From Oilskins to Innovation: The Story of Wet-Weather Gear and Henri-Lloyd’s Legacy

The Story of Wet-Weather Gear and Henri-Lloyd’s Legacy.

For as long as people have taken to the sea, sailors have sought protection from some of the toughest elements. In the age of wooden ships and canvas sails, early mariners wore heavy coats of waxed canvas or oiled cloth. These “oilskins” offered vital resistance against spray and storm, but they were far from ideal - stiff, heavy, and uncomfortable, they trapped moisture inside almost as much as they repelled it outside.

As centuries progressed, sailing became more than a means of livelihood. By the early 20th century it had grown into a sport and a passion, demanding gear that could withstand the ocean and allow sailors the freedom to perform and most importantly, survive. The old oilskins were no longer enough, so the call for innovation had begun.

The Turning Point: Technical Fabrics

The mid-20th century marked a revolution in wet weather gear with new synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, introducing lighter, more durable, and faster-drying alternatives to traditional canvas. This was the beginning of a new era in sailing apparel, where performance, comfort, and innovation could exist side by side.

Henri-Lloyd’s Role in Shaping Modern Sailing Gear

Founded in Manchester in 1963, Henri-Lloyd quickly became a pioneer in this transformation. From the outset, Henri-Lloyd’s philosophy was to challenge convention and engineer solutions that redefined what was possible at sea by making sure that those pioneers daring enough, were armoured with the right protective gear that enhanced, not hindered.

The introduction of nylon: Henri-Lloyd was among the first to replace heavy cotton with lighter, more resilient fabrics.
The innovation of seam taping: A breakthrough that sealed every stitch against water ingress, revolutionising waterproof performance across the industry.
Performance proven offshore: From round-the-world races to solo circumnavigations, Henri-Lloyd foul weather gear was tested in the toughest conditions on the planet.

These innovations weren’t just incremental improvements - they set new standards, shaping the way modern wet weather gear is designed and trusted around the globe.

A Legacy of Endurance and Innovation

For decades, professional sailors and adventurers have turned to Henri-Lloyd as their first line of defence against the unpredictable ocean. Henri-Lloyd gear was not just worn; it was relied upon in moments where performance meant survival. From ocean races to weekend sailing escapes, Henri-Lloyd became synonymous with trust, resilience, and innovation.

Looking Ahead: Responsibility Meets Performance

Today, six decades on, that pioneering spirit continues. But the future demands more than just performance - it demands responsibility. Henri-Lloyd is committed to building wet weather gear with the same uncompromising standards, now enhanced by sustainable choices:

Recycled fabrics to reduce waste and reliance on virgin materials.
PFC-free water-repellent coatings to protect both sailors and the seas they explore.
Marine-grade durability that ensures every jacket is built to last, reducing environmental impact over time.

From oilskins to advanced waterproof shells, the story of wet weather gear is one of progress, endurance, and constant reinvention. And throughout that journey, Henri-Lloyd has not just followed – they’ve led.

For over sixty years Henri-Lloyd has equipped sailors with gear that embodies resilience, innovation, and responsibility. The sea will always demand respect, and Henri-Lloyd remains proud to stand at the intersection of heritage and innovation, shaping the future of sailing for generations to come.