Modern outdoor clothing is truly a marvel of science. Fabrics like polyester and nylon have transformed the way we dress for the outdoors, combining strength, lightness, comfort, and protection in ways our fur-clad ancestors could scarcely imagine. However, these advancements come with limitations. Synthetic fabrics can lose their magic when exposed to flames, resulting in unsightly holes, or when subjected to rugged environments, leading to tears.
Synthetics have two significant drawbacks: vulnerability to open flames and difficulty in repair once damaged. While these issues may not pose major concerns for casual hiking or camping trips, where temporary fixes suffice until returning to civilization, they become critical in survival scenarios where access to replacements is impossible. Imagine needing a new outer shell after accidentally burning a hole while cooking—what then?
For those preparing for prolonged emergencies or long-term primitive living situations, it’s essential to consider more traditional materials. In my own preparations, I’ve opted against furs and Mad Max-style leather outfits, focusing instead on **waxed canvas and waxed denim**.
### Summary:
- The risk of synthetic gear being damaged by flying embers or accidental burns is manageable for shorter-term needs but grows increasingly problematic over time.
- **Cotton canvas**, particularly when waxed, offers excellent protection against embers and brief exposure to flames due to its tightly woven structure.
- Waxed cotton excels in durability, boasting decades of usability, high abrasion resistance, and partial water resistance.
- Its water resistance can be restored indefinitely with common waxes like beeswax or paraffin, unlike advanced synthetic coatings that require specialized materials.
- Regular cotton canvas is similarly robust and can be temporarily waterproofed with a simple poncho.
- Despite these advantages, waxed cotton has notable downsides: weight, prolonged drying times when wet, lack of breathability, and potential stiffness in heavier variants.
- Personal experiences suggest that comfort varies significantly depending on brand, weight, and type of waxed canvas.
### Not All Cotton is Rotten
Waxed canvas has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, appealing more to urban hipsters and cyclists than the traditional outdoors crowd. This heritage material ages gracefully and provides excellent protection against abrasions and moisture. My interest in waxed canvas stems from a desire for more flame-resistant outerwear, a concern that becomes vital in primitive settings where fire is central.
Coatings on modern outdoor gear, meant to enhance water and fire resistance, degrade over time and must be reapplied periodically. These coatings can crack or peel, diminishing their effectiveness. In contrast, waxed canvas requires annual maintenance but uses accessible materials like paraffin and beeswax, offering a sustainable alternative to advanced textiles.
### Best Wax for Rewaxing Canvas
When restoring or applying wax to canvas garments, I prefer a heat gun and one of the following waxes:
- **C4X Wax**: High-tech and durable, though slightly challenging to apply.
- **Otter Wax**: Popular among enthusiasts for its ease of use.
- **Barbour Wax**: A classic choice from a renowned British brand.
- **Filson Wax**: A more affordable American counterpart to Barbour’s offering.
My research indicates that C4X Wax from Halley Stevensons is the superior option. While harder to apply, it remains stable in warmer climates and provides a clean, long-lasting finish. However, it’s costly and only available in small quantities.
### Downsides of Waxed Canvas
While waxed canvas offers numerous benefits, it also has notable disadvantages:
- **Weight**: Heavier than synthetics, making it less ideal for long-distance travel.
- **Comfort**: Variations in brand, weight, and type affect breathability and warmth, with some styles feeling stiff or overly warm.
- **Water Resistance**: Though effective, it’s not fully waterproof, and wet fibers take a long time to dry.
- **Price**: High prices compared to synthetic alternatives make it less cost-effective.
### My Waxed Cotton Wardrobe
I own several waxed cotton garments, each with unique features:
#### Triple Aught Design Talisman Jacket
The **Talisman** is a modern take on the classic M65 field jacket. With its versatile design and durable construction, it’s my go-to coat for emergencies. Its bulk, length, and feature-rich pockets make it ideal for extended wear.
#### Rogue Territory Waxed Supply Jacket (Lined)
This jacket strikes a balance between form and function, with thoughtful details like wool lining and taffeta sleeve interiors. Its craftsmanship sets it apart from mass-market alternatives.
#### Gustin M65 Field Jacket
An affordable entry into waxed canvas, this jacket offers solid performance despite lacking the premium build quality of higher-end options.
#### Flint & Tinder Waxed Trucker Jacket
A stylish option with classic trucker styling, it’s great for everyday wear but lacks the durability needed for extreme conditions.
#### Filson Oil Finish Single Tin Pants
These pants have proven their resilience over two decades of use. While they excel in durability, their stiffness and odor remain drawbacks.
#### SAINT Dyneema Cargo Pants
Self-waxed with Halley Stevensons C4X wax, these pants combine toughness with added weatherproofing, though fading and weight remain concerns.
#### GN Waxed Canvas Pitted Work Pants
My current favorite, these pants offer unparalleled quality and thoughtful design, making them perfect for emergency situations.
In conclusion, while waxed canvas presents challenges, its durability, renewability, and historical charm make it an excellent choice for preparedness.
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