The Henri-Lloyd Jib Jacket: Freedom of Movement, An Icon of Simplicity

The Jib Jacket emerged as a shorter, lighter alternative to traditional foul-weather gear.

Among Henri-Lloyd’s Four Icons, the Jib Jacket represents agility, versatility and the stripped-back elegance of purposeful design.

Where the Consort carried explorers across oceans and the Smock defined offshore protection, the Jib was created for those who needed performance with freedom of movement - a lightweight, insulated jacket that became a lasting cultural symbol.

Designed for Coastal Performance

The Jib Jacket emerged as a shorter, lighter alternative to traditional wet-weather gear. Its cropped cut kept it clean and modern, while pioneering waterproof fabrics and insulation ensured protection without the bulk. Quick-drying, practical and agile, the Jib was inspired by sailing kit and refined to its essentials: protection, movement and simplicity.

A Racing-Inspired Icon

As competitive sailing evolved in the 1960s and 70s, shorter jackets became a familiar sight at regattas and on shore. Pared-back silhouettes spoke to the new performance-driven spirit of the sport and influenced the development of the Jib Jacket some years later, where sailors and spectators valued it for its function, clean lines and authentic identity.

The Jib was proof that great design doesn’t need excess - it needs purpose.

From Coast to Culture

Like the Consort and Smock, the Jib’s appeal spread quickly beyond the water. By the 1980s and 90s, it was embraced in coastal communities and urban centres alike, becoming part of everyday wardrobes. Its cropped shape and unmistakable sailing DNA gave it a distinctive look that resonated with the style culture in the UK and beyond, cementing its place as more than just technical gear.

Evolving with the Times

The Jib has continually evolved while staying true to its original spirit. Modern versions incorporate recycled nylon shells that reduce environmental impact, PFC-free DWR coatings for eco-friendly water repellency and refined fits for everyday wear without losing its sailing edge.

It remains a jacket built on simplicity, movement and adaptability - values that have made it a constant in Henri-Lloyd’s story.

Browse the Icon Collection

Shop Icons

Person wearing Henri-Lloyd waterproof jacket and cap standing near water

Front view of Henri-Lloyd waterproof jacket with hood up.

Viking Smock - Acid Yellow $375.00

Available in 3 colours

Person smiling while standing on a sailboat wearing a navy blue jacket with high collar.

Navy blue jacket with front zipper, high collar, and ribbed cuffs, displayed on a plain background.

Jib Jacket - Navy Blue $335.00

Available in 2 colours

Consort RWR Jacket - Washed Yellow $502.00

Available in 3 colours

Consort Original Jacket - Navy Blue $445.00

Available in 2 colours

The Jib’s Place Among Icons

Together with the Consort, Smock and Consort RWR, the Jib forms part of Henri-Lloyd’s Four Icons - garments that define the brand’s legacy. Each represents a different side of performance sailing: the Consort’s innovation, the Smock’s offshore resilience, the RWR’s cultural crossover and the Jib’s lightweight versatility.

Adopted by style leaders and reimagined for today, the Jib continues to prove that true icons don’t fade - they adapt.