Outdoor adventures are an exciting way to spend free time—and having the right gear makes those outings more enjoyable. There are several retailers selling outdoor gear, clothing and supplies. When deciding where to shop, you’ll want a brand that offers durable products made with high-quality materials. As someone who enjoys the great outdoors, you’ll also likely want to consider whether a company is environmentally-conscious.
When it comes to leading retailers of outdoor gear and clothing, two brands land at the top of any list: Patagonia and The North Face. Both brands are known for their quality goods, style and commitment to the environment.
Before you stock up for your next family camping trip, check out the perks and differences of Patagonia vs North Face.
What’s the Difference Between Patagonia and North Face?
Patagonia and North Face are quite similar in terms of the type of products they offer. If you’re looking for outdoor clothing like fleece jackets and snow boots, both brands sell comparable items.
However, when it comes to things like camping gear and bags, North Face offers a much wider product range. North Face also has a significantly larger product line when it comes to affordable, casual clothing. Patagonia, on the other hand, offers little in the way of cheaper, everyday attire and workwear.
Beyond product range, there are a few differences between Patagonia and North Face regarding brand history, pricing and repairs.
Patagonia vs North Face: Commitment to Environmentalism
If you’re looking for a brand with a long-standing commitment to the environment and sustainability, then Patagonia fits the bill. Founded in 1973, the company has always been well-regarded for its quality goods and ethics. Today, a large portion of Patagonia products are made from recycled materials, and all of their cotton is either recycled or organic.
More than half of their fabrics are also Bluesign-certified, which means they are guaranteed to be safe for the environment, its workers and their customers. Additionally, Patagonia actively invests in environmental nonprofit organizations working to preserve the planet.
On the other hand, North Face prioritized innovation ahead of other brand concerns. It wasn’t until recently they began taking actions to become more eco-friendly. Now, North Face plans for all of their apparel to be manufactured with recycled, responsibly-sourced or renewable materials by 2025. They expect the same for footwear and equipment by 2030.
