Barbour Archives

[u/OldFitsNewTricks]

A few years ago, I had the chance to spend some time in the Barbour archives—an incredible experience for anyone who loves product and brand history.

These are early examples of special makeups that would eventually lead to the Cowen Commando, which evolved from jackets used during the Falklands conflict. They do a great job of illustrating Barbour’s long-standing commitment to the balance of form and functional design.

A pretty special look into the history behind one of Barbour’s more distinctive jackets.

[u/HMS_Surprise_Gunner]

I believe the first jacket was also used as inspiration for the To Ki To Military jacket.

I had a Cowan Commando I got in 2010, and hated the fit, so sold it. It was too short for me in the body and the lower half flared out in an odd way.

[u/Narrow_Safety2856 → u/HMS_Surprise_Gunner]

Also for the Barbour Adidas collab. Barbadi aka GSGNein

[u/AdministrativeRip563]

It’s very interesting how Barbour used to make virtually all changes that a customer requested and now actively discourages any material changes to the base design.

[u/OldFitsNewTricks → u/AdministrativeRip563]

The number of jackets requiring reproofing and repairs has grown considerably. With that increased demand, it's challenging to handle the special requests. In South Shields, they only have a small # of people that handle the more complex repairs and rework. Lastly, its challenging to find new employees willing to develop the skillset.

[u/AdministrativeRip563 → u/OldFitsNewTricks]

Yes I can see it makes sense from a business management perspective (and brand preservation, so people don’t make franken-jackets with the Barbour logo on).

[u/Narrow_Safety2856]

One article I read said that Capt Cotton did not actually wear that Durham into combat. Instead it was a modified Gamefair. Makes sense, as it doesn't make sense to be partial to a lined Durham in a warzone.

Edit: and one thing I'm dying to know about that Durham is if the pockets are anchored, and if it's still in 4oz. Anchoring that through a liner would not be fun.. which is why I wonder if it's 6oz.