What we don’t: A step down in quality and can’t match the expansive collections of the brands above.įor a step down in price and performance from the brands above, Marmot represents an excellent value for the casual outdoor adventurer. What we like: Excellent budget/mid-range offerings for the casual outdoor adventurer. ![]() Popular products: PreCip Eco, Montreal, and Minimalist In the end, casual outdoor-goers can save serious cash by buying from brands like Marmot, Columbia, or REI Co-op, but Arc’teryx remains the gold standard among hardcore adventurers and backcountry enthusiasts. However, the Atom still is pricey at $260 for the hoody version ($239 for the non-hooded jacket and $175 for the vest). One exception is the venerable Atom LT synthetic, which nicely balances performance and around-town appeal. In addition to the steep price tags, Arc’teryx offerings are often very technical and trim-fitting. You can expect to pay a serious premium for the brand name-the Beta AR and Alpha SV check in at $600 and $800, respectively-but we’ve consistently found that Arc’teryx gear is well made, good-looking, and stands up exceptionally well to regular use and abuse. Their greatest strength is their hardshell jacket collection, including long-standing models like the Beta AR and Alpha SV. From baselayers to daypacks, hiking and approach shoes, insulation, climbing and skiing gear, and more, Arc’teryx products exude quality and top-end craftsmanship. What we don’t: Very pricey, and some might not like the trim fit.īased out of British Columbia, Arc’teryx is an industry leader in technical mountain apparel and one of the most revered outerwear brands on the market. What we like: Top-end quality, craftsmanship, and styling. Popular products: Atom LT, Beta AR, and Alpha SV You can expect to pay a bit more for the cachet and Patagonia logo, but the transparency and stewardship efforts do help justify the cost. Arc’teryx below is the irrefutable leader in technical mountain apparel, but Patagonia gear consistently crosses over nicely between daily and backcountry uses. Patagonia focuses a lot of its time and money on environmental and sustainability initiatives, including incorporating recycled materials and responsibly sourced down into their products, offering repair services (at select locations and via mail), and selling used gear through their Worn Wear program. Founded in 1973 by accomplished rock climber Yvon Chouinard, the company has positioned itself as a staple in the outdoor industry with a vast selection of outdoor apparel ranging from hardshells to baselayers, accessories, and much more. They excel at insulation in particular, with a comprehensive lineup of both technical and casual products, including the legendary Down Sweater (casual) and synthetic standouts like the Micro Puff and DAS Light Hoody (technical). Patagonia is a well-loved outdoor brand with a rich history in mountain exploration. ![]() What we don’t: Arc’teryx still leads the charge in technical mountain apparel. What we like: Well-built, stylish, and functional designs with a strong focus on sustainability. Popular products: Down Sweater, Torrentshell 3L, and Capilene For more information and our top picks in each category, see our hiking gear, ski gear, and winter gear reviews. For each brand, we’ve included a brief history and background, their most popular offerings, and what sets them apart from the competition. ![]() ![]() From years of experience testing a wide range of hiking, backpacking, climbing, skiing, and everyday products, below is our team’s list of the most well-regarded outdoor apparel companies. The outdoor clothing market is vast, with everything from budget-focused brands to sustainability leaders and high-end backcountry specialists.
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