Choosing your first Barbour waxed jacket is a decision most men will only make once or twice in a lifetime. These jackets are built to last decades, so getting the right model matters. The two most popular choices — the Ashby and the Bedale — share Barbour's legendary waxed cotton construction but offer quite different fits and silhouettes.
We have sold hundreds of both jackets at English Brands, and the question we hear most often is simple: which one should I buy? Here is everything you need to know.
The Barbour Bedale: The Original
The Bedale was introduced in 1980 as part of Barbour's riding collection. Its shorter body length was designed to sit above the saddle, and the Action Back panel allowed unrestricted arm movement on horseback. These practical features have since made it one of the most recognisable jackets in British fashion.
Key characteristics of the Bedale:
- Fit: Traditional, generous cut with plenty of room for layering
- Length: Short — approximately 28-29.5 inches (71-75cm) back length, sitting at the hip
- Collar: Corduroy, studded for optional hood attachment
- Back: Action Back panel for ease of movement
- Front: Two-way zip with brass-studded storm fly front
- Pockets: Two large bellows pockets, handwarmer pockets, internal security pocket
- Lining: Barbour Classic Tartan cotton
- Liner compatible: Yes — internal zip accepts Barbour zip-in liners
The Bedale is the jacket for purists. Its proportions are unapologetically traditional — boxy through the torso, generous through the arms, and short enough to wear comfortably while driving or riding. It is the jacket worn by farmers, landowners, and country gentlemen across Britain, and it has barely changed in over four decades because it does not need to.
The Bedale suits men who prefer classic, relaxed clothing. It looks best with wellington boots, moleskins, tweed, and other country staples. It also works surprisingly well over a blazer or sports jacket — the generous cut accommodates tailored layers without restriction.
Shop the Barbour Classic Bedale Waxed Jacket →
The Barbour Ashby: The Modern Alternative
The Ashby was introduced as a contemporary update to Barbour's classic silhouette. It retains all the core elements — 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton, tartan lining, weatherproofing — but presents them in a slimmer, more tailored package.
Key characteristics of the Ashby:
- Fit: Slimmer, more contemporary cut — tailored but not tight
- Length: Medium — approximately 30-31.5 inches (77.5-81cm) back length, sitting below the hip
- Collar: Corduroy lined
- Back: Standard back panel (no Action Back)
- Front: Two-way zip with press-stud storm fly front
- Pockets: Two studded front patch pockets, handwarmer pockets, internal document pocket
- Lining: Barbour Classic Tartan cotton
- Liner compatible: Check specific model
The Ashby is the jacket for men who want Barbour quality in a more modern silhouette. Its slimmer cut means it looks equally at home over a T-shirt as it does over a lightweight jumper, though it is less forgiving of bulky layers than the Bedale.
The Ashby works brilliantly in both town and country. Pair it with jeans and Chelsea boots for a weekend look, or chinos and brogues for smart-casual. The slightly longer body gives it a more polished appearance than the Bedale.
Shop the Barbour Ashby Waxed Jacket →
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Bedale | Ashby |
|---|---|---|
| Introduced | 1980 | 2010s |
| Fit | Traditional, generous | Slimmer, modern |
| Back length | 28-29.5" (short) | 30-31.5" (medium) |
| Action Back | Yes | No |
| Wax weight | 6oz Sylkoil | 6oz Sylkoil |
| Lining | Classic Tartan | Classic Tartan |
| Best for | Country, classic style | Town & country, modern style |
| Layer capacity | Excellent — fits over blazers | Good — fits over jumpers |
| Price | £299 | £269 |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Bedale if:
- You prefer a classic, traditional fit
- You plan to layer heavily (thick jumpers, blazers, fleeces)
- You spend time in the countryside or engage in outdoor pursuits
- You want the original Barbour silhouette
- You prefer a shorter jacket length
Choose the Ashby if:
- You prefer a more modern, tailored look
- You wear your jacket primarily over shirts and lightweight layers
- You spend more time in town than the countryside
- You want a jacket that looks polished with jeans
- You prefer a slightly longer body length
What About the Beaufort?
The Beaufort is Barbour's medium-length country jacket, sitting between the Bedale and the Ashby in terms of length. Its distinguishing feature is the full-width rear game pocket — a large pocket across the back designed for shooting. The Beaufort has a traditional, generous fit similar to the Bedale but with more coverage.
Shop the Barbour Classic Beaufort Waxed Jacket →
Care for Your Barbour Waxed Jacket
Whichever model you choose, the care routine is the same:
- Never machine wash or dry clean — this destroys the wax coating
- Sponge clean with cold water to remove dirt
- Reproof annually with Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing (available at English Brands)
- Hang to dry naturally — never use direct heat
- Store on a broad-shouldered hanger in a cool, dry place
Shop Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing →
A well-maintained Barbour waxed jacket will last 20+ years and develop a unique patina that becomes part of its character. Whichever model you choose, you are investing in a piece of British heritage that will serve you faithfully for decades.
English Brands sells genuine Barbour. We offer free UK delivery on orders over £50 and worldwide shipping. Visit our Barbour collection to browse the full range.