When you're gearing up for an outdoor adventure, Columbia is often one of the first names that comes to mind. It's a trusted go-to for durable, high-performance gear that won't completely empty your wallet, thanks to its smart tech like Omni-Heat and Omni-Tech insulation.
But whether you're looking for a different aesthetic, a more specialized piece of equipment, or just want to explore other great outdoor brands, there are plenty of amazing alternatives out there. If you're a fan of Columbia's reliable and functional style, here are 21 similar brands you should check out for your next hike, climb, or camping trip.
Often seen as Columbia's slightly cooler, more premium cousin, The North Face offers a huge range of high-quality jackets, backpacks, and technical outerwear. They share a focus on durability and innovation, but The North Face often blends high-performance tech with an urban outdoor style that looks just as good on the street as it does on the trail. Expect prices to be a bit steeper, with jackets typically running from $100 to $300.
Shop now at thenorthface.com
If you're tackling extreme conditions and need gear that absolutely will not fail, Arc'teryx is your brand. This Canadian company specializes in high-end, technically precise outerwear and climbing gear. While Columbia serves a broad audience, Arc'teryx focuses on hardcore outdoor athletes with minimalist designs and cutting-edge materials. This level of performance comes at a premium, with jackets often starting around $200 and climbing much higher.
Shop now at arcteryx.com
For the eco-conscious adventurer, Patagonia is a top choice. The brand is celebrated for its commitment to sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing, wrapped in a relaxed yet functional style. With jackets priced similarly to Columbia ($100-$250), Patagonia offers fantastic performance with a powerful environmental mission. If you love Columbia’s quality but want your purchase to support a greater cause, Patagonia is a perfect fit.
Shop now at patagonia.com
REI is a one-stop shop for outdoor enthusiasts, and their private-label Co-op brand is a gem for affordable and reliable gear. Their jackets, tents, and equipment are practical and versatile, designed for everything from a casual weekend camping trip to a multi-day hike. With jackets usually priced between $70-$200, REI Co-op is an excellent alternative to Columbia, especially for beginners or those building their gear collection on a budget.
Shop now at rei.com
Marmot is a fantastic option for serious hikers and backpackers who need gear they can count on. Known for durable, weather-resistant jackets and sleeping bags, their products often feature high-end tech like Gore-Tex membranes. Pricing is very similar to Columbia, with jackets in the $80-$250 range, but the brand’s focus is a little more tailored to dedicated outdoor adventurers seeking long-lasting performance.
Shop now at marmot.com
As the name suggests, Mountain Hardwear is all about creating high-performance gear for climbers, skiers, and mountaineers facing tough conditions. While Columbia appeals to a wider market, Mountain Hardwear carves out a niche with its focus on extreme weather protection and cutting-edge fabrics. If you're looking for apparel that pushes the technical limits, this brand delivers without straying too far from Columbia's price point.
Shop now at mountainhardwear.com
If your love for Columbia is centered around their tech but you're specifically in the market for trail running shoes, look no further than Columbia's own subdivision, Montrail. They use the same innovations found in the apparel to create rugged, high-performance footwear designed to tackle tough terrain. Shoes typically range from $80 to $150, making it a natural choice for fans of the parent brand.
Shop now at columbia.com/montrail/
This German outdoor brand balances function with style, offering weather-resistant clothing and gear with a clean, slightly more fashion-forward look. Like Columbia, Jack Wolfskin focuses on functional outerwear at a similar price point, but its designs often appeal to urban explorers who want gear that transitions seamlessly from the city to the trail. They also have a strong focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
Shop now at us.jack-wolfskin.com
Kuhl is all about combining rugged outdoor performance with superior comfort and mobility. The brand is known for its durable pants and jackets that feature articulated designs and innovative fabrics for an incredible fit. While Columbia is very tech-driven, Kuhl feels more like a comfortable, fashion-conscious lifestyle brand that’s perfectly suited for hiking, climbing, or just everyday adventures. Prices are generally in the $80-$250 range.
Shop now at kuhl.com
Eddie Bauer is a classic American outdoor outfitter offering a wide selection of practical and comfortable gear, from insulated jackets to hiking boots. It shares a similar price point with Columbia but leans more into timeless outdoor aesthetics rather than cutting-edge tech. If you appreciate a classic look and reliable performance for casual hikes or daily wear, Eddie Bauer is a solid choice.
Shop now at eddiebauer.com
Known for its legendary "duck boots" and lifetime guarantee, L.L.Bean is synonymous with an old-school, built-to-last durability. Their outdoor apparel and gear are rugged, functional, and designed for activities like hiking, hunting, and fishing. While similar in price and function to Columbia, L.L.Bean emphasizes traditional design and an unwavering commitment to quality that promises to last for generations.
Shop now at llbean.com
Hailing from Norway, Helly Hansen is an expert in creating professional-grade gear for severe weather, particularly for sailing and skiing. If you're venturing into seriously harsh environments, their technical base layers and waterproof jackets are a step up from Columbia. This focus on pro-level performance means a higher price tag (jackets run $150-$300) and a sleek, technical look that's favored by serious athletes.
Shop now at hellyhansen.com
Prana beautifully blends outdoor performance with laid-back, bohemian style. The brand offers versatile apparel perfect for hiking, climbing, yoga, and travel, with a strong emphasis on sustainable fabrics and total comfort. It's a great choice for adventurers who value both function and fashion. While sharing Columbia's versatility, Prana's relaxed aesthetic makes it stand out from the crowd.
Shop now at prana.com
If you subscribe to the "buy it for life" philosophy, Filson is your brand. This heritage outfitter is known for its incredibly rugged waxed jackets, durable bags, and tough workwear made from high-quality materials. It's more of a throwback to traditional craftsmanship compared to Columbia’s modern tech focus. A premium alternative, Filson's timeless style appeals to those who value heritage and extreme durability.
Shop now at filson.com
This UK-based brand is a favorite among European hikers and adventurers for its reliable, no-fuss technical gear. Berghaus offers a fantastic lineup of waterproof jackets, hiking backpacks, and warm layers at a price point comparable to Columbia. They deliver seriously good weather protection and functional designs with a distinct European outdoor vibe.
Shop now at berghaus.com
Japanese brand Montbell has perfected the art of ultra-lightweight performance. Famous for its "light & fast" philosophy, their jackets, sleeping bags, and gear offer incredible protection and durability without weighing you down. For backpackers, climbers, and anyone who obsesses over pack weight, Montbell provides a more specialized, lightweight alternative to Columbia’s broader offering.
Shop now at montbell.us
Built for the trail and global travel, Craghoppers makes practical, affordable outdoor clothing designed for real-world adventures. One of their standout features is their NosiLife insect-repellent fabric technology, making them an amazing choice for trips to bug-prone destinations. With jackets and pants often in the affordable $50-$150 range, they're a great value-oriented option with a focus on travel-specific features.
Shop now at craghoppers.com
Rab designs gear "for the most extreme conditions in the world." This UK-based brand specializes in high-performance equipment for serious mountaineers, skiers, and trekkers. While Columbia produces excellent all-around gear, Rab zeroes in on providing the best possible insulation, durability, and foul-weather protection. If your adventures are taking you to high altitudes or frozen landscapes, Rab offers the advanced technical gear you’ll need.
Shop now at rab.equipment/us/
If you're looking for the most budget-friendly alternative out there, Decathlon is a game-changer. This global retailer's in-house brands, Quechua (for camping and hiking) and Forclaz (for trekking), offer incredibly affordable yet functional gear. With jackets starting as low as $30, it’s the perfect place for beginners or casual outdoor enthusiasts to get started without a huge investment.
Shop now at decathlon.com
While they don't produce clothing, no outdoor gear list is complete without Osprey. They are the undeniable leader in backpacks, creating comfortable, durable, and brilliantly designed packs for everything from a day hike to a month-long backpacking trip. If you already have your Columbia jacket and boots, an Osprey pack is the perfect accessory to complete your adventure setup with the same level of quality and innovation.
Shop now at osprey.com
For the climbers, skiers, and die-hard mountain athletes, Black Diamond is an essential brand. They specialize in the hard goods - climbing harnesses, headlamps, ice axes, and trekking poles - where safety and performance are non-negotiable. While they offer some technical apparel, their strength lies in the specialized equipment that helps you push your limits, making them an excellent complement to Columbia's clothing for any serious mountain sport enthusiast.
Shop now at blackdiamondequipment.com
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