Barbour International

Barbour International is the motorcycling inspired line of the British brand Barbour, created in 1936 when Duncan Barbour developed a waxed cotton suit for the International Six Day Trials. Today it offers biker influenced jackets and accessories for men and women.

What is Barbour International?

Barbour International is the motorcycle heritage line of the British outerwear brand Barbour. It dates to 1936, when Duncan Barbour, a keen motorcyclist, developed a waxed cotton suit for the International Six Day Trials (ISDT), an endurance motorcycling event, and branded it Barbour International.

History

The line became closely associated with competitive motorcycling. In 1964 Steve McQueen rode in the ISDT in East Germany as part of the US team, which wore Barbour International suits. A Steve McQueen collection, overseen by his son Chad McQueen, launched in 2011.

Products and positioning

Barbour International centres on jackets inspired by riding gear, led by the A7, the original International jacket. Current ranges include the Icons International jacket with a fit suited to motorcycle enthusiasts, a women's biker inspired high gloss quilted jacket, and the Icons Re-Engineered collection of jackets and accessories.

• A7, the original International jacket
• Icons and Icons Re-Engineered ranges
• Biker inspired menswear and womenswear
• Steve McQueen collection

Why it matters

Barbour International shows how a heritage brand can maintain a distinct sub line with its own identity. Its motorcycling story gives Barbour a second, edgier positioning alongside its country clothing roots.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Barbour and Barbour International?

Barbour International is Barbour's motorcycle inspired line, which began in 1936 with a waxed suit for the International Six Day Trials.

Did Steve McQueen wear Barbour International?

Yes, the US team Steve McQueen rode with at the 1964 International Six Day Trials wore Barbour International suits.

All brands