If you're serious about kayaking, rafting, or any other water sport, you're probably familiar with NRS. They're the go-to for high-quality, dependable gear that stands up to rugged conditions, from paddles and life jackets to technical dry suits.
For those who love NRS's commitment to performance but want to explore other options, we've rounded up 19 similar brands that deliver top-notch outdoor gear. Whether you need something for the water, the mountains, or the trail, you'll find a new favorite here.
Sea to Summit is your brand for innovative, high-performance gear that won't weigh you down. They specialize in ultralight sleeping bags, tents, and hydration products perfect for backpackers and paddlers. While NRS is a master of heavy-duty water gear, Sea to Summit shines with its lightweight design philosophy. You’ll find they have an impressive selection of dry sacks and waterproof gear that gives NRS a serious run for its money, especially if you're counting every ounce on a multi-day trip.
Shop now at seatosummit.com
Stohlquist is completely dialed in on personal flotation devices (PFDs) and paddling apparel. They are famous for creating life jackets that are incredibly comfortable and well-fitting, using ergonomic designs that move with you on the water. Like NRS, they are laser-focused on water safety and performance. However, Stohlquist puts extra emphasis on perfecting the fit of their PFDs for all body types and skill levels, making them a fantastic choice if you've struggled with bulky or uncomfortable life vests in the past.
Shop now at stohlquist.com
If your adventures extend beyond the riverbank, Kelty is a name you can trust. They offer durable and user-friendly tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks at a slightly more accessible price point than NRS. While NRS specifically targets water sports, Kelty provides reliable, all-around camping gear. Think of them as the perfect companion brand for NRS - use your Kelty tent and pack to camp by the river before you hop in your raft with your NRS gear.
Shop now at kelty.com
A specialized brand from outdoor retail giant Decathlon, Itiwit is focused entirely on paddle sports like kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. From inflatable kayaks to paddles and waterproof bags, their gear is designed to be accessible, innovative, and functional. Itiwit offers a fresh, modern parallel to NRS's traditional water gear, often at a more budget-friendly price point, making it a great place to start for new paddlers or those looking for quality gear that's easy to pack and transport.
Shop now at itwit.com
Patagonia is legendary for its high-performance outdoor apparel and commitment to environmental activism. Their gear is built to last, offering technical jackets, fleeces, and waders suitable for hiking, climbing, and water sports. Patagonia shares NRS’s dedication to technical quality and durability but adds a powerful layer of eco-consciousness. If you want gear that performs exceptionally well while supporting a company on a mission to save the planet, Patagonia is an obvious choice.
Shop now at patagonia.com
Known for its sleek, minimalist design and cutting-edge materials, Arc’teryx is a premium brand for serious outdoor athletes. While their primary focus is on climbing, skiing, and alpinism, the waterproof and breathable technology in their shells is second to none, making them fantastic for any wet-weather pursuit. Arc'teryx is like the mountain equivalent of NRS - both cater to enthusiasts who demand uncompromising performance and are willing to invest in gear that will withstand extreme conditions.
Shop now at arcteryx.com
If your version of a great day on the water involves a fishing rod, then Simms is the brand for you. They specialize in high-end fishing gear, including industry-leading waders, wading boots, and technical fishing jackets. Simms shares NRS’s dedication to water-focused equipment but carves out a niche in angling. Their products prioritize durability, waterproofing, and functional details that every angler will appreciate, making them a top choice for fishermen who need their gear to perform flawlessly.
Shop now at simmsfishing.com
Black Diamond forged its reputation in the climbing and skiing worlds, creating innovative and bombproof equipment like harnesses, ropes, and headlamps. While they don't focus on water sports like NRS, their ethos of creating rugged, reliable, and life-saving gear is the same. Outdoor adventurers who cross over from paddling to climbing or mountaineering will appreciate the engineering and durability that define both brands. Their high-powered, waterproof headlamps are a perfect accessory for any overnight river trip.
Shop now at blackdiamondequipment.com
Kokatat is one of NRS's closest competitors, specializing in exceptionally high-quality paddling gear. They are especially famous for their Gore-Tex dry suits, which are considered by many to be the gold standard in the industry. Like NRS, Kokatat serves the serious paddler with a full lineup of dry wear, PFDs, and accessories. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference on fit and specific features, but if you demand the absolute best in waterproof protection, Kokatat should be on your list.
Shop now at kokatat.com
Marmot is a classic all-around outdoor brand offering a wide range of clothing, tents, and sleeping bags for hikers, campers, and adventurers. They excel in creating versatile, durable gear that doesn't break the bank. While NRS is specialized for the water, Marmot covers gear for almost every other outdoor scenario. Their PreCip rain jackets are legendary for providing reliable, lightweight waterproof protection, making them a fantastic piece of kit for anyone who spends time outdoors, on or off the water.
Shop now at marmot.com
Born from the needs of Norwegian fishermen and sailors, Helly Hansen has a deep heritage in creating waterproof and durable marine apparel. Their sailing jackets, base layers, and rainwear are trusted by professionals on the open ocean. Helly Hansen’s water focus mirrors NRS's, but with roots in sailing and maritime work. This gives their gear a unique, salty toughness and a professional-grade feel that's perfect for anyone facing harsh wind and water.
Shop now at hellyhansen.com
For decades, Columbia has made outdoor gear accessible to everyone with its wide range of reliable and affordable apparel. From hiking boots to their iconic Interchange jackets, they offer great value and innovative tech like their Omni-Heat reflective lining. Compared to NRS’s specialized gear, Columbia is a fantastic option for family outings, casual hikes, and daily wear when you need solid waterproof performance without the premium price tag for professional-grade features.
Shop now at columbia.com
As their name suggests, Mountain Hardwear builds gear for the high-altitude, rugged environments of mountaineering, climbing, and backcountry skiing. They are known for pushing fabric technology with products like their Ghost Whisperer down jackets and waterproof-breathable Dry.Q shells. Like NRS, they cater to serious enthusiasts who operate in serious conditions, just in a different arena. If your outdoor life takes you from high peaks down to raging rivers, Mountain Hardwear is a perfect complement.
Shop now at mountainhardwear.com
Rab is a British brand with a sterling reputation for technical mountaineering clothing that excels in cold and damp weather. They are maestros of insulation, whether it's high-lofting down or advanced synthetic fills. The durability and weather protection of their shell jackets are on par with what you'd expect from a brand like NRS, but tailored specifically for alpine environments. For cold-weather expeditions that demand serious insulation and waterproofing, Rab is a top-tier choice.
Shop now at rab.equipment
Osprey is the undisputed king of backpacks. Whether you need a massive pack for a week-long trek, a streamlined hydration pack for biking, or a durable travel bag, they have a solution renowned for its comfort and thoughtful design. While NRS outfits you for the water, Osprey gets your gear there. Their thoughtful features, custom-moldable hip belts, and lifetime guarantee make them a staple for any outdoor enthusiast in need of a pack they can count on for years.
Shop now at osprey.com
Eddie Bauer blends a classic, outdoorsy style with dependable technical performance. They offer a huge range of gear, from casual flannels and jeans to expedition-grade down parkas and camping equipment. Compared to the hardcore specialty focus of NRS, Eddie Bauer serves a broader outdoor lifestyle audience. They're a great choice when you want quality gear that functions well on the trail but also looks great when you’re grabbing a post-adventure beer.
Shop now at eddiebauer.com
Every good adventure kit needs reliable tools, and Gerber delivers. Known for its tough knives, multi-tools, and survival gear, Gerber provides the essential hardware you need to solve problems in the wild. While NRS provides the apparel and primary equipment, Gerber provides the indispensable accessories. A solid Gerber multi-tool clipped to your PFD is a smart addition to any paddler's kit, ready for everything from cutting rope to making boat repairs.
Shop now at gerbergear.com
See and be seen. Princeton Tec specializes in high-quality personal lighting like headlamps and bike lights that are made in the USA. Many of their headlamps are waterproof, making them a perfect hands-free lighting solution for setting up camp after a long day on the river or finding gear in the dark. Much like NRS, they build durable, reliable products that are essential for safety in the outdoors, making them a natural complement to any water adventurer's gear bag.
Shop now at princetontec.com
SeaBear offers a range of durable bags, accessories, and casual apparel with a rugged, water-centric vibe. Think of them as a more laid-back option for people who live and play near the water. They make excellent waterproof bags and practical gear suited for boating, fishing, and beach trips. Compared to NRS's high-tech, performance-driven gear, SeaBear offers functional and tough everyday items for those who embrace a coastal or lakeside lifestyle.
Shop now at seabear.com
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