Exploring the Legacy of Jack Murphy Coats

Why Jack Murphy Raincoats Have Been Loved for Generations

The coat you’re always glad to see by the door.

You know the one. Your favourite coat that almost makes you wish it was still raining.

Jack Murphy coats have a way of becoming that go-to. Whether it’s the bestselling Erin with its elegant shape or the shorter style of the Cotswold, there's something special about these raincoats.

And when you rely on a coat that much, it’s only natural to wonder about the name stitched into the label. Who was Jack Murphy? How did a family business come to create some of the best-loved coats out there? We’re always keen to share the stories behind the brands in our collections - and this one’s worth hearing.

The Roots of Jack Murphy Clothing

Jack Murphy’s story begins in 1922 Dublin. Born to a fish merchant, young Jack’s life took an unexpected turn when he joined the RAF as a radar controller during WWII. Stationed in Hiroshima, Japan, Jack witnessed first-hand the value of purposeful clothing that was both protective and durable.

This experience stuck with him, and when he returned to Ireland, he began his career in a very different field – corsetry. It was here that he honed his understanding of craftsmanship and fit, two things that would become the cornerstone of the brand we know today.

By the 1970s, Jack’s son Michael was ready to make his mark. Travelling across Ireland, Michael saw a clear gap: people needed outerwear tough enough for unpredictable weather, but smart enough to look good doing it. It was this vision that set the Jack Murphy name on a new path, and a family legacy was sealed.

Why Long Coats Became Their Signature

When Michael Murphy set out to design outerwear for Ireland’s notorious weather, he landed on a winning formula: long coats.

They gave people the coverage they actually needed - waterproof coats that kept the rain out from head to hem. For anyone walking dogs, riding horses, or trudging through muddy fields, it made all the difference.

In 2018, Jack’s granddaughter Sarah joined the family business, and the brand’s focus stayed strong. Nearly 100 years after Jack Murphy was born, his values still shape every coat: quality, purpose, and design that doesn’t date.

Throughout their collections, you will find:

1. Waterproof Protection: Irish weather isn’t for the faint of heart, and Jack Murphy coats are built to match it. Waterproof fabrics, storm flaps, and taped seams are cleverly used to make sure you stay dry from light drizzles to heavy downpours.
2. Breathability: You stay dry and comfortable. Breathable materials are exactly what you need for maximum comfort with your waterproof coat, as they help keep you cool when you're walking around or if there's a bit of humidity in the air.
3. Timeless Elegance: These raincoats go with everything. Jeans and boots, field trousers and wellies, even skirts and dresses. You've also got plenty of colour options that work season after season, so you don't have to worry about them being a fleeting trend.
4. Functional Features: Deep pockets for cold hands, corduroy collars that feel soft against your skin, and adjustable hems to suit the weather. They’re little things, but they’re the kind of details that make a coat a favourite.
5. Commitment to Quality: Durable materials, sturdy stitching, and proper finishes mean you’re investing in a waterproof long coat that’s with you for the long haul. Jack Murphy raincoats are made to stand up to real weather, real wear, and real life - year after year.

Timeless Design Meets Modern Needs

The fantastic thing is that the wide range of Jack Murphy coats most certainly aren't stuck in the past - they’ve been updated along the way to fit into everyday life.

However, certain styles remain firm favourites and you may have heard of the ones below:

• Malvern Ladies Waterproof Bush Coat: This is the long coat for days spent outdoors; walking the dog, watching kids play sport, or hopping in the saddle. You've got gorgeous colours to pick from too like Smokey Blue, Olive, Blackberry, Chinchilla, Heritage Navy, Black, and Deep Claret.
• Lambourne Men's Waterproof Long Bush Coat: Inspired by the traditional Australian Drover Style Long Riding Coat, the Lambourne is all about proper coverage and smart looks. Go for Black if you like things neutral, or Olive and Navy for something a bit more laid-back.
• Erin Long Waterproof Coat: With its flattering shape and practical details, the Erin is proof you don’t need to choose between looking good and staying dry. In Olive, Camel, or Heritage Navy, it works just as well with jeans and dealer boots as it does over smarter outfits.
• Emmet Waterproof Long Coat: Available in Olive, Camel, or Navy colours, Jack Murphy has designed the Emmet to easily handle the worst of the weather while keeping you warm and dry. It’s one of those coats that never feels like too much, but always does exactly enough.

All-in-all, the longer lengths give proper rain coverage for country walks, horse riding, or just getting from A to B on a wet day, while clever details like riding vents and two-way zips make movement easy. It's easy to see why people love them so much!

A Jack Murphy Raincoat for Every Story

Before we wrap up, let's take a look at some ways Jack Murphy raincoats have firmly earnt their keep in people's daily lives:

• Dog Walking: There’s nothing like a soggy dog walk to test a coat’s worth. These waterproof coats give you full coverage down to your boots, so the splashes stay off you. The two-way zip means you can crouch down easily when it’s time to untangle the lead, while deep, secure pockets give you somewhere to stash treats, poo bags, and your keys.
• Everyday Wear: From rainy mornings on the school run to weekends wandering town, these coats slot right into your day. Thoughtful details like detachable hoods let you adapt to the weather (or your outfit), and the clean, classic design means you don't have to worry about whether it will "go" with an outfit.
• Horse Riding: Jack Murphy coats are designed with features like internal leg straps and large back vents, so it's no surprise that you'll often see them around stables. The longer back keeps the rain off your legs as you ride, while waterproof, windproof fabrics mean you’re not battling the weather on top of everything else.

When you wear a Jack Murphy raincoat for moments like these - walking the dog in sideways rain, riding through muddy fields, or just getting through a typical grey afternoon - you’re carrying the brand’s legacy with you.

Built for everyday life, they prove that great design lasts and good stories carry on.

Summary

From its roots in 1920s Dublin to the coats hanging in hallways today, Jack Murphy’s story is stitched into every design. And knowing the story behind the label only makes them more special!

A family legacy that started nearly 100 years ago is still going strong, with coats that are made to last, made to be used, and made to be loved.

And, if you’re ready to find a coat that you will always be glad to see by your door, explore our full Jack Murphy clothing collection - we're sure you will find your new favourite.

About the Author

Living on his family farm in the beautiful countryside, Mark Holland understands the importance of a coat that can withstand the unpredictable British weather. With his down-to-earth approach and many years of experience in the clothing industry, he is dedicated to helping you find outerwear that not only looks good but also performs when you need it most. Join him as he shares his knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the world of coats with confidence.