Skip to main content

Filson and the U.S. Forest Service Collaborate to Raise Awareness About Forest Fires

Climate change seems to be the buzzword of 2017 and for good reason: Record temps and record rains with equally record droughts plus that iceberg the size of Delaware that just decided to break free. Also, forest fires have been in the news now almost year round.

Some not so fun fire facts:

  • Climate change worsens drought and other conditions, which are expected to increase areas of severe burns by 50-100 percent by 2050.
  • Wildfires in the United States typically burn between 4 million and 9 million acres each year.
  • In 2015, 58,916 human-caused wildfires burned over 2 million acres alone.
  • There are 140 million people with 40 million homes living in fire-prone areas in the United States.
Recommended Videos

Filson has been hard at work forging a partnership with the United States Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation (NFF), the nonprofit partner of the U.S. Forest Service. The main goal of this collaboration is telling the unsung stories of the heroes of the U.S. Forest Service. It’s a love letter to the agency, recognizing the invaluable and irreplaceable role the agency and the individuals within it have played in our collective outdoor experiences, whether it’s building trails and roads so that we have access to the places that we choose to spend our free time, or literally protecting our homes and livelihoods when wildfires break out.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

We have been working with Filson to interview some of the firefighters they photographed from the North Western Smokejumpers out of Redmond Air Center (near Redmond, Oregon). Unfortunately, they are too busy putting out fires (in the literal sense) to speak to us.

We did get to speak to Filson’s Creative Director, Alex Carleton who said, “From its legacy of stewardship managing 193 million acres of public lands and natural resources to its steadfast commitment to serve ‘the greatest good for the greatest number in the long run,’ the U.S. Forest Service embodies the ethos of the Filson brand and our customers.” He continues, “We have a fundamental belief that our country’s greatness is rooted in its natural resources, and we’re happy to collaborate with the organization responsible for managing those resources.”

Interestingly, Filson was one of the original approved apparel suppliers to the U.S. Forest Service back in 1905 and in honor of that shared history, they’ve also created an extremely limited collection of products with the U.S. Forest Service logo that debuts today. The collection includes classic Filson styles along with some new pieces, in colorways and logo treatments they’ve never done before–like black on black Tin Jackets with black U.S. Forest Service logos. There are also large blankets woven with the USFS shield at the Original Mill in Pendleton, Oregon, enamel mugs, water bottles, a beanie, tees and one good looking watch.

In addition to the great gear on offer, NFF and a group of volunteers from Filson, with assistance from other local partners, are completing restoration work on the Heybrook Lookout Tower in Index, Washington. An important fixture in the history of Washington State forestry, as it is one of only two fire lookout towers in the state available for the public to reserve, the tower was deemed unsafe for overnight stays in 2015. When the tower is re-opened to the public later this summer, it will be an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts to escape to for recreation in the beautiful forests of the Central Cascades.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

“We’re excited to be partnering with Filson, which understands and appreciates the Pacific Northwest’s rich outdoor heritage,” said Jim Peña, Pacific Northwest Regional Forester. “Working together, we’ll be able to restore the Heybrook Lookout Tower and help tell the story of the many ways national forests contribute to the people and communities of the Pacific Northwest.”

Smokey the Bear couldn’t be happier.

Cator Sparks
Former Former Digital Trends Contributor, The Manual
Cator Sparks was the Editor-in-Chief of The Manual from its launch in 2012 until 2018. Previously, Cator was covering…
Breitling unveils updated Superocean Heritage with Hawaiian surf inspiration
Wave rider: Breitling's superocean heritage update celebrates hawaiian surf heritage with kelly slater
Breitling superocean sea watch

Breitling refreshes its Superocean Heritage collection for the first time since 2017, introducing updated sizes, the new B31 manufacture movement, and a limited edition created in collaboration with surfing legend Kelly Slater. This revision balances vintage 1950s style with modern elegance and pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture through special partnerships.

The Superocean Heritage line originally launched in 1957 as Breitling’s dive watch, combining stylish design with underwater capability. Early models like the Ref. 1004 time-only and Ref. 807 chronograph featured spear and arrow hands, anodized rotating bezels, and compact proportions—appealing to those who valued both aesthetics and function.

Read more
G-Shock’s original DW-5000c gets mighty full metal reissue
Steel evolution: G-shock's full metal 5000 series celebrates iconic dw-5000c heritage
Casio G-shock original product shot

G-Shock highlights its heritage with the 5000 Series Full-Metal GMW-B5000D-1C, a watch that reinterprets the groundbreaking 1983 DW-5000C. This new release blends the classic styling with updated materials and technology, marking an evolution for the brand’s core design.
The original DW-5000C nearly faded into obscurity but was ahead of its time. It gained traction with younger skaters and surfers, especially after being featured on American television. Today, it’s considered an icon among watch enthusiasts and everyday carry fans, establishing G-Shock’s reputation for toughness and practical utility.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is the first Full Metal model to feature the original’s signature red, blue, and yellow accents—each color carrying meaning: red for “the passion to take on challenges,” blue for “excellent water resistance,” and yellow for “outstanding shock resistance.” Previous Full Metal versions used different color schemes, so this release is especially significant for longtime G-Shock fans.
The construction is a major upgrade from the original’s resin case and rubber strap. The GMW-B5000D-1C uses a stainless steel case and linked bracelet, making it more durable and long-lasting while retaining the iconic look that made the DW-5000C famous.
Modern features include a Tough Solar quartz movement, replacing the old lithium battery and drawing power from sunlight. Bluetooth connectivity allows the watch to sync with a smartphone for easier control and enhanced functionality, bringing the 1980s design into the digital age.
Despite these updates, the essential G-Shock principles remain, especially the shock resistance that first set the brand apart. The GMW-B5000D-1C captures the original spirit, honoring it with new technology and improved durability.
Alongside this release, G-Shock also introduces the GM-B2100SD-1C, which applies the same color theme to the first Full Metal watch’s round case. This two-part launch demonstrates G-Shock’s commitment to honoring its roots while exploring new expressions within the Full Metal series.
The GMW-B5000D-1C is featured on G-Shock’s website, though pricing and availability details have not yet been announced. The timing suggests a focus on collectors and fans seeking a piece of G-Shock history, now reimagined with premium materials and modern features.
This release illustrates how classic designs can evolve through new materials and technology, preserving the core qualities that made them legendary and appealing to both longtime G-Shock enthusiasts and newcomers discovering the brand’s origins.

Read more
Chopard honors Sir Stirling Moss with Mille Miglia limited edition
Racing heritage: Chopard's stirling moss tribute and gts upgrade showcase lucent steel excellence
Chopard Mille Miglia press shot

Chopard honors racing driver Sir Stirling Moss with a Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph. At the same time, the brand updates its popular GTS Power Control with a new in-house movement. Both watches, released in 2025, use Chopard's Lucent Steel alloy, which is known for having the whitest, brightest steel finish in fine watchmaking.
The Stirling Moss tribute watch recognizes the Mercedes-Benz driver whose 722 300 SLR made racing history. The 40.5mm chronograph features a brass dial with a silver opaline finish, recalling the matte silver of Moss's "Silver Arrows" era Mercedes-Benz. Only 70 pieces exist, each individually numbered and priced at $10,800. The watch comes with a period-appropriate racing strap, featuring large punched holes and matching stitching.
Despite the high price, Chopard equips the chronograph with an ETA 2892 base movement rather than one of its own calibers. The movement is 3.75mm thick, runs at 4Hz, and offers a 54-hour power reserve. It is also COSC certified. Some collectors might expect an in-house movement at this price, but the 2892 is known for its reliable engineering, and many enthusiasts prefer it over alternatives like the 7750.
The Mille Miglia GTS Power Control 2025 Race Edition is even more appealing, as it finally receives Chopard's in-house 01.02-M movement. This caliber, measuring 28.8mm wide and 4.95mm thick, features cutouts reminiscent of cooling vents and uses color schemes inspired by car engines. It provides a 60-hour power reserve via a rotor with multiple openings.
A technical review notes, "This movement provides a big upgrade for the MM GTS, and it offers much movement for the price." The 43mm case houses a galvanized salmon dial with a circular satin finish. Grade X1 Super-LumiNova, with a black tint, creates a distinctive look against the salmon background during the day.
The GTS is priced at $7,630, with only 250 pieces available. It offers strong value, considering the in-house movement and Lucent Steel construction. The power reserve display, located between 8 and 10 o'clock, is styled like a car fuel gauge, reinforcing its appeal to car enthusiasts through practical design elements.
Both watches demonstrate Chopard's dedication to automotive history. They show how different approaches—tribute chronographs and technical upgrades—can appeal to various collector tastes. The Lucent Steel construction ensures both models display Chopard's renowned bright finish, which must be seen in person to fully appreciate.
The contrast in pricing and features makes the GTS Power Control especially attractive for enthusiasts seeking the quality of an in-house movement at a more accessible price.

Read more