Shopping for outdoor gear used to mean choosing between technical performance and good design. Brands like Aether changed the game by proving you can have both, creating high-performance jackets and apparel that look just as good in the city as they do on the trail.
Aether's sleek, minimalist aesthetic has won it a loyal following, but they're not the only ones blending style with function. If you love Aether's approach to premium, modern outdoor wear, here are 18 brands you should have on your radar.
Patagonia is an outdoor legend, known for its durable gear and unwavering commitment to environmental activism. While Aether has a sharp, urban edge, Patagonia leans into a more rugged, utilitarian look perfect for serious adventures. You'll find high-performance fleeces, shells, and activewear all made with sustainability in mind.
It's the go-to if you want proven performance and to support a brand with a powerful eco-conscious mission. It prioritizes function like Aether but with a classic, earthy vibe. Shop now at patagonia.com
Arc'teryx is synonymous with top-tier technical performance and minimalist design. This Canadian brand is a favorite among serious climbers and skiers for its insanely weather-resistant GORE-TEX jackets and precisely engineered layers. While their pieces come with a premium price tag similar to Aether's, the focus here is pure, uncompromising function.
If you're looking for gear that will withstand the absolute harshest conditions while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic, Arc'teryx is your best bet. It’s Aether's more intense, expedition-ready cousin. Shop now at arcteryx.com
You probably know Fjallraven for their iconic Kanken backpacks, but this Swedish brand offers so much more. They specialize in durable, functional outdoor clothing with a timeless Scandinavian aesthetic. Their pieces often have a slightly rustic, classic feel that contrasts with Aether's modern-tech vibe.
Expect tough G-1000 fabric parkas and practical trekking trousers that are built for longevity. It's a great choice if you appreciate heritage design and sustainable materials in your outdoor gear. Shop now at fjallraven.com
When the temperature truly plummets, nothing beats Canada Goose. This brand specializes in luxury outerwear designed for extreme cold, and their parkas are legendary for their warmth and durability. While Aether offers stylish pieces for more transitional weather, Canada Goose is all about winter performance.
Both brands sit at a premium price point and obsess over quality craftsmanship, but Canada Goose is the undisputed champion for arctic climates. Consider them if you need serious insulation without sacrificing on luxury details. Shop now at canadagoose.com
Outdoor Research creates highly technical gear designed and tested by adventurers. They focus heavily on innovative, practical features that excel in challenging conditions, especially when it comes to rain and wind protection. Their aesthetic is clean and modern, but without the high-fashion angle of Aether.
Think of them as a straightforward, performance-first alternative. Their gear is built for serious outdoor activities, from alpine climbing to backcountry skiing, offering reliability you can count on. Shop now at outdoorresearch.com
The North Face is a household name for a reason, offering a huge range of versatile outdoor clothing and gear. While many of their pieces are sporty and casual, collections like the Summit Series provide serious technical performance, and collaborations often lean into a street-style aesthetic. Compared to Aether, The North Face offers similar functionality at a more accessible price point.
It's an excellent all-arounder for anyone looking for reliable basics, from their iconic Denali fleeces to packable puffer jackets. Shop now at thenorthface.com
Marmot is a fantastic, reliable brand for outdoor enthusiasts looking for high-quality gear without Aether's premium price tag. They excel at creating lightweight, packable jackets, waterproof shells, and layering pieces perfect for hiking and camping. Their designs are sleek and functional, though they prioritize utility over being fashion-forward.
If you need dependable rainwear or a solid down jacket for your next trip and care more about performance per dollar than designer looks, Marmot delivers. Shop now at marmot.com
For the Aether look on a budget, look no further than Uniqlo U. This collection, designed by Christophe Lemaire, masterfully blends minimalist design with practical details. You'll find clean-lined jackets, Heattech layers, and packable down coats that nail the sleek, urban-outdoor look.
While it won’t have the hardcore technical weatherproof features of Aether, Uniqlo U is perfect for city commuting and everyday wear where style is key. It delivers a similar sophisticated aesthetic for a fraction of the cost. Shop now at uniqlo.com
Columbia is a mainstream powerhouse offering affordable and reliable outdoor apparel for the whole family. They are known for functional technologies like Omni-Heat thermal-reflective lining and Omni-Tech waterproofing. While their general style is more casual and less refined than Aether's, their gear is built to perform in the elements.
Columbia is a practical choice for everyday outdoor activities, from rainy dog walks to weekend hikes, offering great value for its price. Shop now at columbia.com
Prana roots itself in sustainability and activities like yoga and climbing, creating comfortable apparel meant for movement. Their style has a relaxed, slightly bohemian vibe, using organic cotton and recycled materials. Unlike Aether's sharp silhouettes, Prana's pieces are more laid-back and breathable.
They’re perfect for activities like travel, hiking, or climbing where freedom of movement is paramount, and you want to wear something stylish with an eco-conscious story. Shop now at prana.com
Kuhl focuses on creating thoughtfully-designed outdoor apparel with a rugged, adventurous spirit. Their clothing is known for its incredible fit, articulation, and durable fabrics that excel on the trail. While Aether's style could be described as urban sophisticate, Kuhl is more mountain man-chic.
They bring a unique design perspective to functional pants, jackets, and vests that stand up to tough use while still looking great. Shop now at kuhl.com
Sierra Designs is a legacy brand with a modern approach, focusing on making outdoor adventures more accessible and enjoyable. They specialize in lightweight, smartly designed gear, especially for backpacking and camping. Their outerwear is built for performance in the backcountry, prioritizing packability and function.
While they don't share Aether's fashion focus, they share a commitment to smart design and innovation for people who love spending time outdoors. It's a pragmatic and trusted choice for gear that works. Shop now at sierradesigns.com
With its Norwegian roots, Helly Hansen knows a thing or two about harsh weather. The brand is a favorite among sailors, skiers, and mountain professionals for its high-performance, waterproof gear. Their designs often feature a clean, Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic that shares some DNA with Aether.
However, Helly Hansen is laser-focused on sport functionality, with features tailored to specific activities. It's an excellent pick if your outdoor time is spent on the slopes or on the water and you want proven protection with a sharp look. Shop now at hellyhansen.com
Filson is a heritage brand that has been outfitting adventurers, loggers, and ranchers since 1897. They are masters of rugged, durable materials like waxed canvas (Tin Cloth) and warm wool. Where Aether is modern and technical, Filson is timeless and traditional, crafting goods that are meant to last a lifetime and look better with age.
If you're drawn to classic, American-made workwear with an unbreakable reputation, Filson’s flannel shirts and cruiser jackets are iconic for a reason. Shop now at filson.com
Rhone operates at the intersection of activewear, officewear, and outdoor performance. They create incredibly comfortable pieces with technical fabrics that look sleek enough for everyday life. Like Aether, they serve the man who wants his clothes to perform without screaming "I'm going climbing."
While Rhone leans more towards the athleisure and training space, their performance hoodies and commuter pieces are perfect for the urban adventurer who values versatility and style. Shop now at rhone.com
A true American classic, L.L.Bean delivers timeless outdoor style and legendary durability. Famous for their Bean Boots and flannel shirts, they offer reliable, comfortable, and practical apparel for almost any outdoor activity. Their aesthetic is more classic and preppy than Aether's modern minimalism.
L.L.Bean is the brand you turn to for pieces that will never go out of style and are backed by one of the best satisfaction guarantees in the business. It’s perfect for those who value tradition and function. Shop now at llbean.com
Instantly recognizable for its bold, vibrant color-blocking, Cotopaxi breathes fun and social responsibility into the outdoor world. Their jackets and packs are lightweight and functional, but their key differentiator is their commitment to ethical production and sustainable materials. Every piece feels unique and full of personality.
If you find Aether's color palette a bit too muted for your taste, Cotopaxi offers a playful, expressive alternative that still delivers on performance while doing good for the planet. Shop now at cotopaxi.com
Vuori offers buttery-soft activewear that effortlessly transitions from workout to hangout. Inspired by the active culture of Southern California, their gear combines technical performance with a relaxed, modern aesthetic. While they are best known for joggers and shorts, their outerwear is perfect for light outdoor activities and everyday adventures.
Compared to Aether's technical focus, Vuori is all about comfort and casual style. It's a fantastic choice if you want functional pieces that prioritize an easygoing, laid-back vibe. Shop now at vuoriclothing.com
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