Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past year or two, you’d know that the outdoor fashion trend has been more popular than ever. A phenomenon known as “gorpcore” (which stands for good ol’ raisins and peanuts), new Pinterest data has found that searches for this peculiar aesthetic have increased by 17 times since 2021, and this surge in hype is thanks to American outdoor brands that have made their way from peak to chic.
If you’re thinking of jumping on this trend but you don’t really know where to begin, then you’ve come to the right place. The world of American outdoor brands can be somewhat baffling and outright confusing, so we’ve hand selected ten of the best ones that should definitely be on your radar – whether you're planning a multi-day hike or just want to stay on top of the trend.
The best American outdoor brands in 2025
Patagonia
If you’re looking for an outdoor brand that’s particularly conscious about the environment, Patagonia is the one for you. With a mission statement to “build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis”, Patagonia has set a high bar for eco-friendly fashion, but not only has it talked the talk, it has also walked the walk. At the end of 2022, its founder, Yvon Chouinard, made the decision to use all of Patagonia’s profits to fight climate change, transferring all the company's stock to nonprofits dedicated to tackling the current climate crisis. So if you’ve always wanted that Classic Retro-X Fleece Jacket, now’s the time to get it.
The North Face
You just can’t talk about the best American outdoor brands without giving The North Face a very special shoutout. Since 1966, the San Francisco-based company has always been about summiting in style. Known for outerwear icons like the Lhotse, its pieces are the perfect blend of style and substance. The North Face are also known for their breathtaking streetwear collaborations. Since the ‘80s and ‘90s, they’ve teamed up with some of the industry’s biggest names, including London’s Dover Street Market, Tokyo’s Junya Watanabe, New York City’s Supreme, and of course, Milan’s Gucci – a premium partnership that completely redefined gorpcore forever when it made its debut at the end of 2020.
REI
REI (short for Recreational Equipment, Inc.) is an outdoor brand like no other. Established almost nine decades ago in Seattle, Washington, they sell everything from camping and hiking equipment all the way to running and cycling gear. During the late ‘80s, REI introduced REI Adventures, which are essentially vacation packages for active travellers. They also started the Outdoor School that’s basically the same thing, but for young explorers. If you’re looking for a company that has the great outdoors injected into its DNA, this is it.
Filson
Without a shadow of a doubt, Filson is one of the most storied outdoor brands in history. Founded by Clinton C. Filson all the way back in the 1800s, since Day Dot, the company has always been about exploration. During the Gold Rush, the American outfitters made blankets and apparel for those stampeding through the mountains of California in search of treasure, and in the 20th century, they created clothing for hunters and anglers, engineers and explorers, mariners and miners. Even to this day, their Waxed Canvas and Wool Jackets are some of their most popular pieces.
Cotopaxi
Named after one of Ecuador's most active volcanoes, Cotopaxi is a sustainable outdoor brand based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. Founded by Davis Smith, he grew up throughout Latin America where he saw first-hand the hardship resulting from unequal access to opportunity. With this in mind, at least 1% of Cotopaxi’s revenue goes to nonprofits that help communities that are currently experiencing poverty. So when you add that Fuego Hooded Down Jacket or the Teca Fleece Vest to your wardrobe, not only will you look good, you’ll actually do some good too.
Columbia
Columbia is an outdoor brand with a pretty surprising backstory. The brainchild of Paul Lamfrom, it began its journey as a hat distribution company by his parents, who had just fled Nazi Germany for Oregon. Getting its name from the Columbia River where they settled down after escaping Hitler’s regime, it’s now known for adventure-ready collections such as Heritage and Titanium, and massive, hype-worthy streetwear collabs from the likes of Atmos, Kith, and Opening Ceremony, to name a few.
Danner
According to the latest statistics by the United Nations, 21 billion tonnes of clothing ends up going to landfill every single year, and of the 100 billion items produced annually, 14 for each human on the planet, three in five will be discarded within a year’s time. These numbers are scary and are affecting our planet at a rate that we’ve never experienced before – but Danner wants to change this. For nearly a century, the Portland-based outdoor company has been crafting boots with purpose and integrity. Unlike most pairs from other brands that will begin to degrade after just a few wears, Danner’s boots have been made in the US of A, and were designed to last for decades and decades.
Outdoor Research
In 1980, Ron Gregg decided that nuclear physics just wasn’t for him. After leaving his career in science, he joined up with an expedition to climb North America’s highest peak, Denali. During the summit, he experienced an open bivouac at 12,500 feet with temperatures reaching -20 Fahrenheit. His climbing partner suffered from frostbitten feet and was evacuated by helicopter – an event that led Gregg to establish Outdoor Research. Since 1981, OR has been developing new and innovative ways to make mountaineering safer. While Gregg sadly passed away in an avalanche in 2003, his legacy continues to live on through his brand.
Mountain Hardwear
Since 1993, Mountain Hardwear has always been about big milestones. When the Californian company was in its early stages, it signed Ed Viesturs, who is probably one of the greatest high-altitude mountaineers of our generation. Not only was he the first American ever to climb all fourteen 8,000 metre peaks, he also helped develop several of their products along the way. Since then, Mountain Hardwear has sponsored a number of talented athletes who have all gone on to achieve great things while wearing MH from head to toe.
Osprey
There’s just no way you can talk about American outdoor brands without bringing up Osprey. Founded in the mid ‘70s amidst the mountaineering boom, husband-and-wife dream team Mike Pfotenhauer and Diane Wren originally hand-built custom fitted backpacks by themselves. These eventually became known across the globe as some of the most reliable bags ever. The Aesther 60 model even made an appearance in the June 2001 edition of Time Magazine, when it was worn by Erik Weihenmayer – the first blind climber to summit Mount Everest. Two decades later, and Osprey is the gold standard when it comes to rucksacks.
L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean is a cornerstone of American outdoor heritage. Founded in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean in Freeport, Maine, it all began with the now-iconic Bean Boot – a waterproof, rubber-bottomed boot designed for hunting and traversing the rugged outdoors. Over a century later, L.L.Bean continues to prioritise functionality, durability, and timeless design. Whether you’re pulling on its ultra-warm flannel shirts, exploring in a sturdy pair of boots, or relaxing with its cosy fleece layers, the brand’s commitment to quality is evident in every stitch. Plus, with its legendary 24/7 customer service, L.L.Bean has earned loyalty that lasts generations.
KAVU
Born in Seattle in the early ‘90s, KAVU takes its name from an aviation term meaning “clear above, visibility unlimited” – an ethos that drives its adventure-ready approach. Known for vibrant patterns and laid-back style, KAVU specialises in practical gear for outdoor enthusiasts, from crossbody rope bags to sturdy bucket hats. Its apparel blends outdoor utility with a playful, West Coast vibe, perfect for anyone who values climbing, hiking, or just kicking back at the beach. The brand’s focus on sustainable materials also ensures you’re leaving a lighter footprint as you explore.
YETI
YETI redefined coolers when it launched in 2006. Frustrated by flimsy, breakable coolers, brothers Roy and Ryan Seiders set out to build something tougher, colder, and longer lasting – and the result was an outdoor revolution. YETI’s hardwearing coolers and insulated tumblers are now the gold standard for hunters, anglers, and campers worldwide. With products like the Tundra Cooler and the Rambler Bottle, the brand isn’t just about keeping drinks cold – it’s about preserving outdoor experiences. A favourite among adventurers, YETI’s rugged products thrive in extreme conditions, from scorching deserts to icy rivers.
Woolrich
Founded in 1830, Woolrich is a legend in American outdoor apparel. As the oldest continuously operating woolen mill in the United States, it has clothed everyone from loggers and trappers to Arctic explorers. Its signature Buffalo Check flannel, introduced in the 1850s, remains an icon of rugged American style. Over the years, Woolrich has expanded beyond its wool roots, offering technical parkas and insulated outerwear that pair performance with timeless aesthetics. Whether you’re braving the elements or simply embracing cold-weather style, Woolrich brings a heritage of craftsmanship that spans nearly two centuries.
KEEN
KEEN might be a relative newcomer compared to some heritage outdoor brands, but its impact has been undeniable since launching in 2003. Known for pioneering the hybrid sandal-shoe design with its Newport model, KEEN has become synonymous with comfort and versatility. Whether you’re navigating river crossings, tackling hiking trails, or exploring city streets, KEEN’s footwear blends rugged functionality with everyday practicality. Sustainability is at the heart of the Portland-based brand too, with environmentally conscious production processes and recycled materials woven into its DNA.
Merrell
Merrell is the ultimate go-to for hiking shoes that don’t compromise on comfort or performance. Founded in 1981, it quickly became a household name for outdoor lovers. From its original leather hiking boots to today’s innovative Moab series – short for “Mother of All Boots” – Merrell’s designs are built to handle the demands of rough terrain. Lightweight, grippy, and ready for anything, Merrell’s shoes are as at home on mountain trails as they are on weekend city strolls. The brand’s focus on accessibility also makes it a favourite for anyone taking their first steps into the great outdoors.
Gramicci
Gramicci might have its roots in rock climbing, but its reach extends far beyond the crags. Founded in the ‘80s by Mike Graham – a climber from the legendary Yosemite crew – the brand pioneered freedom of movement in outdoor clothing with its gusseted climbing pants and durable cotton fabrics. Now based in Japan, Gramicci’s relaxed cuts and functional designs are just as suited for city streets as they are for climbing walls. Its mix of retro-inspired aesthetics and technical performance has made it a key player in the outdoor-meets-streetwear scene. From hiking trails to café chairs, Gramicci just works.
For more outdoor-ready apparel, check out our pick of the best fleece jackets for men.
