Junya Watanabe’s Filson Denim Cruiser Jacket Collaboration: Details

Filson is celebrating the 110th anniversary of one of its most recognizable styles with a unique collaboration.

The 127-year-old American fashion brand has tapped famed Japanese fashion designer Junya Watanabe to reimagine a limited-edition version of Filson’s Denim Cruiser jacket. The style is infused with Watanabe’s signature streetwear design codes and Filson’s workwear functionality. 

“At Filson, we’ve built our heritage on creating timeless, functional pieces to last a lifetime,” said Alex Carleton, chief creative officer of Filson. “Junya Watanabe’s work has always challenged the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what fashion can be. This collaboration allows us to do both — celebrate our legacy while infusing it with Watanabe’s signature style. The result is a truly unique denim jacket that’s both innovative and built to withstand the elements.” 

Watanabe’s design is created with a denim front, nylon back and features faux leather patchwork detailing. The limited-edition Denim Cruiser will retail for $1,500 at Filson’s website and New York City flagship starting Thursday. 

The Denim Cruiser was first debuted in 1887 by the brand’s founder, C.C. Filson as gear for the Alaska Gold Rush, and was later patented in 1914. The jacket’s design has not been changed since its inception, still featuring the front buttons, nine utilitarian pockets and large rear pocket the style was originally designed with.

The collaboration with Watanabe is Filson’s latest major initiative. In March, the brand debuted its first full women’s collection, which offered many archive-inspired styles. Filson also launched a resale program last December with Trove, allowing customers to purchase off-season and slightly damaged products at a lower price. The brand later introduced a customer trade-in offering as part of the resale program.