Belstaff Brand Guide
OD's Belstaff Brand Guide
1 | Brand Overview — A Century of British Endurance
Founded in 1924 in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Belstaff was born from the pursuit of function. Pioneers Eli Belovitch and Harry Grosberg engineered innovative waterproof fabrics during Britain's industrial transition. From its inception, Belstaff designed protective outerwear for those who lived at speed: motorcyclists, military personnel, aviators, and adventurers.
For 100 years, Belstaff has equipped icons of endurance:
- Motorsport Legends like Steve McQueen, trusting their jackets for protection on track and off
- Elite Military Units including the Royal Marines, relying on its resilience in extreme conditions
- Pioneering Explorers like Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, wearing Belstaff across thousands of miles on trans-continental journeys
What defines Belstaff is not fashion—it's engineering. Every wax treatment, reinforced seam, and piece of hardware is functional first. The Phoenix emblem, adopted in the 1950s, remains a mark of resilience and rebirth, symbolizing the spirit of adventure that built the brand.
Category: Heritage British outerwear and motorcycle apparel
Core Collections: Trialmaster • Fieldmaster • V-Racer • Outlaw
Price Position: Premium (£400–£1,200+ depending on material)
Competitor Set: Barbour • Matchless • Schott
OD's View: Belstaff exists at the intersection of craftsmanship and performance—heritage outerwear engineered to outlast trends.
2 | Heritage & Philosophy — Engineering Over Fashion
The Fabric Trinity
Waxed Cotton: The brand's hallmark
A dense, 6oz or 8oz cotton canvas impregnated with micro and technical waxes. Naturally water-resistant, windproof, and breathable. Its character deepens with age, and its performance can be renewed indefinitely with re-waxing.
- 6oz waxed cotton: Lighter, more flexible, ideal for 3-season wear
- 8oz waxed cotton: Heavier, more robust, built for harsh conditions
- Pre-treated with Belstaff's proprietary wax blend
- Develops unique patina over time
Hand-Waxed Leather
Premium leather treated with Belstaff's unique waxing process. Creates a durable, water-repellent finish that develops a rich patina over time, unique to the wearer.
- Full-grain leather from certified tanneries
- Hand-waxed for water resistance
- Natural material that molds to your body
- Ages beautifully with proper care
High-Density Nylon
Used in modern technical outerwear like down puffers and lightweight shells. Offers superior durability-to-weight ratio, wind resistance, and water repellency.
- Technical ripstop construction
- DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating
- Lightweight yet abrasion-resistant
- Quick-drying properties
Down Insulation
Exclusively RDS-certified (Responsible Down Standard) or recycled down since 2024. Provides exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio while maintaining ethical sourcing standards.
3 | Craftsmanship & Technologies — Functional First
Construction Doctrine
- Reinforced Stress Points: Double-stitched seams and reinforced panels on shoulders and elbows for abrasion resistance
- Military-Grade Hardware: Heavy-duty branded zips, brass snaps, and roller buckles designed for gloved hands and built for decades of use
- Functional Linings: Signature Belstaff check cotton linings for comfort and breathability
- Weatherproof Design: Storm-flapped fronts, corduroy-lined collars and cuffs, angled map pockets
Technical Innovation
Waxed Cotton Technology
Breathable, water-resistant, and restorable. Unlike synthetic waterproofing that degrades, waxed cotton can be restored to original performance through re-waxing. The fabric breathes naturally while repelling water through surface tension.
CE-Rated Armour Compatibility
Selected motorcycle lines (e.g., Trialmaster Pro, Trialmaster Panther) are CE-rated for impact protection. Armour pockets accept CE Level 1 or Level 2 back, shoulder, and elbow protectors.
Thermal Regulation:
- Underarm vents in technical shells
- Mesh-lined pockets for airflow
- Layered construction for trapped air insulation
- Removable linings in some styles for seasonal versatility
Hardware Durability
Every zip, snap, and buckle is engineered to military-grade standards. Designed for repair and replacement, not disposal.
4 | Cultural Presence — Worn by Icons, Not Influencers
Belstaff's cultural power comes from authenticity. It is trusted and worn by individuals whose lives reflect its spirit of adventure and endurance.
Defining Ambassadors
- Steve McQueen: The original icon of rebellious cool. His Trialmaster jacket from the 1964 International Six Days Trial is now a museum piece. McQueen wore Belstaff because it performed, not because he was paid to.
- David Beckham: Long-term wearer, collaborator, and global ambassador. Embodies the brand's modern British spirit—blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary style.
- Ewan McGregor & Charley Boorman: Wore Belstaff jackets for thousands of miles across harsh terrain in Long Way Round, Long Way Down, and Long Way Up. Proved real-world durability in extreme conditions.
- James Norton: Actor and creative partner. Co-designed capsule collections that merge classic British heritage with contemporary fit.
- Sir Ben Ainslie: The world's most successful Olympic sailor. Represents Belstaff's commitment to technical excellence.
Cinematic Presence
Belstaff's timeless design has made it a natural choice for cinema:
- Brad Pitt in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
- Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible III
- Daniel Craig as James Bond
- Will Smith in I Am Legend
OD's Verdict: This is not a list of paid endorsements—it's a record of legitimacy. Belstaff is chosen by people who demand performance from their clothing.
5 | Top Picks & Fit — Precision for a Lifetime
For universal sizing guidance and how to measure yourself, see our Master Size Guide. Below are Belstaff's official size charts and product-specific fit notes.
Essential Fit Rules
- ✓ Belstaff generally fits true to size, but silhouette dictates the fit
- ✓ Heritage/Field jackets (Trialmaster, Fieldmaster) are cut for layering
- ✓ Moto/Biker jackets (V-Racer, Panther) are cut closer to the body
- ✓ Between sizes? Size up for layering and movement; size down for tailored silhouette
- ✓ EU/IT sizing is primary—UK/US conversions provided for reference
Fit Profile by Silhouette
| Silhouette | Intended Fit | Sizing Advice | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Field Jacket (Trialmaster, Fieldmaster) | Regular | True to size, allows for sweater underneath | Everyday wear, layering over knitwear |
| Biker Jacket (V-Racer, Outlaw) | Slim | True to size for close fit. Size up if layering. | Sharp, body-contouring look; motorcycle riding |
| Puffer/Down | Regular | True to size, designed over multiple layers | Maximum warmth, winter use |
| Overshirt | Regular-Relaxed | True to size for relaxed layering piece | Transitional seasons, casual wear |
| Waxed Cotton Jacket | Regular | True to size with room for mid-layer | Year-round versatility |
| Leather Jacket | Slim-Regular | True to size. Will mold to body over time. | Fitted look, develops personal fit |
Layering Guide
What Fits Under Each Size:
| Your Size | Can Comfortably Layer |
|---|---|
| True to size | T-shirt or thin long-sleeve shirt |
| Size up once | T-shirt + hoodie OR thick knit jumper |
| Size up twice | Full winter layering (base + mid-layer + fleece) |
Layering by Style:
- Field Jackets: Designed for layering—accommodate thick jumpers at true size
- Biker Jackets: Slim fit—size up if wearing more than a shirt
- Down Jackets: Built for layering—true to size over multiple layers
- Overshirts: Relaxed fit—true to size over T-shirt or thin jumper
Men's Outerwear & Tops (EU/IT Sizing Primary)
| EU/IT | UK/US | Chest (cm) | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) | Overarm (cm) | Typical Fit Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 44 | 34 (XS) | 90 | 78.5 | 91 | 82.5 | Slim build, close fit |
| 46 | 36 (S) | 94 | 82.5 | 95 | 84 | Standard slim fit |
| 48 | 38 (M) | 98 | 86.5 | 99 | 85.5 | Most common size—standard regular fit |
| 50 | 40 (L) | 102 | 90.5 | 103 | 87 | Regular fit with room for layers |
| 52 | 42 (XL) | 106 | 94.5 | 107 | 88.5 | Generous fit, broader builds |
| 54 | 44 (XXL) | 110 | 98.5 | 111 | 90 | Very generous fit |
| 56 | 46 (3XL) | 114 | 102.5 | 115 | 91.5 | Extended sizing |
| 58 | 48 (4XL) | 118 | 106.5 | 119 | 93 | Extended sizing |
Men's Trousers & Denim
| UK/US | EU | Waist (cm) | Hip (cm) | Typical Build |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | 44 | 78 | 92 | Slim/athletic |
| 30 | 46 | 82 | 96 | Standard slim |
| 32 | 48 | 86 | 100 | Most common |
| 34 | 50 | 90 | 104 | Standard regular |
| 36 | 52 | 94 | 108 | Regular |
| 38 | 54 | 98 | 112 | Generous fit |
Sizing Comparison to Other Brands
How does Belstaff compare to Barbour?
Belstaff and Barbour both run true to size in field jacket styles. Belstaff's moto/biker styles fit slimmer than Barbour. If you wear a Barbour Border in Large, you'll likely wear IT 50 (L) in Belstaff field jackets.
How does Belstaff compare to Canada Goose?
Canada Goose generally runs larger for extreme layering. Belstaff field jackets accommodate layering at true to size. If you wear Medium in Canada Goose, you may be IT 50 (L) in Belstaff.
Sizing Decision Guide
If you're exactly between two sizes:
| Your Priority | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Layering (wearing jumpers underneath) | Larger size | Provides room for mid-layers without restriction |
| Tailored look (slim silhouette) | Smaller size | Creates sharp, body-contouring fit |
| Motorcycle riding | Larger size | Allows movement in riding position + armour |
| Casual everyday wear | True to size | Balanced fit for versatility |
6 | Belstaff-Specific Care Notes
For universal care rules (washing temperature, detergent types, storage), see our Master Care Guide. Below are material-specific instructions unique to Belstaff garments.
The Golden Rules for Belstaff
❌ NEVER:
- Machine wash or dry clean a waxed jacket
- Use soap, detergents, or fabric softener on waxed cotton
- Iron directly on waxed cotton or leather
- Store in plastic bags (prevents breathing)
✓ ALWAYS:
- Sponge clean waxed cotton with cold water only
- Re-wax your jacket every 12-18 months of regular use
- Condition leather twice yearly with neutral leather care product
- Follow the specific internal care label on each garment
Waxed Cotton Care (Trialmaster, Fieldmaster)
Cleaning:
- Brush off dry dirt with a soft brush
- For stains: sponge gently with cold water only
- Never use soap, detergent, or chemicals
- Hang to air-dry naturally away from heat
Re-waxing Protocol:
Frequency: Every 12-18 months with regular use (2-3x weekly)
Signs you need rewaxing:
- Water no longer beads on surface
- Fabric appears dry or pale in high-wear areas (shoulders, elbows)
- Cotton feels stiff
Process:
- Clean thoroughly first
- Apply Belstaff Wax Dressing evenly
- Work into fabric with cloth
- Let jacket cure for 24 hours in warm room (not hot)
- Buff with soft cloth
Why this matters: Unlike synthetic waterproofing that degrades permanently, waxed cotton can be restored to original performance indefinitely through proper re-waxing.
Hand-Waxed Leather Care
Cleaning:
- Wipe with soft, dry cloth after each wear
- For dirt: use slightly damp cloth, wipe gently
- Never soak or submerge in water
- Air-dry naturally if damp
Conditioning:
Frequency: Every 6 months (spring and autumn)
Process:
- Clean first
- Apply neutral leather conditioner with soft cloth
- Work into leather in circular motions
- Let absorb overnight
- Buff with dry cloth
Why: Prevents drying, cracking; maintains suppleness; preserves water resistance
Belstaff-Specific Issue: White Bloom on Waxed Cotton
What it is: Wax crystallizing due to temperature change.
Solution: Normal—place in warm (not hot) room for 24 hours; wax redistributes naturally. This is not a defect.
6oz vs. 8oz Waxed Cotton
- 6oz: Lighter, more flexible, ideal for 3-season wear and moderate weather
- 8oz: Heavier, more robust, built for harsh conditions and motorcycle use
- Both are equally water-resistant when properly maintained
Do Waxed Jackets Feel Stiff When New?
Yes. Waxed cotton has a distinctive texture and stiffness when new. This breaks in beautifully over the first few wears, becoming supple while maintaining structure. The break-in period is part of the heritage experience.
7 | Sustainability & Authenticity
Belstaff's Approach to Sustainability
Belstaff's approach to sustainability is rooted in its century-old ethos: create products that last a lifetime.
Core Principles:
Durability First: The primary sustainability strategy is longevity. A jacket worn for 20 years has exponentially lower environmental impact than one replaced annually.
Traceable, Responsible Materials:
- 80%+ of cotton is organic or Better Cotton Initiative sourced
- 100% of leather from LWG (Leather Working Group) / ICEC / ISO 14001 certified tanneries
- All down is RDS-certified (Responsible Down Standard) or recycled since 2024
- No exotic skins—commitment to ethical sourcing
Designed for Repair: Unlike disposable fashion, Belstaff products are engineered for serviceability:
- Hardware (zips, snaps, buckles) can be replaced
- Panels can be restitched by specialist tailors
- Waxed cotton can be indefinitely restored through re-waxing
Minimal Planned Obsolescence: Timeless silhouettes designed in the 1940s-1960s remain relevant today. A Trialmaster purchased in 2025 will be stylistically viable in 2045.
OD's Authenticity Guarantee
- ✓ OD's is a fully authorised UK Belstaff retailer
- ✓ Every product is 100% genuine, sourced directly from Belstaff's official UK distribution
- ✓ You will never receive counterfeit or grey-market products from OD's
- ✓ Full manufacturer warranty support
- ✓ This does not affect your statutory rights under UK consumer law
2-Year Manufacturer's Warranty
Coverage: All Belstaff products purchased through authorised retailers (including OD's) are covered for up to two years from purchase date against manufacturing defects.
What's Covered:
- Material defects (premature deterioration, discoloration from manufacturing)
- Faulty zips or closures not caused by wear
- Seam defects (splitting, fraying not caused by normal use)
- Hardware defects (buckles, snaps breaking under normal use)
What's NOT Covered:
- Normal wear and tear from regular use
- Accidental damage (snags, tears, burns)
- Damage from improper care (machine washing waxed jacket, etc.)
- Alterations or modifications
- Loss of wax coating (normal—requires re-waxing maintenance)
Warranty Claims Process (OD's Customers)
If you purchase from OD's and believe you have a warranty-eligible issue:
- Contact OD's first with order number/receipt, photos of issue, description of fault
- We assess within 48 hours
- If valid manufacturing defect, we manage the entire warranty process on your behalf
- Most claims resolved within 5-10 working days
8 | FAQs — Belstaff-Specific Intelligence
For universal sizing, care, and store policy FAQs, see our Master FAQ Guide. Below are brand-specific questions about Belstaff.
Does Belstaff fit true to size?
Yes, for most styles. However, fit varies by silhouette: field jackets are cut for layering (roomier), while biker jackets are cut closer to the body. See Fit Profile table.
How does Belstaff sizing compare to Barbour?
Both run true to size in field jacket styles. Belstaff's moto/biker styles fit slimmer than Barbour. If you wear a Barbour Border in Large, you'll likely wear IT 50 (L) in Belstaff field jackets.
I'm between sizes. Should I size up or down?
Size up for layering jumpers/hoodies. Size down for tailored, slim fit.
What's the difference between 6oz and 8oz waxed cotton?
6oz = lighter, more flexible, ideal for 3-season wear. 8oz = heavier, more robust, built for harsh conditions and motorcycle use. Both equally water-resistant when maintained.
Are waxed jackets waterproof or water-resistant?
Water-resistant—they repel water through surface tension but aren't fully waterproof like modern membranes. Suitable for rain but not prolonged downpours. Re-wax regularly to maintain performance.
Do waxed jackets feel stiff when new?
Yes. This breaks in beautifully over first few wears, becoming supple while maintaining structure. The break-in is part of the heritage experience.
How do I clean a waxed cotton jacket?
Sponge with cold water only. Never machine wash, use soap, or dry clean. See complete care guide.
How often should I rewax my jacket?
Every 12-18 months with regular use (2-3x weekly). Signs: water no longer beads, fabric looks dry or pale.
Do leather jackets stretch over time?
Yes. Premium leather molds to your body with wear. Start with snug (not tight) fit—it will relax and personalize. Don't size up expecting major stretch.
Can I wear motorcycle armour with any Belstaff jacket?
No. Only Trialmaster Pro and Trialmaster Panther are CE-rated for armour. Check product specs before purchasing protection.
My jacket has a white bloom on the surface. Is this normal?
Yes—wax crystallizing due to temperature change. Place in warm (not hot) room for 24 hours; wax redistributes naturally.
Should I size up in the Trialmaster for motorcycle riding?
The Trialmaster accommodates motorcycle armour at true to size. Only size up if you need heavy winter layering or have very broad shoulders.
9 | Why OD's × Belstaff — Your Heritage Outerwear Partner
What Sets OD's Apart:
✓ Fully Authorised UK Retailer — 100% genuine Belstaff sourced directly from official distribution. Every purchase is warranty-eligible.
✓ Expert Fit & Layering Guidance — Our team is trained on every Belstaff silhouette. We provide personalized advice on sizing, layering strategy, and style selection.
✓ Direct Link to Aftercare Network — We connect you to approved UK repair partners for re-waxing, repairs, and professional care throughout its lifetime.
✓ Curated Heritage Collection — We stock the core of Belstaff's performance and heritage lines—the functional icons like Trialmaster, Fieldmaster, V-Racer.
✓ Lifetime Product Support — From sizing advice pre-purchase to care guidance and warranty claims post-purchase, we're your partner for the life of your Belstaff.
Our Philosophy:
A Belstaff jacket is an investment designed for life, not a single season. Your Trialmaster should last 20+ years with proper care. We're invested in helping you achieve that, not selling you a replacement in five seasons.
The most practical sustainability is refusing to treat clothing as disposable.
Visit OD's Designer Clothing
44 Barrow Street, St Helens
Open: Mon-Sat 9-5.30pm
Email: info@odsdesignerclothing.co.uk