Description
Who needs another rain coat? Technically it’s not. It’s a cotton fabric mix with some waxy stuff smushed into the fibers.
It’s not *waterproof*, but it can shed droplets. Why would you buy it?
I can only explain why I built it. I’ve been using waxed cotton it since the 80’s, when I raided the scrap bins at Woolrich. The fabric is reasonably water repellent, durable, and easy to replenish. You can bring it back to life, again and again. I used to line oilskin garments so the working fabric wouldn’t touch your clothes. I also used elaborate flaps and complex closures to seal out the rain. They were heavy and smelly. No more of that…
This unlined 4.5 ounce fabric has a non-toxic, dry finish wax bedded into the fibers. You can clean it in the sink with mild soap, and replenish its properties with any dry finish wax. My fabric is light enough to sew with a home machine. That same ease of repair applies to draw cords, cord locks, and other hardware. Repairing stuff is a right we should all embrace these days.
Here’s where I had fun: I picked YKK Aquaguard coated zippers for their simplicity. There are no flaps. The main separating zipper goes in last, because it’s gonna die some day. I put the delicate pin and box above the hem, and pounded a stainless snap below it to absorb all the abuse the bottom edge of your coat suffers.
Now for the practical stuff. I use Bonded size 45 nylon thread. Over time it will absorb the emulsion, and repel water just a well as the fabric. I don’t ‘seal’ the stitching here. Time, movement, sunlight, and re-coating will do that. The two bellows pockets on the belly are simple and huge. The left chest has a regular coil zipper under an angled flap. Check the edges of the torso and you’ll see two curved vent zips. They are set above the side seam, so they won’t bind or brush you as you move. Unzip, and the fabric folds away with gravity to ensure ventilation. Open both, pull your arms through, and Velcro the sleeves behind you. Now you can work with your hands for fine tasks without shell fabric in the way.
This isn’t cut like a barn coat. It’s technical outerwear with articulations at the elbows and shoulders. The adjustable hood it tall enough for a huge hat or a bike helmet, but it’s not too deep. I built in all the reach you need for moving, and a little extra drop in the rear to cover your butt. Move. Cinch up the draw cords. Get sweaty. Unzip if you need to. Shake it off, hang it to dry, then put it away. When you see the coatings wear off, buy a tin of dry finish wax. It’s like a bike. Keep it maintained, and it should last for years and years.
Introductory price $275-$285 delivered in the USA. Overseas orders will require additional postage.
