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Is Barbour International The Same As Barbour?
Welcome to Outdoor and Country! Today, we’re taking a closer look at a classic British brand – Barbour. If you’ve ever wondered whether Barbour International is the same as Barbour, you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and we’re here to clear things up and explain the story behind these two famous names.
Barbour: A Legacy of Heritage and Tradition
Barbour began in the British countryside, where green hills and small villages shape the landscape. In 1894, a Scottish man named John Barbour moved to South Shields, England, and opened the first Barbour store. The brand quickly became known for its high quality and strong craftsmanship. At first, Barbour made oilskin coats for sailors who needed protection from the harsh North Sea weather. But it wasn’t long before farmers, labourers, and shepherds also started wearing Barbour for its toughness and ability to handle the outdoors.
Over the years, Barbour has grown from a small business into a well-known brand around the world. Even with this success, Barbour has stayed true to its roots, focusing on quality and tradition. Today, the brand still makes Barbour jackets and clothing that combine classic style with modern features. You can shop some of the timeless favourites below.
Barbour International: The Spirit of Adventure and Exploration
While the main Barbour brand is known for its countryside style, Barbour International has a more urban and adventurous feel. It’s inspired by motorcycle culture and was first created in 1936 by Duncan Barbour, a keen motorcyclist and part of the Barbour family. He designed a one-piece wax cotton suit for a big motorbike race called the International Six Day Trials (ISDT). That’s where the name Barbour International comes from. The jacket became a huge hit and was worn by almost every rider at the time – even by the famous actor and motorcyclist Steve McQueen.
The famous Barbour International jacket was first made for motorcyclists, but its cool look and practical design made it popular with many others too. People who wanted both style and comfort quickly took notice. As a result, the Barbour International range grew to include all kinds of clothing and accessories. You can still shop the original styles like the ones below today.
The Distinction
While they share the same dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Barbour and Barbour International tell two very different style stories.
Barbour stays rooted in the countryside — think heritage waxed jackets, quilted layers, and timeless Barbour knitwear designed for muddy paths, crisp morning walks, and life beyond the city. It’s a brand shaped by rural traditions and built for the outdoors, where practicality meets enduring British style.
Below, explore some of the best-selling pieces from today’s full Barbour collection — modern classics made to be worn, weathered, and relied upon season after season.
Barbour International takes heritage in a different direction — one inspired by speed, independence, and the spirit of the open road. Rooted in the brand’s motorcycling history, it channels a sharper, more contemporary energy made for modern city living.
Expect streamlined silhouettes, bold detailing, and fresh interpretations of iconic staples. From rugged waxed cotton jackets to lightweight quilted gilets, each piece delivers that unmistakable urban edge — without ever compromising on the durability and craftsmanship the Barbour name is built on.
It’s heritage reimagined with attitude.
In short, Barbour and Barbour International come from the same family and share the same focus on quality, but they each have their own style. If you love classic countryside looks, Barbour is the one for you. If you prefer a more modern, city style, Barbour International is a great choice. No matter which you pick, both brands celebrate adventure, style, and British heritage.
So, next time you’re choosing between a classic Barbour waxed jacket or a stylish, motorbike-inspired Barbour International coat, remember—you’re picking more than just a jacket. You’re choosing a brand known for quality, style, and adventure.
If this blog has inspired you to buy a waxed jacket, check out our blog: The Best Women’s Barbour Jackets | Your 5 Star Reviews
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