Top Hiking Backpack Brands for Adventure Seekers

Exploring the great outdoors requires equipment that is both reliable and comfortable, and selecting the right hiking backpack plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful expedition. With numerous brands offering a variety of features and capacities, the choice can be overwhelming for both novice and seasoned hikers. From innovative designs that prioritize ergonomic support to those focused on sustainability, the marketplace today offers an impressive range of options tailored to meet diverse outdoor needs. Below, we present a curated list of some of the best brands renowned for their high-quality hiking backpacks, each promising to enhance your outdoor adventure.

Illustration of hiking backpack

Best brands of hiking backpack in 2025

Osprey

Osprey is a leading producer of hiking backpacks, having held the number one position in the U.S. technical pack segment for many years. Founded in 1974, Osprey is renowned for its high-quality, innovative gear, with 21 of the top 30 U.S. technical packs bearing its name. The brand excels in various categories, including travel packs, hydration packs, and everyday backpacks, with a significant 51% of its sales coming from international markets. Osprey's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in its product line, which includes award-winning packs like the Aether 60, and its dedication to environmental initiatives such as using 100% recycled material for poly bags and FSC-certified paper packaging.

Deuter

Deuter, a German backpack brand founded in 1898, is renowned for its high-quality and functional hiking backpacks, leading the market with innovative designs and a strong commitment to sustainability. Deuter's products, such as the AC Lite 21 SL and Trail 24, are designed with specialized fits, including a women's fit, and are made from durable materials like 600 denier polyester and 210 denier polyamide. The brand is part of the Fair Wear Foundation, ensuring ethical labor conditions, and adheres to the bluesign standard for sustainable manufacturing. Deuter's backpacks are popular among hikers, with the 20L to 40L capacity segment, preferred by hikers, accounting for over 51% of the market share in 2022. The hiking/trekking segment, where Deuter excels, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.11% from 2023 to 2032.

Gregory

Gregory Mountain Products, founded in 1977, is renowned for producing high-quality hiking backpacks, emphasizing innovative design, ergonomic fit, and durability. Known for being the first to develop adjustable waist belt systems and the center-locking bar tack for increased strength, Gregory packs are favored for their comfort and functional design. The brand offers a range of backpacks, including the Gregory Paragon and Zulu 40L, which feature advanced ventilation systems like the "free float" or ventilated suspension. Gregory packs have gained trust among outdoor enthusiasts, with their products contributing to the growing demand in the U.S. camping and hiking gear market, which held an 18.6% share in 2023.

Arc'teryx

Arc'teryx is a prominent player in the outdoor gear market, particularly renowned for its high-quality and innovative hiking backpacks. The brand has established a strong reputation for its technical excellence, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to performance, attracting a loyal customer base among outdoor enthusiasts. Arc'teryx's products are designed to withstand extreme conditions, making them ideal for activities like mountaineering, skiing, and climbing. The brand's direct-to-consumer sales have seen significant growth, with an 83% increase year over year in October 2023, outpacing competitors like Patagonia and The North Face. As part of the active backpack market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.80% from 2024 to 2030, Arc'teryx continues to expand its market presence with plans to open over 500 stores globally. To learn more about the best Arc'teryx jacket options for your needs, visit Curated's comprehensive guide.

The North Face

The North Face is a leading producer of hiking backpacks, known for its high-quality and durable products. In the fiscal year ending March 2024, The North Face reported a revenue of $3.6 billion, a 17% increase from the previous year, highlighting its strong market presence. The brand achieved its 10th consecutive quarter of double-digit revenue growth, with a 12% increase in constant dollars. The North Face's products are marketed globally through various channels, including specialty outdoor stores and online platforms, with e-commerce accounting for about 42% of their direct-to-consumer sales by the end of 2024. The brand's revenue growth was significantly driven by a 35% increase in the Asia-Pacific region despite unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates. For more information, visit their official website.

Patagonia

Patagonia is renowned as one of the leading producers of hiking backpacks, known for its high-quality and environmentally friendly products. In the North American active backpack market, Patagonia is a key player, with the market segment expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% from 2023 to 2030. The hiking and trekking segment, where Patagonia excels, is the fastest growing, driven by the increasing popularity of outdoor activities. As of 2022, the sports segment, which includes hiking, held a revenue share of 46.44% in the North America active backpack market. Patagonia's commitment to sustainability and performance makes it a favorite among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

REI Co-op

REI Co-op is renowned for producing high-quality hiking backpacks, combining comfort, functionality, and sustainability. Founded in 1938 by a group of 23 climbing friends, REI Co-op has evolved into a leading outdoor outfitter, offering a range of backpacks such as the REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack, known for its recycled ripstop nylon and bluesign(r) approved materials, and the REI Co-op Traverse 60, a feature-rich and affordable 60-liter pack. These backpacks are designed to meet various hiking needs, from daypacks to multi-day backpacking trips, and are praised for their durability and ergonomic design. REI Co-op's commitment to sustainability is evident in their partnership with bluesign, ensuring eco-friendly fabrics and manufacturing practices. With a focus on customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility, REI Co-op continues to be a trusted brand for outdoor enthusiasts.

Marmot

Marmot is renowned as one of the top producers of hiking backpacks and outdoor gear, known for its high quality and durability. The brand has been a trusted name for almost 50 years, offering products that are on par with premium brands like Patagonia and Mountain Hardwear but often at a lower price point. Marmot's gear, such as their hiking backpacks and sleeping bags, is favored for its robust construction and functional design, making it a staple in the outdoor community. In the U.S. camping sleeping bags market, Marmot is one of the key vendors, contributing to a market expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2023 to 2029. Marmot's products are designed to meet the needs of various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and trekking. For more information, visit Marmot's official website.

CamelBak

CamelBak is a leading producer of hiking backpacks, renowned for its innovative and durable products. The brand has significantly contributed to the global hydration backpack market, which was valued at USD 377.88 million in 2022 and is expected to grow to USD 876.55 million by 2031, with North America accounting for 38.25% of the total revenue in 2022. CamelBak's products, such as the Octane 22, combine running vest and hiking pack features, offering a secure fit and ample storage. The company has also partnered with major events like the UTMB World Series and redesigned its product lines, including the Cloud Walker and Rim Runner series, to enhance packability, comfort, and breathability. With a strong focus on sustainability and quality, CamelBak's products are backed by a lifetime guarantee. For more details on their hiking backpacks, visit their official website.

Kelty

Kelty is a renowned brand in the hiking backpack market, celebrated for its innovative and durable designs. Since 1952, when Asher "Dick" Kelty and Nena Kelty started manufacturing packs, Kelty has been a pioneer, introducing the first external frame backpack with a hip belt, significantly enhancing weight transfer to the hips. Their packs, such as the Kelty Tioga, have become iconic in the backpacking community, and by 1973, Kelty released the first commercially available internal frame backpack, the Kelty Tour. The brand continues to be a key player in the active backpack market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.6% from 2023 to 2030, with the hiking/trekking segment anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.1%. Kelty's commitment to lightweight materials and comfort-driven designs has made their backpacks a favorite among hikers. For more information about their products and innovation, visit the Kelty website.