Note: Durability Matters is reader-supported. When you buy through affiliate links on our website, we’ll make a small commission, without impacting your price. Thank you. Learn more.
Travel, exploration, and the outdoors have always been popular ways for people to spend their spare time, and in recent decades, new technologies have allowed us to take our adventurous spirits to the next level.
There are a number of companies providing outdoor gear, clothing, and supplies, and the best of these stand head-and-shoulders above the rest by providing gear that is not only durable, high quality, and built to keep you alive, but also manufactured in a way that is environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
Two companies that come to mind when we think of the best outdoor giants are Patagonia and The North Face. Both known for their innovation, environmentalism, and high quality, durable products, these companies may seem like twins in their industry, but in fact, they are more different than they might seem at first glance.
With significantly different histories, varied product lines, and historically, vastly different values, Patagonia and The North Face are more like cousins than siblings, so when you start looking for the best outdoor gear for your next adventure, how do you know where to look?
In terms of durability and quality, you’ll do well with either brand, but where your search will differ is when you start to look at the specific product lines, as well as the values of the comp