Briefcase Showdown: Filson 256 vs 257
One of the most hotly debated topics in the world of Filson, especially to newcomers, is the decision between the Filson Original Briefcase 256 and the Filson Computer Briefcase 257. They share a design aesthetic and differ by only two inches in width, but there is a bigger difference here than initially meets the eye. So let’s get started…
EXTERIOR DESIGN
Both briefcases share the same basic design. They both have a zipped main compartment with a storm flap that snaps closed and they both have two full-length exterior pockets, two carry-handles and a shoulder strap. Here is how they differ…
HAND GRIP
The 257 comes from the factory with a two-snap hand grip attached to the carry handles. This serves two purposes. First, it distributes heavier loads across your hand to make carrying the bag very comfortable. Second, it keeps the handles neatly together when you place the bag down or are carrying it with the shoulder strap.
The 256 does not include the hand grip, but Filson will install it for you for $20, so if it is important to you, there is a work-around. I am in the minority, but I definitely prefer the 256 without the hand grip. I find that the two bare handles are very comfortable with my typical load and I like the casual character of the floppy handles as they break in. In addition, it makes access to the main compartment easier if you are constantly in and out of your bag.
SHOULDER STRAP ATTACHMENT POINTS
The 256 has the shoulder strap attachment point stitched directly to the canvas. Whereas, the 257 uses a large leather baseplate to connect the attachment point to the bag. This will spread the load over a larger surface area and should allow the bag to handle very heavy loads slightly better.
ABILITY TO STAND UP
The 257 has a wider base and will stand up on its own. The 256 will need to be leaned against a desk or a chair because of its narrow base.
WEIGHT AND OVERALL SIZE
In person, the 257 definitely feels bigger and bulkier than the 256. It only weighs about three ounces more, but overall it feels like you are carrying around considerably more bag. Whether this is a good or bad thing is entirely subjective. If you are a student and carry lots of textbooks or have a more sizeable laptop with a charger brick and want to carry a water bottle, a jacket, etc., then the bulkier 257 may be just what the doctor ordered.
It is hard to truly understand how different the two bags feel without handling them in person, but you can get a sense of the size difference in this picture.
INTERIOR ORGANIZATION
The inside of the 256 is fairly basic. The bag has a spacious main compartment sandwiched between two full length interior pockets, one of which has six smaller pockets (of various sizes) sewn onto it for pens, business cards, calculators, cell phones, etc.
The full length interior pockets are perfectly suited for a small laptop (13″ MacBook Air), a legal pad holder or an iPad. If you want to use a 15″ laptop with this bag, you will need to put it in the main compartment.
The 257 is a little more complex inside. The following schematic (from the Filson web site) is the best representation of the interior. It starts with the basic 256 layout and adds a large, full-length laptop divider (which is not secured to the bottom of the bag) and three additional large sleeve pockets sewn to the inside of the interior pocket.
I find both layouts to have certain advantages. The 256 is simpler and cleaner and provides all the essential storage that I need for most days. While the 257 includes more pockets and dividers, they do intrude into the interior space a bit if you don’t need so much partitioning.
Because I use a 13″ MacBook Air, which easily fits in the interior side pocket, I often wish that the 257 did not have the extra computer divider so I could make better use of the main compartment. If you use a 15″ MacBook, you may need to put it in the main compartment anyway so the laptop divider may be rendered superfluous.
For many years, the three sleeve pockets on the inside of the 257 did not have a sewn bottom, meaning that they are designed to secure larger cargo, but cannot be used as conventional pockets to hold smaller items. I actually love the sleeve design because I am able to fit two 16 oz Nalgene water bottles and use the remaining sleeve for my laptop accessories.
In the last few months, I have read reports that Filson has changed the design (in response to customer demand) and is now sewing across the bottom to create closed pockets. This change is definitely something to be aware of so that you can be sure to get the layout that suits you best. My 257 was purchased locally one month ago with the open sleeves and it is my preferred layout.
WHAT WILL THESE CASES HOLD?
You may be surprised how much the 256 Original Briefcase actually holds (I certainly was). Here is a visual representation of how I use the bags on a daily basis. Here it is full and ready for the day..
Here is a top view of the bag’s contents…
Here is an inventory of the contents and a picture of everything unpacked…
- iPad 2 (with Saddleback case)
- 13″ MacBook Air with neoprene sleeve
- Leather legal pad holder
- (2) Large hardcover books
- 3-Ring Binder (1.5″)
- Assorted pens and pencils
- Magazines and catalogs
If you need to carry heavy textbooks (or more than a couple hardcover books), then the 257 may be a better choice. I would definitely recommend the 257 for college/graduate students.
WHICH ONE SHOULD I CHOOSE?
Bottom Line: both briefcases are excellent, but unless you have a specific and compelling reason for the extra size/bulk, choose the 256.
CHOOSE the Filson Original Briefcase 256 if you…
- are looking for a well proportioned bag with just the right amount of storage;
- use a 13″ laptop and do not need to carry a lot of chargers or peripherals;
- are having trouble deciding…the 256 is a better choice for most people.
CHOOSE the Filson Computer Bag 257 if you…
- are a student or professor who carries multiple large, heavy text books;
- work in an occupation that requires you to transport large binders or significant amounts of paperwork (a lawyer for example);
- are a frequent business traveler who would like to fit a change of clothes and some toiletries along with your business items;
- you work in the field and need to carry tools, lunch, water, or specialized equipment in addition to a computer and some paperwork.
If you have any other questions that I can help you answer, please leave them in the comments. Also, I would love to hear about your 256/257 experiences. Thanks for reading:)
Charles, this was a very thorough and informative review (as I have come to expect from you). The schematic of the 257 was particularly helpful. I have been needing a bag with a lot of space for the past several years being a college student but I will finish this December so I am sure I will not need as much space as I think I do. Of course, it is hard to believe this since I have grown so accustomed to having the extra space. As it stands I think I will go ahead and order both in different colours and keep the one I like best. Again, thank you for all your help and I look forward to seeing your future post (which will likely be my future envies).
Thanks, Timothy! I appreciate the feedback. I don’t think it is possible to make a bad choice. Buying both (one in each color) is a great solution because you can put the bags through you daily routine and see which one comes out on top. Keep me posted:)
I realize I ordered the 256 in Otter Green and the 257 in Tan. I think I’ve been checking this blog too much that I subconsciously chose the same colours that I saw in the picture. I’m actually worried that I will like both bags too much to sell either of them!
I think you made a great decision! That is the perfect pair. I also think it is very likely that you will find it hard to let one go. I decided to just resign myself to the fact that I need both. Let me know when they arrive:)
I think what’s really tempting me to keep them is I got them for ~30% off through someone who had extras. I’ll definitely let you know when they arrive.
By the way, do you still own the 256 in Otter Green and 257 in Tan? I noticed in those pictures you have a 256 in Tan and also noticed you sold a 256 in Otter Green a little while ago.
30% off is a great deal. I currently own three Filson briefcases. I have the 256 in both Tan and Otter Green and my 257 is in Tan. The OG 256 that I sold last month was an extra one that I came across locally on a close out sale.
Hi Charles, you’re the man!
I also have these two bags and keep 256 for my daily work. It’s really a useful analysis. I will keep to follow you as I’m a Filson fan also.
Thank you for the kind words. I think having both bags is definitely the best option:) Welcome aboard and thanks for the follow.
Any thoughts on the 258 Padded Computer Bag?
Thanks for the question, Mark. I do not own a 258, but I did have a chance to play with one this weekend at the local Filson dealer. It is a very, very substantial bag. It actually makes the 257 Computer Briefcase look like a thin attaché in comparison. Unless you have seen the bag in person, it is hard to truly get a sense of how large it actually is. It has a very large front compartment and resembles the Sportsman’s case a first glance. As long as you are using a sleeve on your laptop, I would steer you towards the 257 over the 258.
The 257 holds an incredible amount of stuff, but with much less bulk/weight than the 258. I did not get the impression that the 258 would offer enough additional protection (over the 257) to justify the added weight/cost. So, unless you have a very compelling need for the additional room, I would definitely recommend the 257.
Thanks for your review of the 258. I actually picked up an otter green one during the recent Brooks Brother 40% off sale. Couldn’t pass up the deal- only $195 for the 258. It may be too big for daily use as you say. But I think I’d get decent use out of it for a carry-on/travel piece.
The Brooks Brothers sale was fabulous and I was actually tempted to pick up the 258 as well. The bag will look amazing in Otter Green and to use as a Carry-on or Travel case for business, you will not be disappointed. It is a substantial bag, with great storage and darn near bulletproof. Congratulations on getting such a great deal and be sure to send me a pic or two when it arrives:)
Hi Charles, I chance upon your blog while trying to decide on my first Filson bag and found your reviews very useful. Right now, i have narrowed down to the 256 and 232 n is having a hard time deciding which one suits me best. I will be using this bag mainly for school and my usual capacity will be 1 textbook, a couple of notes and occasionally a small laptop 10″ or 13″. Does dressing plays a part? I will be in jeans with polo tee most of the time. Sometimes in shirt but nothing too formal.
Hi Daniel, thanks for your question. In your situation, I would definitely recommend the 256 (as long as you are limiting the textbook capacity to one). As a student, the briefcase styles (256/257) tend to work much better because of the internal organization, especially for carrying items like a laptop, pens, a notebook and a textbook. The 232 is a great bag, but it has no internal dividers so I would be worried about the laptop getting damaged. In addition, it is debatable whether the 232 will even hold a 13″ MacBook Air. I tried to squeeze one in and had a lot of problems…it was certainly not something I would want to use to transport my computer. The 232 is better for carrying lunch, reading material, a sweatshirt/jacket, a water bottle, etc. For your purposes, go with the 256 (or the 257 if you need a bit more room). I hope this helps and thank you for reading the blog.
Thanks Charles. I am leaning towards the 256 now after your points made on the compartment. I was previously hesitating on the 256 as it might look too formal but after looking at a number of pics on how it is match up with some causal clothing, I think it look casual as well. N I am definitely getting the Tan.
Hi Charles, I’ve just received my Twill & Tweed 256 from shipment today. But i am a little confused here, on filson website, the 256 model was described to have the size of 16″ W x 12 1/2″ H x 4″ D, but one that I got only have a 3″ D. Wonder if I have got an “odd ball” or is it really only got a 3″ D in 256? Pls kindly advise.
Hello, Kino. I do not personally own a Twill & Tweed 256 Briefcase, but I do own two standard 256s (one in Tan and one in Otter Green). I just measured them for you and I am getting 3.5″ for both. I am sure there is a bit of variation due to the hand-sewn nature of these bags, but I find them to be fairly consistent. The special edition could be slightly smaller if the tweed is a thinner cloth by its nature. You could consider returning it for the standard version, but don’t expect it to be larger than 3.5″. I hope this helps and thank you for reading.
Hi Charles, Thank you so much for your help with the measurement and advise. Think I’ll try to make an exchange to see if I can get one with measurement close to 3.5″D, but probably stay with the Twill and Tweed model, cos I really like the look of it. Your website is wonderful!
Thank you for the kind words! You are very welcome…let me know how it turns out and good luck with the exchange.
Hello, Kino. Since you’re the only owner of Twill & Tweed version of 256 that I know, I would like to ask you a favor. Could you please weigh the bag for me (using kitchen scales maybe)? I just want to know is there any significant difference between the regular 256 and Twill & Tweed one. Charles helped me out with the weight of the regular one, so I wonder if you could help me out as well with our bag. Thank you!
I’m a wildlife biologist and am trying to decide between the 256 and 257 for accommodating my binoculars and a small water bottle for those days when I’m in the field in the morning but in the office in the afternoon. On such days I’ll often a file folder or two of maps and other paperwork, a few accessories, and perhaps a hat and gloves. Looks like the 256 *might* be big enough to serve my needs for those hybrid field/office days, or should I consider the 257?
Thanks for your question, Matt. In your situation, as a person that splits his time between the office and the field, it sounds like the 257 would be a perfect fit, especially with the water bottle, equipment and hat/gloves. I would be worried that the 256 is simply not wide enough to accommodate all of your things. Go with the 257…you will not be disappointed:)
Hi Charles,
Thanks for the detail review / information. I really enjoy reading your blog. I am a new Filson fan and just purchased my first 257 in brown last year. As much as I like my new bag, I have to admit I am not too crazy about the “brand new” look. Although I understand that patina only comes with time, patience is not one of my strengths. Therefore, I just purchased an used 257 from eBay (NB: Yes, that is cheating). Interesting thing is, I noticed the zipper of the used 257 does not have the same marking as my new one. It has “YKK” on the used but “Filson” on the new 257. I am curious to know if you have any insight about that.
Lastly, I would like to add one comment to your 256 vs 257 comparison if you don’t mind. Personally, I think the size of the owner / holder is also important in choosing between 256 & 257. I am over 6ft tall and 256 just looks somewhat odd on me in the mirror. That’s why I end up buying the 257.
Please keep up the good work. I look forward to learn more about Filson from your blog. Take care.
Thank you for the kind words, Frank and thank you for your comments.
About two years ago, Filson changed the markings on the zippers. They have always used (and continue to use) YKK zippers, which are the best in the industry. However, recently they decided to use the zipper pull as a tiny billboard and put the “Filson” branding on them. The zipper is exactly the same, but all new bags have the “Filson” zippers. I actually prefer the YKK branding because it is a little more subtle and classic looking, but the both get the job done equally well, so no worries.
I also agree with you (and it is an excellent point that you raise) that the size/build of the user is definitely a consideration when choosing between the 256 and 257. My wife borrows my 256 sometimes, but when she tried on my 257 it looked like she was heading to the airport for a weekend trip:)
Thanks again for reading, and check back soon for more reviews, etc.
Hi Charles, thanks for your reply. I have another question I hope you can help me with.
Do you have any idea where I can purchase the Black label version of Filson 257? I have been searching all over the net without any success. Thank you.
http://www.filsonitaly.it/borsa-filson-style-257-gr-tn/
I do not have any leads on a Black Label 257; however I have provided a couple links below to other special editions that are currently in production. BTW, do you live in the US? I may have a Tan 257 that is in like new condition available for sale. Let me know if you are interested and I will provide you with the details.
Apolis Philanthropist
http://store.apolisglobal.com/luggage/filson-apolis-philanthropist-briefcase/
Unionmade Denim
http://www.unionmadegoods.com/UNIONMADE_Indigo_Filson_Large_Briefcase_In_Indigo_6727.html
As always, thanks for visiting the blog!
Hi Charles, thanks for the offer. I am interested in your 257. Unfortunately, I am from Canada. Feel free to email me if you would like to discuss further. I can provide additional reference. Thanks again.
I am sorry that I did not get back to you sooner. It turns out the extra 257 that was due to arrive never showed up, so I no longer have an extra one for sale. I will keep your info on file and let you know if I get another one in. Thanks!
Hi Charles,
I’m an office worker and am after a bag that can be used for meetings (to hold a laptop, notepad, and presentations), as well as for business travel. Not sure if this is asking too much, but I also want it to double as a gym bag and hold clothes and a toiletries kit (but not shoes). The 256 looks more stylish and less bulky, but would it be enough? Also I live in Australia so probably can’t afford to buy both (would love to tho!) because of the shipping cost.
The 256 would probably be a very tight squeeze as a gym bag, especially if you need to carry shoes and toiletries. Because you are looking for a very versatile bag that will fill multiple roles, I think you should err on the side of choosing a slightly bigger bag. In your case, I would definitely choose the 257. Thanks for reading!
Hi Charles Page,
I am currently a high school senior looking for a nice bag that I can take to college and beyond. In my backpack I hold a 2″ binder (which I probably don’t really need to be as big), an iPad and Bluetooth tablet keyboard (roughly size of iPad), the occasional Art sketch book (just under 2cm) and just a pen pouch and 2 glasses case with a calculator in the smaller pocket. I can imagine this would be a job for the 256, which I am leaning towards more. However, I definitely plan on going to college but don’t know what to expect in terms of additional books. Before going to college, I plan on getting a Mac Book and ditching the large binder (and won’t have the iPad as it belongs to the school; seniors each get one for the year) and won’t have the sketch book. My main concern is getting the 256 and going to college and having more books than expected that the 256 might not be able to hold. Getting the 257 would definitely be the safer route but I prefer the 256 for it’s slimmer profile and look. I would like to get this and the Mac Book before college so I’m already acquainted with the feel and use of them both. Thanks a lot for reading!
[I am glad I came across this page; it was extremely helpful to see the 256 and 257 compared side by side with books and items for spatial reference.]
Now I’m leaning toward the 257 the more I research…
Hi, Gerald! Thank you for your comment and thanks for visiting the site. The general rule is that the 256 is for business and the 257 is for school (or special use). If you are going to carry anything more than a laptop and one textbook, I fear that the 256 would be too small for you. The 257 is a larger bag, but it would give you far more flexibility as a student. You can even throw a lunch in there or some gym clothes and it becomes a go-anywhere, do-anything solution. With the 256, your options are more limited, especially for a long day on campus. As a student, I would choose the 257. Good luck with your decision and keep me posted on how it turns out:)
I was thinking the same thing about the size constraint. Will most likely go with the 257 Otter Green. Thanks for the advice! Can’t wait to order it
Update: The binder itself is actually close 3″ but the ring is 2″
I’ve carried the same tan 257 to work everyday for 10 years and despite substantial softening of the canvas and fraying on the outside edges it is still a tank. The trim is in good shape and the YKK zippers are like new.
The biggest issue I have with the 257 design is that the shoulder strap attachment point is about at the bag’s center of gravity and the bag wants to pivot to a horizontal position, depending on how it is loaded. This makes it uncomfortable to carry for long distances with the strap over the shoulder and I almost always carry it with the handgrip.
The shoulder strap is a bit long for me — I’m 5’10″ — which I solved by tying a knot in it, reducing the length by about 2″ and making it rest more comfortably at my waist when I do use the strap.
Thanks for visiting the site! I agree with your analysis. The 256 does tend to have a more neutral weight balance when it is empty. For my particular 257, it has a tendency to hang horizontal when it is empty, but when I load it up, it carries much like the 256. As far as the shoulder strap is concerned, you could have it shortened by a leather-pro or you could call Filson and see if they will sell you a strap for the Medium Field Bag #232. The strap that ships on that model is shorter from the factory and it may work out better for you when paired with your 257.
I do know that Filson will sell the straps separately, so it would definitely be worth a phone call. I hope this helps.
Keep enjoying that 257!
Great reviews, first time reader! I am a 23 year old working primarily in nyc as a Sales Manager, constantly taking public transportation, and needing to carry papers, a laptop, files, etc. I am sold on the briefcase computer bag (257 I believe?)
I am leaning more towards green instead of tan, only because I like the look of the darker color. I read your article about comparing all the Filson colors, and being that this will be my first Filson bag, I may go for the green.
Any feedback?
Thanks for your comment and thanks for visiting the site. It sounds like you have it all figured out:) As long as you have a firm grasp on the size difference between the 257 and the 256, and you have determined that you need the extra room that the 257 provides, then I think that Otter Green would be a great color choice for your first Filson bag. On public transportation, it tends to stay much cleaner looking over time. Go for the Otter Green, you won’t regret it.
Hello Charles,
Thank you so much for such an informative post! I’m a female medical student and am considering the 256 in 257. Lately I’ve seen some pretty femmed out ladies rocking these briefcases, so I’m delighted to see that they look great on both men and women. I may purchase a used zippered tote bag for days when I need to lug around multiple (very heavy) textbooks and bulkier items, thus I’m looking at the briefcases as more of an “everyday carry” that I could also take to the hospital with me. So, on a day-to-day basis, I would not be carrying my laptop with me, but I would be carrying a notebook or two, one or two small books, a scarf and gloves, a water bottle, maybe a coffee container (Lord knows I need that!!), a small packed lunch, and a few medical instruments (e.g. stethoscope, tuning forks). As I’m writing this out I’m starting to wonder if the 257 may be the best fit, nonetheless I’m concerned that it may be too big and heavy for everyday use. I’d greatly appreciate your sage advice! I’m a bit stuck between the “256 for business” and “257 for school” adages since my uses for the bag fall in both domains. Thank you and take care.
Also, I’d be curious to know your thoughts on my using the tote when I need to lug bigger items to the hospital (e.g. lunch, a textbook or two), while using the 256 or 257 for everyday purposes. I have the funds to purchase both so long as one of the bags is used, though I have a slight preference for just getting one briefcase. Thanks again for your input!
Hi there, Deva! Thanks for visiting the site. That is a hard decision with a lot o factors, but hopefully I will be able to shed some light on the situation for you:)
First, the Zippered Tote is one of my absolute favorite bags that Filson makes. It is very robust and I used it to haul textbooks all the time. My wife (an attorney) also uses it quite frequently to haul client files to court. It is such a versatile (and affordable bag) and can even be used as a carry-on for quick trips.
The old adage of “257 for School” and “256 for Work” is typically very sound advice; however, I actually like your solution of 256 + Zipper Tote the best in your particular situation. My wife is fairly tall (5’9″) and when she attempts to carry the 257, it always looks more like luggage than like a briefcase; however, the 256 looks great on her. Depending on your stature, the 257 may look very, very large on your frame and on those days where it is not that full, the bag itself weighs quite a bit more than the 256.
I am always a fan of modular systems because of their inherent flexibility. If you can afford both, the 256 + Zipper Tote is the perfect answer. You have the svelte and proportional 256 to carry everyday with your lunch, a few notebooks, books, etc. and on those days where you need to bring everything but the kitchen sink, you can load up that Zipper Tote with all of the extras. That keeps your system light and adaptable and gives you the most options to configure it each day. You could even buy one in Classic Tan and the other in Otter Green (as the colors look great together). If you decide to go this route, I recommend the Zipper Tote in Otter…it is amazing.
I hope this helps…keep in touch and let me know how it turns out!
Hi Charles,
Thank you so much for your insights! You’ve convinced me now that the zippered tote + 256 are the way to go. And as it happens I am quite tall and slender, so I appreciate the comments about the 256 being better proportioned for lankier figures. I will follow your suggestions to a tee and get the tote in otter green and the brief in tan. I’m so excited. Thanks again so much for your advice and have a wonderful weekend!
Congratulations…I am so glad I could help! Enjoy your new bags and good luck in medical school:)
PS: if you get a chance, I would love to hear your real-world thoughts about the bags after you have had a chance to carry them for a few weeks. I would also love to see some pics of them in out and about. Have a great week!
Hello Charles,
I have a question regarding the weight of the bags. Could you please provide it for both of them if you have something suitable for it like kitchen scales. I am currently looking for a bag and these two seams perfect; however, I found out that in some reviews they say the bags are heavy. Since I’m carrying a laptop and whatnot with me, I don’t want much extra weight by the bag itself. Thank you!
Thanks for visiting the site! I don’t consider the 256 or 257 particularly heavy, but the 257 does way quite a bit more than the 256, largely due to the extra interior dividers and pockets. The 256 weighs 2 pounds 13 ounces, whereas the 257 weighs 3 pounds 8 ounces. I would choose the 256 unless you have a compelling reason for the extra size and weight. I hope this helps:)
Thank you for your answer. Interestingly enough, when I asked Filson Customer Support about the weight of Twill & Tweed version of 256 (which should be a little bit lighter as the cloth is lighter), they said the weight is 3 pounds 12 ounces, and added that it is the same for the regular 256. I guess they didn’t really weigh the bags… So, I’d like to thank you again for your help because if I hadn’t ask you about the weight, I wouldn’t buy 256 because of its weight.
Hello Charles, thanks so much for this informative post! I was torn between the 256 and 257 for a while, but after seeing this post– I pulled the trigger on an Otter Green 256 from Hilton’s Tent City. I believe I will be very happy with my decision. I personally use a Fjallraven Kanken for school since I prefer backpacks to messenger bags (less strain on the shoulder/back as I tend to lean to one side). I wanted to purchase some sort of briefcase for when I head to DC in the summer for school and an internship, and Filson is just too classic to pass up!
I did want to ask though— I am a female of 5’4″ and my only concerns about the 256 is that it may look somewhat large on my frame and the strap may be too long as well. Do you know if Filson will punch extra holes into the strap or is that easily done on your own?
Oh, I also wanted to ask about the small side pockets on the 256! Is it possible to store the shoulder strap in it for later use or an umbrella?
Thanks for visiting the site, Joanna! I think you will be very happy with your choice. The 256 is the perfect bag to carry on a daily basis and it will look great on a 5’4″ frame. The strap has quite a few adjustment holes from the factory, so you will be just fine, but if you do need to punch more holes, any leather shop or cobbler can do it for you or (better yet) you can buy a nice, inexpensive leather punch from Amazon.com and do it yourself.
The end pockets on the 256 are quite small. I usually just throw the strap inside the bag if I am not using it because the shoulder pad is a little wide to squeeze in the side pocket. You may be able to force a very small, flat travel umbrella in there, but I tend to treat those two pockets as if they aren’t there. When the bag is full they also tend to tighten up.
I hope this helps and enjoy your new 256!!!
This helps a lot! Thanks so much for the quick response, Charles. I’ll definitely be keeping tabs on this blog for future reference.
Charles,
Great stuff here. Am a “young professional” working w local start up companies. Have everything from coffee shop meetings in jeans to slacks and blazer meetings in an office setting.
I have decided on a 256 – but having trouble landing on a color. I am torn between olive green or the brown. My concern is that the olive green may be too informal/military looking for an office type setting, but equally concerned that the brown may be trying to look too conservative and may clash somewhat with the brown leather straps.
I realize this is a completely subjective question-but any help/opinion your could lend would be helpful. Thanks
Thanks for your comment, Sam!
Between Otter Green and Brown, I would choose the Otter Green (hands down) because I personally like the aesthetic that the contrast of the handles provides. I do not find the Otter Green to look “military” in appearance (especially when it is new); however, as it ages and fades a bit, I certainly understand your concern.
The other consideration is the formality of your workplace. If you work in finance or law, then perhaps the brown would be a better fit for you because it tends to blend in a bit more. If you work in a more laid back office environment, then I would go with Otter Green simply because it is my favorite Filson color and I like the overall look a bit better.
Either way you decide to go, you will end of with a great bag and because Filson bags tend to hold their value quite well on the secondary market, going with your gut and testing one out carries very little risk.
I hope this helps! Have a great weekend.