The great outdoors beckon with its promises of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and a connection with nature. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a dedicated camper, a passionate skier, or simply enjoy spending time in nature, having the right outdoor clothing is essential for comfort, protection, and style. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best outdoor clothing brands that have earned a reputation for delivering high-performance gear that can withstand the elements while keeping you comfortable and looking good. I cover a total of nine brands both very popular and some you may not have heard of until now. Lets jump right into it.
Patagonia
Patagonia is a name synonymous with environmental responsibility and top-quality outdoor gear. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, this California-based brand is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Patagonia’s clothing is designed for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, skiing, and snowboarding.
One of Patagonia’s standout products is their fleece jackets, known for their warmth and durability. Additionally, their line of waterproof and breathable outerwear is highly regarded by outdoor enthusiasts. Patagonia also emphasizes repairing and recycling their products to reduce environmental impact, making them a brand of choice for eco-conscious consumers.
The North Face
The North Face has been a leader in the outdoor clothing industry for decades. Founded in 1966, this brand has built a reputation for producing innovative and high-performance gear for a variety of outdoor pursuits, including backpacking, mountaineering, and skiing.
Their iconic Gore-Tex jackets are known for their exceptional waterproofing and breathability, while their down-filled coats provide unbeatable warmth. The North Face also offers a wide range of accessories and equipment to complement their clothing, making it a one-stop shop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx is a Canadian brand known for its technical excellence and cutting-edge designs. Founded in 1989, the company focuses on creating high-performance outdoor clothing and gear for activities like rock climbing, skiing, and alpine trekking.
Arc’teryx is particularly famous for its attention to detail and use of advanced materials like Gore-Tex and Polartec. Their products are designed to provide maximum mobility and protection without compromising style. While Arc’teryx gear tends to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, many outdoor enthusiasts consider it a worthwhile investment due to its durability and performance.
Columbia
Columbia Sportswear, founded in 1938, is a brand that has a long history of providing quality outdoor clothing at affordable prices. While they offer a wide range of products for various outdoor activities, they are perhaps best known for their hiking and fishing gear.
Columbia’s Omni-Tech technology, which offers waterproof and breathable protection, is featured in many of their products. Their versatility and reasonable price point make Columbia a favorite choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for dependable and budget-friendly gear.
REI Co-op
Most likly a brand that you haven’t heard of until now, REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) Co-op is a unique brand because it’s actually a consumer co-operative. Founded in 1938 by a group of climbers, REI focuses on providing high-quality outdoor gear and clothing while also emphasizing education and community engagement. As a co-op, they reinvest a portion of their profits into outdoor initiatives and organizations.
REI’s in-house brand offers a wide range of outdoor clothing, from hiking and camping gear to winter sports apparel. Their products are known for their durability and affordability, making them accessible to a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts.
Outdoor Reaserch
Outdoor Research, founded in 1981, specializes in outdoor clothing and gear for mountaineers, backpackers, and climbers. They are particularly known for their technical apparel designed to withstand extreme conditions.
Outdoor Research’s GORE-TEX jackets and pants are favorites among those who venture into cold and wet environments. Their dedication to innovation and performance is evident in the quality of their products, and their attention to detail sets them apart in the outdoor clothing industry.
Smartwool
Smartwool is a brand that has gained a strong following for its dedication to producing high-quality merino wool products. Merino wool is prized for its natural moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, and odor-resistant properties, making it an excellent choice for outdoor clothing.
Smartwool’s products include a wide range of socks, base layers, and mid-layers. Their clothing is not only functional but also incredibly comfortable, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking warmth and performance.
Mammut
This is a brand that is not very well known but I highly recommend. Mammut, a Swiss brand founded in 1862, is recognized for its technical expertise and innovation in mountaineering and outdoor apparel. They produce gear for various outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to climbing and mountaineering.
Mammut’s products are known for their exceptional quality and durability, and their focus on sustainability is evident in their commitment to responsible production processes and materials sourcing. For those tackling alpine adventures, Mammut is a brand worth considering.
Salomon
I’ve talked about a pair of boots from this brand before (Top 8 Pairs of Rugged Footwear) Salomon is a French brand that has made a name for itself in the world of outdoor sports, particularly trail running and hiking. Founded in 1947, the company’s footwear and clothing are designed for maximum performance and comfort.
Their hiking and trail running shoes are celebrated for their superior grip and support, while their clothing line includes technical apparel suitable for various outdoor conditions. Salomon’s commitment to innovation and performance has earned them a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing outdoor clothing, the right brand can make all the difference in terms of comfort, performance, and style. Each of the brands mentioned in this guide has its own unique strengths and specialties, catering to a wide range of outdoor activities and preferences. Whether you prioritize sustainability, technical excellence, or affordability, there is an outdoor clothing brand that can meet your needs and help you make the most of your outdoor adventures. Ultimately, the best outdoor clothing brand for you is the one that aligns with your outdoor pursuits and personal values, ensuring that you can explore the great outdoors in comfort and confidence.