Over the years, our duffle coats have travelled far and wide – from the windswept decks of naval ships to the early-morning platforms of commuter trains. Naturally, one question keeps cropping up: “Are they waterproof?” Followed closely by, “Are they actually warm enough?”
Let’s settle the matter, once and for all.
Are duffle coats waterproof?
In short – not quite. But don’t be put off.
Our Original Monty Duffle Coat is made from a hard-wearing Italian wool blend. Wool, by its very nature, is water-resistant thanks to lanolin – a natural wax found in sheep’s fleece that helps repel moisture. So, while a duffle coat won’t keep you bone dry in a biblical downpour, it’ll more than hold its own in light rain or a passing drizzle.
Think of it as the sartorial equivalent of an umbrella left at home – inconvenient, perhaps, but still better dressed than most.
Can you wear a duffle coat in the rain?
Absolutely – just don’t get caught out in a monsoon.
Wool is hydrophilic, meaning it can soak up water without feeling immediately damp. This gives you a decent window of dry warmth before things start to feel a touch heavy. Historically speaking, the duffle coat earned its stripes aboard Royal Navy vessels in WWII. If it was good enough for life at sea, it's probably good enough for the morning dash to the office.
What to do if your duffle coat gets soaked?
First rule: no radiators. No tumble dryers either. Wool and heat are not the best of friends.
Instead, hang your coat somewhere warm and airy – a drying rack in the utility room, say – and let nature do its thing. If it’s dripping wet, place a towel underneath to catch the runoff. It might take a while, but your coat will thank you.
Are duffle coats warm?
Very. Or, to be more precise: it depends which one you go for.
Our classic Original Duffle is made for cold weather. The heavyweight wool blend keeps the chill firmly at bay, while clever details – the shoulder cape, the pancake hood, the throat tab – provide extra protection when the temperature drops. The roomy cut also means you can layer to your heart’s content: thick knits, chunky scarves, the works.
You’ll be warm. You’ll be covered. You’ll look great doing both.
Why does my duffle coat smell a bit… sheepish after rain?
You’re not imagining it.
Wool retains a certain earthy scent when wet – a subtle reminder of its origins. It’s perfectly normal, and it vanishes as soon as the coat dries. If your coat is made from another fabric and still smells after rain, it may be the rainwater itself. (Yes, the city can follow you home.)
Whatever the case, resist the urge to toss your coat into the washing machine. Duffle coats deserve better. A good dry cleaner – preferably one who understands wool – is the way to go.