We are all aware of the effectiveness of modern waterproof workwear with breathable layers and wicking properties, especially on those products which can double up as effective gear for more leisure based outdoor activities, but how have techniques progressed and what was used in the past.

 

We can look at how various indigenous peoples have adapted to cope with local weather conditions in order to survive. Oezti the iceman discovered on the slopes of the Alps was thought to have been wearing a cape made from plaited grass to help keep him protected from the prevailing cold and wet conditions. Although this is now under discussion by some historians the use of this technique has been used in other situations for both personal use and in the construction of some early buildings.

 

The Aleut tribe of North America, based in a series of islands off the coast of Alaska developed a totally waterproof jacket for use in hunting from their kayaks. Get ready for this, not for the squeamish, they used dried seal or whale intestine which they sealed with animal glues to form a garment called a “kamleika’ which resembled a jacket but would be worn over the head. They even tested them, they would tie off the sleeves and neck and fill the inside with water. So the technique of having sealed seams on a garment isn’t such a modern innovation after all.

 

Back in the fifteenth century European sailors treated heavy duty sail cloth with linseed oil and a mixture of waxes, and other substances which in one recipe included bull’s blood in order to make themselves waterproof capes. As methods improved these became the recognisable oilskins that became the “uniform” for many seafarers. This laid the foundation for the making of waxed clothing and as techniques improved and knowledge of different substances increased, the linseed oil was replaced by non sticky paraffin waxes and closely woven clothes.

 

It’s interesting to think that these were the first steps towards the waterproof workwear we have available today. Here at Brookes we carry a complete range including trousers and jackets, all at competitive prices, so check out the website and give our knowledgeable staff a call today.