Now, I’ll be honest with you – I used to think Filson was a fancy French brand that only rich people could afford.
But then, I discovered that it’s actually a heritage American brand that’s been around since 1897.
Who knew, right?.
Anyway, after I got my hands on my first Filson jacket, I was hooked.
But as much as I love Filson, there are other brands out there that offer similar styles and quality.
So, if you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are some other brands just like Filson you should check out:.
1. Barbour
Barbour is a British brand that’s been around since 1894 – just a few years after Filson.
Similar to Filson, Barbour is known internationally for their classic waxed jackets and coats that have stood the test of time.
Their signature waxed cotton Barbour Bedale, Beadnell and Cheltenham designs have changed very little over the decades but remain extremely popular thanks to their ability to withstand rain and cold while maintaining a ruggedly stylish silhouette.
The fact that both Kate Middleton and the Queen of England often chose Barbour for their country attire is a testament to how the brand has become a staple of British heritage outdoors fashion
2. Red Wing Heritage
Red Wing Heritage is another American brand that’s been over 100 years.
Founded in 1905 in Red Wing, Minnesota, Red Wing began as a work boot producer but has evolved to offer classic Americana-inspired styles beyond footwear too.
However, they’re still most famous for their high-quality, USA-made leather work boots – like their iconic Iron Ranger, Blacksmith, and Classic Moc boot styles.
Generations of laborers, craftsmen, and outdoors enthusiasts have relied on Red Wing Heritage boots to tough out long days on their feet in comfort without sacrificing durability or style.
The brand has aged and widened their customer base to include those seeking rugged footwear with old-school craftsmanship.
3. Pendleton
If you’re a fan of Filson’s wool jackets and blankets, you’ll love Pendleton.
This American brand has been around since 1909 and is known for their cozy, high-quality wool products.
Like Filson, Pendleton began by outfitting laborers and tradesmen with durable, practical gear.
Over the decades they’ve expanded into fashion through their wool shirts, skirts, dresses, and more – always using virgin wool and other natural fibers.
Their iconic black and Native American-inspired patterns in blankets have become timeless classics.
Pendleton’s woolen mills still operates out of Portland, Oregon today much like how Filson remains based in Seattle – a testament to both brands’ deep roots in the Pacific Northwest’s heritage of crafting rugged, warm apparel for all walks of life.
4. Carhartt
Alright, you can’t talk American workwear brands without mentionin’ Carhartt.
These guys have been makin’ tough clothes for tough people since 1889 out of Dearborn, Michigan.
Now I know what you’re thinkin – their stuff seems pretty heavy duty, are they really comparable to Filson? Well yeah, totally!
Sure, Carhartt may be a bit more geared towards heavy laborers and tradespeople compared to Filson’s slightly more refined styles.
But their jackets, pants, fleeces – all that gear is made to last through just about anything you can throw at it.
And nowadays they got all kinds of different fits and materials that are still rugged on the outside but comfortable enough to wear anywhere.
Plus, did you know Carhartt is responsible for inventing those thick, warm fleece hoodies everyone wears? Yup, way back in the 80s they came up with that cozy material that all the construction dudes needed to stay toasty on job sites.
Now even rappers and city folks rock Carhartt gear just as much as the farmers and mechanics they were made for.
5. Fjallraven
Ah Fj�llr�ven, the cool Swedish brand all the hikers and backpackers seem to be wearin’ these days.
Have you seen those huge yellow “G” logos everywhere? Well there’s a reason for that – those Scandinavian folks know what’s up when it comes to outdoor gear.
Fj�llr�ven’s biggest claim to fame is definitely their Greenland Wax jackets and pants – those suckers are seriously tough to beat for wet weather adventures.
The wax coating means nothing gets through to ya, but it still breathes enough to keep you from overheating on the trail.
I tried one out last fall in a rainstorm and stayed bone dry while others were soakin’.
But it’s not just rain gear – they do sick wool sweaters, luggage, tents, you name it.
And everything is made for serious use, whether you’re trekking through the mountains or just commutin’ to class.
The materials are top notch and all their products come with a lifetime guarantee.
Plus I gotta admit, I’m a sucker for their vintage-y Scandinavian designs.
It all just looks so cool! And with Fj�llr�ven you know you’re gettin’ high performance gear that will seriously last you a lifetime of exploration.
So if you’re into the outdoors, these guys should definitely be on your radar like they are for many others.
Trust me, once you own something Fj�llr�ven you’ll be hooked too!
6.Herschel Supply Co.
I first discovered Herschel a few years ago when all the hipsters and college kids started carryin’ their retro-looking backpacks everywhere.
And I gotta admit, they are awesome quality for the price.
All their bags are made of sturdy materials like polyester or leather but given fun designs that make ’em cool to have.
Since then though Herschel has definitely expanded beyond just backpacks.
They got duffels, totes, wallets, hats – you name it.
And the styles have a very “outdoorsy explorer” vibe while still feelin’ young and modern.
Think plaid patterns, army green nylon, leather accents.
It’s a great mix of function and good looks.
Plus I appreciate that Herschel cuts out some of the extra frills that bump up prices at places like Filson.
Don’t get me wrong, I love me some Filson.
But Herschel proves you can have well-designed, long-lasting gear without breakin’ the bank.
So if you’re lookin’ for a brand with a similar worn-in aesthetic on a tighter budget, Herschel is a great option to check out.
7. Wolverine
Wolverine was founded way back in 1883 in Rockford, Michigan and like Filson, they started by supplying hardy work footwear to laborers.
Over the decades though, Wolverine boots became synonymous with tough, dependable footwear for all sorts of jobs whether it was railroad work, farming, factories – you name it.
Some of their most iconic styles are still around too from the original Wolverine 1000 Mile boot to their waterproof Hydropush farming boots.
The leathers they use are top notch and all their boots are Goodyear welted so you can resole ’em for years and years.
These days Wolverine also does more casual and heritage-inspired styles if work boots aren’t your thing.
Think chukkas, oxfords, hiking boots – they do it all with that same build quality and durability.
Plus, who doesn’t think it’s badass to wear boots from a legendary company that history buffs, tradespeople, and everyday folks have all trusted for well over a century? So if you want footwear that will stay looking good while standing the test of time, Wolverine should definitely be in your rotation.
8. Belstaff
If Barbour is considered the British equivalent of Filson, then Belstaff is right up there with them in terms of heritage moto gear.
These guys have been makin’ top-notch leather jackets and outerwear since the 1920s.
A lot of folks may not have heard of Belstaff but they’ve got a super storied history.
Their iconic waxed cotton Trialmaster jacket became hugely popular with British police and military in the 40s/50s.
Since then everyone from Steve McQueen to David Beckham have been spotted wearin’ their buttery-soft leather jackets over the years.
Their designs really nail that rugged adventurer look – think lots of tough zippers, buckles, quilted detailing on leather and waxed fabrics.
Quality and craftsmanship are obviously a huge priority for Belstaff too since so many pieces stand up beautifully decade after decade of use.
These days they do lots of moto and travel-inspired styles that have way more style than your average biker jacket or duffel.
Oh and did I mention they have stores in all the fancy spots around Europe now?
Even with their high fashion creds though, Belstaff still very much honors their British heritage in outfitting explorers and road warriors.
So if you want some serious leather jacket envy or a go-anywhere bag, Belstaff’s gotta be in your lineup like it is for tons of inspired travelers and gear nerds worldwide.
9. Woolrich
Woolrich has been weaving woolen fabrics and garments in Pennsylvania since 1830.
That’s over 190 years of experience perfecting the cozy art of wool.
And sure, they may be known for those iconic woolen plaids and flannel shirts.
But Woolrich makes all kinds of practical outerwear like parkas, blankets, even sporting goods for activities in cold weather.
Functionality is always the name of the game – just like Filson!
In fact, Woolrich woolen mills supplied Union armies back in the Civil War days.
They also outfitted frostbitten explorers and arctic expeditions for proper wool insulation.
So you know if it can keep guys warm while fighting wars or braving the icy poles, it’s gotta be top quality stuff.
Whether you want classic buffalo plaid shirts, down-filled jackets, or versatile wool pants – Woolrich does it all in their durable, heritage-worthy fabrics.
Not to mention their designs also have that vintage coziness factor that Filson nails so well.
So if you appreciate old school woolen craftsmanship blended with traditional Americana styles, Woolrich is a definite must-check for keeping toasty while still looking damn good too!
10. The North Face
Alright, anyone who’s into the outdoors probably already knows The North Face really well.
But did you know they got similar heritage roots to Filson despite being more well known now for technical gear?
Founded in San Francisco way back in 1968, The North Face started by outfitting climbers and hikers with high performance apparel for exploring America’s rugged landscapes – just like Filson did in the early days.
Over the decades since then, The North Face has definitely expanded into way more technical sports and lifestyle stuff.
But their classics rooted in exploration are still going strong from hiking boots to puffy jackets to backpacks.
Quality is always a huge focus whether they’re making alpine rated gear or a simple puffer vest too.
And North Face knows a thing or two about fabric technologies to keep adventurers ventilated, water resistant and comfortable through all kinds of weather.
Plus let’s be honest, who doesn’t think it’s cool to wear a brand synonymous with conquering mountains and trails? North Face stuff is iconic for a reason.
So if you want performance with that same heritage of outfitting pioneers, The North Face bridges the gap between rugged outdoor gear and modern lifestyle wear exceptionally well – just like Filson has done all these years too.
11. Levi’s
What started as humble workwear for miners and cowboys during the Gold Rush has evolved into a style staple around the world.
And Levi’s still uses the same tough denim fabrics today that pioneers relied on for brute labor back in the day.
They basically invented the blue jean as we know it! From their original 501s to trucker jackets to quilted shirts, Levi’s genres of staple clothing are still going strong.
The designs may have modernized some but the quality surely hasn’t.
Whether you want that authentic vintage look with fades and whiskers or crisp new styles, Levi’s has it all while keeping tradition front and center.
Not to mention, taking on 200 years of wear and tear is a testament to how their denim stands the test of time like Filson’s gear does too.
Plus I think it’s just so cool to wear a brand as iconicly American as Levi’s that basically wrote the rulebook on jeans worldwide.
So if you want wardrobe staples as reliable as they come, you better show some love to these original pioneers of denim!
12. Patagonia
Alright, you can’t do a whole list on classic outdoor brands without including Patagonia.
These guys have really made a name for themselves since starting in California in the early 70s.
From the get-go, Patagonia’s whole vibe has been about celebrating nature through high performance gear for adventurers and athletes.
But unlike some other labels, they put heavy emphasis on using eco-friendly materials and fair trade practices too – which I gotta respect.
Whether you’re rock climbing, skiing, surfing or just hiking on the weekend, Patagonia has bombproof stuff to keep you ventilated, protected from the elements and comfortable.
But it’s not just technical equipment – they also crush cozy lifestyle basics too.
Some of their best sellers are the Better Sweater flannel, their super warm Down Sweater, and the classic Retro-X pullover.
Button ups, vests and pants are always nicely designed too for looking good on or off the trail.
Quality is always top notch as expected for the price too.
I’ll also say Patagonia knows how to blend practicality with rugged good looks just as well as Filson.
So if you want an outdoorsy, eco-conscious option, Patagonia has definitely earned their spot on this list with me and many others!
13. LL Bean
Started by Leon Leonwood Bean, the company began by sellin’ durable rubber boots to fishermen and hunters.
But since then they’ve seriously expanded to do it all – boots, flannels, jackets, tents, fishin’ gear, you name it.
Quality and customer service are obviously huge priorities for Bean since people have been relyin’ on their gear for over a century of use.
Their famous lifetime guarantee backs all their stuff too.
I personally love their cozy flannel and duck boots for fall/winter.
Perfect for traipsing around in the woods or just bumming around town.
They also do top-notch insulated jackets, base layers, and outdoor gear.
Oh and let’s not forget Bean is responsible for gettin’ practically everyone’s grandparents into the outdoors! Their classic looks just feel so classic New England.
So if you’re lookin’ for outdoorsy basics you can trust through years of durability and adventures, L.L.Bean should definitely be your buddy just like they are for so many others
14. Ralph Lauren
Now I know RL is probably most famous for their polos and branded everything.
But Lauren really got his start by bringing the preppy Ivy League aesthetic to the masses.
We’re talkin neatly tailored pants, cozy sweaters, patchwork blazers – all with a refined vintage twist.
In the same way Filson perfected outfitting explorers and laborers, Ralph Lauren made elegant heritage wear attainable to everyday folks.
Underneath the logos though, both brands nail timeless silhouettes and details that stand the test of time.
Even their home goods and stores showcase Lauren’s love of prairie stylings and nautical motifs that embody a romanticized notion of American heritage.
Between Filson and RL, you’re covered from mountains to mansions style-wise!
Plus let’s be real – who doesn’t wanna feel like the classic Northeast preppie every once in a while? Ralph Lauren makes achieving that look easy and oh so stylish, just like Filson does for the outdoorsy folks.
So together, these OGs have vintage Americana on lock in both rugged and refined ways.
15. Timberland
Founded in New Hampshire way back in 1973, Timberland originally made premium waterproof boots specifically for lumber jack work.
Naturally tough leathers and advanced stitching made them hero’s in the field and factory.
Over the decades though, Timberland evolved their practical boots into the classic 6-inch yellow boots everyone started rocking.
And they became a staple for good reason – they’re super durable, comfortable, and can handle just about any terrain or weather.
It’s true they branched more into lifestyle gear these days too.
But their boots still uphold the same dedication to hardy construction and dependability you’d want exploring trails or on a job site.
Like Filson, quality is always a priority too.
Plus it’s pretty badass to wear boots made famous by rugged Northeastern laborers, no? So if you want some tough kicks that can do it all in style, look no further than these venerable New Hampshire locals.
Timberland have definitely earned their stripes!.