British Millerain
Global leaders since 1880
Founded in 1880 by a small group of workers and academics in Yorkshire, United Kingdom, British Millerain is a manufacturer specializing in the development of waxed and coated fabrics.
A sailor’s story
The history of waxed cotton begins on the oceans, where 15th-century sailors endured harsh working conditions during long voyages. Exposed to unpredictable and often changing weather, they sought effective protection against wind and storms in every corner of the globe.
Sailors of the British Royal Navy, well aware that proper gear could make all the difference at sea, came up with an ingenious response to the elements. From their sturdy cotton sailcloth, they began rubbing linseed oil into the weave — a simple yet clever gesture that transformed the fabric into a lightweight shield against wind and damp.
A simple idea — yet one that would revolutionize their daily lives. Over time, new waxing techniques emerged, along with increasingly refined finishes. But linseed oil had its flaws: it yellowed with age, cracked in the cold, and gradually lost its ability to repel the elements.
More widely adopted in the wardrobes of sea workers during the 19th century, it was during this period that the Miller family founded British Millerain in Halifax, in 1880. A pioneer across the Channel in the development of waxed and coated fabrics, the mill set out to solve the issue of durability. It became a driving force in the creation of paraffin-based waxed cotton — a breakthrough that improved weather resistance and breathability without the deterioration associated with linseed oil.
Their innovative techniques would leave a lasting mark on the history of outdoor clothing.
As no other company was capable of finishing cotton in this way, British Millerain customized all its machinery and processes in-house over the following decades. Several patents were filed worldwide to protect the equipment and techniques developed at the mill. British Millerain played a lasting role in popularizing this fabric, gradually introducing it into more casual wardrobes.
Originally created to meet the needs of sea workers, British Millerain has been equipping sailors and fishermen for over a century. It was only natural for Hoalen to seek out such a specialist — whether to improve our Mariner jackets or to develop new pieces of coastal gear, like our Taneig and Zaneig jackets.
A craft renowned around the world
In the decades that followed the founding of the mill, British Millerain steadily expanded its waxed cotton supply across Europe and the United States. Today, the reach of the historic manufacturer extends well beyond those early markets, carrying its legacy and craftsmanship to every corner of the globe.
Their expertise, along with their premium, hard-wearing fabrics, meets a wide range of clothing needs. From military uniforms to city wear — and all the way to outdoor enthusiasts — their textiles have become widely adopted and are celebrated for their unmatched quality.
The combination of over a century of expertise with the latest advances in chemistry and technology has made them a market leader. It has also allowed them to develop a new generation of waxed cottons — highly functional, easy to care for, and even machine-washable.
Today, British Millerain collaborates with a number of prestigious partners, including renowned brands such as Barbour in the UK and Filson in the USA.
A Mindful, Responsible Craft
The cotton they use comes from suppliers approved by the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI certificate no. 1005045). Through its work, BCI helps equip farmers with the skills needed for sustainable agriculture — supporting safer working conditions, preserving soil health, reducing wastewater, and limiting the use of the most harmful pesticides and insecticides.
By choosing products made with British Millerain cotton fabrics, you’re supporting BCI farmers committed to protecting the environment and promoting fair, decent working conditions.
Our collaboration with this manufacturer, historically known for the quality and weather resistance of its fabrics, began with the improvement of our heritage deck jacket model, the “Mariner”.
Our Products in Collaboration with British Millerain
