Filson

With a history stretching back over a century, Filson is one of the longest-standing brands in the United States. Offering individuals a selection of well-crafted outdoor essentials, like luggage and apparel, it's also one of the few companies to offer a lifetime warranty for all of their products. Whether you're looking for jackets, bags, or accessories like hats and beanies, Filson offers plenty of variety. 

The history of the Filson brand 

Filson started out in the late 1800s when it supplied quality goods to prospectors headed to the Klondike Gold Rush. Even when they started out in 1897, the brand offered prospectors passing through Seattle essential outdoor gear like clothes, boots, sleeping bags, and blankets. 

After starting C.C. Filson's Pioneer Alaska Clothing and Blanket Manufacturers, founder Colin C. Filson soon incorporated gear for other outdoor activities into its product lineup. The shift to offering gear for other activities like fishing, logging, and hunting became especially necessary as the Klondike Gold Rush ended in 1899. 

Did you know these facts about the Filson brand?

Since Filson’s been around for over 120 years, the company’s unique selection of outdoor clothing literally stood the test of time. Considering the history of the Filson Brand, here are a few interesting facts about the company. 

One of the few gold rush era companies still operating

The brand's founder, Colin C. Filson, found himself in the right place at the right time when starting the firm in 1897. With prospectors passing through Seattle, it played a key role in outfitting them with necessary gear for their journey. Since then, it's one of only three other Seattle-based companies from the gold rush era that are still around. The other two include Nordstrom and Bartell Drugs. 

Slightly younger than Washington State 

Washington was recognized as a state on November 11, 1889. For reference, that’s only eight years before Filson would open its first retail store in Seattle. 

An emphasis on restoration 

Filson has always taken its craft of producing high-quality goods seriously. Nowhere is this more apparent than with their "restoration department". Here, bags that are usually beyond repair, go to get a complete makeover. After extensive repairing, patching, and stitching, the bag goes back on the shelf of the flagship Filson store with a lifetime guarantee. Since the company uses high-quality materials, its repurposing strategy also makes the brand very eco-friendly. 

Filson store – a commitment to quality workmanship

A key contributor to Filson’s continued success is its quality. Along with ensuring continued success, this emphasis on providing good products fostered brand loyalty too. During the Great Depression, Filson continued to stay in business thanks to their loyal customers. 

They were also one of the first brands on the East Coast to integrate waxed fabrics into their products. Waxed fabrics are incredibly weather-resistant and long-lasting, making it a great buy when people can only afford a single jacket. 

A variety of products 

Along with an emphasis on quality, they also branched out into urban and casual wear while keeping the rustic outdoor look consistent. This shift became especially popular in the 90s, as they began to offer cotton shirts and trousers. 

They also offer options for bags that cater to a variety of needs. From briefcases and office bags to everyday carry, to luggage bags, there's something available for everyone. You can also find their products on the Filson online store.