and layering. They also share the short riding-inspired body, rear vents, corduroy collar, practical front pockets and compatibility with liners and hoods.

Before ordering, compare your measurements with our Barbour sizing guide. Consider what you will usually wear underneath, particularly if you plan to add a Warm Pile liner during colder weather.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Classic Bedale the same fit as the Bedale?

The two jackets have a very similar regular, relaxed shape. Both are shorter than longer Barbour styles and were originally designed to allow comfortable movement. Fit should not be the main deciding factor between the Classic Bedale and standard Bedale.

Is Sylkoil better than Thornproof waxed cotton?

Neither is universally better. Sylkoil is softer, more matte and more traditional in appearance. Thornproof is smoother, slightly shinier and described by Barbour as offering increased weather resistance. Your preferred look is likely to be the deciding factor.

Is the Barbour Bedale fully waterproof?

The waxed cotton is water-resistant and well suited to passing showers and changeable British weather. It is not constructed like a modern seam-sealed technical waterproof. Maintaining the wax finish is important for continued protection.

Can you add a liner and hood to both Bedale jackets?

Yes. Both the Classic Bedale and standard Bedale are compatible with appropriate Barbour zip-in liners and detachable hoods. The hood should match the outer jacket's wax type and colour.

Is the Barbour Bedale warm enough for winter?

The waxed outer is best treated as a protective shell rather than a heavily insulated winter coat. Its relaxed shape allows room for knitwear, while a compatible Warm Pile or quilted zip-in liner can add insulation in colder conditions.

How often should a Bedale be re-waxed?

Check the jacket regularly and re-wax it when the fabric begins to look dry, becomes lighter around high-wear areas or stops making light rain bead effectively. How often this is needed depends on how frequently the jacket is worn and the conditions it faces.