The land of Garrison Keillor and Prince, Paul Bunyon and Bob Dylan – it’s no surprise that Minnesota is the land of sensational, if not surprising, exports. From my brief stay this summer, check out some of the amazing craftsmanship coming out of the clear blue water state.

Duluth Pack

Andrew sporting his Duluth Pack.

With origins over a century old as a canoe pack, the packs, sacks, and satchels from Duluth Pack are among the most beautifully crafted outdoor gear I’ve seen.

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Faribault Woolen Mill Co.

These exquisitely thick, plaid and striped blankets with their signature blue labeling bring me back to days at the barn. They’re intrinsically equestrian; simple and elegant. If you find yourself in Faribault, be sure to give a visit to the flagship.

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Leather Works Minnesota

Everything here is made by hand, stitched by hand, dyed by hand. Check out their wallets or their passport and field notes holder.

leatherworksminnesota.com

Frost River

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The folks behind this Duluth-based brand are waxed canvas experts, creating bags that are durable enough for their forefathers of loggers and trappers and traders and adventurers. I purchased a small pouch myself at Minneapolis’ Forage Modern Workshop.

frostriver.com

Duluth Trading Company

Minnesota
Andrew in a canoe with his Duluth Trading Co. Pants.

This is a head-to-toe outdoorsman’s haven and many of the gear would also look quite stylin’ sipping a Kings County Sour at Henry Public. Men can go from builder and dinner-catcher by day to canapés in the eve. Fun fact: they’re also known for their comedic underwear ads.

duluthtrading.com

Minnetonka

These fun fringe classics, Minnetonka Moccasins got their start selling out of side-of-the-road gift shops in 1946 to Americans touring the country by car.

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