Patagonia

Patagonia is one of the most respected names in the outdoor world — not just for their high-quality gear, but for their deep commitment to environmental responsibility. Founded in 1973 by climber and activist Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia has always set itself apart by blending innovation in technical outdoor clothing with a broader mission to protect the wild places that make adventure possible. Today, the company is structured in a truly unique way: ownership of Patagonia has been transferred to a trust and a non-profit, ensuring that all profits not reinvested into the business are used to combat climate change and protect undeveloped land.

Patagonia’s product range is tightly curated, covering everything from technical shells and insulated jackets to climbing gear, hiking trousers and everyday outdoor clothing. Their products are often built with premium recycled and organic materials, and they’ve led the way in pushing for traceable supply chains, fair labour practices and repairing gear rather than replacing it. The famous “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign is a testament to how seriously Patagonia takes its environmental ethos.

In our experience, Patagonia gear tends to offer a near-perfect mix of durability, functionality and thoughtful design. Iconic pieces like the Better Sweater, the R1 fleece and the Torrentshell jacket have become staples for hikers and climbers alike — offering dependable performance in a wide range of conditions without overcomplicating the basics. Their kit often comes at a premium price, but it’s built to last, and backed by one of the most generous repair and warranty policies in the industry.

If you’re searching for the best Patagonia gear for British outdoor adventures, our Patagonia gear reviews dive into the jackets, fleeces, trousers and accessories we’ve properly tested across a variety of real-world conditions. Whether you’re hillwalking, climbing, camping or simply exploring closer to home, Patagonia’s blend of technical performance and environmental responsibility offers a compelling choice for anyone who cares about where — and how — their kit is made.

The GBAC’s Take

In our experience, Patagonia makes super quality gear that stands out for its sustainability and sharp design. Their smaller product catalogue means they really focus on getting the details right. Pieces like the Better Sweater and R1 fleece have earned their status for good reason. While prices can be steep, if you can justify the spend, Patagonia kit tends to last and perform brilliantly over the long haul.