Filson alternative for canvas/leather bags?

Submitted by rainsch15 t3_ydssw3 in BuyItForLife

Does anyone have a recommendation for a high-quality canvas/leather trim duffle bag similar to Filson? After researching a bunch I think the consensus is that Filson is great but somewhat overpriced at this point. Also some of the bags I’m interested in are always sold out. I’m aware of Duluth and Frost River and while I’m impressed with their craftsmanship I think Filson has a much better design. Just curious to hear what else is out there!

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OffgridRadio t1_ittz8b3 wrote

I have a Golla Genmob bag from the early 2000's thing has always been a tank of a canvas bag

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WinkyNurdo t1_itu6wpu wrote

About 16 years ago I bought a Belstaff colonial messenger bag — same as the bag Will Smith used in I Am Legend — I loved the look and feel, the quality initially felt great, and the bridal leather straps that extended from the back of the bag, over the top flap and far beyond the real buckles were extremely handy; I’d often fold up a waterproof and secure it under the straps. However, the canvas material hasn’t lasted; it’s worn away at certain points that make repair very difficult. Which is a shame, the bridal thickness leather parts have all worn nicely and will last a lot longer. I’m at the point where I might take it apart myself and try to fix it with patches (I’m not fussed at all about invisible mending).

For a while I was looking for an alternative bag, and pretty much exhaustively completed the internet looking for brands that have a similar look but are more durable. And it turns out that Filson, Duluth and Frost River are about as good as it gets! There are plenty of options on Etsy, though, and it’s worth having a trawl through. One option might be to find someone who can make you a bag to order. If you’re willing to drop hundreds on a top brand, then for about the same you could get something completely bespoke and made just for you.

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Cascadian73 t1_ituqbp2 wrote

Check out the Orvis offerings. Carried one for 30 years. If not in a rush, search eBay under "Orvis bag" and you might find a good deal on a lightly used one.

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SingingElevators t1_itvpj60 wrote

I'm a huge fan of Defy here in Chicago. I have a nylon duffle that practically looks new after 8 years.

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BasketInfinite t1_itwms9r wrote

As said before Duluth Pack and Frost River are great.

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conn3ction t1_itx0izp wrote

I was looking for the same about 2 years ago and couldn’t find one with the same style . Wasn’t a fan of the offerings from frost river . I ended getting a medium canvas filson duffel and love it

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rennyrenwick t1_iuak9rc wrote

Not canvas but the Patagonia Black Hole travel bags are da bomb.

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