Getting outfitted isn’t cheap and it can be stressful. You want the best you can afford.
It’s easy to spend thousands and thousands of dollars. Sometimes that’s necessary, but not always. Sometimes you need good quality; not the best.
The key is finding the best outdoor apparel for your needs. There’s no shortage of brands and companies to check out. We put together an epic list below ranging from super high end to middle-of-the-road options.
Check them out.
1. Arc’teryx
Arc’teryx is a Canadian outdoor clothing brand that was founded in 1989 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Named after the Archaeopteryx lithographica, or the first reptile to evolve to develop feathers, Arc’teryx sees itself as an evolving brand that focuses on staying on the cutting edge. They specialize in clothing for alpinism (also known as mountaineering), hiking, trekking, skiing, snowboarding, and trail running, as well as generalized outdoor wear.
They offer a variety of clothing, including coats and jackets, pants and shorts, shirts and sweatshirts, fleeces, dresses and skirts, packs, boots, shoes, climbing gear, and many accessories for the aforementioned activities. Arc’teryx offers products for both men and women and for all seasons of the year. Each product from Arc’teryx is perfectly suited for outdoor activities and because of their meticulous attention to detail in all of their products they are currently one of the leading companies in outdoor gear.
2. Canada Goose
Founded by Sam Tick in Toronto, Canada, Goose is perhaps one of the leading experts in keeping people warm when outside. Since 1957 Canada Goose has been turning out some of the best high-end outerwear for men, women, and children. Their coats, jackets, and knitwear have been proven to keep people warm in the toughest climates in the world, such as Antarctica. In addition to coats, jackets, and knitwear, Canada Goose also offers hats, gloves, scarves, and accessories for any type of adventure.
They produce products for children as small as newborns all the way up to men’s extra-large. Canada Goose products are hand-stitched to ensure that they are precision-built and won’t wear out no matter what is thrown at them. Canada Goose coats, jackets, and knitwear are perfect for any outdoor cold-weather sports such as hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowboarding. Due to their goose feather down filling, all Canada Goose products stay both lightweight and movable while also being very warm.
3. Columbia Sportswear
Perhaps one of America’s most beloved brands, Columbia Sportswear was founded by Paul Lamfrom in 1938. Located in Portland, Oregon, they focus on making quality products for a wide range of activities. With clothing products specially designed for hiking, fishing, trail running, golf, skiing, snow, and hunting, Columbia Sportswear offers a solution no matter what your outdoor interests may be.
From children to adults, they offer products for all ages and body types, even plus-size. Columbia Sportswear puts a heavy focus on creating flexible clothing that can be used in a vast array of situations. Their offerings include pants and shorts, long and short-sleeved shirts, jackets, puffer coats, shoes, vests, skirts and dresses, and various accessories. Columbia is a great choice for those who love to do lots of different kinds of outdoor activities and need sportswear that is just as flexible as they are.
4. The North Face
Out of all of the outdoor wear providers in the market today, The North Face is one of the most internationally known. What began in the 1960s in Alameda, California quickly grew into the phenomenon that we see today. The North Face has a casual and cool appeal that really speaks to a wide audience. Whether climbing, hiking, training, running, camping, or trail running, The North Face has unique and custom gear for that activity.
Their brand includes clothing such as pants and shorts, tee shirts and sweatshirts, dresses and skirts, coats and jackets, sports bras and tank tops, shoes and boots, and a wide variety of accessories. Their clothing options come in all sizes and options for men, women, and children. In addition to clothes, The North Face also sells many different kinds of backpacks and even tents. They offer tremendous variety and flexibility which makes them a great choice for outdoor clothing.
5. Norrøna
In the modern world, it is rare to find a big organization that is still family-run, but Norrøna is a great example of how awesome family-run companies can be. Norrøna is a Norweigan brand that was founded by Jørgen Jørgensen and continues to be run by his family today. It began in 1929 and has continued to grow since then. Norrøna is focused on creating sustainable and eco-friendly products that help get people outdoors and enjoying nature.
They believe in helping the environment so much they donate 1% of all of their yearly profits to organizations that save the planet. They offer products for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountaineering, and mountain biking, although much of their options are flexible enough to wear in a wide variety of outdoor sports. They offer products for men, women, and juniors. Whether buyers are looking for pants or shorts, shirts or sweatshirts, vests or jackets, or general accessories there are plenty of offerings available.
6. Bergans
From Hokksund, Norway, Bergans offers high-quality outdoor wear that is specialized for every occasion. Founded in 1908 by Ole F. Bergan, Bergans has a legacy of creating the perfect gear for anyone and everyone. From kids to teens as well as adult men and women, no matter the size or shape, the perfect outdoor gear exists at Bergans for everyone. Bergans has a good selection of jackets, pants, shorts, tee shirts, sweaters, shoes, boots, and accessories in addition to backpacks and tents. They focus on creating lasting products that are worth investing in.
Bergans makes clothes that are ideal for an expedition, fast hiking, hunting, skiing, ski-touring, and mountaineering. In addition to specialized clothing for these activities, Bergans offers both lifestyle and outdoor collections for general outside wear. In a world of fast fashion and cheap products, Bergans really creates a product that is meant to last. It offers safe and fair working opportunities to everyone who creates and sells their product, sustainability for the planet and goes above and beyond to be a responsible company.
7. Patagonia
As the company setting the new definition of cool, Patagonia really knows how to make a stunning product. Founded in Ventura, California by Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia has been going strong for over forty years. Most of the Patagonia collection focuses on diverse sporting gear that can be worn in a variety of different contexts. Nonetheless, for those looking for a more specific set of products Patagonia offers clothes for climbing, skiing, snowboarding, surfing, fly fishing, trail running, and mountain biking.
Patagonia is perhaps one of the more diverse outdoor wear clothing brands, with an absolutely insane amount of offerings. They have jackets and vests, fleeces, sweatshirts and hoodies, sweaters, shirts and tee shirts, pants, jeans, shorts, dresses and skirts, swimwear, wetsuits, waders, baselayers, bras and underwear, socks, hats and of course various accessories. Babies to adults will find something at Patagonia and will look great sporting it.
8. Berghaus
Founded in 1966, Berghaus is a UK-based outdoor clothing brand for active people. From kids to adults, Berghaus has the perfect gear to get people outside and moving. While Berghaus focuses primarily on outdoor clothes, they also have generalized workout gear as well.
They have many different types of products such as pants and shorts, tee shirts and long-sleeved shirts, jackets and coats, boots and shoes, and backpacks. It is important to note that there is a much smaller amount of offerings for children than there are for adults. Berghaus is a great mid-priced choice for those looking for a diverse selection of outerwear.
9. Chaval Outdoor
As anyone who has spent all day outside in the snow snowboarding, skiing, or hiking, can tell you, no matter how warm your gloves are they sometimes just aren’t warm enough. From Bainbridge Island, Washington, Chaval Outdoor seeks to try and solve the problem of staying warm out in the cold. In 2012, Chaval Outdoor created heated gloves and mittens with the outdoorsman in mind.
Both flexible and easy to maneuver, these gloves are the last pair that you will ever buy. Chaval Outdoor gloves and mittens use ALPHAHEAT™ technology to ensure that they make the wearers as warm as possible. All gloves and mittens will need to be charged before usage. According to their website, the Chaval Outdoor gloves and mittens are the only ones suitable for sub-zero temperatures.
10. Craghoppers
Craghoppers is a UK-based outdoor clothing brand that specializes in protective clothing such as sun and insect-proof clothing as well as recycled clothing. Founded in Batley, West Yorkshire, in 1965, Craghoppers has been focused on being the leader in outdoor wear since day one. Their entire collection goes far beyond protective clothing items and has great choices for everyday outdoor wear. In addition to various clothes, they also have backpacks, rucksacks, luggage, and walking poles.
Craghoppers offers clothing for children, women, and men with a particular leaning towards adult clothing. All Cragghopper products come with price-match and lifetime guarantees. If when purchasing buyers can find Cragghoppers products in stores cheaper than they can on their website, Cragghoppers will match the price from elsewhere. If somewhere along the lifetime of their clothes buyers have any problems with them and would like to replace their items, no matter how long it has been since the original purchase, Cragghoppers will gladly replace the item.
11. Haglöfs
The Sweedish outdoor clothing brand Haglöfs was founded by Wiktor Haglöf in 1914. Since then it has risen up to be one of the largest companies in outdoor clothing on the market. Haglöfs is a brand that is focused on sustainability and the future of outdoorsmen. It is constantly working to enable people to get into adventuring and enjoying the outdoors. With products based around hiking, mountaineering, hitting the trail, and other lifestyles it is easy to find great new pieces for any wardrobe.
In addition to clothes, they also have sleeping bags, various accessories, backpacks, and bags. Every product comes with a price-match guarantee, if buyers can find a cheaper price on Halöfs’ products they will match them without any problems. Halöfs is truly the future of clothing that serves not only to clothe the body but to also take care of the world along the way.
12. Driza-Bone
Wet conditions seem to be the bane of every outdoorsman. In 1898, Driza-Bone solved this problem by creating their full-length waterproof coats. In 1933 the copyright for Driza-Bone, or “dry as a bone”, coats was settled and we were given one of the best products on the market for staying dry. Traditionally made out of oilskin, Driza-Bone keeps its wearers snug as it wicks away water.
Although buyers have the choice to purchase other waterproof materials today the oilskin still remains very popular. With full-length and traditional-length jackets, vests, shirts, pants, and knitwear, Driza-Bone creates fabulous products for men and women alike. Their products tend towards menswear but they also have several products for women.
Unlike many other outdoor clothing brands, Driza-Bone also creates products for dogs. Driza-Bone is great for the adventurers living in grey-skied rainy weather regions or those who are heading into them.
13. Mossy Oak
The pride of Mississippi, Mossy Oak was founded in 1986. What began as a simple camouflage clothing line has grown into an entire brand. Hunters will love Mossy Oak not only for its impeccable attention to detail but also for its comfort. Mossy Oak focuses on catering their product to various types of prey.
Hunters will be pleased to find specialized clothing options for turkey, whitetail deer, waterfowl, big game, and predator hunting as well as wingshooting and fishing. The modern hunter will love being able to find products that are good quality and can last a lifetime when far too often these days products tend to fall apart or be made of poor-quality materials. Mossy Oak prides itself on creating items that stand the test of time.
14. Ferrino
In 1870 in Turin Italy, Cesare Ferrino began making tents, outdoor wear, and outdoor accessories such as snowshoes. Over time, his company continued to grow and evolve creating one of Italy’s leading outdoor brands. Cesare Ferrino was one of the first creators in Italy to begin using waterproof materials when making outdoor wear products.
This innovation leads to his leap to fame that continues to this day. No matter the climate or conditions, Ferrino makes a great product to suit the buyer’s needs. Ferrino is famous for its tents and snowshoes but they continue to create better and more approachable outdoor wear every year.
They have a great line of jackets and coats, as well as shirts and pants. From trail running to mountaineering, skiing to trekking, and hiking to general wear, Ferrino focuses on making high-quality wear for both men and women.
15. Icebreaker
A 24-year-old Jeremy Moon wanted to create a product that was sustainable and good for the environment. He began to research and experiment with different products in the 1990s until he eventually settled on petrochemical fibers from merino sheep and things began to fall into place.
Since then, Jeremy and his Icebreaker have been in the foreground, leading the way towards sustainable products for all. Icebreaker has many different product lines within it and each line gears its clothing towards different outdoor sports or towards an innovative and aesthetic look.
For example, at Icebreaker there are lines for hiking, snow sports, adventuring, training, and general lifestyle, as well as a natural dye line, a lightweight line, and even a self-cooling line to name a few. Icebreaker has clothing for men, women, and children, with a heavy focus on adults. Their products remain one of the best choices for outdoor adventurers looking for sustainable products.
16. Filson
In 1897 in Seattle, Washington, a new type of outdoor wear was born. The company Filson, founded by its namesake C.C. Filson, creates products that not only come with a lifetime guarantee but also come with access to the Filson repair shop for those items that do eventually get damaged. On every clothing tag, Filson claims to be the complete outfitter of lumberjacks, miners, and prospectors and while most buyers might not be prospectors anymore the tough durability is great for anyone looking to get outside.
Filson has a line of clothing for both men and women. Much of their branding is focused on outdoor work as well as horseback riding and hiking. Filson offers items such as coats, down and insulated jackets, rainwear, jac-shirts, fleeces and hoodies, button-up work shirts, sweaters, vests, overalls, chaps and pants. Filson products are perfect for outdoorsmen who want to be able to get a bit dirty and down to business while being outside. They are durable and can really take a beating. Most companies don’t make clothes like these anymore.
17. Gelert
Made in Gwynedd, North Wales, Gelert is a leading brand in outdoor and camping wear. Now owned by the Sports Direct company, Gelert produces clothing for men, women, and children that is focused primarily on camping. Staying warm and comfortable during a camping expedition can be difficult as many products are either heavy and cumbersome or too lightweight and don’t protect against the cold.
Gelert products try to provide an in-between product that allows for both lightweight products that also keep out the cold. Their products include coats and jackets, fleeces and softshells, pants and shorts, tee shirts and vests, as well as accessories. Unlike some companies, Gelert remains at an approachable price-point while not losing any quality. It is a great option for those who are just starting with outdoor sports and aren’t looking to make a huge commitment to their gear just quite yet.
18. Tenson
Tenson was founded in the 1950s in Varberg, Sweden, by Paul Rydholm. Paul Rydholm was an engineer before becoming a clothing producer and he brought that attention to detail and focus on quality to his clothing as well. Tenson products are created for a myriad of different climates, activities, and people. They have fantastic products for newborns to adult men and women and everything in between.
Tenson has an enormous amount of offerings for any outdoor need. Jackets, base layers, fleeces, mid-layers, pants and shorts, dresses and skirts, tops, shoes, boots, helmets, goggles, and accessories are just some of the many items available at Tenson. Tenson sees itself as a company that enables its buyers to get outside and be comfortable no matter what. They offer products that stay dry, are totally breathable, and remain stylish enough that they can be worn in a lot of different contexts.
19. Scottevest
The world of getting outdoors has gotten a lot more tech-savvy than it was in the past. Going running for some people involves a cell phone, a smartwatch, a music player, and sometimes more. That is why in 2000, Scott Jordan decided to do something about all the cords and devices and make a truly modern piece of clothing.
In Ketchum, Idaho, the Scottevest was born. Scottevest is a line of products that allow buyers to have anywhere from nine to forty-two pockets in one piece of clothing. They are specially designed for modern technology. Pockets for everything from a water bottle to cellphones, to earbuds, to an RFID-blocking pouch, the capabilities are endless.
Unlike many other pocketed products, Scottevest has a slim appearance that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to wearers. Currently, Scottevest offers vests, jackets, fleeces, cargo pants, shorts, and hoodies all of which use the pocket system to get the most out of their products.
20. Holden Outerwear
What happens when a designer and snowboarder team up together to make clothes? Buyers get both style and performance unlike any other! In 2002, Scott Zergebel and Mikey LeBlanc set out to create outerwear that was both stylish and practical. They succeeded and created the brand Holden Outerwear together. Holden Outerwear is quite possibly the most unique and stylish brand in the industry.
Their brand offers stunning designs in modern colors and patterns that continuously push the boundaries of what outdoor wear can look like. They have lines for both men and women that are made up of coats, vests, jackets, bibs (ski overalls), pants, and shoes. The pieces at Holden Outerwear are really geared towards skiing and snowboarding, with special attention to snowboarding, although they would be great for any snow-related activity.
21. Páramo Directional Clothing
Páramo Directional Clothing was founded by Nick Brown in an effort to make outdoor clothes more functional. He created directional technology that allows for the wearer to control liquid water on the surface of clothing. No more getting absolutely soaked when exploring uncharted terrain or feeling sticky and gross after a hot day.
Páramo Directional Clothing solves those issues once and for all, making it far more comfortable to get wet and even to sweat. Páramo Directional Clothing has lines for men and women with items specifically designed for different conditions. Their website has options for activities such as backpacking, walking, trekking, traveling, nature watching, photography, country pursuits, mountaineering, climbing, snowsports, trips and expeditions, running, and cycling.
All of the products from Páramo Directional Clothing are ethically made and eco-friendly, allowing for the buyer to rest assured they are getting the best possible product. Páramo Directional Clothing is a great option for those who love hiking especially.
22. Jack Wolfskin
In 1981 in Frankfurt, Germany, Ulrich Dausien created the brand Jack Wolfskin with the slogan “at home outdoors”. The vision behind Jack Wolfskin was to make people feel just as comfortable being outside in nature as they would on their sofa back at home.
Ulrich Dausien accomplished this by making functional and comfortable clothing for the outdoors. Jack Wolfskin products come with benefits like UV protection and mosquito protection and are made from recycled products. Their products are primarily general clothing like jackets, tops, pants, shoes, boots, and accessories.
They also produce outdoor equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks. Buyers may not be wearing a wolf skin but they will feel like they are one with the planet when wearing Jack Wolfskin products. Their comfort and practicality can make anyone feel comfortable no matter where they are.
23. Penfield
In 1975, Harvey Gross put Hudson, Massachusetts on the map with his creation of Penfield outdoor wear. The company began making coats and jackets that were down-filled or fleece and quickly grew in reputation throughout the United States of America. Today Penfield has grown to include products other than just coats but continues to put great effort into their coats and jackets.
They have pants and shorts, shirts and tee-shirts, fleeces, sweatshirts, and loads of accessories. Their products come in many different colors and styles, allowing everyone to find something. Penfield has lines for both men and women that focus on dual-purpose clothes that are stylish enough for the street but practical enough for the great outdoors. Penfield offers a great option for weekend day-trippers who love getting outside but also are looking to get out and about afterward.
24. Karrimor
Karrimor is truly a beloved British brand. It was founded in 1946 as a bag brand and slowly developed into the outdoor wear brand we know today. Karrimor makes some of the best hiking and outdoor boots and shoes on the market, as well as fantastic clothing and bags.
They focus on creating items that are uniquely qualified for specific activities rather than creating multi-purpose products. This ensures that the items that buyers purchase are the top of the line for their needs and comfort. Running, outdoor life, walking, and camping are the main niches that Karrimor seeks to fill.
From there, they create entire lines of products that suit a runner, outdoorsmen, a walker, or a camper. They have offerings for both men and women as well as various bags and backpacks. Karrimor is a great option for buyers looking to upgrade to the perfect shoes or clothing for their needs.
25. Keela
From Glenrothes, Scotland, Keela considers themselves not just a clothing brand but a brand that is built for professionals. Keela has five main goals: 1.) innovation, 2.) quality, 3.) technology, 4.) community, and 5.) sustainability. They structure the entirety of their company around creating products that promote these five main goals.
Within Keela there are lines of clothing for both men and women that are focused on various activities such as sports, trekking, mountaineering, high-visibility for nighttime activities, general outdoor time, snowsports, and traveling. In addition to activity-based lines, Keela also has aesthetic based lines such as 365 casual clothing, heritage-based clothing, and Keela favorites.
All of Keela’s products are made to last and come with a lifetime guarantee. When something breaks, instead of buying a new item Keela encourages its buyers to send the item back for repair. Keela is a modern approach to clothing that really has roots in tradition and heritage. It is a great option for those looking for quality.
26. Mac in a Sac
Perhaps one of the most annoying parts of trying to travel and get outside at the same time is the problem of packing. Far too often packing the clothes needed to explore just makes luggage far too bulky and is too heavy to be feasible to pack away.
Mac in a Sac of Belfast, Ireland, decided to solve that problem. In 1987, they created outdoor clothes that can be easily stored during travel. All of their jackets are warm and durable but can also be collapsed into a handy drawstring bag. From light-weight raincoats to full-blown winter coats, of course, every mack comes in a sack.
In addition to coats, Mac in a Sac has also begun creating waterproof pants that can also be stored away and brought out during poor weather. Products are available for men, women, and children and come in all different colors and sizes. Buyers with any chance of traveling the future should consider getting a Mac in a Sac–or two.
27. Marmot
Marmot was founded in 1974 by three men in California. While studying in Alaska together, they formed a group called the Marmot club. As anyone who has been to Alaska can contest, it can be a freezing and even desolate place that can force humans to get creative with how they stay warm.
After finishing their studies, the three men came home and set to work on creating a solution to the cold. Out of that trip and the freezing weather they created the brand Marmot. Today Marmot offers tops, bottoms, jackets, coats, and accessories for men, women, and children who don’t want to let the weather affect their plans.
Marmot has products for activities such as hiking and climbing, camping, bouldering, exploring, alpine climbing, and ice climbing. Their products are specially designed to keep wearers warm and dry at all times. No matter where you are in the world, it is now easier than ever to join the Marmot club.
28. Moncler
Moncler is an Italian outdoor clothing brand that first found a home in France. In 1952, René Ramillon and André Vincent began to make coats that were filled with down and could keep outdoorsman warm while being in the Alps.
Today, Moncler has continued to grow and adapt to the times and remains a staple in outerwear around the world. Moncler has lines for men, women, and children that come in all shapes and sizes. They experiment a lot with patterns and colors on their products, often using art as an inspiration.
Moncler seeks to make outerwear as innovative as possible and continues to set trends in the industry. It is a great option for those who are looking to set trends while skiing or snowboarding down the slopes. Most of their products are great for snow-related activities and general outdoor wear but might not be practical for activities such as hiking.
29. Rab
Rab is a Scottish outdoor clothing company founded by its namesake, Rab Carrington in 1981. Unlike some companies, Rab was created by and for mountain lovers. It is made with those who love mountains and want to share that love with others in mind.
Every item is designed for hiking, scaling, climbing, walking, and general living at high altitudes and in difficult and brutal conditions. They have coats, jackets, softshells, fleeces and mid-layers, baselayers, pants and shirts, hoodies, tees and shirts, belts, and hats and caps in addition to generalized equipment and sleeping bags.
Rab has items for men and women alike. Their goal is to enable mountaineers to get out doing what they love in the most comfortable way. Most of their products are climbing-specific but many are generalized enough that they could be used in any scenario. Rab is a great choice for those who are looking to enter the mountaineering world and don’t know where to start. They offer almost anything that novice to advanced mountaineers will ever need.
30. Mountain Designs
Founded by Rick White in 1975, Mountain Designs is a Brisbane based outdoor clothing brand. Rick White is famous in Australia for climbing and hiking to crazy and dangerous heights. He wanted to create a brand that was designed with climbers in mind.
Mountain Designs currently has lines of pants, thermals, jackets, coats, vests, shirts, tee-shirts, shoes, boots, and accessories as well as generalized gear for climbers and hikers. Much of Mountain Design’s looks are designed for rough terrain and because of that, they are often able to be mix-and-matched as the temperature changes.
Mountain Designs has products for both men and women as well as thermals for children. Mountain Designs also has tremendous footwear offerings that are great for long treks into the wilderness. Every product from Mountain Designs from footwear to outerwear all come with easy-to-understand product care instructions that make everything last a lifetime.
31. Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research was founded by Ron Gregg in 1981 in Seattle. Outdoor Research really takes the research part of its name seriously and tries to always be inventing new products to keep life outdoors as wonderful as possible. They have a massive line-up of products that are comprehensive enough to make Outdoor Research a one-stop-shop for outdoorsmen.
They have over forty-five categories of products for both men and women. They have products such as pants and shorts, shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies, jackets and coats, dresses and skirts, and even hats, to name a few. Each of their products focuses on directly benefiting the buyer beyond simply clothing them. With benefits such as UV protection, water protection, Gore-Tex, and more, Outdoor Research isn’t afraid to try new things in order to keep customers coming back.
Each of their products comes with a lifetime guarantee that if there is a problem with your purchase it will be replaced. This is great news for those who are wary of purchasing things online. Outdoor Research is a great option for anyone who is looking to try out experimental and cutting-edge advancements in the world of outdoor clothing.
32. The Timberland Company
The Timberland Company was founded in New Hampshire in 1952 by Nathan Swartz. Nathan Swartz built his company with the New England spirit and it tries to continue that spirit today. The Timberland Company is predominantly famous for its outdoor boots and shoes. Their shoes and boots are great for both working and outdoor activities, but many people don’t know they also have a great line of clothing.
The Timberland Company is a great option for buying stylish and comfortable essentials for getting outside predominately for men, although also for women. They have jackets, coats, vests, tee shirts, polos, pants, shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, and more. All products from The Timberland Company are great for general outdoor life but are also versatile enough for simply walking around town.