The Material Review

A TMR Holiday Gift Guide Series Featuring Filson Chief Creative Officer Alex Carleton.

As Chief Creative Officer for Filson, Alex Carleton is as knowledgable as they come when assessing the long-term value and quality of the things we buy. For the first installment of our ongoing holiday gift guide series, we spoke to him about what makes a good gift, his favorite gift items from Filson’s collection and the Filson pieces he wears daily.

What's the most important thing to think about when getting a gift for someone?

Know your recipient! Avoid gifting items that don’t suit their interests, like scuba gear to someone who’s afraid of water. Also ensure correct sizing for clothing gifts. If you’re unsure, consult a relative or friend. Caps and bags are great options as they don’t require specific sizing. I also like to give presents that are practical, useful and will stick around for a while unless, of course, it's a good bottle of liquor.

What's the newest or coolest thing in the Filson collection which gift givers might overlook?

I love our blankets, especially the woolen ones. While our cotton blankets are perfect for the beach, our woolen blankets are rich and beautiful. Every season, we introduce limited-edition woolen blankets with exceptionally researched and borrowed images and patterns from our archives

Alternatively, a good flannel shirt like the AK Guide or Vintage Flannel is a great gift. I also like to give a Rugged Twill Tote bag filled with various items such as trinkets, accessories, books, a bottle of wine, and other small gifts.

What from the Filson line would you personally want as a gift (that you haven't already taken from the sample closet!)?

I'm an outerwear fiend! I want the new Hooded Mackinaw Cruiser, the Moose Motif Jacquard Cruiser, and the Forestry Blanket Robe right away, please.

In your opinion, what is the most iconic Filson item one could receive as a gift?

The Cruiser. Any one of them.

What is the one item of Filson clothing that you wear the most?

It's often head to toe - pocket tees, flannels, dry tin 5 pocket pants. I wear them almost daily.