Fjällräven was founded in 1960 by Ake Nordin, this Swedish company is remembered for its hiking gear, outdoor clothing and excellent backpacks. The first products of this company were backpacks with an external frame. Their products turned out to be so comfortable and durable that they instantly made them very popular among hikers.
Their outerwear made of special tent material became the company’s key product. Different versions of the Kånken backpack are still the most famous and sought-after products today.
Be sure the world is not limited to just Fjällräven and we will look at alternatives and brands similar to Fjallraven that offer a very similar pieces and provide the same high quality customer service
# Best for sustainable outdoor apparel
Patagonia
Prices: $$$
Founded: 1973
Origin: United States
Patagonia was founded by mountaineer Yvon Chouinard, who wanted to create durable, sustainable and long-lasting outdoor clothing. People love the brand for its commitment to sustainability, quality materials and ‘fix it, don’t throw it away’ philosophy. The most iconic products are the Nano Puff jacket, Synchilla fleece hoodies and Black Hole waterproof backpacks.
# Best for technical performance gear
Arc’teryx
Prices: $$$$
Founded: 1989
Origin: Canada
Arc’teryx was founded in Canada to create high-tech apparel and gear that can withstand the harshest conditions. Customers appreciate the brand for its innovative fabrics, advanced technology and unrivaled durability. Cult models include Alpha SV jackets, Alpha FL lightweight backpacks and Acrux mountaineering boots.
# Best for versatile outdoor clothing
The North Face
Prices: $$
Founded: 1968
Origin: United States
The North Face started out as a small mountaineering store, but soon evolved into one of the world’s leading outdoor clothing brands. People choose this brand for its reliability, style and wide range of outdoor clothing. The most popular products are Nuptse down jackets, Thermoball jackets and VE 25 tents.
# Best for Scandinavian outdoor gear
Haglöfs
Prices: $$$
Founded: 1914
Origin: Sweden
Haglöfs was founded by Swedish carpenter Victor Haglöf, who wanted to create durable backpacks for work and travel. The brand is popular for their concise yet functional clothing and gear designed with the Scandinavian climate in mind. They are best known for their Torsång backpacks and Essens Mimic insulated jackets.
# Best for marine and mountain apparel
Helly Hansen
Prices: $$
Founded: 1877
Origin: Norway
Helly Hansen came about thanks to a Norwegian sailor who developed waterproof clothing to protect against harsh climates. Today, the brand is loved for its reliable technologies such as Helly Tech and LifaLoft insulation. Landmark products include Salt Navigator marine jackets, ski suits and Lifa thermal underwear.
# Best for affordable outdoor clothing
Columbia Sportswear
Prices: $
Founded: 1938
Origin: United States
Columbia started as a family business, and today it’s one of the largest companies in the outdoor industry. People choose this brand for its affordability, comfort and technologies like Omni-Tech and Omni-Heat. The best known products are Bugaboo jackets, Powderhouse Titanium boots and PFG hiking shirts.
# Best for mountaineering equipment
Mammut
Prices: $$$
Founded: 1862
Origin: Switzerland
Mammut was founded in Switzerland and originally produced climbing ropes, but later expanded into clothing and gear. The brand is known for its reliability and safety, making it the choice of professional climbers. Legendary products include Nordwand jackets, Mammut Dry ropes and Trion backpacks.
# Best for functional outdoor apparel
Jack Wolfskin
Prices: $$
Founded: 1981
Origin: Germany
Jack Wolfskin was born in Germany with a vision to create durable and comfortable clothing for nature lovers. People love the brand for its comfort, affordability and signature Texapore waterproof technology. The most popular products are JWP Shell jackets, Vojo 3 Texapore hiking boots and Crosstrail backpacks.
# Best for eco-friendly mountaineering gear
Klättermusen
Prices: $$$$
Founded: 1975
Origin: Sweden
Klättermusen was created by Swedish climbers who wanted to combine innovative materials with sustainable production. The brand is known for its strong but lightweight fabrics and unusual designs. The most iconic models are Brage backpacks, Einride storm jackets and Bore insulated vests.
# Best for premium outdoor clothing
Norrøna
Prices: $$$$
Founded: 1929
Origin: Norway
Norrøna was founded by a Norwegian family that started by producing gear for fishermen and hunters. Today the brand is known for its technological and stylish jackets for extreme conditions. The most popular products are Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro membrane jackets and Falketind hiking pants.
# Best for reliable outdoor gear
Berghaus
Prices: $$
Founded: 1966
Origin: United Kingdom
Berghaus came about thanks to two British mountaineers who wanted to create the best equipment for climbing. Today the brand is known for its reliable outdoor clothing, waterproof jackets and comfortable backpacks. The most popular products are Paclite Gore-Tex jackets, Hillwalker hiking boots and Trailhead backpacks.
# Best for insulated jackets and sleeping bags
Rab
Prices: $$$
Founded: 1981
Origin: United Kingdom
Rab was founded by mountaineer Rab Carrington, who created insulated jackets and sleeping bags for expeditions to the Himalayas. People appreciate this brand for its high-quality insulations and durable materials. Legendary products include Neutrino Pro down jackets, Microlight Alpine jackets and Ascent sleeping bags.
# Best for classic outdoor apparel
L.L.Bean
Prices: $
Founded: 1912
Origin: United States
L.L.Bean started with waterproof boots and today offers a wide range of outdoor clothing and gear. Customers choose this brand for its durability and classic style. The most iconic products include the famous Bean Boots, Mountain Classic backpacks and Sweater Fleece jackets.
# Best for innovative backpacks
Osprey
Prices: $$
Founded: 1974
Origin: United States
Osprey was founded in California with the idea of creating the most comfortable and durable backpacks possible. The brand is famous for its ergonomic designs and durable materials. The most famous models are Atmos AG hiking backpacks, Ariel women’s models and Farpoint city backpacks.
# Best for climbing and skiing gear
Black Diamond
Prices: $$$
Founded: 1957
Origin: United States
Black Diamond grew out of a love of rock climbing and has become one of the industry leaders in climbing gear. Customers trust the brand for its innovative technology, safety and durability of equipment. Legendary products include carabiners, ice axes and climbing systems used by professionals around the world.
# Best for rugged outdoor clothing
Kühl
Prices: $$
Founded: 1983
Origin: United States
Kühl started as a small brand in the mountains of Utah, creating clothing for outdoor enthusiasts. Customers appreciate it for its rugged yet stylish garments that are suitable for both the city and nature. The most famous models are Renegade pants and The Law jackets, characterized by hard-wearing fabrics and comfortable fit.
# Best for sustainable adventure gear
Cotopaxi
Prices: $$
Founded: 2014
Origin: United States
Cotopaxi emerged with a mission to change the fashion world by implementing the principles of sustainable production and social responsibility. People love this brand for its bright, cheerful design and support of charitable initiatives. The most famous products are the colorful Teca jackets and Del Día backpacks, which are made from recycled materials and always have a unique coloring.
# Best for extreme weather gear
Mountain Hardwear
Prices: $$$
Founded: 1993
Origin: United States
Mountain Hardwear was founded by a group of enthusiasts who sought to create gear for the harshest weather conditions. The brand has become known for its use of innovative fabrics and technologies that withstand extreme temperatures. The most popular products are Ghost Whisperer down jackets and Trango tents designed for mountaineers and expeditions.
