Filson Outdoor Gear

Discover Filson outdoor gear, established in 1897 in Seattle to outfit prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush with dependable equipment for harsh conditions. Renowned for superior craftsmanship and rugged durability, Filson produces clothing, bags, and accessories that have become favourites among fishermen, engineers, explorers, mariners, miners, and anyone passionate about the outdoors. Our collection features Filson durable clothing and canvas bags ideal for urban commutes or rural adventures, delivering reliable performance and versatile style for diverse lifestyles. For a deeper dive into the brand, read our introduction to Filson.

Filson’s Heritage

The Filson brand originated in Seattle in 1897 as C.C. Filson’s Pioneer Alaska Clothing and Blanket Manufacturers, supplying prospectors with hardwearing apparel and gear during the Gold Rush. Founded by Clinton C. Filson, who inherited a pioneer spirit and love of the outdoors, the company quickly gained a reputation for honesty and quality. Initially a small loggers’ outfitting store, it expanded to meet the needs of fortune hunters heading north, providing essential items like clothing, blankets, boots, and sleeping bags. After the Gold Rush, Filson shifted to serve hunters, anglers, loggers, and even the U.S. Forest Service with official uniforms from the 1950s to the 1990s—explore how Filson joined the US Forestry Service. Still rooted in American craftsmanship, Filson uses premium materials such as Mackinaw Wool and Tin Cloth to create gear that endures extreme demands, blending rugged tradition with practical innovation for modern adventurers in urban or rural settings. Learn more about their commitment in Filson: Might As Well Have the Best.

Focus on Durability and Weather Resistance

Filson outdoor gear is built with robust construction, including reinforced seams, high-denier fabrics that resist tears and abrasion, and water-repellent treatments on canvas and leather to shield against moisture. Sturdy hardware ensures longevity under heavy loads, while double-layered panels provide added protection. These features make Filson pieces ideal for demanding tasks in countryside or city environments, offering consistent reliability for active users. The brand’s commitment to using only the finest materials guarantees lifelong wear and unrivalled quality—discover the story behind Filson's Tin Cloth clothing that never quits or why it's built to last.

Versatile Styles for Urban and Rural Lifestyles

Filson outdoor gear seamlessly transitions between city routines and rural tasks, with designs that support layering for varied activities. From heavy-duty canvas bags suited to rugged outings to lighter clothing for daily wear, the range caters to commuters and countryside ramblers alike. Available in earthy colours with robust fastenings, practical pockets, and comfortable straps, these items combine weather-resistant features with functional fits, ensuring suitability for outdoor work or urban travel.

Popular Filson Outdoor Gear

Explore our selection of Filson canvas bags, durable clothing, outerwear, sweaters, trousers, and accessories, all featuring weather-resistant coatings and secure closures. These items provide practical storage and sturdy builds, perfect for rural fieldwork or city travel. Catering to customers seeking reliable equipment for diverse pursuits, Filson maintains a classic aesthetic infused with a pioneering spirit and love of the great outdoors. For insights on bags, check out why Filson bags are the perfect choice for quality and durability.

Styling Suggestions

Layer Filson durable clothing with a shirt and trousers for rural work, or pair canvas bags with jeans for urban travel. Adjust straps on bags for comfort during outings. These pieces integrate seamlessly into wardrobes, providing practical style for work or leisure.

Shop Filson Outdoor Gear Now

Our comprehensive collection includes rugged clothing, canvas bags, and accessories, all crafted with Filson’s renowned durability. Shop now to find your ideal Filson outdoor gear for lasting quality and adaptable use.

Filson — Key Milestones

Year Milestone
1897 C.C. Filson founds “C.C. Filson’s Pioneer Alaska Clothing & Blanket Manufacturers” in Seattle to outfit Klondike/Alaska Gold Rush travellers.
1914 U.S. Patent #1,088,891 granted for the Filson Cruiser shirt design, which becomes the template for Mackinaw and field jackets.
1920s Launch of waxed-cotton outerwear marketed as “waterproofed khaki” — later known as Tin Cloth — for loggers and foresters.
1945 U.S. Forest Service adopts custom Filson jackets as part of official field uniform.
1970 Filson leaves family ownership; the business is sold to a former distributor.
1981 Stan Kohls acquires Filson and expands the range using archive-driven designs.
1991 Rugged Twill luggage line introduced, broadening the offer beyond fieldwear.
2006 First retail store outside Seattle opens, beginning a wider retail expansion.
2008 First full womenswear line introduced.
2010 Levi’s® Workwear by Filson collaboration launches.
2012 Acquired by Bedrock Manufacturing Co.
2013–2015 New headquarters and manufacturing facility opens at 1741 First Ave S, Seattle (2013); flagship retail store opens in the same building (2015).
2021 Partnership with NHL’s Seattle Kraken highlighted with Filson x Kraken product.
2024 New womenswear collection launches for AW24.
2025 Tim Bantle appointed President of Filson.
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Founded in 1897 by Clinton C. Filson in Seattle, Filson began outfitting Klondike Gold Rush prospectors with durable gear. Known for its rugged clothing, the brand patented the Cruiser Shirt in 1914, a staple for U.S. Forest Service workers. Family-owned until 1970, it was later acquired by Stan Kohls, then Brentwood Associates in 2005, and Bedrock Manufacturing in 2012. Filson remains a symbol of American craftsmanship.

Filson products are renowned for their exceptional quality, crafted with premium materials like Mackinaw Wool and Tin Cloth. Designed for durability, they withstand harsh outdoor conditions while offering reliable performance. Many customers report Filson gear lasting decades, reflecting the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship.

Filson is not owned by Ralph Lauren. In 2005, Brentwood Associates and former Polo Ralph Lauren executive Doug Williams acquired the brand. Since 2012, it has been owned by Bedrock Manufacturing, founded by Tom Kartsotis, which also owns Shinola. Filson remains an independent heritage brand.

Yes, in the TV series Yellowstone, Rip Wheeler, played by Cole Hauser, wears a Filson Short Lined Cruiser jacket. Other characters, like John and Beth Dutton, also sport Filson coats, highlighting the brand’s rugged, authentic style popular in the show.

Many Filson products, including heritage styles like the Tin Cloth Cruiser, are still made in the USA, primarily at their Seattle workshop. However, some items are produced by trusted global partners to meet demand, maintaining Filson’s quality standards while offering a broader range.

Filson products incorporate sustainable practices, using responsibly sourced materials like goose down from Allied Feather & Down. The brand’s focus on durability ensures long-lasting gear, reducing waste. Filson also offers a restoration programme for damaged items, promoting eco-conscious use.

Filson shirts are crafted with breathable fabrics like cotton twill and chambray, ideal for outdoor activities. Designed to promote airflow and wick moisture, these shirts ensure comfort during active pursuits, making them suitable for both fieldwork and casual wear.

Filson products are worn by celebrities like Ryan Gosling, who sports their waxed jackets, David Beckham in their caps, and Matthew McConaughey, featured in Yellowstone. Tom Cruise has also been seen with Filson briefcases, reflecting the brand’s rugged, stylish appeal.