The Barbour story began in 1894 in the Market Place in South Shields, England. Scotsman John Barbour saw the need for waterproof, hard-wearing outerwear for fishermen and workers of the North East and began to produce waterproofed wax jackets.  The company began to expand when in 1908 they produced their first mail order catalog.  Soon they were cutting their signature water-resistant and breathable fabrics into coats perfect for all kinds of seafaring, equestrian, field sports and other outdoor pursuits.  By the 1930's, jackets for motorcyclists were added and in the 1940's, a Barbour jacket was developed as the standard issue for British naval submariners.

Today the 5th generation family owned business remains in South Shields, England.  Although it sources products from around the globe, Barbour's classic wax jackets are still manufactured by hand in the factory in Simonside, England.  The Bourbour brand and their wax jackets are true British icons.  There is nothing more connected than the Barbour green wax jacket and the British countryside.  One can't think of one and not the other.  Barbour continues to be re-discoverd by each new generation and be loved for both their new fashion styles but also their heritage.