Barbour Jackets Compared: Bedale, Beaufort, and Northumbria
Barbour has been synonymous with timeless British style and rugged outdoor performance for generations. Whether strolling through the countryside, attending a shoot, or braving a rainy city commute, a Barbour waxed jacket offers the perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and classic design. However, with several styles to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which is right for you. In this guide, we take a closer look at three of Barbour’s most iconic jackets – the Classic Bedale, Classic Beaufort, and Northumbria – to help you choose the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Table of Contents:
Barbour Bedale vs Beaufort
Both the Bedale and Beaufort jackets are long-standing favourites in the Barbour line-up, but they cater to subtly different needs and preferences.
The Barbour Classic Bedale Jacket is a short, lightweight waxed jacket originally designed for equestrian use. Made from 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton, it offers excellent protection from wind and rain while remaining breathable. The Bedale features a shorter cut, side vents, and a relaxed fit – all designed to allow freedom of movement, particularly on horseback. A two-way zip, storm flap, corduroy collar, and optional hood add to its practical charm, while moleskin-lined handwarmer pockets and a tartan lining provide warmth and comfort.
By contrast, the Barbour Classic Beaufort Jacket was made with shooting in mind, and this is reflected in its slightly longer length and standout feature: a large rear game pocket lined in wipe-clean fabric. Like the Bedale, it's constructed from 6oz Sylkoil waxed cotton with a relaxed fit and traditional detailing. However, the Beaufort includes additional elements such as a zippered internal poacher’s pocket and Velcro-fastened wind cuffs that make it particularly suited for longer days in the field.
Advantages of the Bedale:
- More suitable for casual wear and equestrian activities.
- The shorter cut makes it ideal for active use and everyday mobility.
- Lighter weight and more breathable in milder weather.
Advantages of the Beaufort:
- Better suited for country sports and colder conditions due to its length and insulation.
- Game pocket adds practicality for field use.
- Slightly more formal aesthetic, ideal for traditional country attire.
Drawbacks:
- The Bedale may not provide enough coverage for very wet or cold days.
- The Beaufort, while versatile, may feel a touch bulky for casual urban use.
The Bedale is your go-to, if you're often in the saddle or need something more lightweight for daily wear. If you’re looking for something with more storage and weather protection for country pursuits, the Beaufort has the edge.
Barbour Northumbria vs Beaufort
The comparison between the Northumbria and Beaufort jackets is especially relevant for those seeking maximum protection from the elements and added practicality for extended outdoor use.
The Barbour Northumbria Jacket is the longest of the three and offers full coverage for serious wet-weather conditions. It’s made from heavyweight 8oz Sylkoil waxed cotton, making it more durable and water-resistant than Bedale and Beaufort. Its standout feature is its generous length, designed to shield your legs and keep you dry from head to knee – especially handy for walking or commuting in persistent rain.
Other practical features include two large bellows pockets, handwarmer pockets, an optional zip-in liner, and snap-close storm flaps. Like the Beaufort, it has a sit-down corduroy collar and accepts an optional hood, but its larger fit allows for substantial layering underneath – perfect for colder months.
While the Beaufort is more tailored to field sports, the Northumbria is about all-weather resilience. It doesn't feature a game pocket, but it makes up for it with overall coverage and robust weather resistance.
Advantages of the Northumbria:
- Excellent for rainy, cold, or windy conditions due to its longer cut and heavier fabric.
- Ideal for those who need a reliable commuting coat or are frequently outdoors in harsh weather.
- Generous sizing allows for heavy layering.
Advantages of the Beaufort (compared to the Northumbria):
- Slightly more versatile and refined, with sporting features like the game pocket.
- Less bulky, making it better for activities where agility and mobility are important.
Drawbacks:
- The Northumbria may feel oversized or cumbersome for some users, especially in milder climates.
- The Beaufort doesn’t provide quite as much coverage or warmth as the Northumbria.
If you regularly face cold, wet conditions and need an all-rounder that won’t let you down, the Northumbria is an unbeatable choice. The Beaufort still reigns supreme if you want a more streamlined jacket with heritage style and shooting functionality.
Which Barbour Jacket Should I Choose?
When choosing between the Barbour Bedale, Beaufort, and Northumbria jackets, the decision ultimately comes down to how you intend to wear your jacket and the weather conditions.
- The Bedale is perfect for active use and milder conditions. It's a lightweight and stylish choice for those on the go.
- The Beaufort offers the best of both worlds, blending traditional sporting features with countryside elegance.
- The Northumbria is the most heavy-duty option, built for serious weather and ideal for those who need dependable coverage in challenging conditions.
No matter which style you choose, every Barbour jacket is an investment in timeless design, rugged reliability, and British heritage – ensuring you stay warm, dry, and effortlessly stylish for years to come.
Find your next Barbour jacket at Brocklehursts today
At Brocklehursts, we have a wide selection of Barbour jackets, including the Northumbria, Bedale, and Beaufort. Why not browse our selection today to find the right jacket for you?
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