For decades, brands like L.L.Bean and Patagonia have been the gold standard for anyone who loves the outdoors. They're a perfect blend of rugged durability, classic style, and a no-nonsense promise of quality that keeps you warm, dry, and ready for adventure. Whether you're a serious hiker or just want a reliable fleece for chilly evenings, they deliver.
But if you’ve already filled your closet with their classics and want to discover new gear, you’re in luck. There’s a whole world of brands that share that same dependable spirit. Here are 18 similar brands to check out for your next piece of high-quality outdoor gear.
Columbia is your go-to for functional, affordable, and performance-driven outdoor gear. They offer a huge range of apparel, footwear, and equipment known for innovative tech fabrics like Omni-Heat™ and Omni-Tech™ that keep you warm and dry without breaking the bank. Think practical hiking gear, waterproof jackets, and activewear for every adventure.
While similar to LL Bean's focus on practicality, Columbia leans more heavily into technology and often comes in at a slightly more accessible price point, with many of their core jackets and fleeces falling under $150. It’s perfect for families and everyday adventurers looking for reliable performance.
Shop now at columbia.com
From mountain peaks to city streets, The North Face has established itself as a leader in high-performance gear that’s also incredibly stylish. The brand specializes in durable outerwear, backpacks, and technical equipment designed for serious explorers. Their iconic insulated and waterproof jackets are staples for a reason.
Compared to LL Bean’s classic Americana vibe, The North Face is more modern, sleek, and technical, often at a slightly higher price point ($80-$300+). If you want gear that pushes the boundaries of innovation while looking good, The North Face is a solid choice.
Shop now at thenorthface.com
Eddie Bauer strikes a perfect balance between outdoor performance and casual, everyday style. Like LL Bean, they emphasize quality and durability in their insulated jackets, fleece pullovers, and flannel shirts, making them a trusted name for generations of outdoor lovers. You'll find their prices are quite similar, too, generally ranging from $50 to $200.
Where they differ slightly is that Eddie Bauer sometimes offers a more fashion-forward twist on classic designs, making their pieces versatile enough to wear on the trail or out for brunch. It’s a great versatile option for those wanting practical clothing with a bit of modern flair.
Shop now at eddiebauer.com
For those whose adventures are a little more extreme, Mountain Hardwear delivers highly technical gear built for serious conditions. This brand is aimed squarely at climbers, skiers, and hardcore hikers, offering high-performance tents, waterproof shells, and climbing equipment that you can trust your life with.
Mountain Hardwear is a significant step up in technicality and price ($100-$400+) from LL Bean, focusing on cutting-edge innovation and durability for athletes who push the limits. It's the brand you turn to when performance is non-negotiable.
Shop now at mountainhardwear.com
Arc’teryx is the minimalist luxury brand of the outdoor world. Renowned for its sleek designs, impeccable construction, and use of top-tier performance materials like GORE-TEX, it appeals to both serious alpinists and fashion-conscious city dwellers. Their technical outerwear and backpacks are considered some of the best in the industry.
While LL Bean prioritizes classic comfort, Arc’teryx is all about streamlined performance and cutting-edge design, with a premium price point to match ($200-$600+). If you're willing to invest in gear that looks as good as it performs, Arc’teryx is unmatched.
Shop now at arcteryx.com
As one of the most trusted names in outdoor retail, REI’s in-house brand, REI Co-op, offers fantastic gear without the high price tag. Their line includes everything from hiking boots and tents to apparel and camping equipment, all designed with a great balance of function, quality, and a focus on sustainability.
Like LL Bean, REI Co-op is dedicated to making the outdoors accessible for everyone. Their products are often a bit more modern in style and come with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials and community values, making you feel good about your purchase.
Shop now at rei.com
Patagonia is more than just an outdoor brand, it's a movement. They are leaders in sustainable apparel, championing environmental activism and using recycled materials in their iconic synchilla fleeces, down jackets, and technical gear. For eco-conscious consumers, Patagonia is the top choice for performance with a purpose.
They share LL Bean's commitment to durability and quality, but truly set themselves apart with their steadfast mission to protect the planet. With prices generally in the $50-$350 range, they offer an amazing blend of ethics, style, and function.
Shop now at patagonia.com
Prana beautifully merges the worlds of outdoor adventure, yoga, and casual style. Known for using sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled fabrics, they create clothes that are comfortable, stylish, and built to move in. Their line includes everything from durable climbing pants to relaxed fleece tops.
Compared to LL Bean’s rugged-practical vibe, Prana offers a more bohemian, fashion-forward aesthetic that works just as well on a hike as it does in a coffee shop. It's the perfect choice for someone wanting eco-conscious gear with a laid-back, stylish flair.
Shop now at prana.com
Marmot is a brand for serious outdoor enthusiasts who need gear that can handle tough conditions. Think high-performance insulated jackets, durable sleeping bags, and sturdy tents designed for camping, hiking, and mountaineering. Their products are known for their technical innovation and long-lasting reliability.
Often in a similar price range as LL Bean or Patagonia ($50-$400), Marmot leans farther toward technical performance, with a straightforward and functional style. It’s a workhorse brand that you can depend on when the weather turns.
Shop now at marmot.com
You can’t miss Cotopaxi gear - it’s known for its vibrant, color-blocked designs and commitment to doing good. Their "Gear for Good" mission means every item, from their popular backpacks to their insulated jackets, is ethically made with sustainable and repurposed materials. This social impact is at the core of their brand.
While sharing a love for the outdoors with LL Bean, Cotopaxi’s bold, modern look and impactful story offer a totally unique appeal. Their accessible price point ($50-$250) makes it easy to support a brand that leaves a positive mark on the world.
Shop now at cotopaxi.com
Kuhl excels at creating durable, comfortable outdoor apparel that doesn’t sacrifice style. Specializing in clothes for active pursuits like hiking and fishing, they are best known for their performance pants that offer an exceptional fit and freedom of movement. Their designs blend rugged practicality with modern, thoughtful details.
Kuhl's gear is as tough as LL Bean’s but has a more contemporary, stylish aesthetic that appeals to people who want updated outdoor fits. It's rugged clothing designed to look good wherever your day takes you.
Shop now at kuhl.com
This Swedish brand has become a global phenomenon, beloved for its durable, sustainably designed gear and iconic Kanken backpack. Fjallraven focuses on simplicity, function, and longevity, creating weatherproof jackets and hiking trousers that are both rugged and stylish in a distinctively Scandinavian way.
Instead of LL Bean’s classic American feel, Fjallraven offers a sleek, minimalist vibe with a strong eco-friendly backbone. It’s the perfect brand for those who appreciate clean design, durable materials, and a commitment to nature.
Shop now at fjallraven.com
With roots in designing gear for sailors and skiers, Helly Hansen is a master of creating technical clothing for extreme weather. This is the brand you want when staying dry and warm is your top priority. Their waterproof sailing gear and insulated ski wear are trusted by outdoor professionals around the world.
While both Helly Hansen and LL Bean provide outdoor utility, Helly Hansen's designs are far more specialized and technical, with a sleek appearance built for high-performance sports and often commanding higher prices ($70-$400).
Shop now at hellyhansen.com
Filson is a heritage brand that makes unapologetically rugged, premium gear built to last a lifetime. Famous for their waxed cotton Tin Cloth jackets, durable luggage, and heavyweight wool shirts, their aesthetic is all about timeless, vintage-inspired craftsmanship. This isn't disposable gear, it's an investment crafted to be passed down.
Unlike LL Bean’s family-friendly approach, Filson caters to a premium market with much higher price points ($200-$600+). It’s perfect for someone seeking rugged elegance and unbeatable durability.
Shop now at filson.com
Icebreaker pioneered the use of merino wool, creating outdoor apparel that harnesses the natural benefits of the fiber: it's breathable, moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and incredibly comfortable. They specialize in high-performance base layers, mid-layers, socks, and activewear that truly perform.
While LL Bean works with a variety of materials, Icebreaker is all about wool. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a versatile layering system from sustainable, natural fibers. Their gear carries a premium feel at a mid-range price ($30-$200).
Shop now at icebreaker.com
A quintessential British heritage brand, Barbour is famous for its classic waxed cotton jackets that are as at home in the countryside as they are in the city. Their style is timeless, sophisticated, and perfect for those who enjoy outdoor leisure pursued with a fashionable touch.
Compared to the rugged utility of LL Bean, Barbour’s look is more refined and tailored, fitting into the "country gent" aesthetic. It's a great pick for durable, weatherproof outerwear with a dose of classic British sophistication, at a higher price of $150-$500+.
Shop now at barbour.com
Patagonia earns a second mention because it embodies the perfect modern blend of performance and responsibility. At the forefront of sustainable gear, they continue to innovate with eco-friendly fabrics and ethical manufacturing while creating some of the most reliable technical apparel on the market.
Whether you're buying a versatile fleece, a waterproof jacket, or outdoor equipment, you know it's built to last. Their commitment to environmental causes gives every purchase a deeper meaning, setting them apart as more than just a brand.
Shop now at patagonia.com
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