Middle Earth Ranger Forum

I know the general consensus seems to be that wool cloaks reign supreme, and that most/all other materials aren't really worth much in that department, but I've always rather liked the idea of a rain-slicker type cloak, and the most logical material for that kind of garment is probably a waxed canvas. Apparently Tolkien said at some point that there was no cotton in Middle-earth, but it's extremely difficult to find canvas made from other natural fibers these days, so I figure it's as good a substitute as any, and once it's waxed it functions quite nicely to keep the rain off.
In any case, I really like the look, and I hope it serves you well!

Thank you Manveruon! So far so good on this cloak. I don't like it as good as my wool one. But it's not bad. Still waiting for some rain. Though it might be awhile. This is some strange weather for us. Really mild.

Manveruon wrote:I know the general consensus seems to be that wool cloaks reign supreme, and that most/all other materials aren't really worth much in that department, but I've always rather liked the idea of a rain-slicker type cloak, and the most logical material for that kind of garment is probably a waxed canvas. Apparently Tolkien said at some point that there was no cotton in Middle-earth, but it's extremely difficult to find canvas made from other natural fibers these days, so I figure it's as good a substitute as any, and once it's waxed it functions quite nicely to keep the rain off.

I've found that a waxed cloak functions well, the advantage is it doesn't get waterlogged and heaver in prolonged rain, the disadvantage is the fabric is quite stiff and not as silent as wool, making it harder to move with no noise

Iodo wrote: I've found that a waxed cloak functions well, the advantage is it doesn't get waterlogged and heaver in prolonged rain, the disadvantage is the fabric is quite stiff and not as silent as wool, making it harder to move with no noise

This thing is a little noisy for sure.

Funny - I hadn't even considered the noise factor, but that makes a lot of sense.

Yeah it is louder but not too bad. I'm out in the wet today and its doing a pretty good job.

A little update: I was a outside in the heavy rain for an hour or so and it did soak through in that time. Not too bad. Maybe I'll treat it with more wax and see how that works.