My pear-shaped silhouette made me decide to write a wax jacket size guide for men
- Mr. Darcy Downpour
- Nov 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 3, 2024
The reason for writing this little wax jacket size guide for men is the fact that every gentleman's bearing and physique is rather unique - I myself have what one might diplomatically could call a distinguished pear-shaped silhouette. Earning me the rather amusing nick-name of 'llama' amongst some of my closest friends.
Given this rather personal insight, I thought it 'suitable' to provide a comprehensive wax jacket size guide for men selecting your new wax jacket as they aren't always readily available for trying at the shop on the corner.
General fitting notes to take into account
Before delving into my wax jacket size guide for men and the different brands, do be aware that wax jackets should allow a fair amount of room for layering. One ought to comfortably accommodate a chunky woollen jumper or other obscure garments, particularly during the colder months of autumn and spring. When measuring, ensure the sleeve reaches your wrist bone with your arm relaxed at your side.
The grand sire of British-made wax jackets offers a comprehensive range that caters to every gentleman:
- UK 36 (S): Chest 36-37", Waist 30-31"
- UK 38 (M): Chest 38-39", Waist 32-33"
- UK 40 (M): Chest 40-41", Waist 34-35"
- UK 42 (L): Chest 42-43", Waist 36-37"
- UK 44 (XL): Chest 44-45", Waist 38-39"
- UK 46 (XXL): Chest 46-47", Waist 40-41"
Fit Note: Barbour tends towards a generous cut, leaving plenty of room for movement. If you find yourself between sizes, consider sizing down, particularly in their Classic fit range.
The distinguished Irish thoroughbred of outdoor-wear presents a trim, tailored fit that works splendidly for a more refined silhouette:
- S (UK 36-38): Chest 36-38", Waist 30-32"
- M (UK 40-42): Chest 40-42", Waist 34-36"
- L (UK 44-46): Chest 44-46", Waist 38-40"
- XL (UK 48-50): Chest 48-50", Waist 42-44"
Fit Note: Dubarry cuts close to the body. Consider sizing up if you prefer a relaxed fit or plan to layer extensively.
A traditional British cut that favours practicality and comfort:
- UK 36: Chest 36", Waist 30"
- UK 38: Chest 38", Waist 32"
- UK 40: Chest 40", Waist 34"
- UK 42: Chest 42", Waist 36"
- UK 44: Chest 44", Waist 38"
- UK 46: Chest 46", Waist 40"
Fit Note: True to size with generous arm room for countryside pursuits.
Luxury motorcycle heritage meets countryside chic with a modern, fashion-forward fit:
- IT 46 (UK 36): Chest 36", Waist 30"
- IT 48 (UK 38): Chest 38", Waist 32"
- IT 50 (UK 40): Chest 40", Waist 34"
- IT 52 (UK 42): Chest 42", Waist 36"
- IT 54 (UK 44): Chest 44", Waist 38"
- IT 56 (UK 46): Chest 46", Waist 40"
Fit Note: Belstaff typically runs small. Consider sizing up, particularly if you're between sizes or plan to layer extensively.
Australian practicality meets British styling, with a generous cut for freedom of movement:
- S (UK 36-38): Chest 36-38", Waist 30-32"
- M (UK 40-42): Chest 40-42", Waist 34-36"
- L (UK 44-46): Chest 44-46", Waist 38-40"
- XL (UK 48-50): Chest 48-50", Waist 42-44"
- XXL (UK 52-54): Chest 52-54", Waist 46-48"
Fit Note: Driza-Bone tends to run rather large. Size down if you prefer a more fitted look.
A venerable Australian maker known for robust construction and generous proportions:
- S (UK 36-38): Chest 36-38", Waist 30-32"
- M (UK 40-42): Chest 40-42", Waist 34-36"
- L (UK 44-46): Chest 44-46", Waist 38-40"
- XL (UK 48-50): Chest 48-50", Waist 42-44"
Fit Note: Claybourn follows the Australian tradition of generous sizing. Consider sizing down for a more traditional British fit.
Measuring Yourself
For the most accurate fit:
1. Measure your chest at the fullest point, keeping the tape measure level
2. For waist measurement, measure around your natural waistline
3. When in doubt, compare measurements to a wax jacket you already own and favour