NEW LUGGAGE AND SPORTS' SHOOTING SEPARATES
OUTDOOR RETAILER MARKET, SLC-UTAH
July 23rd, 2009
Words, Images Judith Ecochard
And Courtesy of Filson
Filson is a classic American brand (since 1897!!!)- that is acclaimed worldwide for their “tried and true” silhouettes and luggage.
Living up to the company motto, “Might As Well Have The Best” ---to which we add ‘Might As Well Buy Authentic'----Filson’s booth at OR was packed with the bestsellers…and new offerings we feel will join the ranks of retailer favorites.
Skeet and clay target shooting---- and the general category “sports’ shooting” are apparently gaining favor amongst women. Our rural country self says yeah…our city side freaks a bit…but with certainty we can say that the handsome separates for women (and men), are beautifully rugged additions to any wardrobe.
An oil finish cover cloth that repels moisture forms the basis a dapper Shooting Jacket, kitted out with interior pockets at the shoulder ($299). A mesh Shooting Vest with oversized front pockets, is made from heavy-duty cotton Tin cloth and is very on trend as vests are big for Fall 2009. (M-$190/W-$175). These garments join Filson’s original claim to fame, it’s waxed cotton hunting coat.
There are also SPF 30, long and short sleeve classic button downs made out of 100% cotton that are well cut -gender specifically. ($70-$85).
We think the stylish attire will find favor with those who ‘live the life’ and those who aspire to it…including Europeans. (We know, we attended the Berlin tradeshows and Filson did very well over there).
Plus, America’s fascination with the traditional, under the radar labels has hot retailer Barney’s stocking Filson: the au courant store (smartly) carries the 100% virgin wool Mackinaws the Wool Packer Coat (around $399) in a it’s so old it’s new again red/black or charcoal grey plaid.
Another classic that continues to do well is the women’s Alaskan Guide Shirt in a‘chic’ plaid fabric-with adjustable cuffs and flattering front and back seams- cut just right, for gals on the go (or gone like Sarah Palin).
An elegant, double breasted tweedy wool bomber with a quilted lining- in navy... is also in demand.
LUGGAGE: We’ve seen a trend towards lighter everything at OR. Filson does its part -by introducing a tough 16.4 oz nylon twill PASSAGE LUGGAGE collection that’s been triple coated for waterproof durability (and available now). The classic Bridle Leather straps and brass trims finish out these haulers, available in shades of Black, Otter Green and Brown.
Naturally, the sizes and shapes are what’s needed for hunters and gatherers…large and small Floatplane Duffles, Business Bags (with padded laptop compartments) and carry on bags buzzed out with inner compartments and interior straps to keep our clothes secured.
There’s also an expansion in the Wool based selections in tartan like plaids. (Holiday 2009). Wool Field totes, a pocketed Field Bag, a Duffle and shoulder strapped small Field Bag are available in seven different color combos, are polished with the signature Bridal Leather and brass finishes…and are accessibly tagged from $120-$250.
INFO: FILSON