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Barbour is revered for its waxed cotton jackets, but the brand’s practices are “Not Good Enough”. So, what to do if you’re looking for lasting outerwear to withstand the demands of rainy weather and decades of wear? Well, there’s a host of more sustainable brands to consider—let us introduce them to you.
This article is based on the Barbour rating published in February 2025 and may not reflect claims the brand has made since then.
This fashion icon needs to step up its sustainability
Barbour has been a fixture in the English countryside ever since it was founded by John Barbour in 1894, and its signature waxed jackets have been famously worn by Queen Elizabeth II on her Scottish estate, Daniel Craig in James Bond, and Alexa Chung at Glastonbury—all helping the waterproof outerwear ascend to fashion icon status. Recently the brand has collaborated with the likes of GANNI (“It’s a Start”) and Erdem (“We Avoid”), further propelling it into the contemporary fashion realm. Barbour jackets are defined by their navy or green colour; corduroy-lined cuffs and collar; and the waxed coating that stands up to regular wear and inclement weather.
But although Barbour is known and loved for being a heritage brand, its commitment to sustainability isn’t as legendary. In fact, the brand rates “Not Good Enough” because, among other issues, there’s no evidence it’s addressing textile waste or protecting biodiversity in its supply chain, nor reducing its water use. Importantly, our analysts couldn’t find evidence that Barbour pays a living wage to workers in its supply chain, and the same goes for any sign of it providing financial security to its suppliers—a lack of which is associated with poor working conditions and wages. Where animals are concerned, it doesn’t appear that Barbour traces any animal products to the first stage of production, nor that it has clear mechanisms for implementing its animal welfare policy—that’s important because the brand uses animal-derived materials including leather, wool, and down.
Barbour does have a popular repair programme that sees thousands of jackets rewaxed every year, helping them to stay in use for longer. And while it has made some small improvements since we last rated it in 2022—like measuring some greenhouse gas emissions and committing to targets approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative—Barbour still needs to be much more transparent about its practices.
Alternatives to Barbour’s waxed jackets, sweaters, boots, and more
Barbour is best known for its weatherproof waxed cotton jackets, wellington boots, and clothes inspired by country life and traditional British wares. If you love the look but not the brand’s ethics, scroll through our selection of more sustainable brands making similar styles.
