A duster coat is a long, loose-fitting coat that is typically lightweight and has a free outline). The original dusters were full-length, light-colored canvas or linen coats worn by horsemen to protect their clothing from trail dust). These dusters were typically slit up the back to hip level for ease of wear on horseback. Dusters intended for riding may have features such as a buttonable rear slit and leg straps to hold the flaps in place). For better protection against rain, dusters were made from oilcloth and later from waxed cotton). In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, both men and women wore dusters to protect their clothes when riding in open motorcars on the dirt roads of the day). Today, dusters are a standard item of Western wear and gained renewed popularity in the late 20th century).

Duster coats can be made from various materials, including leather, and can be worn by both men and women. They are typically full-length and feature minimal-to-no buttons. Womens duster coats may have wide sleeves and no buttons, and are popular in the mid-20th century. Mens duster coats are often waterproof and designed to stand up to harsh weather conditions.