Driza-Bone
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Apparel |
| Founded | 1898 |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
| Products | Waterproof riding coats, apparel |
| Owner | S. Kidman & Co. |
Driza-Bone, a name originating from the phrase "dry as a bone," is an Australian-owned brand known for its full-length waterproof riding coats and related apparel. Founded in 1898, the trademark was officially registered in 1933. These coats were initially created as durable workwear for Australian stockmen, designed specifically to shield horse riders from rain, incorporating features such as straps that fasten the coat securely to the rider's leg.
History
During the late 19th century, Edward Le Roy, a Scottish immigrant, began producing oilskin rainwear in New Zealand by treating lightweight sailing ship sails with linseed oil to achieve waterproofing. T. E. Pearson, son of E. J. Pearson—the founder of Pearson Soap—introduced these Le Roy coats to Australia, where they quickly gained popularity among stockmen. To address the coats’ flammability near campfires, Pearson developed an enhanced sealing method at his residence in Manly and collaborated with Le Roy to register the trademark.
The coat’s design progressed over time, featuring extended lengths suitable for riding, a fantail to protect saddles, wrist straps to keep sleeves in place, and leg straps to prevent the coat from flapping in the wind. When linseed oil proved susceptible to cracking under heat, Le Roy and Pearson innovated a new waterproofing process that remains in use today.
In late 2008, after many years under different ownerships, Driza-Bone returned to Australian hands with key industry figures involved, including Steve Bennett, founder of Country Road. This transition prompted relocating the company’s headquarters and main warehouse from Eagleby in Queensland to Melbourne, Victoria.
December 2023 marked another pivotal moment when Driza-Bone was acquired by S. Kidman & Co., signifying an important change in its ownership structure.
2000 Olympic Games
During the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Summer Olympics held in Sydney, Driza-Bone riding coats were worn by stockmen and stockwomen participants. The Olympic Band of 2000 also donned custom Driza-Bone coats featuring redesigned sleeves and a color scheme of red, white, and blue that deviated from the traditional style. Additionally, all medal presenters throughout the Games were outfitted in Driza-Bone coats.
Stage musical
In the 2002 theatrical production "The Man from Snowy River: Arena Spectacular," cast members appeared wearing Driza-Bone coats crafted by Robert Peron, a bush clothing enthusiast who has championed Driza-Bone as a fashion statement beyond its status as an Australian cultural icon.
APEC Australia 2007
At the 2007 APEC Summit in Sydney, all 21 world leaders wore Driza-Bone coats for the official group photograph. The selection of Driza-Bone as the national attire was made by then Australian Prime Minister John Howard, with guidance from his wife Janette and the APEC organizing taskforce.
Tales from Margaritaville
The classic Driza-Bone duster, also known as a stockman’s coat, is referenced by Tully Mars—the protagonist of Take Another Road—in Jimmy Buffett’s short story collection Tales from Margaritaville.