Let me take you back to a chilly autumn day in the Rockies, where I found myself clad in my trusty Berghaus jacket, ready for a hiking escapade.
That jacket and I had conquered trails, faced unexpected downpours, and shared countless memories.
But, as any adventurer knows, the thrill lies in discovering new horizons, and that’s exactly what this journey is about.
Before we venture into the world of alternatives, did you know that Berghaus, much like my faithful jacket, has a rich history rooted in the passion for exploration?
Founded in 1966 by climbers Peter Lockey and Gordon Davison, it’s a brand born from the love of the great outdoors.
Now, here are my favorite top alternatives to Berghaus outdoor clothing:
Cotopaxi
Alright, check out Cotopaxi – these guys are all about gear that’s not just about looking good but making a real difference.
Their jackets and hoodies are like a rainbow for your adventures, packed with cool features like waterproof ripstop fabric and the coziest fleece lining.
But here’s the kicker – Cotopaxi isn’t just about selling gear; they’re into social good.
When you snag Cotopaxi gear, you’re not just gearing up for yourself – you’re supporting fair labor practices and helping out communities.
Outdoor Research
Now, let’s talk Outdoor Research. These folks know how to keep you comfy on your adventures, no matter where they take you.
From hiking skirts that let you move like a ninja to insulated parkas that make you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm hug – they’ve got it all. And get this – they use lightweight, tough-as-nails fabrics like Gore-Tex in most of their gear.
Sustainability is also their jam, so if you’re all about saving the planet, they’ve got options made from recycled stuff that’s sourced responsibly.
It’s like wearing a hug from Mother Nature herself.
Patagonia
Alright, Patagonia – the champs of functional outdoor clothing with an eco-friendly twist.
Imagine rocking jackets, pullovers, and waterproof pants that not only keep you snug but also go easy on the environment.
How?
Well, they’re all about recycled synthetic insulation and fabrics like fast-drying hemp. And get this – they’re so committed to keeping your gear in the game that they offer free repairs.
It’s like having your adventure sidekick that not only lasts but also cares about the planet as much as you do.
Go on, conquer the trails with a Patagonia vibe.
The North Face
As an outdoor gear pioneer, The North Face has been crafting high-performance women’s clothing since the 1960s.
Their versatile designs work well for everything from weekend hiking to high alpine expeditions.
The brand offers a huge range of jackets, pants, hoodies, shirts and more made with innovative fabrics like breathable FlashDry and windproof WindWall.
For cold weather activities, check out their ThermoBall insulation – it’s light yet warm even when wet.
I’ve worn my ThermoBall jacket skiing on days when the temperature struggled to hit 20°F but stayed cozy thanks to the slim fit and heat-trapping PrimaLoft. No wonder TNF clothes are a favorite of female athletes and adventurers across the globe!
Helly Hansen
This Scandinavian brand has been creating waterproof, windproof gear since the 19th century – initially for sailors enduring cold, rough seas.
Today, their women’s jackets retain that protective quality thanks to high-tech fabrics like PU-coated nylon and merino wool base layers that keep skin dry in any conditions.
I wore my Helly Hansen parka while leading kayaking tours in Canada one spring and stayed warm despite hours of exposure to icy river spray.
The hood let me cinch it securely around my face without obstructing peripheral vision while the PrimaLoft insulation and DWR treatment caused beads of water to roll right off the surface of the jacket.
This combo of old-school heritage and new tech makes Helly Hansen a leader in weather protection and temperature regulation.
Fjallraven
Loved for their signature backpacks, Swedish brand Fjallraven makes outdoor gear equally suited to the trails or city streets.
Their clean Scandinavian style translates to women’s jackets, pullovers, vests and pants that work great as midlayers or on their own. Much of their clothing features wool or poly blends designed to breathe well and provide warmth even when damp.
Personally, I live in my Fjallraven vest – it’s the perfect weight to take the chill off without bulk and layers nicely over long sleeves or under a jacket.
The wool-blend fabric and smart pockets make it much sleeker than your typical puffy vest. Paired with one of theirpacks, it’s my uniform for traveling through autumn weather anywhere in the world.
Marmot
This Colorado-born brand models their women’s outerwear after the alpine habitats of their hometowns in the Rockies.
Marmot excels at highly technical shells and insulated pieces perfectly suited to cold climates, like their popular Precip jacket updated with waterproof NanoPro fabric or the Montreal down parka designed to keep skiers and mountaineers toasty even in subzero temperatures.
I wore the Minimalist jacket during a hike up Long’s Peak one May when an unexpected blizzard hit.
The Gore-Tex Paclite kept snow and wind completely at bay while the Angel-Wing movement let me stretch freely. So even after a grueling, freezing eight hours on the mountain, I stayed dry and agile thanks to Marmot’s expertly-engineered outerwear technology.
Arc’teryx
Designed with mountain sports in mind, Arc’teryx women’s gear performs beautifully whether climbing peaks or just living an active lifestyle.
Their jackets, pants, layers and more undergo rigorous real-world testing to ensure maximum durability and weather protection without sacrificing fit or freedom of motion.
I’ll never forget reaching the summit ridge of a backcountry ski line in my Arc’teryx Sentinel jacket just as the clouds burst open with fat, wind-driven snowflakes.
The Gore-Tex shell kept me bone dry while thoughtful touches like micro-fleece lining next to my chin prevented chafing from my pack straps and harness.
The helmet-compatible StormHood let me tighten it down over my head so I could focus on picking my line safely down the 40° couloir rather than battling the elements. That’s the beauty of Arc’teryx gear – it’s designed for elite alpine pursuits but translates perfectly for weekend warriors too!
Outdoor Research
From hiking skirts to insulated parkas, Outdoor Research’s innovative women’s clothing keeps you warm, dry and comfortable wherever your adventures take you.
They use lightweight, durable fabrics like Gore-Tex in much of their gear. If sustainability is important to you, they have options made from recycled and responsibly-sourced materials.
Personally, I love their Ascendant Hoody made of breathable, stretch-woven polyester and featuring thumb loops and a chin guard for extra coverage.
It’s slim and streamlined enough to layer under a shell jacket but still super soft and cozy when I’m curled up by the campfire or chilling at basecamp.
For those truly frigid expeditions, you can’t beat their impressive Endotherm Hooded Jacket insulated with premium 850-fill down.
Regardless of what type of adventure you have in mind, Outdoor Research likely makes a jacket, pant, fleece or layer perfect for the occasion while keeping weight and bulk to a minimum.
Columbia
Known for dependable outerwear at affordable prices, Columbia makes stylish and functional women’s clothing perfect for everyday adventures.
One of my wardrobe staples is their Arcadia II rain jacket – made of waterproof and breathable nylon, it blocks wind and rain so well I stay perfectly dry walking the dog even in storms.
For more demanding activities like alpine hiking or spring skiing, check out their high-performance OutDry Ex Eco Shell collection made from 100% recycled polyester DWR fabric in chic designs.
Last season I wore the OutDry Ex Diamond Down jacket to kick steps up a steep snow-covered mountain face in search of fresh lines.
The outer repelled snow while the inner down insulation kept me warm despite bitter cold and high winds. Later, the jacket transitioned beautifully into apres-ski wear thanks to flattering seamlines, inner fleece cuffs, and discreet zippered pockets to stash my phone and wallet.
That versatility makes Columbia a trusted brand for quality clothing suitable for the trails, the slopes, or the streets.
Rab
UK-based Rab brings British mountain heritage to their durable, innovative women’s outerwear. One of their signatures is the adjustable hood system they debuted back in 1981 – designed to guarantee a secure, protective fit without restricting peripheral vision.
Having worn my Fairbairn softshell jacket while climbing in Wales and the Scottish Highlands, I can attest Rab weather protection keeps pace even in Britain’s notoriously fickle climate thanks to tech like Polartec fabrics or water-resistant Pertex shields.
Another favorite is their neutral-toned Latitude jacket, insulated with responsible down for cozy warmth without bulk. Its longer length and faux-fur trimmed hood kept me perfectly warm while belaying partners up frozen waterfalls.
No matter your winter sport, Rab’s quality construction ensures their women’s clothing excels in harsh alpine environments anywhere across the globe while resisting wear and tear season after season.
Mountain Hardwear
Since 1993, Mountain Hardwear has specialized in gear for demanding mountain expeditions, so female adventurers can rely on their women’s clothing lines to hold up under pressure.
Their proprietary DryQ fabrics and insulation dry incredibly fast, with some pieces actively expelling moisture thanks to active wicking and evaporation technology.
I wore the Ghost Whisperer puffer vest on a trekking peak attempt where storms rolled in and turned exposed ridgelines into wind-scoured ice.
Never did I feel a hint of dampness or chill thanks to genius touches like watertight baffles holding 800-fill RDS down and elasticized arm holes that moved with me.
Later I stayed equally cozy belaying partners up the technical crux thanks to zippered pockets and a slim, low-profile fit that layers perfectly under a shell. It makes Mountain Hardwear an ideal one-stop-shop for haute route pursuits or hardcore alpine endeavors.
Lululemon
While best known for stylish yoga gear, Lululemon’s athleisure clothing works great for hiking, climbing, trail running and more.
Their breathable fabrics allow sweat to evaporate quickly and often feature subtly placed reflective trim to keep you visible after dark.
I like their running jackets for early spring or fall adventures when you need protection from wind without overheating like the Define Jacket with subtle lace detailing or the sleek Ventlight Mesh Sleeve design ideal for layering.
Both styles kept me comfortably cool even working hard on the trail thanks to thoughtful ventilation that prevents moisture build-up. Then after an active day outside, it’s time to relax in Lululemon’s famously soft joggers and hoodies.
From street to summit and everything between, Lululemon women’s clothing combines performance with of-the-moment style.
Kari Traa
This Norwegian brand designs colorful, playful women’s outerwear specifically for snowsports.
Their jackets, pants, base layers and more blend high functionality with feminine style touches like a four-way stretch fabric that moves easily while skiing or signature lace details on long underwear pieces.
I wore the Rose Half Zip top shredding powder on a cat skiing trip and stayed toasty thanks to the merino wool and polyester fabric.
Meanwhile, the half-length zipper at the collar and elastic binding around the sleeves and hem ensured snow never crept inside while ample stretch allowed full range of motion for snapping tight turns down steep pitches.
Afterwards, the bright red color remained vibrant even after repeat washing. So whether hitting the slopes at a ski resort or venturing into the backcountry, Kari Traa’s women’s clothing brings personality, performance and endless comfort to mountain adventures.
Smartwool
Ever considered wrapping yourself in the cozy warmth of merino wool during your outdoor escapades? Smartwool specializes in high-performance clothing made from this magical material.
From base layers to outerwear, their products are known for moisture-wicking, temperature regulation, and odor resistance.
I remember donning their Merino 250 Base Layer on a chilly camping trip – it kept me warm without the bulk, and the flatlock seams ensured maximum comfort. Smartwool’s commitment to sustainability, using ZQ-certified merino wool, adds an eco-friendly touch to your outdoor wardrobe.
REI Co-op
For those who believe in gearing up while giving back, REI Co-op has your back.
As a member-owned outdoor retailer, REI offers a wide range of women’s clothing designed for various outdoor pursuits. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or climbing, REI Co-op combines functionality with a commitment to sustainability.
Their clothing often features eco-friendly materials, and the REI brand itself is known for responsible manufacturing practices.
I’ve relied on their Activator V2 Soft-Shell Jacket during unpredictable weather – wind-resistant, breathable, and made with recycled materials. Choosing REI Co-op means gearing up responsibly for your next adventure.
Prana
If you’re seeking versatile outdoor wear with a touch of bohemian style, Prana is the answer.
This brand blends performance and fashion seamlessly, creating clothing that transitions effortlessly from the trail to the town.
Prana’s women’s collection includes everything from comfortable yoga pants to durable hiking jackets.
The Halle Pant, with its stretchy fabric and water-resistant finish, has been a game-changer for me on both rugged hikes and casual outings. Prana’s commitment to sustainable materials and fair trade practices adds an ethical dimension to your outdoor wardrobe.
Icebreaker
New Zealand-based Icebreaker takes outdoor clothing to the next level with its innovative use of merino wool.
Known for its natural performance benefits, merino wool is breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant. Icebreaker’s women’s collection includes everything from base layers to stylish outerwear.
I’ve experienced the versatility of their Quantum Long Sleeve Zip Hood – perfect for chilly morning hikes and post-adventure coffee sessions.
What sets Icebreaker apart is their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, ensuring that your outdoor adventures come with a minimal environmental footprint.
ExOfficio
Imagine clothing designed for the adventurous woman who wants to travel light and stay comfortable. Enter ExOfficio, a brand known for its innovative fabrics and functional designs.
Their women’s clothing line features items like the BugsAway Sol Cool Jacket, which not only provides sun protection but also repels insects – ideal for tropical hikes or camping trips.
ExOfficio’s breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics make their clothing suitable for various climates, and the quick-drying properties add convenience to your outdoor experiences. It’s a go-to brand for those who prioritize practicality without sacrificing style.
Montane
For those craving high-performance outdoor clothing designed for serious adventures, Montane is worth exploring.
This British brand specializes in technical clothing for mountaineers, trail runners, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Picture lightweight, durable gear built to withstand harsh conditions. I’ve put their Minimus Stretch Ultra Pull-On to the test during sudden rainstorms – the Pertex Shield fabric kept me dry without compromising breathability.
Montane’s commitment to pushing the limits of outdoor gear technology ensures that their clothing meets the demands of extreme environments.
Millet
If your outdoor pursuits lean towards alpine adventures, Millet is a brand that understands the needs of mountaineers and climbers.
This French company has been crafting technical clothing since 1921, and their women’s collection reflects a dedication to precision and performance.
I’ve relied on their Trilogy V Icon Dual GTX Pro Jacket during challenging climbs – it’s not just waterproof and breathable but also features a removable down inner jacket for versatile layering.
Millet’s attention to detail and commitment to quality make their outdoor clothing a reliable choice for those aiming for the summit.
