For over 60 years, Black Diamond has been a staple in the outdoor gear industry. Founded in 1957, the brand has a long history of producing high-quality and innovative products that are loved by climbers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.

The brand prioritizes creating equipment that can perform effectively in extreme conditions, and as a result, it has become synonymous with excellence and reliability. They offer a wide range of products suitable for different outdoor activities such as skiing, climbing, and hiking. Black Diamond is most renowned for their climbing gear, which offers top-notch support and safety for climbers of all skill levels. Some of their most popular products include harnesses, carabiners, and belay devices.

Apart from climbing gear, the brand also manufactures high-quality skiing and snowboarding equipment, including skis, boots, and bindings. Their ski equipment is designed to provide superior performance and control on various terrains, making them a favorite among skiers of all experience levels.

What sets Black Diamond apart from other brands is their commitment to utilizing only the best quality materials and integrating the latest technology into their products. Whether it's their proprietary Z-Pole technology for hiking poles or carbon fiber for lightweight strength, Black Diamond is continually pushing the limits of what's achievable in the world of outdoor gear.

Founder: Peter Metcalf

Headquarters: Holladay, Utah, United States

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackdiamond/

Website: https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/

Named after the extreme conditions for which its gear is made to last, The North Face is one of the most recognized brands in the outdoor world. For over 50 years, this American brand has been committed to producing equipment that helps people push their limits and never stop exploring.

The North Face offers a diverse range of products, providing high-performance gear and constant innovation to the world's most renowned climbers, trail runners, extreme skiers, and explorers. Some of their products include backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and technical gear for mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding.

The North Face has one of the best warranty and return policies in the outdoor market. They are one of the few brands that offer a lifetime warranty on their products. Additionally, they have a return policy for products purchased through their website or retail stores. If the item is defective or damaged, you can return or exchange it within 60 days of purchase, as long as it is in new and unused condition with all original tags and packaging.

The North Face has consistently introduced new and unique products for adventurers while staying up-to-date with the latest trends. Now so much more than just an outdoor gear brand, The North Face is loved by all ages and is a universally recognized lifestyle clothing brand. The introduction of innovative technologies such as Thermoball has kept them at the forefront of the industry, which is where people predict they will remain in the distant future.

Founders: Douglas Tompkins, Susie Tompkins Buell
Headquarters: Alameda, California, United States
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenorthface/
Website: https://www.thenorthface.com/

MSR (Mountain Safety Research) is an American outdoor gear brand that specializes in providing innovative and reliable equipment for those who love the outdoors. The brand is well-known for its high-quality tents, stoves, water filters, snowshoes, and other outdoor accessories that are designed to keep their customers safe and comfortable even in the most challenging environments.

The brand was founded in 1969 by a group of mountaineers who were dissatisfied with the outdoor gear available at the time. They focused on designing equipment that could withstand the extreme conditions of mountain expeditions. Today, MSR is recognized as an industry leader in manufacturing mountaineering and backpacking gear.

One of the most prominent and popular products offered by MSR is the MSR Hubba Hubba NX tent, which is a high-performance backpacking tent designed for two people. It's a lightweight and easy-to-pitch tent, which makes it perfect for backpackers who are looking for a reliable and spacious shelter. In addition, the brand's stoves are known for their durability and efficiency. The WindBurner stove is one of their most popular models and is designed to work efficiently even in windy conditions.

MSR also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility and has introduced several initiatives to reduce its footprint and promote sustainability. All of their products are made to last and are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Founder: Larry Penberthy
Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msr_gear/
Website: https://www.msrgear.com/

Mammut, a Swiss brand established in 1982, is well-known for producing top-quality mountain gear and has now become a leading multinational brand that produces outdoor equipment for various mountaineering activities such as climbing, hiking, and trekking. Its products are recognized for their excellence and are perfect for those seeking an enduring adventure.

Mammut offers a wide selection of products, including harnesses, backpacks, clothing, footwear, climbing ropes, climbing hardware, and avalanche safety equipment. The brand creates unique and innovative styles for outdoor enthusiasts to enhance their performance through continuous practice. The brand has received certification for its advanced techniques and superior quality, and all its products are tested by field experts and receive sustainability certificates.

Mammut has a vast range of mountain equipment to cater to all your adventure needs, whether it is hiking, climbing, or trekking. Its hiking range is exceptional, offering both comfort and fun, and can be easily accessed through a simple search.

For climbers, whether novice or professional, a Mammut harness is a must-have, as it is designed to prevent falls during the activity and distribute the climber's weight evenly. Additionally, the Mammut backpack is superb for making trekking easier, as it is lightweight, made of high-quality material, and can carry a variety of personal belongings conveniently. It is suitable for all weather conditions, including rainy days, thanks to its waterproof technology.

Founder: Kaspar Tanner
Headquarters: Seon, Switzerland‎
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mammut_swiss1862/
Website: https://www.mammut.com/

Salomon is a leading brand in the outdoor and sports industries, offering high-performance gear and equipment for skiing, snowboarding, running, hiking, and mountaineering. Founded in 1947 in Annecy, France, Salomon has been dedicated to pushing the limits of mountain sports by constantly innovating and improving their products.

Some of the most popular products of Salomon include running shoes, hiking boots, trail running shoes, and footwear for water sports, as well as their specialized snow sports gear such as snowboards, skis, and snowshoes. In addition, they offer camping and backpacking equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and camping accessories like water bottles and headlamps. Salomon's running shoes are particularly notable for their innovative features, such as the Quicklace system that allows for easy and fast adjustments and their Contagrip outsole that provides exceptional grip on various terrains.

Salomon is committed to innovation and sustainability, which is evident in their products designed to minimize environmental impact while still providing excellent performance and functionality. They have implemented sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes, such as using recycled materials and reducing waste and energy consumption.

Founder: Georges Salomon
Headquarters: Annecy, France
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salomon/
Website: https://www.salomon.com/

Mountain Hardwear is an American brand that designs technical products for mountain lovers. Created with the aim of offering quality equipment and clothing, Mountain Hardwear offers you what you need to practice all kinds of outdoor activities and fully enjoy the sport.

The brand continuously pushes the boundaries of outdoor gear technology, creating products that are not only functional but also highly efficient. Whether it's a lightweight tent, a waterproof jacket, or a durable backpack, Mountain Hardwear gear is designed to enhance the outdoor experience.

Durability is another key aspect of Mountain Hardwear gear. The brand understands that outdoor adventures can be challenging and demanding, so their products are built to withstand tough conditions. From reinforced seams to high-quality materials, Mountain Hardwear gear is built to last. This durability ensures that adventurers can rely on their gear even in the harshest environments.

Mountain Hardwear manufactures the most technical 4-season tent on the market. It also stands out for its own sleeping bags, which resist temperatures down to -29 degrees. Since its foundation in 1993, Mountain Hardwear has continued to innovate year after year. Its most famous synthetic sleeping bag, the Lamina, is one of the lightest currently on the market. Apart from tents and sleeping bags, Mountain Hardwear is also popular for its technical equipment: down jackets, waterproof jackets, mountain polar... In this way, the brand is recognized not only by people who practice mountaineering, climbing, and hiking but also by all those who enjoy being in nature.

Founders: Jack Gilbert, Paul Kramer, and Mike Wallenfels

Headquarters: Richmond, California, United States

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mountainhardwear/

Website: https://www.mountainhardwear.com/

Cotopaxi is an innovative and socially responsible outdoor gear brand that has made a name for itself in the industry. Founded in 2014, the brand has gained a solid reputation for producing high-quality and durable outdoor gear while also taking a unique approach to social responsibility.

One of the things that sets Cotopaxi apart from other brands is its innovative business model. The brand is a certified B-Corp, which means it is committed to meeting rigorous standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. They also donate 1% of their annual revenue to various nonprofit organizations that are working to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development around the world.

In terms of their products, Cotopaxi offers a wide range of outdoor gear designed for adventurers of all kinds. From backpacks and duffel bags to equipment and accessories, the brand has everything you need for your next outdoor excursion. The products are all high-quality, durable, and designed to perform well in a variety of conditions.

But perhaps the most impactful aspect of Cotopaxi's approach is its commitment to sustainability. The brand uses sustainable materials whenever possible, including recycled fabrics and insulation made from recycled water bottles. It also partners with factories that follow fair labor practices and has implemented several initiatives to reduce waste and minimize its environmental footprint. As a result of these efforts, Cotopaxi has become a beloved brand among outdoor enthusiasts who value sustainability and social responsibility.

Founder: Davis Smith
Headquarters: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotopaxi/
Website: https://www.cotopaxi.com/

Six Moons Designs (SMD) is an outdoor gear brand that has gained recognition for its innovative and high-quality products. With a focus on lightweight and durable gear, SMD caters to outdoor enthusiasts who value efficiency and performance during their adventures.

The brand utilizes eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, ensuring minimal environmental impact. This aligns with the growing demand for responsible outdoor gear, attracting environmentally conscious consumers. From backpacks and tents to sleeping bags and accessories, SMD offers a comprehensive selection of gear that caters to various outdoor activities and conditions. Each product is carefully designed to maximize functionality while maintaining a lightweight profile, making them ideal for backpackers, thru-hikers, and ultralight enthusiasts.

Since its inception, the brand has consistently received positive feedback regarding the durability and performance of its gear. Moreover, their customer service is reputed for being responsive and helpful, providing assistance and guidance to customers when needed.

However, it is worth noting that SMD's products can be relatively expensive compared to traditional outdoor gear brands. This may restrict access to some budget-conscious customers or beginners in outdoor activities. Additionally, due to the brand's focus on lightweight gear, certain products may have limited storage space compared to heavier alternatives.

Founder: Ronald Moak
Headquarters: Beaverton, Oregon, United States
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixmoondesigns/
Website: https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/

Sea to Summit is a brand that draws inspiration from exciting adventures at different elevations. This award-winning global brand has created a culture of design perfectionism to develop functionally beautiful products with a “no worries" Australian attitude. The brand has won numerous awards and is now a well-known international brand that sells adventure gear in almost 60 countries.

Their goal is to encourage and equip outdoor enthusiasts by creating lighter, better-performing gear through continuous research and development. Sea to Summit offers a wide range of lightweight products suitable for various outdoor activities, from spending time by the sea to climbing mountains. From backpacks and sleeping bags to tents, cookware, and accessories, their product line is extensive, catering to the diverse needs of adventurers. Each item is engineered with meticulous attention to detail, employing cutting-edge technologies and materials to maximize performance and durability.

Their famous products are the versatile and lightweight Ultra-Sil Dry Sacks, which provide reliable waterproof protection for important gear and equipment. Additionally, the Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow is highly regarded for its innovative design, offering a comfortable and adjustable sleeping solution that is perfect for camping or backpacking. The Sea to Summit X-Pot, on the other hand, is a collapsible cooking pot that combines functionality and portability, making it an ideal choice for outdoor cooking needs.

Founders: Roland Tyson and Tim Macartney-Snape

Headquarters: Perth, Australia

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seatosummit/

Website: https://seatosummit.com/

REI is a renowned outdoor gear brand that has been catering to outdoor enthusiasts for over 80 years. Founded in 1938, this brand has established itself as a trusted source for high-quality outdoor equipment and apparel.

REI offers a wide range of outdoor gear for various activities, including hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, and more. Their products are designed with durability, functionality, and performance in mind, ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts can rely on their gear in any challenging condition. From waterproof jackets and pants to sturdy tents and sleeping bags, REI offers items that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.

In addition to their own line of products, REI also collaborates with other reputable brands to offer a diverse selection of outdoor gear. This partnership approach allows them to provide customers with a curated collection of top-quality products from trusted manufacturers.

Furthermore, REI goes beyond just selling gear by fostering a vibrant outdoor community. They organize outdoor events, workshops, and classes to educate and inspire people to explore the outdoors. With their commitment to quality, ethics, and customer satisfaction, it's no wonder that REI has become a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable and eco-friendly gear.

Founders: Lloyd Anderson, Mary Anderson
Headquarters: Sumner, Washington, United States
Instagram: https://www.rei.com/
Website: https://www.rei.com/