Filson outdoor gear and clothing may have been around for several lifetimes, but it’s a new introduction for us here at The Sporting Lodge.
Clinton C. Filson spent the early part of his working life as a railway conductor before moving to Seattle, Washington, in the 1890s. It was here that Filson's real roots began when Clinton set up a small logging outfitting shop. In a scene mirrored across many parts of the U.S. in this era, Filson made its name by meeting the needs of prospectors passing through Seattle on their way to the Klondike Gold Rush. The brand eventually found a solid footing in 1897. Although the gold rush was relatively short-lived, it cemented the brand as a reliable supplier of clothing and accessories that would stand the test of time. After the gold rush ended around 1899, Filson shifted to providing gear for outdoor-oriented activities and occupations, including hunting, fishing and logging.
Filson continues to enjoy an unrivalled reputation in its field. In the early 90s, its heritage in canvas luggage was revived, and more recently, in 2010, it fittingly partnered with another brand born of the gold rush to create Levi’s Workwear by Filson. While the brand may be rooted in 19th-century values in some ways, it’s also a current-day maker. They keep things close to home by manufacturing in the U.S. more often than not. Indeed, some of their materials are sourced in the United Kingdom as well.
With slogans such as ‘Unfailing Goods’ and ‘Built to Last’ running through their veins, Filson has a unique confidence in the gear they make. It’s perhaps their best-known tagline, which sums them up most accurately, though – “Filson – Might as well have the best”.
“The goods we quote must not be confounded with the cheap and vastly inferior grade with which the market is over-run. Such goods are not only useless for the purpose for which they are intended, but the person wearing them would be better off without them.”
— Clinton C. Filson, 1914 catalogue
Over the years, Filson’s philosophy has never changed: Make sure it’s the absolute best. Clinton Filson spent a lot of time talking to his customers and refining his designs to their specifications. So it’s not surprising that the items that worked then still work now, over 100 years later. Comfort, protection and durability never go out of style.
We've handpicked products we think you'll love. View the full range of Filson heritage hunting and fishing products.
We hope you love our Filson rugged apparel and luggage range as much as we do at The Sporting Lodge.
by Mark Smith and Neil Summers.
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