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Will my tin cloth item stretch out over time? It fits a little tightly over sweaters right now – will that improve as I wear it?

In most cases, tin cloth shrinks with wear, rather than stretches. We recommend sizing up to ensure a comfortable fit.

Help – my tin cloth jacket is far too stiff. How do I break it in?

The best way to soften any stiff Tin Cloth item is simply by wearing it. Over time, the tin cloth will soften up and relax. While it may be uncomfortable at first, this gives the best long-term results. On older items, stiffness can sometimes be caus

Can tin cloth handle heat as well as cold?

Tin cloth can handle some heat, but because it is treated with an oil-based wax, we don’t recommend exposing it to open flame or extreme heat due to flammability concerns. Do not store any waxed cotton product in a hot area. The wax can soften and "s

What’s the best way to care for my new denim item? (Jeans, Jacket, other)

Raw denim is best unwashed. Should your item develop a “funk”, we suggest putting it in the freezer for a few days to kill odor-causing bacteria without using water or soap. If you are more comfortable with washing, we suggest a long soak in cold wat

Will my new Railsplitter / Bullbuck Jeans shrink when I wash them?

As with most 100% cotton garments, a little shrinking is inevitable. To minimize shrinking, soak in cold water and hang dry away from heat.

How do I clean a Filson down product?

Some of our down garments are machine washable, while others would be ruined if run through the wash. It’s best to reference the care label sewn into each garment at the left inside seam for specific instructions to each garment.

Can I wash a 100% nylon jacket filled with down?

Down items with a nylon shell may often be machine washed in cold water, with like colors – but it’s always safest to refer to the garment-specific care instructions. Avoid washing any down items in a machine that has a center agitator. We also recom

How do I best clean rugged twill?

Our Rugged Twill fabric requires very little in terms of maintenance. If it gets dirty, simply wipe it down with a clean damp rag or brush it off. Like our oil finish tin cloth, rugged twill should not be machine washed or dry cleaned. Additionally,

Can I wax rugged twill?

Some Filson customers have waxed their Rugged Twill bags with Filson’s Oil Finish Wax, the same way they would retreat their Tin Cloth. Though this is not an officially recommended practice, it will not damage the fabric. Waxing Rugged Twill will imp

How do I clean my Filson Bridle Leather?

Wipe or brush clean; condition leather as needed. Most dirt and debris will not stick to the smooth surface of our Bridle Leather. Most dirt and debris that does stick, can be wiped off or brushed away once dry. If you feel your leather would benefit

What is Ripstop Nylon?

Our Ripstop Nylon is built with durable and water-resistant Cordura nylon. The weave pattern includes thicker threads in a grid pattern; these thicker threads act as a barrier to stop or slow any rips to the fabric.

Is Ripstop Nylon waterproof?

It’s water resistant, although not waterproof.

What does “Waterproof” vs. “Water-Resistant” actually mean?

It’s a matter of degree. Water-resistant jackets such as our Lightweight Anorak or our Women’s Hooded Deck Jacket are built with lightweight cotton that’s quite breathable and treated with special processes that cause water to bead up and roll off th

How do I clean rain gear?

For best results, follow the instructions on the garment’s cut tag (usually located in the left side seam). IF this is missing, cold wash & hang drying away from heat works for most waterproof items. You can also use a garment wash specifically desig

Is waxed cotton waterproof?

No, we never refer to our waxed cotton as waterproof, because it doesn’t meet the industry standards to be called such. The waxed finish does create water and wind repellency, however.

How much does your Alaskan Guide Shirt shrink?

Our Alaskan Guide Shirts shrink about one size down. To minimize shrinking, wash exclusively in cold water and hang dry in a cool area.

How do I care for Mackinaw Wool, or other types of wool?

Wool garments should be professionally dry cleaned only; find a reliable dry cleaner you can trust. Point out any spots or stains so your dry cleaner can treat them properly. Do not machine wash—even in cold water—because wool can shrink unevenly or

What is Mackinaw Wool? How is it different from Yukon and Seattle wools?

Mackinaw Wool: At 24-26 oz per linear yard, our Mackinaw wool is durable, breathable, warm, and naturally water repellent. Used to make some of our most popular products, including the century-old Mackinaw Cruiser. Yukon Wool is also heavyweight, mea

How do I rewax tin cloth?

For best results, re-proof in warm conditions. Ensure the garment is clean before proceeding (see “how do I clean tin cloth?” above for full instructions). Apply wax generously with a clean cloth. Use light, short, circular strokes to work wax well i

What is Rugged Twill?

Rugged Twill is the foundation of our line of bags and luggage. It was chosen for its durability and dependability in every field. A 22 oz cotton twill, it is lightly brushed with a weather-resistant, paraffin-based wax, and densely woven to reduce s

How breathable is Tin Cloth? Will it let sweat out?

Waxed cotton is somewhat breathable when compared to other types of waterproof garments. This depends on how much wax is on the garment. If the material is just saturated with the oil-wax finish like it comes when brand-new, the proofing is held with

What is Merino wool?

Prized for its water-resistance and durability, Merino Wool simultaneously wicks moisture, breathes, and insulates within a broad temperature range – and has natural lanolin with built-in antibacterial properties. It comes from the Merino Sheep, whic

What is Virgin Wool and why is it special?

Filson uses 100% virgin wool, which is the first batch of fabric made with any given shearing of wool. This produces a wool fabric with the longest fibers possible, which make it unnecessary for us to blend synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester

Why is wool a superior choice for outdoor garments?

Wool fabrics contain a natural oil called lanolin, which gives it intrinsic water repellency. Wool has superior insulating properties, which means it can retain heat even when wet, absorbing up to 30% of its weight in water without becoming damp or c

How do I best store Mackinaw Wool products? (Cruiser, Blanket, Vest, and more)

Hang correctly—use a hanger that fits, preferably a shaped or padded hanger. Set the garment properly on the hanger. Hang pants with the pant legs aligned to keep the creases straight. Hang your wool clothes where they can breathe; avoid overcrowding

What would happen if I wash my wool item?

Washing is almost certain to shrink or felt your wool item. If you absolutely must wash your garment, spot cleaning with cold water and wool wash is your best bet – although we can’t guarantee it won’t shrink.

What is Moleskin?

Moleskin is a tightly woven, 100% cotton fabric traditionally used for outdoor clothing in Britain and other European countries. A longtime favorite of hunters and anglers, our luxuriously soft Moleskin is quiet and highly wind resistant. Brushed for

Will garments made from cotton shrink in the wash? (Prospector Hoodie, Beartooth Camp Jacket)

Most cotton items will shrink a little in the wash. To avoid shrinking, wash exclusively in cold water and hang dry. Keep away from heat while drying. Cotton blended with polyester shrinks far less than 100% cotton fabric.

How often should I apply an exterior waterproofing (DWR) treatment?

It completely depends on each person’s individual use of the garment, and how much time they spend in the field. We suggest reading the directions on the DWR product for guidance.

My dry bag has a hole. What’s the best way to mend it?

It really depends on the type of hole and the location. Filson warranty & repairs is unable to repair dry bag holes, but we recommend AquaSeal products if you’d like to try a DIY repair.

My tin jacket smells so strongly of oil tin! What do I do?

Waxed cotton has a distinctive smell that can become oppressive, especially if the garment has been in storage. If you find the smell overpowering, we suggest airing the garment out while it’s not in use. If the smell continues to persist, sending th

What’s the best way to remove food stains from my item?

Here are some general tips. Oily stains (like sunscreen, lotion, or olive oil): We suggest spot cleaning with a gentle castile soap or dawn dish soap and water solution. Use a medium bristle brush to work on the stain. See “cleaning” instructions for

Mold grew on my item! How can I clean it?

For both garments and luggage/bags:. Lightly brush off all surface mold. Next, mix 1/3 white vinegar to 2/3 warm water. Using a scrub brush or rag, work the mixture into the fabric. Rinse out the rag and repeat the treatment as needed – this techniqu

The underside of my leather (strap / shoulder pad) is cracking / peeling / fuzzy

Small amounts of “fuzz” appearing on the underside of straps is normal as the material wears. However, we recommend conditioning leather every 3-6 months to prolong the life of the leather and avoid permanent damage.