If you have an adventurous streak, you probably already know and love Kuhl. The brand has built a loyal following for its high-performance outdoor clothing that's durable enough for rugged trails but stylish enough for everyday wear. Their hiking pants, fleeces, and base layers are known for their incredible craftsmanship and comfortable fit.
But if you're looking to expand your outdoor wardrobe, there are plenty of other incredible brands that share Kuhl's passion for quality and function. Here are 18 similar brands that deliver durable, stylish, and adventure-ready apparel.
A true icon in the outdoor world, Columbia Sportswear offers a massive range of reliable gear known for its innovative technology. From waterproof Omni-Tech jackets to insulated Omni-Heat layers, their apparel is built to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable on any adventure. Like Kuhl, Columbia focuses on durability and high-performance features, but often at a more accessible price point, making it a fantastic starting point for quality gear that doesn't break the bank.
Shop now at columbia.com
Patagonia is legendary not just for its top-tier performance gear, but also for its commitment to sustainability. They offer incredibly durable apparel for hiking, climbing, and trail running, all while championing the use of recycled materials and ethical manufacturing. While they share Kuhl’s dedication to bombproof quality, Patagonia places a stronger emphasis on environmental activism, making it the perfect choice for the eco-conscious adventurer.
Shop now at patagonia.com
Almost synonymous with outdoor exploration, The North Face creates rugged jackets, fleeces, and pants that can handle just about anything. They have a fantastic reputation for quality, offering a wide array of products that range from highly technical mountaineering gear to stylish pieces perfect for city life. Similar to Kuhl, they blend performance and durability, but with broader brand recognition and a slightly sportier aesthetic.
Shop now at thenorthface.com
If you're looking for the absolute peak of performance, Arc'teryx is the answer. This premium brand is known for its meticulous design, cutting-edge materials like Gore-Tex, and minimalist aesthetic. Their gear is built for extreme conditions, from alpine climbing to backcountry skiing. Compared to Kuhl, Arc'teryx is a step up in both price and technical features, making it the holy grail for serious outdoor professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best.
Shop now at arcteryx.com
Born from the world of trail running, Columbia Montrail specializes in gear built to move fast over tough terrain. While best known for footwear, their apparel is all about function, with moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics that can withstand serious abuse on the trail. They share Kuhl's DNA of outdoor durability but are much more specialized for activities like running and fast-hiking, where lightweight performance is key.
Shop now at columbiamontrail.com
Marmot strikes a brilliant balance between performance and affordability, making it a go-to for many outdoor enthusiasts. They are well-known for their excellent waterproof jackets, durable hiking pants, and cozy insulated layers that perform well in a wide range of weather conditions. Like Kuhl, Marmot focuses on technical details and durability, but often with a slightly more budget-friendly price tag.
Shop now at marmot.com
Don't let the name fool you - Columbia's PFG line is fantastic for more than just fishing. This sub-brand creates incredibly rugged apparel designed to withstand sun, water, and wind, featuring quick-drying fabrics with UPF protection. It's similar to Kuhl in its tough, adventure-ready construction but is specifically tailored for water-based activities, making it perfect for boating, kayaking, or hot, sunny hikes.
Shop now at columbia.com/pfg
As an outdoor lover, you probably already know REI, but don't sleep on their house brand. REI Co-op offers a huge range of gear that perfectly balances performance, durability, and a friendlier price tag. They focus heavily on sustainable materials and cater to a community of adventurers who care about the planet. If you love Kuhl’s rugged performance but want something a bit more affordable and eco-conscious, REI's lineup is a fantastic choice.
Shop now at rei.com
Mountain Hardwear creates serious technical gear for climbers and mountaineers. Their apparel is engineered to excel in the harshest environments, with innovative fabrics and durable construction at the forefront. They share Kuhl's commitment to functionality, but their products are much more specialized for high-altitude pursuits and alpine sports, making them a go-to for hardcore athletes.
Shop now at mountainhardwear.com
If you prefer a rugged, heritage aesthetic, Filson is your brand. They are masters of creating timeless outdoor apparel from heavyweight materials like Tin Cloth waxed canvas and Mackinaw Wool. While Kuhl has a more modern, technical look, Filson delivers unparalleled durability with a classic, workwear-inspired vibe. Their pieces are designed to last a lifetime and only look better with age.
Shop now at filson.com
Prana beautifully blends performance with a laid-back, yoga-inspired style. They are known for using sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics to create comfortable, stretchy, and durable apparel perfect for hiking, travel, and climbing. While they share Kuhl's spirit of adventure, Prana's vibe is a bit more casual and bohemian, making their gear perfect for those who want their outdoor clothes to transition seamlessly to everyday life.
Shop now at prana.com
Columbia Titanium is the brand’s premium collection, where all the a-list tech lives. This line offers high-end gear packed with advanced features for superior waterproofing, insulation, and breathability. It's designed for serious athletes and extreme conditions. Like Kuhl, it focuses on performance, but Titanium pushes the boundaries of innovation for those who need professional-grade equipment.
Shop now at columbia.com/titanium
Sbex is an emerging brand making a name for itself with ultra-durable, eco-friendly apparel. They focus on using recycled and sustainable materials to create tough outdoor gear that doesn't compromise on its modern, minimalist style. If you love Kuhl's performance but are always on the lookout for innovative, under-the-radar brands with a strong commitment to sustainability, Sbex is one to watch.
Shop now at sbex.com
While Black Diamond is famous for its pro-level climbing and ski gear, their apparel line is a hidden gem for anyone who values serious performance. Their clothing is engineered for movement and durability in the most demanding conditions. Think of it as Kuhl's more specialized cousin, built for extreme sports but with that same unwavering commitment to high-performance fabrics and toughness.
Shop now at blackdiamondequipment.com
Inspired by the legendary Sherpas of the Himalayas, this brand creates rugged and thoughtful outdoor apparel. They blend traditional Nepalese patterns and fabrics with modern technical materials to create gear that is both beautiful and highly functional. They share Kuhl's passion for durability and adventure but bring a unique cultural story and heritage-inspired aesthetic to their designs.
Shop now at sherpaadventuregear.com
Instantly recognizable by their vibrant, one-of-a-kind color blocking, Cotopaxi makes adventure-ready gear with a social mission. Their durable jackets and packs are crafted from repurposed and sustainable materials, with a focus on doing good in the world. They match Kuhl in durability and outdoor function but stand out with a bold, playful aesthetic and a mission-driven approach that is truly inspiring.
Shop now at cotopaxi.com
With roots in the harsh environments of sailing and skiing, Helly Hansen specializes in high-performance gear that prioritizes safety and durability. Their apparel features some of the best waterproof and windproof technologies out there, tailored for extreme weather. Like Kuhl, they are dedicated to technical excellence but cater specifically to outdoor professionals and enthusiasts in marine and mountain sports.
Shop now at hellyhansen.com
Hailing from the UK, Craghoppers makes practical and durable clothing designed for travel and exploration. A key differentiator is their focus on protective features, with many pieces offering built-in insect repellent and UPF sun protection. They share Kuhl’s utility-first mindset but lean more towards lightweight, packable gear that's perfect for global travel and treks through unpredictable climates.
Shop now at craghoppers.com
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