Nauticalia

Driza-Bone oiled cotton canvas waterproofs began life aboard the early windjammers, when sailors smeared themselves and their clothes in whale blubber to ward off the cold and keep out the relenting spray. This was effective, but made garments heavy, cumbersome and smelly. Then Edward Le Roy, a Scottish sailor, began making long coats and Sou'westers from torn sails, painting the fabric with a special mixture of light oils that transformed them into excellent wet weather gear. Sailors went ashore with these coats, and modifications were made for land use and horse riding; a fantail to protect the seat of the horse rider's saddle, leg straps to keep the coat from taking off in high winds, and extra long sleeves that protected the wearer when his arms were extended. They were highly effective and became known as "Driza-Bones", after the dried and parched bones of animals in the arid Australian outback. In today's versions there have been improvements to the oiling process, but the essential style and durability remain unchanged.

The BUSHMAN JACKET, a shorter version than described above which sits just below the waist (better for getting in and out of cars for example), has a built-in (permanently attached) lined drawstring hood. Made from authentic heavyweight close-weave oiled cotton canvas, they feel great and, looked after, will only improve with age.

BUSHMAN JACKET - LIGHT - Summer weight version - it looks the same, but is made from a lighter fabric.

PLEASE NOTE: When requesting an EXPRESS DELIVERY on Driza-bone items you will receive them in two working days.