An iconic British brand worn by everyone from Superman to Bond to Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra – enter Baracuta. Known for their classic Harrington jackets that have stood the test of time, we are here to answer all your questions about Baracuta.  

From the construction of the garments to the brand’s history, we cover everything you need to know about the iconic brand. We’ll also showcase some of our favourite classic pieces from the brand that you can add straight to your basket.

What is a Baracuta jacket?

Baracuta was the original brand that created the Harrington jacket and has cemented itself in fashion history books. The garment Baracuta is most known for is its Baracuta G9 Harrington jacket. Debuting in 1938, the G9 Harrington Jacket was born in Manchester and has a distinctive look. Constructed with an umbrella back yoke, a ribbed waistband and cuffs and a two-buttoned dog-ear collar, you will know a G9 when you see one. The brand sells a wide range of Baracuta G9 variations, including suede, leather and various colours to suit your aesthetic.

Is Baracuta a good brand?

Throughout its rich heritage, Baracuta has meticulously mastered its craft to create high-quality jackets with an esteemed reputation. Many reviewers online agree that Baracuta jackets are well-made and include advanced features, such as Raglan sleeves that help water roll from the garment. With its contemporary designs, Baracuta includes Coolmax technology, which ensures the garment is breathable and water-repellent. The price tag of a Baracuta jacket makes it a considered purchase, but the timeless aesthetic of the garments means they will be a lifetime wardrobe staple.  

Baracuta History: A Legacy of Outerwear Innovation

The British brand Baracuta has such a rich history that it would be wrong for us not to discuss its origins. The Miller family were a notorious name in the rainwear industry long before the Baracuta brand was created. Their original factory used to supply outerwear to other iconic British brands, such as Aquascutum, Burberry, and Marks & Spencer.  

When was Baracuta founded? 

The Miller Brothers founded the Baracuta brand in 1937. Located in one of the rainiest cities in the UK, Manchester, the duo set out to create stylish protection from the rain after spotting a gap in the market for stylish and practical golf jackets. The brothers often frequented Manchester Golfclub and noticed how golfers would struggle to move in their jackets and stay comfortable – the idea of the Harrington jacket was born.   

Below is a timeline of some notable events from the history of Baracuta. 

Baracuta Timeline

1937 - Baracuta was founded, and the Miller duo had the idea to create the iconic G9 Harrington in the same year. 

1938 - The first G9 Baracuta Jacket was produced. 

1947 - Baracuta exploded in popularity throughout the ‘40s and into the ‘50s. The brand launched its first international advertising campaign. 

1950 - Baracuta launched in the USA with an office in the Empire State Building. Iconic movie stars like Elvis Presley and James Dean wear Baracuta jackets in Hollywood films. 

1968 - Demand for Baracuta jackets exploded even further, and the brand started to trade worldwide, with customers in Europe and Australia receiving garments. 

‘70s - ‘00s - Youth subcultures adopt Baracuta, and iconic groups, such as Mods, Skinheads, Punks, and Rockers, wear the G9 and G4 Jackets. 

2007 - Baracuta turns 70, and Daniel Craig’s James Bond wears a G9 Harrington in ‘Quantum of Solace’. 

2012 - Baracuta changed ownership, and WP Lavori in Corso acquired the heritage brand. 

2016 - Baracuta opens its flagship store in Milan. 

2021 - A collaboration between Baracuta and Jaguar is launched.

Who owns Baracuta?

Baracuta was acquired by WP Lavori in Corso in 2012. The Italian brand aligns perfectly with Baracuta and shares values similar to those of the heritage British brand.

Where are Baracuta jackets made?

Since its inception, the iconic Baracuta G9 Harrington Jacket in Baracuta Cloth has been created in the United Kingdom. It is worth mentioning that some variations of the Harrington jacket utilise fabrics other than Baracuta Cloth and may be produced in other countries.

How can you tell if a Baracuta jacket is real?

If you are worried about the authenticity of your Baracuta jacket, there are a few checks you can conduct: 

1. Check the tags and labels: Genuine Baracuta jackets usually feature a label stitched into the lining on the inner left side. This label usually features the Baracuta logo and relevant information related to the garment, such as the country of manufacture and sizing. Make sure to check for any misspelt words or irregularities.
2. Baracuta Tartan Lining: The original Baracuta G9 Harrington jacket is known for its famous Fraser Tartan lining. Make sure to check the red, blue and white tartan pattern that should be securely attached to the inside of the jacket. 

High-quality Craftsmanship: Baracuta prides itself on its high-quality construction. Ensure all fixtures, such as the zips, stitching, and seams, are consistent and of the highest quality.

Who wears Baracuta jackets?

Baracuta has an esteemed history with the celebrity world; many famous faces have been seen in Baracuta jackets. From the world of film to music, stars from across the globe have been pictured in the famous G9 Harrington, and there are some pretty stylish gentlemen on the list:  

• Elvis Presley (in the film 'King Creole' by Michael Curtiz)
• Steve McQueen (in the film 'The Thomas Crown Affair') 
• Frank Sinatra (in the film 'Assault on a Queen') 
• Christopher Reeve (in the film 'Superman 2) 
• Daniel Craig (in the film 'Quantum of Solace')
• Tom Cruise (in the film 'Knight and Day)
• Jason Statham (in the film 'Killer Elite')
• Tom Hardy (in the film 'Tinkler Tailor Soldier Boy') 
• Bradley Cooper (in the film ‘The Hangover Part II’) 
• Mark Wahlberg (in the film ‘All the Money in the World’)
• Jamie Foxx (in the film ‘Sleepless’)
• Leonardo DiCaprio (in the film ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’)
• James Dean 
• Arnold Palmer 
• Eric Clapton
• Ryan O’Neal

How to clean a Baracuta jacket

Looking after your Baracuta jacket is important to keep up the fresh and clean aesthetic of the garment. We have some handy tips and tricks you can use to ensure your Baracuta jacket stays looking as fresh as the day you bought it. 

Check your specific garment's washing and care instructions before you start the cleaning process. 

• For the Baracuta G9 Cloth, wash at a maximum of 30°c on a delicate cycle. 
• Do not bleach 
• Do not tumble dry 
• Cool iron the garment 
• If you are worried about damaging your garment, you can always get your Baracuta jacket professionally dry-cleaned. 
• Wash separately from other garments to ensure colours don’t bleed. 
• If you have an odd mark on your Baracuta jacket, spot-clean the area with a damp cloth before you complete a deep clean. 

Are Baracuta jackets water-resistant?

Baracuta jackets ensure protection from light rain but are not entirely waterproof. The lightweight and comfortable construction of the jacket makes Baracuta the perfect garment to choose when spring comes and showers are light.  

Some garments within the Baracuta jacket range, such as the Baracuta Cloth, are coated with WR treatment to ensure water repellency.

Where to buy a Baracuta jacket?

At Stuarts London, our range of Baracuta jackets has been curated to bring you the finest recommendations from the brand. Here are some of our favourites from the collection: