 Filson - Rugged quality for over 100 years
C.C. Filson, born in 1850, inherited his father's pioneering spirit. From homesteading in Nebraska and traveling the country as a railroad conductor, he eventually settled in the small city of Seattle, Washington in the 1880's. His timing couldn't have been better---for he saw the opportunity at once. While most of the western pioneers saw GOLD, he saw what would be their need for durable clothing.
Armed with a solid work ethic, a reputation for honesty, and several years' experience operating a small loggers' outfitting store. He set out to create what would become one of the most famous lines of durable American outdoor apparel.
"TO OUR CUSTOMERS: If a man is going north, he should come to us for his outfit, because we have obtained our ideas of what is best to wear in that country from the experience of the man from the north - not merely one - but hundreds of them. Our materials are the very best obtainable, for we know that the best is none too good and that quality is of vital importance. YOU CAN DEPEND ABSOLUTELY UPON OUR GOODS BOTH AS TO MATERIAL AND WORKMANSHIP."
Worldwide reputation for honesty, quality and durability.
Filson continued to make his goods from the best materials obtainable, and guaranteed every piece of mechandise. If he didn't stock an item a customer needed, he custom-made it for him. Filson's name became synonymous with reliability, satisfaction and honest values. By the 1960's, Filson's reputation as the premier outfitter for outdoorsman had spread around the globe. In addition to being stocked by retailers of quality outdoor wear, Filson garments were being ordered by mail from as far away as Greenland.
"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 catalog
What worked then, still works now
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 today, over 100 years later. Comfort, protection and durability never go out of style.
For a detailed description of Filson's materials click here: Filson Fabrics
We at the Highland Hiker like to think that some of that Filson philosophy applies to us as well, because although we don't design our customer's clothing, we do pay attention to their wants and needs, and strive to accomodate them to the best of our ability. We love talking travel and adventure, and we always have great suggestions as to destinations and the gear to get you there and back.
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