Happiness is...Reproofed Foul Weather Gear

My drover's cloak is hanging in a warm, dry place getting ready for the worst that Boston weather can throw at it later this week. It's been brutal up there, so I'm not taking any chances. I want a winter coat that covers my boots.

And actually sheds rain and snow.

When was the last time you reproofed your "waxed cotton" apparel? If you used actual wax the last time you did it, it's time to join us in the 21st century, where the new creams don't rub off on everything else in your closet.

The mighty Duck Back
from Outback Trading Company.
There are lots of reproofing formulas.
Just don't mix and match. 

I just learned that it takes two cans of Duck Back to cover a bone dry, full length oilskin coat. If yours is Drizabone or Barbour and you have a month or more to spare, consider using their corporate reproofing services. Your garment will come back with that desirably thin, even coating that only the professionals ever seem able to apply.

For the rest of us, there's Duck Back. Goes on easily and smells pleasant. Works like a charm. Just don't forget to hose down your coat in a wash stall beforehand (or rinse it by hand; I cheated and used the hand wash setting on my front loading machine). Let it dry fully and then warm it up with a hairdryer before applying the reproofing cream. Warm cotton fibers, like leather, really do absorb better.

Now get out there and rebuff all the wind, rain, driving snow and fashion critics you come across.

With any luck you'll start attracting photographers. Like this guy.