If you're serious about your outdoor adventures, you're probably already familiar with Outdoor Research. They're a go-to for high-performance, durable gear that stands up to an absolute beating, from waterproof jackets and gloves to essential accessories for hiking, climbing, and skiing.
But when you're ready to expand your closet of adventure-ready apparel, it's always good to have options. Whether you're looking for something with a more sustainable focus, a sleeker design, or a more budget-friendly price point, here are 22 great brands like Outdoor Research to check out.
You can't talk about great outdoor brands without mentioning Patagonia. They're legendary for their eco-conscious jackets, technical layers, and backpacks that are designed to last a lifetime. Much like Outdoor Research, they deliver serious durability and function for hikers, climbers, and athletes who demand high performance.
Where Patagonia really shines is its unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental activism, often using recycled fabrics in its gear. With prices generally running from $50-$400, it’s the perfect brand for adventurers who want top-tier gear that also helps the planet.
Shop now at patagonia.com
If Outdoor Research is the rugged and reliable workhorse, Arc'teryx is the sleek, high-end racehorse. It's a premium brand known for minimalist designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and some of the most advanced waterproof and breathable fabrics on the market. Their gear feels both incredibly lightweight and practically indestructible.
While Arc'teryx is slightly more expensive, often in the $150-$600 range, you're paying for unparalleled technical performance. For serious climbers and alpinists seeking best-in-class gear that pushes the technological boundaries, this is the brand to beat.
Shop now at arcteryx.com
Columbia Sportswear is a household name for a reason. They offer a huge range of dependable outdoor apparel, from waterproof jackets to thermal layers and hiking boots, all at a really accessible price point of around $30-$200. It's a great choice for casual hikers and weekend warriors who want reliable gear without a massive investment.
Compared to Outdoor Research, Columbia is more mainstream and appeals to a broader audience, but they don't skimp on essentials. You can still expect durable, weather-resistant pieces that get the job done for most outdoor activities.
Shop now at columbia.com
The North Face masterfully blends hardcore mountain performance with serious streetwear appeal. They've got everything from expedition-level technical shells and sleeping bags to jackets and backpacks you'll see all over the city. Their gear is known for being innovative, high-quality, and built to withstand the elements.
Like Outdoor Research, The North Face is dedicated to making high-performance gear. The main difference is their strong crossover into fashion, making them a go-to for both dedicated alpinists and urban adventurers who just want a great, stylish puffer jacket. Prices range from $50 to over $500.
Shop now at thenorthface.com
Hailing from the UK, Rab is a brand built by mountaineers, for mountaineers. They specialize in highly technical outerwear, down-filled sleeping bags, and alpine climbing gear designed to handle the harshest conditions imaginable. Think impeccable insulation, breathability, and waterproofing.
Rab’s gear is on par with Outdoor Research's performance, but with a specific focus on high-altitude and extreme cold-weather pursuits. If your adventures take you to serious peaks where gear failure isn't an option, Rab is a name you can trust. Expect prices from $100 to over $500.
Shop now at rab.uk.com
Mountain Hardwear is a top choice for serious climbers, backpackers, and anyone playing in the high alpine. Their gear, from technical apparel to tents and sleeping bags, is praised for its rugged durability and innovative fabric technologies that keep you protected from wind, rain, and cold.
Positioned as a premium outdoor brand with prices from $50 to $400+, they're very similar to Outdoor Research in their mission: to create dependable, high-performance equipment for people who push their limits outdoors.
Shop now at mountainhardwear.com
Marmot is a fantastic all-arounder, offering well-made technical clothing, tents, and sleeping bags for hiking, camping, and skiing. They share Outdoor Research's focus on functionality and durability, especially when it comes to waterproof and insulated pieces.
The main difference is that Marmot's gear is often a bit more affordable and accessible, making it a great alternative for outdoor enthusiasts who want quality performance without necessarily needing expedition-grade specs. Their prices typically fall between $50 and $350.
Shop now at marmot.com
While Outdoor Research covers all kinds of outdoor activities, Black Diamond lives and breathes rock climbing, alpinism, and backcountry skiing. They are absolute experts in designing specialized gear like harnesses, helmets, ice tools, and headlamps, but their technical apparel is also top-notch.
If you're a climber or ski mountaineer, you'll appreciate how their clothing is built with specific movements in mind. Their focus is more niche, but their commitment to high-performance quality is right up there with Outdoor Research.
Shop now at blackdiamondequipment.com
Japanese brand Montbell is the champion of creating "light and fast" gear. Their philosophy is all about minimalist design and innovative ultralight fabrics, perfectly suited for thru-hikers and backpackers who count every ounce. You'll find incredibly packable down jackets, minimalist tents, and efficient sleeping bags.
While Outdoor Research offers some lightweight pieces, Montbell makes it their entire identity. If you're looking to shed pack weight without sacrificing performance, Montbell is definitely the brand to explore. Their products usually run from $50 to $300.
Shop now at montbell.us
Famous for their iconic Kanken backpacks, this Swedish brand is all about sustainable materials, durability, and classic Scandinavian design. Fjallraven makes fantastic outdoor clothing and waterproof packs, but with a distinct style that works just as well on the trails as it does in town.
They share Outdoor Research's appreciation for durable, functional gear, but Fjallraven brings a much stronger aesthetic and lifestyle component to the table. Their gear is perfect for those who want performance that doesn't compromise on style. Prices generally sit between $70 and $300.
Shop now at fjallraven.com
Kuhl excels at creating technical outdoor apparel that fits incredibly well and looks great. They are particularly famous for their durable and comfortable hiking pants, but they also make excellent shirts and outerwear that easily transition from the trailhead to the pub.
Kuhl offers a similar level of performance to Outdoor Research but places a much stronger emphasis on creating a perfect, articulated fit and a versatile style. If you find a lot of outdoor clothing too boxy or bland, Kuhl's designs are worth a look. Expect prices from $50 to $200.
Shop now at kuhl.com
With roots in sailing and surviving the harsh Scandinavian weather, Helly Hansen is an expert in creating seriously protective outerwear. They're a leader in waterproof-breathable jackets, insulated ski apparel, and technical base layers designed for extreme wet and cold conditions.
If your adventures happen on the slopes or on the water, Helly Hansen offers comparable technical prowess to Outdoor Research, just with more of a nautical and water sport DNA. Their prices typically range from $100 up to $500.
Shop now at hellyhansen.com
Sierra Designs is a haven for backpackers and campers, focusing on tents, sleeping bags, and innovative apparel that make life on the trail more comfortable and efficient. They champion lightweight, packable pieces without overcomplicating the design.
Like Outdoor Research, they deliver reliable and innovative gear purpose-built for outdoor living. Sierra Designs, however, tends to be more camping- and backpacking-centric with much of their product line, offering creative solutions for trail life with prices from $50 to $300.
Shop now at sierradesigns.com
Prana beautifully blurs the line between outdoor performance and lifestyle comfort. Known for their climbing pants, yoga wear, and stylish eco-friendly apparel, their gear is perfect for those who want versatility for both a climbing session and a coffee run.
While less hardcore technical than Outdoor Research, Prana shares a strong commitment to sustainability and creating truly comfortable clothes that you actually want to wear all day. Pricing is very approachable, generally from $40-$150.
Shop now at prana.com
A true classic in the outdoor world, L.L.Bean is beloved for its rugged, timeless gear and legendary satisfaction guarantee. From their iconic duck boots to dependable rain jackets and camping gear, their products are built to handle years of wear and tear.
They offer solid performance similar to Outdoor Research, but with a more traditional, casual, and sometimes preppy aesthetic. It’s the perfect brand for anyone seeking straightforward, dependable gear for everyday outdoor life with prices typically between $20 to $300.
Shop now at llbean.com
Eddie Bauer has a long history of outfitting adventurers and offers a great selection of outdoor clothing that balances practicality with a relaxed, everyday style. They're well-known for their cozy down jackets, warm flannels, and comfortable hiking apparel.
They are comparable to Outdoor Research in offering reliable functionality but bring a more fashion-forward and accessible approach. Their gear is perfect for weekend hikes, chilly evenings by the campfire, and just navigating daily life in comfort, with most items priced $50-$250.
Shop now at eddiebauer.com
Brooks-Range is for the hardcore mountaineer and seasoned alpinist. Their gear is stripped down, ultra-technical, and designed with a singular focus on safe and efficient mountain travel. You'll find highly innovative outerwear and essential tools for extreme conditions.
Mirroring Outdoor Research's commitment to peak performance, Brooks-Range is even more specialized, catering specifically to those tackling the most serious objectives. Their gear is high-end, with prices that often reflect its specialized nature, running from $100 to over $600.
Shop now at brooks-range.com
Sea to Summit are geniuses when it comes to cleverly designed, lightweight camping gear. They make everything from packable cookware and dry sacks to some of the most comfortable sleeping pads and pillows you can fit in a backpack. Their motto is creating gear that is "lighter, more compact, and better performing."
While Outdoor Research focuses a lot on apparel, Sea to Summit elevates the accessories and equipment part of your setup. They share a spirit of innovation, making them a great brand to fill out the rest of your kit with prices from $20 to over $300.
Shop now at seatosummit.com
While not a clothing brand, no adventure gear list is complete without lights. Princeton Tec specializes in powerful and durable headlamps and lanterns that are crucial for any pre-dawn start or post-dusk hike. They're an American company known for making robust, reliable lighting for any condition.
Much like Outdoor Research outfits your body, Princeton Tec outfits your senses for safety and visibility in the dark. Their lighting solutions ($20-$150) are an essential accessory that perfectly complements a technical outdoor wardrobe.
Shop now at princetontec.com
Another excellent Scandinavian brand, Haglofs combines sleek, minimalist design with high-quality, sustainable materials. Their waterproof jackets, backpacks, and tactical apparel offer supreme functionality geared towards serious outdoor users in challenging conditions.
They are very similar to Outdoor Research in their blend of serious performance and durability, but with a characteristically clean Scandinavian aesthetic. For adventurers who appreciate minimalist design and eco-conscious production, Haglofs is a must-see. Prices range from $50 up to $400.
Shop now at haglofs.com
Instantly recognizable by their vibrant, color-blocked designs, Cotopaxi makes outdoor gear with a conscience. They're known for their "Do Good" mission, using remnant fabrics to create one-of-a-kind insulated jackets and backpacks, and a strong focus on social impact.
While more fashion-forward and colorful than Outdoor Research, Cotopaxi shares a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and adventure-ready gear that appeals to eco-conscious outdoor lovers who want to stand out. Prices are usually in the $20-$300 range.
Shop now at cotopaxi.com
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