Waxed jackets reimagined: a new american tradition emerges

My obsession with waxed jackets has long been a quiet, personal affair – an archive, as I prefer to call it. But a recent discovery has shifted my perspective, revealing a compelling counterpoint to the established British legacy.

Introducing tom beckbe: crafting americana with grit and soul

Forget the predictable. The market has been dominated by storied names like Barbour, but a new voice is rising from Alabama: Tom Beckbe. It began with a search for authenticity, a yearning for a distinctly American take on the classic waxed jacket.

The brand’s founder, Radcliff Menge (a deliberately evocative name, I suspect), draws inspiration from the Tombigbee River and the rugged landscapes of the South. The flagship Tensaw jacket, cut and sewn in the USA, immediately impresses – a hefty 8oz waxed cotton, meticulously constructed with set-in sleeves, gusseted underarms, and a bi-swing back; a piece built for genuine utility.

But Beckbe isn’t simply replicating a bygone style. The Coggins jacket, a collaboration with menswear writer David Coggins, elevates the design with a rich Racing Green Halley Stevensons finish – an audacious choice that speaks volumes. An 11-wale corduroy wrist lining and storm-latching collar add a touch of considered detail, enhancing the jacket's inherent robustness.

I've personally worn the Tensaw for over a year, initially skeptical of any improvement. However, Coggins’ design, with its two-inch longer length and drape, has proven remarkably versatile – equally at home over a sports coat or layered over a flannel shirt. It's a testament to the jacket's inherent quality and adaptability.

Beyond the jackets themselves, Beckbe’s leather bags – the Canvas Carryall and the Garment bag – are equally impressive. The Carryall has become my steadfast companion, reliably transporting whiskey and the occasional well-worn paperback. While I remain a staunch believer in Barbour’s enduring appeal, Beckbe’s commitment to American craftsmanship and design presents a compelling alternative, a quiet rebellion against the established order.

$495 - $525 (Jackets)

$375 - $495 (Bags)