Filson - Might as well have the best
Filson.
Style, rugged quality, and heritage. That's what makes Filson products special. It's not rocket science, and if you're not familiar with the brand, it's time to give it a look. Is it the same Filson it was in the late 1800s? No, but unless you've been living under a rock, there sure aren't many companies that have been around that long that haven't gone through changes. But let's not get sidetracked, we are here to talk about gear that makes you appreciate the finer things about being a man.
Wool, waxed canvas, rugged twill, leather, buttons, and vintage style make up the bulk of Filson's offerings, and have for a long time. They've served the US Forestry Service, loggers in the PNW, and thousands of people who purchased their products to keep them safe and warm in the outdoors. There are a million and one synthetic materials that in all reality do a better job at any one thing someone could ask for these days, but what makes Filson's clothing special is that it checks a lot of boxes while looking great and standing up to tough conditions for generations. A lot of the synthetic materials in modern clothing and gear break down with use, while wool and tin cloth canvas just keep looking better and better. If you do manage to rip or tear the materials, Filson will repair it for you.
Wearing a heritage brand or product isn't about maximum performance in one category, it's an experience of pride of ownership, timeless style, and a celebration of American history. It's a great feeling walking through the snow in the mountains in a Short Lined Cruiser, or strolling down Main St in a small town in a Mackinaw Wool Cruiser. Oh, if I didn't mention it earlier, a "cruiser" is a style of jacket with lots of pockets, including a large one across the back with flaps on the side for storing larger flat objects, like a paper map (yes you can still buy those...)
Filson also makes a few lines of great bags and luggage, as well as things like blankets and belts. All fine materials, often times thicker and overbuilt compared to other brands. I know this sounds like a commercial at this point, but after handling quite a few products they've produced over the years, even the ones that are imported/produced overseas, there's no mistaking that the choice of materials is above and beyond what most brands would consider "good enough".
A tag they've used for years is "Might as well have the best", and if you make the investment, I have no doubt that's what you'll get from them. There's more expensive products out there, and there are several other smaller boutique brands that make similar products, but where Filson excels is that their products have always been geared towards the everyday man that doesn't mind spending a bit more to get a product that will last generations. Is it more expensive than clothing on the discount rack at TJ Maxx? Yes, yes it is, but you're not going to have a smile on your face every time you wear a $25 jacket are you? I didn't think so.
Go ahead, get the best. You'll thank me later.
