The Bushman’s Raincoat
Introduced in the Fall 1985 “Notes from the Outback” catalog, the Bushman’s Raincoat is one of the more distinctive items BR produced. It’s about as dramatic and interesting as a raincoat gets and will make you look like you stepped right out of the 1982 Aussie film “Man From Snowy River”. It was offered in Khaki Tan from Fall/Holiday 1985-Fall/Holiday 1987, with one appearance of Olive Drab in Fall 1986.
From the catalogue: “During the Aussie rainy season–known as “the wet”–a jackeroo’s oilskin raincoat is nearly as vital as his horse. It’s vented to keep the saddle dry, built with a roof-like cape for run-off, and made from a historically tough fabric. A Scottish sailmaker created oilskin in 1793 by soaking sailcloth with linseed oil to make it shed water. A wonderfully effective process, but we’ve made it even more efficient. Our Bushman’s Raincoat is made in England from fabric supplied by the same Scottish sailmaking company, using the finest long-fiber cotton with a special oil-and-wax finish. A true miracle fabric–waterproof yet breathable, and nearly as durable as Ayers Rock: The jackeroos commonly keep their raincoats 20 years or more.”
Photos from eBay
How can I get one like this?
Please do let me know
Thank you
I happened to be thinking of how nice it would be to find another pair of the BR fatigues that had ties at the cuffs so when I went looking I found your site. It was a sad day for me when BR went preppy. I was living in the Fla Keys and their clothes were great for that climate. Loved the style. Thanks for the memories.
Hello I have recently acquired the bushmans raincoat. I was interested how I care for the jacket and re-water proof it. Thank you so much for this site I would have never known what this was if it wasn’t for you
Thanks, Brian. I’m jealous, I love that coat! I’m not sure if you wax it the same way you did the waxed cotton English stuff. See them on this page: https://www.secretfanbase.com/banana/?p=1051
My neighbor was going to throw it away and asked if I wanted it I said of course. I really had no clue what it was worth or anything about it. I hike a lot and assumed that it would fit well with my gear. So far I love it. Thank you for the link I will try and find some wax to re-proof it
Hi folks,
I have just listed one of these coats on Ebay. Thanks to Robyn’s great blog for the wonderful information. If you are interested in purchasing a coat like this, take a peek! http://www.ebay.com/itm/Safari-Classic-Banana-Republic-1980-039-s-Bushman-039-s-Raincoat-/201208542993?
Hey my husband has a bushman jacket full length rain coat with a hood. Looking for places that purchase these types of coats, or someone interested in purchasing.