Top Trailblazers: Best Hiking Clothing Brands for Every Adventure

When it comes to hiking, having the right clothing can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. With numerous brands available, it can be challenging to identify which ones offer the ideal combination of comfort, durability, and functionality. Some brands have distinguished themselves by consistently delivering high-quality products that cater to both casual hikers and seasoned adventurers. Whether you're looking for moisture-wicking fabrics or gear that can withstand the elements, there are standout options worth considering. Discover our top picks for the best hiking clothing brands, tailored to elevate your next adventure, below.

Illustration of hiking clothes

Best brands of hiking clothes in 2025

Patagonia

Patagonia is renowned as one of the best producers of hiking clothes, known for its commitment to sustainability and high-quality products. With a brand awareness of 57% among outdoor fashion owners in the United States, Patagonia is liked by 49% of those who know the brand, and 19% of outdoor fashion owners in the U.S. own Patagonia products. The company has over 70 stores worldwide and holds nearly a 10% market share in the outdoor apparel market. Since 1985, Patagonia has donated 1% of its profits to grassroots environmental groups, totaling $140 million. Its innovative approach to digital marketing, such as the "Worn Wear" and "Don't Buy This Jacket" campaigns, has resonated deeply with environmentally conscious consumers. For more information on their sustainable initiatives and product offerings, visit Patagonia's official website.

The North Face

The North Face is a leading brand in the outdoor retail industry, renowned for its high-quality hiking clothes and innovative products. In 2024, it was recognized as the most prominent brand in the outdoor retail sector, with 165,000 monthly brand searches and a revenue of $3.6 billion, marking a 17% increase from the previous year. The brand has experienced broad-based growth across regions, including a 35% increase in the Asia-Pacific region and a 24% increase in EMEA. Its products, such as the Thermoball Triclimate Jacket and Vectiv footwear, are highly regarded for their performance and innovation. The North Face also boasts a high customer loyalty score, with a 91% loyalty rate among its users in the US.

Arc'teryx

Arc'teryx is a leading brand in the outdoor gear market, renowned for its innovative, high-performance products that cater to the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. The brand has seen significant growth, with a 44% increase in its Technical Apparel segment in the first quarter of 2024, driven by its disruptive direct-to-consumer (DTC) model and strong competitive position. Arc'teryx's products, such as the Alpha SV jacket and MoGo pants, set industry standards for performance, insulation, and breathability. The brand is expanding its product range and price points to make high-quality gear more accessible, and its footwear segment has grown to 10% of its revenues. With a strong presence in regions like Greater China and the Asia Pacific, Arc'teryx continues to drive double-digit revenue growth. For a comprehensive analysis of Arc'teryx's market position, visit their market analysis blog.

Columbia Sportswear

Columbia Sportswear is a leading producer of high-quality hiking clothes, known for its innovative technologies such as Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining and Omni-Tech waterproof breathable fabric. The company, founded in 1938, has grown to nearly $1.5 billion in revenue and holds a market share of around 2.31% in the apparel, footwear, and accessories industry as of Q3 2024. Columbia's diverse brand portfolio includes Mountain Hardwear, SOREL, and prAna, catering to a wide range of outdoor activities. The company's strong global distribution network and commitment to sustainability set it apart in the competitive outdoor apparel market. Despite recent challenges, Columbia remains a trusted brand for outdoor enthusiasts, with a vision to "connect active people with their passions."

Mountain Hardwear

Mountain Hardwear is a renowned brand in the hiking and outdoor gear industry, known for its high-quality and innovative products. Despite a 12% decline in Q4 2023 revenue due to lower wholesale shipments, the brand saw direct-to-consumer growth and won two ISPO awards for its Alpine Light™ Rolltop backpack and Specter sleeping bag. In 2022, Mountain Hardwear achieved $109.5 million in revenue, a 3% increase year-over-year, and it is expected to see mid-single digit sales growth in 2024. The brand is undergoing a comprehensive refresh, including a new marketing campaign and collaborations like the one with Stussy, which has boosted its online traffic. Mountain Hardwear is a key player in the hiking gear and equipment market, which is projected to grow with a CAGR of 6.5% from 2023 to 2029. For more information, you can visit their official website.

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research is a notable brand in the outdoor apparel market, particularly for hiking clothes, with a brand awareness of 29% among outdoor fashion owners in the United States. Despite its relatively low usage share of 4%, the brand enjoys a high loyalty rate, with 75% of its owners likely to purchase again. The brand is known for its quality and durability, which is reflected in a 6% user satisfaction rate among those who know the brand. Outdoor Research benefits from the growing demand for hiking gear, a market that was valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow further. The brand's presence is enhanced by its distribution through specialty stores, which account for over 46.1% of the hiking gear and equipment market.

Marmot

Marmot is a highly regarded brand in the outdoor apparel industry, known for its durable and high-quality hiking clothes. With a brand awareness of 34% among outdoor fashion owners in the United States, Marmot is favored by 8% of these owners, and 6% actually own Marmot products. The brand's loyalty is strong, with 83% of its owners likely to purchase Marmot again. Founded in 1974, Marmot has established itself as a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering products that withstand various conditions, as testified by long-term users who praise its durability and value. Marmot's annual revenue stands at $104.9 million, reflecting its significant presence in the market. For more information, you can visit Marmot's official website.

REI Co-op

REI Co-op stands out as a top producer for hiking clothes, offering a balance of price and performance that is hard to match. Founded in 1938 by a group of 23 climbing friends, REI has grown to operate 181 stores across 42 states, serving over 23 million members. The brand is known for its commitment to sustainability, using environmentally friendly materials and responsible manufacturing practices. REI Co-op's products, such as the Stormhenge Down Hybrid Jacket and XeroDry rain shell, incorporate high-end fabrics like PrimaLoft, Pertex, and Gore, providing excellent value without the premium price tag of brands like Arc'teryx or Patagonia. Members also benefit from a 10% annual eligible shopping rebate, with total rebates reaching $224 million in 2022. For more insights on leading outdoor apparel, check out the best outdoor clothing brands.

Black Diamond

Black Diamond, a subsidiary of Clarus Corporation, is renowned for its high-quality outdoor equipment and apparel, particularly in the hiking and climbing sectors. The brand has been ranked as one of the top bestselling climbing equipment brands, dominating categories such as hardware and harnesses. Despite recent challenges, Black Diamond is focusing on simplifying its product lines, with a goal to increase its apparel business to $100 million by 2027, up from less than 20% of its current sales. The brand's strong market presence is evident in its 40%-50% market share in climbing equipment categories like helmets, carabiners, and harnesses. Black Diamond's strategy includes enhancing digital marketing, partnering with athletes, and expanding its product exposure to drive growth. For more insight into their strategic focus, you can read their recent news update.

Rab

Rab is renowned as one of the best producers of hiking and outdoor clothing, founded in 1981 by Scottish climber Rab Carrington. The brand is known for its high-quality, technical apparel and gear, particularly its insulated jackets and sleeping bags, which are favored by serious adventurers and mountaineers. Rab sells about 75%-80% of its global product assortment in the U.S. and has seen year-over-year business growth in the low double-digits. The company is committed to maintaining its focus on core outdoor enthusiasts, offering products at prices that are achievable for those who define their lives by outdoor activities, such as the Mythic G Down jacket priced at $525. Rab also uses innovative materials like Pertex and Gore-Tex in its waterproof and breathable jackets. For more information, check out this hiking brand deep dive on Rab.