Filson Mackinaw Wool Anorak Review: Is This $599 Hoodie Worth It?

After wearing my Filson Mackinaw Wool Anorak while glassing, hiking, shoveling snow, and doing chores outside, I’ve come to appreciate what this heavyweight wool pullover offers. It’s warm, feels durable, and has practical features that make it useful in cold weather.

But at $599 when I reviewed it, it’s an expensive piece of outerwear. Is it worth the money? Here’s what I’ve liked about mine, where it falls short, and what I would consider before buying one.

Heavyweight Wool and Made-in-USA Construction

My Filson Anorak is made from 100% 24-ounce Mackinaw wool. The fabric has a substantial feel, and that’s a big part of its appeal to me. This is the kind of outer layer I reach for when I want warmth and a tough material for spending time outside.

One reason I was drawn to this particular piece is its made-in-USA construction. However, don’t assume everything Filson sells is made in America. The company also offers products manufactured overseas, so check the details of the specific garment you’re considering.

I own both the forest green version and the blue-and-black plaid. I tend to wear the green one in the field and the plaid more around town. Personally, green is my favorite, but I like the look of both.

A Kangaroo Pocket That’s Actually Useful

One of my favorite features is the large kangaroo pocket. It’s deep and has plenty of room for things I want to keep close at hand.

Inside, there’s also a zippered pocket that I use for my phone. That extra security is something I appreciate when I’m moving around outside. Loose items can shift around in the main pouch, so I prefer putting anything important in the zippered compartment.

It’s a simple feature, but it makes the pocket more useful than a basic open pouch.

Fit, Layering, and Getting It On and Off

In my experience, this Filson Anorak runs large. I would consider trying a size down from your usual size, depending on how much room you want for layers. Check the measurements before ordering, especially at this price.

The extra room works well when I’m wearing a sweatshirt underneath. In colder weather, I’ve paired mine with my Duckworth merino wool sweatshirt.

There’s also a side zipper that makes the pullover easier to put on and take off. That’s helpful with a substantial wool garment, particularly when you’re wearing additional layers.

At the waist, an adjustable drawcord lets me tighten the fit and reduce drafts. Mine has a leather toggle, and I tied a knot in the cord to keep my preferred adjustment in place. So far, it has stayed put.

Hood and Cuff Adjustments

The deep hood is another feature I’ve appreciated in cold, unsettled weather. It gives me good coverage and helps shelter my face from wind and precipitation.

I usually leave the front zipper open, but closing it adds protection around my neck. Combined with the hood and waist adjustment, it lets me button things up when the weather turns.

The adjustable cuffs are useful, too. I can tighten them around my wrists to help keep cold drafts from coming up the sleeves, then loosen them when I want a more relaxed fit.

These adjustments make a noticeable difference in comfort when I’m outside in the wind.

Field Performance: Warmth and Breathability

I’ve used this anorak for everything from standing still while glassing to hiking and shoveling snow. Across those activities, I’ve found it warm and surprisingly breathable for such a substantial garment.

That breathability is one of the things I like most. Heavy wool might look like it would immediately become uncomfortable once you start moving, but I’ve been pleased with how this piece feels during outdoor activity.

Of course, comfort depends on the temperature, your pace, and what you’re wearing underneath. My experience has been positive for the cold-weather uses I bought it for.

Weather Resistance: Know What to Expect

I appreciate the wool’s ability to handle some moisture while continuing to provide insulation. The hood, cuffs, and waist adjustment also help when conditions get unpleasant.

However, I would treat this as a water-resistant wool outer layer, not a waterproof rain jacket. For prolonged rain, I would bring a dedicated waterproof shell.

That distinction matters when deciding where this fits into your gear. For cold weather, snow, and occasional light precipitation, I’ve enjoyed wearing it. I wouldn’t expect it to replace rain gear.

Wearing Wool Around a Campfire

Another reason I like wool is how it behaves around a fire compared with materials such as nylon or polyester. Wool generally resists ignition and doesn’t melt like those synthetic fabrics can.

That’s appealing when I’m spending time outside in the cold and want to sit near a campfire. It still isn’t fireproof, though, and sparks or direct flame can damage it.

The Downsides: Price and Itchiness

The biggest drawback is the price. At $599 when I reviewed it, this is a purchase that deserves some thought. I own two, but I certainly don’t expect everyone to spend that kind of money on a wool pullover.

The other issue is that the fabric can feel itchy. I prefer wearing a long-sleeve shirt or sweatshirt underneath rather than having the wool directly against my skin. If you’re sensitive to wool, that’s something to consider before buying.

So far, I haven’t had any problems with mine. The zippers operate well, the garment feels sturdy, and it has handled my regular outdoor use. Long-term durability is part of why I bought it, although only more years of wear will tell the full story.

Is the Filson Mackinaw Wool Anorak Worth It?

For me, the Filson Mackinaw Wool Anorak has been a worthwhile purchase. I like the heavyweight wool, useful pockets, protective hood, and room for layering. It’s a piece I’ve reached for repeatedly while glassing, doing chores, and spending time outside in cold weather.

Whether it’s worth the price to you comes down to how much you value those features and how often you’ll wear it. If you want a substantial, American-made wool outer layer and have room in your budget, I think it’s worth considering.

If the price is a stretch, there’s no reason to force it. This is a premium purchase, and it should fit both your needs and your budget.

Have you tried the Filson Mackinaw Wool Anorak? What other American-made wool jackets or hoodies would you recommend? Leave a comment below—I’d like to hear what’s worked for you.

Stay connected to the wild.

—Chris, Ignited by Nature