In a world of high-tech fabrics, waxed canvas stands its ground with timeless appeal. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and develops a unique patina that only gets better with age. Plus, it’s one of the few materials you can re-wax for renewed protection, making it both functional and long-lasting.

Waxed canvas traces its roots back to the 15th century when Scottish sailors began treating their sails with fish oil and grease to better catch the wind and repel water. Eventually, this evolved into cotton canvas coated with paraffin wax—a sturdier, cleaner, and more effective solution. By the 19th century, it became a staple for British mariners, military gear, and outdoor explorers thanks to its durability and water resistance. Today, it’s beloved not just for its utility, but for the rich patina it develops over time, blending function with timeless style — the true OG technical fabric.

While I still reach for more technical fabrics if my outdoor activity requires breathability and lightweight, I find myself drawn to my waxed canvas pieces time and time again. I like to approach my clothing like gear. That is, it’s your first line of defense against the elements, keeps all of your stuff on your person, and communicates a nonverbal language about your personality.

As I got older, I found myself moving away from fast-fashion and leaning into more well crafted garments. Maybe it’s my age, but now I yearn for connection both in my personal life and the artifacts I own — I want things and people to grow with me. Waxed canvas has a unique quality where every abrasion and rub leaves an indelible mark; giving it more patina (like an old friend). The wax bonds with the cotton giving it a “composite” quality — pores are filled with oils — not only protecting the material but giving it waterproof-ness. Unlike technical fabrics that are susceptible to lamination breakdown, wax can be reapplied over and over to the material, yielding weather protection for the life of the garment. I believe having cornerstone pieces of kit you can rely on season after season, is important as the friendships and bonds we develop has humans. My circle is small, but I can depend on everyone (and everything) in my tribe.

Waxed canvas isn’t just a material—it’s a companion. Like a well-traveled friend, it weathers the elements by your side, picking up character with every crease, mark, and mile. With the simple act of reapplying wax, you restore its waterproof qualities, extending its life year after year. Unlike trendy technical fabrics that wear out or go out of style, waxed canvas only gets better—offering long-term value, timeless looks, and the kind of reliability that never needs replacing.

Tips of the Week:

How to re-wax (waxed) cotton. I like to heat my Otterwax bar (don’t worry, not real otter, see below) with a blow dryer and then go to town.

My guy makes a bedsheet and canvas tarp waterproof. He tests and dives deep into why waxed fabrics are better than its plastic counterparts. If you’re a science geek like me, check it out!

Huckberry 6-Panel Waxed Canvas Caps

Huckberry offers a classic waxed canvas baseball cap with effortless style; if you wanted to give waxed canvas a try. It features a cotton twill sweat band, leather strap adjuster with brass clasp, and water resistance (as mentioned above). And it’s made in Canada — the hat of America! Check it!

Otterwax Bar

Waterproof any fabric with this Otterwax bar, made from plant-based oils and all natural beeswax. The only wax on the market that doesn’t use any paraffin, silicone, or any petroleum-based synthetics. No forever plastics or PFAS! Check it!

Trakke Storr 25L Backpack

Coming full circle with this week’s theme, we have Scottish outfit Trakke with their clamshell backpack — the Storr — constructed of (you guessed it) waxed canvas. They come in 3 different sizes — 35L, 25L, and 20L — which are intended as a 1-bag carry on solution. The 25L and 20L versions being able to perform daily carry duty just as well. Some key features are a detachable sling organizer (for when you get to your destination), Cobra hardware, a mesh back panel/straps that won’t deform over time, and oversized grab-handle. They also come in beautiful earth-tone colors. Check it!

I’m all about mods and sometimes all you need is a custom Magnacut blade in your multitool to transform it from “run-of-the-mill,” into something really personal. swervius_on Reddit found the perfect one-tool carry solution.

“The best gear doesn’t wear out—it wears in”