Why Waxed Canvas?

Waxed Canvas is tried and true at Rustic River Gear and here's why.  

Today, wax is not rubbed onto canvas but instead is produced with the oil embedded into the canvas fibers, allowing the material to truly age gracefully.  Creations using waxed canvas are endless raging from outdoor camping gear to luggage and bag material and even clothing and shoes.

History. Waxed cotton appeared in the mid-19th century from the sailing industry in Scotland. Early mariners applied fish oils and grease to waterproof their sailcloth. The result was efficient sails when dry and lighter sails when wet. Later waxed cotton was used for military applications. Since it was strong, comfortable and had the waterproofing capability, it was used for uniforms, tents and military duffles. 

Quality and Durability. The length of time that the UK and the US suppliers have been in business is a testament of their quality product. Using their own proprietary formula and technology, they are able to make a strong and water resistant product. Waxed canvas and cottons are hard wearing, meaning they last a long time.  

Beauty. Fully waxed canvas wears like leather; it will age beautifully. With a fully waxed canvas, there will be what I call a “cracking effect” that happens over use. This is due to the wax wearing in and it creates unique lines. Some people love this and some don’t. I’m kind of in the middle.

​Here at Rustic River Gear we strive to create the best possible product that will last forever.  Each of our products use high quality materials, solid brass hardware, and are inspected multiple times before they leave our facility to ensure quality.   On our waxed canvas bags we use solid brass hardware and rivets, waterproof leather, and heavy duty cotton webbing.  All of our zippers are sewn and top sewn for added strength, and raw edges on the inside are bound wherever possible to keep the bag free of fraying yarns from the waxed canvas, and the rivets we use are double capped rivets which eliminates any abrasive or sharp edges to ensure longevity of the end product.