If you're gearing up for an adventure, you probably already know and trust The North Face. They've been a go-to for decades, delivering high-performance jackets that are durable, reliable, and just as at home on a seriously cold mountain trail as they are on a city street in winter.
But when you're looking for something with a different fit, style, or specific feature, it's good to have options. Whether you want something more budget-friendly, hyper-technical, or built with sustainable practices in mind, we've found 22 incredible jacket brands that deliver on that same promise of quality and performance.
Patagonia is the go-to brand for adventurers who put sustainability first. They offer an incredible range of technical outdoor jackets - from insulated puffers to waterproof shells - that are perfect for hiking, skiing, and camping. Much like The North Face, they focus on durability, but with a stronger emphasis on using recycled materials and promoting fair trade manufacturing.
You can expect prices from $150 up to $500+, putting them in a similar tier. The real difference is Patagonia's deep-rooted commitment to environmental activism, making it the top choice for the eco-conscious explorer.
Shop now at patagonia.com
Columbia Sportswear nails the balance between performance and affordability. They provide reliable and durable jackets for hiking, skiing, and everyday outdoor life without the high-end price tag. With most jackets falling in the $80-$200 range, it’s a much more accessible alternative to The North Face.
Their signature technologies like the Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining make their gear stand out in the cold. It’s perfect for casual adventurers or anyone needing dependable, no-fuss gear that gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Shop now at columbia.com
If you're a serious outdoor professional who needs the best-of-the-best, Arcteryx is where you look. This premium brand is known for its cutting-edge technical gear built for extreme conditions, from professional climbing to backcountry skiing. Their designs are sleek, minimalist, and famous for being incredibly lightweight yet unbelievably durable.
While The North Face has a broad range for casual and serious use, Arcteryx is laser-focused on top-tier performance. This comes with a premium price point, often starting around $300, for adventurers who value technical excellence above all else.
Shop now at arcteryx.com
Marmot is a fantastic brand for reliable and technical outdoor jackets that won’t drain your wallet. They are well-known for their solid warmth-to-weight ratio and dependable waterproof materials, making classics like the PreCip jacket a favorite for unpredictable weather. In terms of performance, they're right there with The North Face but tend to be slightly more affordable, with many great options in the $100-$300 range.
Focused on smart insulation and effective weatherproofing, Marmot is a top pick for hikers, skiers, and mountaineers who need dependable gear that offers great value.
Shop now at marmot.com
As the name suggests, Mountain Hardwear builds gear for serious mountain environments. They specialize in highly technical outerwear designed for mountaineering, ice climbing, and legit expeditions where performance is non-negotiable. They are known for innovative technologies like their Dry.Q waterproof fabrics and have a reputation for incredible durability.
Compared to The North Face, Mountain Hardwear’s offerings are often more tailored to extreme weather and high-altitude adventures, with prices typically starting at $250. This is the brand for hardcore enthusiasts who need gear designed for the world's harshest conditions.
Shop now at mountainhardwear.com
While part of the Columbia family, the Montrail line is specifically focused on the needs of trail runners and fast-hikers. The jackets in this collection are lighter, more breathable, and designed for high-output activities where mobility is key. They offer the weather protection you'd expect from the brand but in a very nimble package.
With prices in the $70-$200 range, Columbia Montrail offers an affordable take on performance jackets for active adventurers. If you’re looking for something less bulky than a traditional North Face ski shell, this is a great place to start.
Shop now at columbiasportswear.com
Hailing from the UK, Rab is a brand celebrated by climbers and mountaineers for its seriously high-performance gear. They specialize in crafting equipment for alpine climbing and extreme cold-weather adventures. Rab jackets are known for being incredibly lightweight yet tough, often using advanced waterproof and insulated materials ideal for harsh environments.
While The North Face serves a wider audience, Rab is more dedicated to the technical climbing crowd. With prices typically starting around $200, it's a brand for true alpinists who prioritize weight, packability, and performance above all.
Shop now at rab.equipment
With Norwegian roots, Helly Hansen knows a thing or two about staying warm and dry in rough weather. Originally a favorite among sailors, the brand excels at creating professional-grade waterproof, windproof, and breathable outerwear. Their expertise makes them a top choice for skiing, sailing, and any adventure where you might face cold, wet conditions.
Helly Hansen's jackets share The North Face's reputation for durability but have a unique competence in water-based and winter sports. Expect sleek, functional Scandinavian design with prices usually falling between $150-$400.
Shop now at hellyhansen.com
Black Diamond is a brand "for climbers, by climbers." Their gear, including their excellent line of jackets, is specifically designed for mountaineering, climbing, and skiing. You’ll find technical, lightweight, and highly durable outerwear, often incorporating top-tier materials like GORE-TEX to handle extreme alpine conditions.
Where The North Face offers a wider range of casual wear, Black Diamond is squarely focused on high-performance gear you can trust with your life. Prices generally start around $250, reflecting their premium, professional-grade quality.
Shop now at blackdiamondequipment.com
If you're seeking a brand that blends outdoor performance with a relaxed, bohemian vibe, Prana is a fantastic choice. They are known for using eco-friendly and sustainable materials to create versatile and stylish outerwear. Their jackets are perfect for everyday adventures, mild hikes, or simply hitting the city in comfort.
While an average Prana jacket might not be as technical as a high-end North Face summit shell, they offer excellent options for those who value sustainable practices and a more casual aesthetic. Look for prices in the $100-$250 range.
Shop now at prana.com
A classic American outdoor outfitter, Eddie Bauer offers a wide range of reliable jackets for everything from weekend hikes to daily commutes. Known for their insulated down jackets and functional waterproof shells, they deliver dependable performance at an affordable price, with many styles available for $100-$250.
Their aesthetic is timeless and practical, giving a slightly more traditional vibe compared to the sporty look of The North Face. It's a great brand for shoppers who want trustworthy gear from a heritage brand without paying a premium.
Shop now at eddiebauer.com
Straight from Japan, Montbell has mastered the art of "light and fast." This brand is a favorite among ultralight backpackers and minimalist adventurers for its streamlined and highly functional gear. Their packable down jackets and feather-light rain shells provide incredible weather protection without adding extra weight to your pack.
Montbell goes a step further than The North Face when it comes to prioritizing weight savings. If portability is your main concern, this is the brand for you. Their innovative, technical pieces typically cost between $150 and $400.
Shop now at montbell.com
Often called "OR" by its fans, Outdoor Research is known for thoughtfully designed, high-performance gear for mountaineering, trekking, and skiing. They use materials like GORE-TEX and focus heavily on details that matter in the field, like hood fit and pocket placement. They have a reputation for building equipment that is truly tested and trusted by outdoor professionals.
Outdoor Research is very similar to The North Face in its technical offerings, emphasizing an incredible fit and innovative features. Expect prices to start around $200 for their more serious outerwear.
Shop now at outdoorresearch.com
This popular German brand creates rugged, functional, and family-friendly outdoor gear. Jack Wolfskin jackets are durable, practical, and often feature their proprietary Texapore waterproof fabric to keep you dry. The overall vibe is geared towards comfortable outdoor living, from countryside strolls to multi-day treks.
Like The North Face, they focus on reliable weather protection and eco-friendly materials, but with a distinct European outdoor feel. Prices typically range from $100 to $300, offering solid features for the money.
Shop now at jack-wolfskin.com
A true heritage brand, L.L.Bean is beloved for its classic outdoor apparel that is built to last a lifetime. Their insulated parkas and waterproof jackets are famously durable and comfortable, excelling in everyday comfort and weekend adventure alike. Their jackets often have a timeless, practical look backed by an amazing customer service guarantee.
While The North Face leans sporty and technical, L.L.Bean offers a more traditional American outdoor look. For reliable, long-lasting gear in the $100-$250 price range, L.L.Bean is hard to beat.
Shop now at llbean.com
Kuhl excels at creating technically capable outerwear that doesn't scream "mountain gear." Their jackets seamlessly blend outdoor functionality with a stylish, modern aesthetic that works just as well around town as it does on the trail. They pay close attention to comfort, mobility, and using unique fabrics that feel as good as they perform.
Kuhl jackets are perfect for those who want one piece of outerwear that can do it all. Prices are generally in the $150-$300 range, offering a stylish alternative for the versatile adventurer.
Shop now at kuhl.com
Peak Performance delivers a dose of clean Scandinavian style to the world of technical outerwear. This Swedish brand is excellent for stylish jackets for skiing, hiking, and daily winter life. Their designs are minimalist and smart, blending serious waterproof and insulated performance with a sophisticated, modern look.
If you love the quality of The North Face's more urban-focused lines but want an even sleeker aesthetic, Peak Performance is a perfect fit. Their premium jackets typically run between $200 and $400.
Shop now at peakperformance.com
Mammut is a Swiss mountaineering brand with a legacy stretching back more than 150 years. Their jackets embody precision engineering and are built for uncompromising performance in alpine environments. You’ll find premium gear that emphasizes waterproofing, durability, and safety, often using the best GORE-TEX fabrics available.
Mammut stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the most technical jackets from The North Face and Arcteryx, but with its own focus on alpine safety features. As a luxury option for serious athletes, prices begin around $300.
Shop now at mammut.com
Another strong German outdoor brand, Tatonka is all about making rugged, honest, and truly functional equipment. Their jackets are designed for long-term use on serious hiking, trekking, and camping expeditions. The designs are often utilitarian and straightforward, prioritizing durability and practicality over fast-fashion trends.
Tatonka shares The North Face's pursuit of quality but with a distinct, function-first European trekking style. Their jackets typically cost between $150 and $300 and are built to handle years of hard use.
Shop now at tatonka.com
Born in the heart of the French Alps, Eider is all about high-performance outerwear for skiing and winter sports. Their jackets are engineered with technical fabrics to keep you warm and dry in harsh mountain weather, excelling in waterproofing, breathability, and ergonomic designs that allow for full freedom of movement on the slopes.
While The North Face makes great ski gear, Eider's specialty is winter sports. You can expect premium features and a refined European fit, with prices usually starting above $300 for their technical shells and insulated jackets.
Shop now at eider.com
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