If you’ve ever wanted a jacket that can handle mud, rain, wind, and whatever else the outdoors throws at you, oilskins are your new best friend. Oilskins are designed for durability, comfort, and weather resistance, making them ideal for farm work, trail rides, or just braving a wet winter commute.
But if you’re new to oilskins, you might be wondering: why do they feel stiff out of the box? And how do you keep them looking and performing their best for years? Let’s break it down.
Breaking In Your Oilskins
New oilskin jackets and trousers often feel a bit stiff. This is completely normal, they’re designed to be tough and waterproof from the start. To make your garment more flexible and comfortable:
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Wear it often: Regular use helps the fabric soften naturally.
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Use a conditioner: Outback Trading’s Duck Back Dressing works wonders. Apply sparingly, focusing on high-movement areas like shoulders, elbows, and knees.
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Avoid heat overexposure: Direct sunlight for long periods can dry out the fabric and make it brittle.
After a few weeks of regular wear and occasional conditioning, your oilskin will feel far more supple while still keeping you dry.
Why Oilskins Are Awesome
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Waterproof: Duck-treated cotton repels rain and puddles like a champ.
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Durable: Oilskins can take a beating, scrapes, mud, and knocks won’t ruin them.
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Timeless style: They’re rugged yet classic, with a look that’s always in style.
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Versatile: Perfect for work, riding, walking the dog, or weekend adventures.
Cleaning Your Oilskins
Keeping your oilskins in top condition is easier than you might think:
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Light cleaning: Use a dry brush to remove dirt and dust.
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Heavy cleaning: Rinse with cold water only. Avoid detergents, bleach, or harsh chemicals as they can strip the waterproof oils.
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Drying: Air-dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heaters.
Reproofing and Conditioning
To maintain water resistance and flexibility, reproof your oilskin every so often:
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Make sure your garment is clean and dry.
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Warm it slightly in the sun to help it absorb the dressing.
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Apply Duck Back Dressing with a soft cloth, paying extra attention to seams and high-wear areas.
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Optionally, use a hairdryer on low heat to help the dressing soak in.
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Let it cure for 24–48 hours before wearing.
Reproofing not only maintains waterproofing but also keeps the fabric soft and supple.
Mildew Prevention
Oilskins need to breathe so store them in a cool, dry place. If mildew appears:
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Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts water.
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Apply to affected areas and gently scrub.
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Rinse thoroughly with clean water and air-dry.
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Reproof afterward to restore waterproofing.
Storage Tips
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Hang on a sturdy hanger to maintain shape.
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Make sure the garment is completely dry before storing.
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Store in a cool, ventilated space.
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When traveling, roll loosely and stuff sleeves with tissue to prevent creases.
Shop Outback Trading Oilskins at NZ Tack and stay dry and comfortable no matter the weather. Our premium range of Outback Trading jackets, coats and trousers is made from durable, waterproof materials, perfect for farm work, horseback riding, or outdoor adventures across New Zealand.
Oilskins are more than just a wardrobe addition, they’re a long-term investment in comfort, protection, and style. By breaking them in, cleaning, conditioning, and storing them properly, you can enjoy your oilskins for many adventures to come.
