Modern outdoor clothing is a marvel of engineering. Fabrics like polyester and nylon offer an unbeatable combination of strength, lightness, comfort, and protection—something our ancestors in furs could never have imagined. But these materials can quickly lose their appeal when exposed to fire or rough terrain. A single ember from a campfire might burn a hole through your jacket, or a fall into a ravine could rip it apart.
Synthetic fabrics have two major weaknesses: they are highly flammable and difficult to repair once damaged. While this isn’t a huge issue for short-term camping trips, the longer you rely on synthetic gear, the more critical these flaws become. What if you’re stuck in a situation where you can't just toss out a damaged piece and buy a new one? What if you need your gear to last for years without replacement?
**Read more**: *Wool/nylon blends combine the best of both worlds, making them ideal for preppers.*
If you're preparing for long-term survival or a scenario where stores may not be available, going back to traditional materials is essential. I've skipped modern synthetics and instead invested in **waxed canvas and waxed denim**, which have stood the test of time.
**Summary:**
- Flying embers from fires can cause pinholes in synthetic gear, which is less of an issue for short-term use but becomes a bigger problem over time.
- Cotton canvas, especially when waxed, can resist embers well and is hard to ignite with brief exposure to flame.
- Waxed cotton offers excellent durability, abrasion resistance, and water resistance that can be renewed easily with beeswax or paraffin.
- Unwaxed cotton is also tough and can be waterproofed with a poncho, making it a practical option.
- Waxed cotton has some downsides, including weight, poor breathability, and long drying times.
- Comfort varies depending on the material and brand, with lighter options being more breathable and heavier ones stiffer.
**Not all cotton is rotten**
Waxed canvas has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly among urban fashion lovers and bikers. This timeless material ages beautifully, lasts decades, and resists punctures and abrasions while offering some weather protection.
I got into waxed canvas because of its flame resistance. It might sound unusual, but spending a lot of time near fires in primitive situations makes melt-prone clothing a real concern. The coatings on synthetic gear wear off over time and aren’t always easy to replace. Waxed canvas, on the other hand, can be re-waxed annually using common materials like beeswax or paraffin, making it a sustainable and renewable choice.
Here are some popular wax products:
- **Otter Wax**: Affordable and easy to find, made with natural ingredients.
- **Barbour Wax Dressing**: Used by Barbour for their famous waxed coats, known for its quality.
- **Filson Wax**: Offers a durable finish, though it can be oily and messy.
- **C4X Wax**: High-tech and long-lasting, but more expensive.
While waxed canvas has its drawbacks—like weight, stiffness, and limited breathability—it’s still a top choice for those who value durability and sustainability. For my own preps, I’ve found that waxed cotton and unwaxed canvas work well together, offering a balance between protection, repairability, and long-term use.
In addition to waxed canvas, I’ve also been considering unwaxed cotton workwear, like Carhartt or Triple Aught Design. These materials are incredibly durable and can handle extreme conditions. While they aren’t waterproof, a simple poncho can keep you dry during a downpour.
The ability to repair natural materials is another advantage. Unlike synthetics, which often require special tools or replacements, natural fabrics can be easily stitched or mended, making them more reliable in the field.
Finally, unwaxed canvas workwear offers great value in terms of price and longevity. Brands like Carhartt, Walls, and Tough Duck provide decades of daily use without falling apart.
**How does waxed cotton work?**
Cotton fibers are hollow and highly absorbent, which is why they’re used in towels. However, this same property makes them dangerous in the outdoors—if you get caught in the rain, soaked cotton can lead to hypothermia. Waxed cotton uses this absorbency to its advantage by filling the fibers with wax, preventing water from entering.
**At least you’re not wearing fish oil pants**
The history of waxed canvas goes back to oil cloth, which was used on ship sails. Fish oil was initially used, but later replaced by linseed oil, giving rise to the iconic yellow raincoats worn by sailors.
Today, many brands still make oil-finished gear, though most now use wax with added oils for easier application. These finishes can be sticky and prone to rubbing off, but high-quality waxes don’t suffer from these issues.
**Best wax for rewaxing canvas**
For restoring or waxing a new garment, I recommend:
- **C4X Wax**: High-tech and long-lasting, though pricier.
- **Otter Wax**: Popular among hipsters and easy to use.
- **Barbour Wax**: A trusted name in waxed canvas.
- **Filson Wax**: Durable but can be oily.
From my experience, C4X is the best option for long-term use, despite its higher cost.
**Waxed canvas downsides**
Despite its benefits, waxed canvas has some limitations:
- **Weight**: Heavier than synthetic alternatives, which can be a problem for long hikes.
- **Comfort**: Varies by brand and material. Lighter options are more comfortable, while heavier ones can feel stiff.
- **Water resistance**: Not fully waterproof, and takes time to dry if wet.
- **Price**: High-end waxed canvas gear is expensive compared to synthetic alternatives.
**My waxed cotton wardrobe**
I own several waxed cotton garments, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:
- **Triple Aught Design Talisman Jacket**: Stylish, durable, and functional, but a bit heavy and lacks handwarmer pockets.
- **Rogue Territory Waxed Supply Jacket (Lined)**: Excellent build quality, comfortable, and versatile, but pricey.
- **Gustin M65 Field Jacket**: Affordable and well-made, but lacks the premium feel of other options.
- **Flint & Tinder Waxed Trucker Jacket**: Stylish and practical, but not as durable as others.
- **Filson Oil Finish Single Tin Pants**: Extremely durable and resistant to damage, but uncomfortable and smelly.
- **SAINT Dyneema Cargo Pants**: Lightweight and tough, but difficult to maintain and not always in stock.
- **GN Waxed Canvas Pants from Red Clouds Collective**: My current favorite for bug-out scenarios, offering great fit and functionality.
Overall, waxed canvas is a solid choice for preppers who prioritize durability, sustainability, and repairability. While it has its drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh the negatives for those looking for long-term, reliable gear.
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