Looking for stores like Fjallraven? This Swedish brand has earned a cult following worldwide for its durable, functional outdoor apparel and gear. Especially that iconic Kanken backpack!
But Fjallraven isn’t your only option for quality clothing and equipment designed for hiking, camping, and everyday outdoor adventures. Plenty of top brands offer similar performance, style, and attention to detail in their own unique way.
In this guide, we’ll explore 13 excellent brands like Fjallraven worth checking out. Whether you need technical mountaineering apparel, a new favorite trail running shoe, or a stylish, eco-friendly rain jacket, and more, we got your back.
Let’s dive in to find Fjallraven competitors that match their quality and passion for the outdoors!
13 Best Backpacks Similar to Fjallraven for Outdoor Clothing & Equipment
This list explores 13 top brands like Fjallraven worth checking out for outdoor clothing and equipment.
1. Patagonia
Founded by climber Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia is a California-based company dedicated to making quality gear for climbers. Now Patagonia offers outdoor apparel and equipment for all types of adventure sports.
Patagonia shares Fjallraven’s commitment to functionality and sustainability. Their gear is designed for serious outdoor pursuits like alpinism. Patagonia also prioritizes eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Their products come with a lifetime guarantee.
Key Benefits
- High-performance outdoor clothing and gear
- Leading sustainability practices
- Lifetime guarantee on products
2. Mammut
This Swiss company has over 150 years of experience in mountaineering and outdoor gear. They are known for ropes, harnesses, packs and apparel engineered for elite alpine activities.
Their backpacks have ultralight yet durable designs perfect for fast-paced hiking and climbing. Their clothing incorporates proprietary technologies for breathability and freedom of movement. Top items include their Nordwand Pro HS alpine backpack and Eiger Extreme Pro mountaineering jacket.
They also offers a wide selection of cold weather apparel compared to other brands like Fjallraven on the list.
Key Benefits:
- Specialized high-tech climbing gear
- Innovative cold weather clothing
- 150+ years of outdoor expertise
3. Foresake Co.
This small startup launched by outdoor enthusiasts in 2016 as a Kickstarter campaign for all-weather hiking boots. They have expanded into a variety of performance footwear plus apparel and bags for hiking and camping.
While new, Foresake combines the quality and sustainability values of veteran brands like Fjallraven and Patagonia. Their hiking boots are equal parts fashionable and functional. Foreshake footwear comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Their trail runners have an athletic yet stylish look suitable for outdoor adventures or around-town wear.
Key Benefits:
- Lifetime guaranteed all-weather hiking boots
- Stylish, sustainable outdoor apparel
- Veteran brand quality from a startup
4. Helly Hansen
Founded in 1877, Helly Hansen is a pioneer of waterproof, breathable gear for extreme conditions. This Norwegian brand specializes in layers and rainwear for sailing, skiing, and cold environments.
They offers an extensive selection of waterproof jackets, pants, base layers, and footwear. Their LIFA merino wool baselayers provide warmth without bulk. Helly Hansen’s designs pair well with Fjallraven’s clean aesthetics.
Their Lifaloft insulated jackets feature premium waterproof, windproof and breathable fabric to keep core warmth.
Key Benefits:
- Innovative, waterproof, breathable rain gear
- High-performance merino wool base layers
- Technical clothing for water and winter sports
5. Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi launched in 2014 as a certified B Corp focused on sustainable, ethical outdoor gear. Their gear carries a 61-year warranty and they donate part of each sale to address poverty.
While smaller than Fjallraven, Cotopaxi’s backpacks and outdoor apparel have a similar utilitarian look. They also prioritize functionality and durability for hiking and camping. Cotopaxi’s Del Dia line has a colorful, playful style.
Key Benefits:
- 61-year gear warranty
- Colorful, stylish outdoor apparel
- Ethical manufacturing and poverty-fighting mission
6. Columbia Sportswear
Columbia Sportswear Company was founded in 1938 and has grown into one of the largest outdoor gear brands globally. Columbia offers footwear, clothing, and equipment for hiking, camping, skiing, fishing and more.
Columbia’s designs tend to be more affordable and casual than Fjallraven. But they share a focus on functionality for outdoor sports and everyday wear. Columbia apparel provides good quality at lower prices than premium brands like Fjallraven.
Their tees and hoodies incorporate recycled polyester and organic cotton. Unique patterns and colors make their gear eye-catching while still delivering outdoor performance.
Key Benefits:
- Wide selection for all outdoor activities
- Very affordable prices
- Casual, versatile everyday styles
7. The North Face
With a legacy stretching back over 50 years, The North Face is synonymous with quality outdoor gear. Their packs, apparel and footwear equip countless expeditions and adventures.
The Denali fleece, Nuptse jacket, and Base Camp duffel are just a few of their most sought-after products. Award-winning technologies like FutureLight waterproofing and Heatseeker insulation push innovation forward while respecting their heritage.
They are comparable to Fjallraven with its focus on durable, technical clothing and packs. While the aesthetics differ, both brands enable outdoor adventures in any environment. The North Face is ideal for more extreme mountain sports.
Key Benefits:
- High-performance gear for climbing and mountaineering
- Innovative clothing technologies like Heatseeker insulation
- Wide variety of outdoor apparel and equipment
8. Arc’teryx
This Canadian company designs elite outdoor clothing and gear for climbers, skiers and alpinists. Founded by Dave Lane in 1991, Arc’teryx prioritizes “severe gear for severe conditions”.
Arc’teryx is a go-to premium brand for the most extreme mountain sports. Their hyper-technical designs cater to mountaineers and backcountry enthusiasts. Expect innovative fabrics and construction alongside Fjallraven-level pricing.
Key Benefits:
- Specialized high-performance climbing and ski gear
- Cutting-edge designs and materials
- Gear for the most extreme mountain conditions
9. Marmot
Founded by climbing enthusiasts in 1974, Marmot began by making down products like sleeping bags and coats. This California company now offers a full range of outdoor clothing and camping gear.
This similar brand shares Fjallraven’s value for high-quality, sustainable materials with its focus on down and wool. Marmot’s clean, minimalist aesthetic also complements Fjallraven’s Scandinavian styling. Their gear stands up to harsh alpine environments.
Key Benefits:
- Premium down jackets and sleeping bags
- Ethical, sustainable manufacturing
- Durable, weather-resistant outdoor wear
10. Salomon
Originating as a French ski-binding company in 1947, Salomon makes performance footwear, apparel and equipment for mountain sports. Their hiking boots and trail running shoes are world-renowned.
Their footwear offers the technical quality of Fjallraven boots with sleeker, performance-driven styles. Salomon trail runners and lightweight hiking shoes provide agility for fast-paced mountain sports. Their apparel focuses on moisture management.
Key Benefits:
- Innovative lightweight trail running and hiking footwear
- High-performance apparel for aerobic mountain sports
- Solutions for training and racing off-road
11. Black Diamond Equipment
Black Diamond got its start making groundbreaking climbing gear like chocks and harnesses in the late 1950s. While still focused on climbing, Black Diamond now offers a wider range of technical outdoor apparel and equipment.
For rock climbing, mountaineering, and skiing gear, Black Diamond is a good Fjallraven alternative. Their helmets, headlamps, ropes, and protection devices lead the industry. They also make weatherproof shell jackets, mid layers and packs.
Key Benefits:
- Leading climbing gear and safety equipment
- Innovative designs for mountaineering and skiing
- Quality shells and insulated outerwear
12. Norrøna
Founded in Norway in 1929, Norrøna creates premium outerwear and gear for skiing, climbing and hiking. Norrøna offers Gore-Tex shell jackets and pants alongside backpacks, tents and down insulation.
Norrøna shares Fjallraven’s Scandinavian sensibility along with its quality and sustainability values. Their streamlined yet durable shells and mid-layers enable winter adventures. Their packs include smart features for organization and access. They exude Scandinavian style adapted for the harshest Arctic conditions.
Key Benefits:
- Sleek, sustainable premium outerwear
- Technical backpacks and tents
- Quality insulation layers and shell garments
13. Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research was launched in Seattle in 1981 by mountaineers looking to improve rain gear. This company now offers full lines of outdoor apparel and gear including award-winning gloves.
This store similar to Fjallraven aims to provide innovative, durable gear for backcountry endeavors. They focus on keeping you comfortable and protected in challenging conditions. Outdoor Research shares Fjallraven’s understated style and utilitarian design.
Their Elite Finger Gloves combine insulation and dexterity for cold-weather alpine and ice climbing. Outdoor Research delivers proven protection across its line.
Key Benefits:
- Award-winning gloves and outerwear
- Gear for extreme mountain sports
- Innovative materials and product testing
Conclusion
Fjallraven has earned a loyal following for its functional, sustainable outdoor equipment that also looks great around town. For shoppers seeking similar brands, this list of Fjallrave competitors offers everything from premium mountaineering gear to affordable basics.
No matter your budget or outdoor pursuits, you’ll find a Fjallraven alternative here that matches their quality and performance. And also, those stores like Fjallraven offer comparable styles and eco-friendly sensibilities.
While small differences exist, each brand recommended here aligns with Fjallraven’s mission of enabling outdoor adventures through innovative, durable designs.
FAQs about Fjallraven
What is Fjallraven best known for?
Fjallraven is best known for its durable, functional backpacks and outdoor gear. The Swedish company’s Kanken backpack has gained worldwide popularity. Fjallraven focuses on sustainability and timeless Scandinavian design.
Where are Fjallraven products made?
While Fjallraven started in Sweden, today their products are made in several countries including Vietnam, Thailand and China. Fjallraven aims to manufacture close to markets to reduce environmental impact.
What activities are Fjallraven backpacks good for?
Fjallraven gear is designed for hiking, camping, outdoor pursuits and everyday use. Their backpacks are known for carrying heavy loads on long treks. Kankens work well as school bags.
Is Fjallraven worth the money?
Fjallraven gear costs more than average but lasts for years, making it a sound investment. Their products are very high-quality and come with free repairs. Fjallraven offers good value for the premium price.
How should you clean Fjallraven bags?
Spot clean Fjallraven bags with mild soap and lukewarm water. For heavy soiling, wash gently by hand. Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach or machine wash. Air dry thoroughly after cleaning.
How does Fjallraven compare with The North Face?
Both offer high-quality outdoor gear. Fjallraven specializes in backpacks with a minimalist look. The North Face has a wider range including more technical apparel for extreme sports. The North Face is generally more affordable.
