As an avid outdoors enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to Filson backpack classic design and reputation for durability. After putting it through its paces on numerous adventures, I can say that it lives up to the hype.
Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack 262 is a classic all-purpose rucksack that features saddle-grade Bridle Leather seam binding, reinforcement, body tabs and straps. It has three exterior pockets, a roomy interior, and a rustproof brass zipper. The Filson brand was founded in 1897 and has a reputation for making durable and stylish products for outdoor enthusiasts.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the design, construction, materials, and drawbacks of the Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack 262.
Materials
The Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack is crafted primarily from two robust materials: rugged twill and Bridle Leather. The rugged twill is a robust cotton fabric offering water repellence and resistance to abrasion and tearing. The Bridle Leather, a vegetable-tanned cowhide, exudes strength, flexibility, and sleekness.
These materials come together to underscore the superior performance and quality of the Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack. The rugged twill acts as a shield for your belongings, warding off moisture, dirt, and potential damage. The Bridle Leather contributes to the bag’s structure, durability, and visual appeal. Over time, these materials mature beautifully, acquiring a distinctive patina that enhances their charm and character.
Design
The Filson rugged twill rucksack stands out unmistakably. This design exudes a charm that is both classic and evergreen. Beyond its aesthetics, the design is rooted in functionality and practicality. Perfect as an everyday carry, this backpack effortlessly transitions from the office to weekend getaways. It’s a minimalist yet robust bag with ample storage capacity. Its vintage appeal is a personal favorite, seamlessly complementing any attire. Despite its weight, the bag offers great comfort. The unpadded, adjustable leather shoulder straps sit snugly without causing any discomfort. The handy leather handle on top is perfect for those moments when you prefer to hand carry. Crafted in the USA using top-tier materials and skilled workmanship, this bag is not just long-lasting but also matures beautifully over time.
Construction
The Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack stands at 17 inches tall, spans 15 inches wide, and is 5 inches in depth. With a volume of 21 liters and a weight close to 3.5 pounds, this rucksack is a nod to vintage design, fusing twill with leather to achieve a perfect blend of toughness and elegance.
It features a flap-style closure kept in place by two leather straps with buckles. Beneath this flap, you’ll find the main storage area, a duo of expandable pockets at the front, and a handy open pocket at the rear. Solid brass two-way zippers, enhanced by generous leather pull tabs, provide easy access. Additionally, the bag offers a sturdy leather handle and shoulder straps that can be adjusted for comfort. The primary compartment comfortably houses a laptop, books, apparel, and other daily necessities. As for the exterior, there are three strategically placed pockets: two on the front with snap closures perfect for smaller essentials, and an open sleeve pocket at the back, suitable for a journal, map, or a hydration bottle.
Drawbacks
It’s suggested to put storage bags to prevent items from falling, due to the gap between the front two snap flaps and the pockets. It doesn’t have a computer compartment, and the stitching where the strap joint is a little obtrusive. Since no side pocket, the buckle can only be unfastened from the front, so I often unfasten the two buckles to make it easier to get things. While there is no lining in the bag, the twill fabric that fits snugly on the back isn’t too thin to be uncomfortable. The shoulder straps also serve another purpose, allowing you to attach clothes and umbrellas that you don’t want to put in your bag. I’ve seen a lot of people’s 262 wear and tear generally appear on the bottom of bag, you can find a good tailor or send it to Filson for repair.
In conclusion, the Filson Rugged Twill Rucksack stands out for individuals who put a premium on quality, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. It’s a timeless accessory that will reliably serve your needs over many years and across numerous events. Boasting a roomy main compartment, it provides ample space for all your necessary items and more. The bag’s secure flap closure ensures your belongings stay protected and dry, and a lifetime guarantee underscores the product’s durability and trustworthiness.
Nonetheless, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone’s needs. When compared to other rucksacks on the market, its price tag is higher. It also misses some features that certain users might find valuable, such as an interior laptop sleeve, additional inner compartments, or cushioned shoulder straps. Furthermore, accessing your items while on the move might not be as smooth, as the flap has to be unbuckled each time you need to reach in.
Although the fabric will gradually soften during use, it’s difficult to achieve the same ageing effect as after waxing. Check out how to rewax the rugged twill.
