Brands like Patagonia—7 stylish outdoor clothing brands to know about

These brands like Patagonia have got all your outdoor clothing needs covered

models wearing brands like patagonia
(Image credit: Future)

Patagonia is famous for its high-quality clothing and ethical standards but did you know that there are heaps of brands like Patagonia that are worth having on your radar?

Pioneers in the outdoor clothing market, Patagonia has certainly paved the way for practical and stylish gear that’s kinder to the planet, making them one of the best sustainable clothing brands. Whether you’re after the best waterproof jacket, the warmest leggings, or some of the best walking boots, there’s no shortage of outdoor brands offering durable outdoor clothing and accessories, all with a stylish edge. From hiking in the countryside to skiing down some slopes, as well as covering all your sports needs, these brands also have heaps of wardrobe essentials for the everyday.

Much like American clothing brand Patagonia, our alternatives have strong sustainable credentials so you can enjoy nature while being kinder to it. Longevity is key and their garments are built to last, so while they might not be a key part of your capsule wardrobe, if you love the great outdoors, they certainly are a wardrobe essential. A worthy investment—we're sure you'll love these pieces for years to come.

7 brands like Patagonia to have on your radar

Models wearing brands like Patagonia Arc’teryx

(Image credit: Arc’teryx)

1. Arc’teryx

Best for high-tech gear

Specifications

RRP: $$$
Sizes: US 0-20 / UK 4-24

Reasons to buy

+
Climbing gear specialists
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Long-lasting
+
Repair service

Rock-climbing enthusiasts may already be familiar with this Canadian brand. Founded in 1989, Arc’teryx started off specializing in climbing gear but has since expanded to a wider variety of outdoor wear. A go-to if you’re after high-tech stuff, it’s a little pricier than Patagonia but their products are really built to last and withstand the wildest conditions so you’re guaranteed to hold on to them for years. Arc’teryx also has a team of specialists who can repair your purchases and a used gear service where you can buy second-hand.


Models wearing brands like Patagonia Columbia

(Image credit: Columbia)

2. Columbia

Best for everyday

Specifications

RRP: $
Sizes: US 0-16 / UK 2-20

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable
+
Plus sizes available
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Stylish everyday essentials

Columbia started off as a humble hat brand back in 1937 but now caters for a whole host of outdoor activities from trail running to hiking to snow sports. There are plenty of options for everyday wear too including some of the best winter coats, from some of the best parkas to on-trend padded jackets, there is something for everyone. The price range is slightly more affordable too. 


Models wearing brands like Patagonia Fjallraven

(Image credit: Fjallraven)

3. Fjallraven

Best for minimalist style

Specifications

RRP: $$
Sizes: XXS-XL

Reasons to buy

+
Iconic backpacks
+
Minimalist styles
+
Eco-credentials

This Swedish brand is probably most famous for their best backpacks, and with over three million sold you’ve no doubt seen the infamous Kanken bag on your daily travels. But more than just a backpack, Fjallraven has some of the most stylish outdoor clothing and accessories. With a chic, minimalist aesthetic that runs through many Scandinavian clothing brands, Fjallraven also aims to keep its impact on the environment as small as possible using organic, renewable, and recyclable materials when it can.


Models wearing brands like Patagonia Helly Hansen

(Image credit: Helly Hansen)

4. Helly Hansen

Best for warm puffers

Specifications

RRP: $$
Sizes : XS-XL

Reasons to buy

+
Retro aesthetic
+
Trendy puffers
+
Trusted brand

Helly Hansen has had a bit of a resurgence of late thanks to the rise of the puffer jacket trend and our love of all things retro. Hitting that sweet spot of fashion and function, this Nordic brand covers all your cold-weather needs from ski jackets to merino wool base layers to techy winter boots. With over 140 years of experience under their belt, they are the masters at technical gear that will protect you against all the elements.


Models wearing brands like Patagonia Jack Wolfskin

(Image credit: Jack Wolfskin)

5. Jack Wolfskin

Best for sustainability

Specifications

RRP: $$
Sizes: XS-XXL

Reasons to buy

+
Outdoor sports gear
+
Cool designs
+
Sustainable fabrics

Hugely popular in Europe, Jack Wolfskin covers outdoor sports including biking and trekking as well as everyday apparel. So whether you’re hiking up a mountain or commuting through some torrential rain, they’ve got you covered—literally. The German brand has some serious sustainable credentials too, using recycled materials, organic cotton, and ethically sourced down to name a few. They also have a repair service to help your goods last longer.

Fashion editor’s picks…


Models wearing brands like Patagonia Salomon

(Image credit: Salomon)

6. Salomon

Best for sports

Specifications

RRP: $$
Sizes: XS-XL

Reasons to buy

+
High-tech running trainers
+
Sleek and stylish
+
Covers wide range of winter sports

Born in the French Alps in 1947, Salomon knows a thing or two about mountains. With a passion for outdoor sports, the French clothing brand caters for an array of activities from running to snowboarding to skiing. Certainly, some of the best running shoes whether you’re pounding the pavements or hitting some muddy trails, Salomon ensures your feet are supported and protected. As well as shoes, they also have some stylish weather-proof apparel. 


Models wearing brands like Patagonia The North Face

(Image credit: The North Face)

7. The North Face

Best all-rounder

Specifications

RRP: $$
Sizes: XS-3XL

Reasons to buy

+
Inclusive size range
+
Gucci collaboration
+
Very on-trend

Arguably one of Patagonia’s biggest competitors, The North Face barely needs an introduction. As well as crafting some of the warmest tech-heavy winter coats, the California brand has certainly reached new sartorial heights thanks to collaborations with designer Gucci and a huge celebrity following from hip hop stars to off-duty models. Not only that, they are passionate about sustainability too and are on track to hit their goal of ensuring all clothing is made with recycled, regenerative, organic, or responsibly-sourced renewable fabrics by 2025.

Charlie Bell

Charlie is the Deputy Fashion Editor at Future plc across multiple women’s magazines including Woman & Home, Woman and Woman's Own.

She bagged her first magazine job in 2009 and has previously written for titles including Stylist, Closer and Dare. Over the years Charlie has embraced anything that was thrown at her from styling celebrities to testing out the best jeans on the high street to writing about must-have beauty buys.

With a weakness for a printed midi dress, Charlie is on a mission to shop more sustainably and loves finding new ethical brands and second-hand buys.