5 Outdoor Brands Taking Greater Responsibility This Hiking Season

Hiking season has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, and with it, a renewed invitation to get outside, into the forests, along the coasts, across the peaks. Spending time outdoors is one of the most powerful ways to reconnect with nature. But it’s also a good moment to reflect on how we gear up for those adventures.

The outdoor industry has long relied on synthetic materials, intensive production processes, and fossil fuels. Today, more brands are stepping up to take responsibility, not just for how their gear is made, but for the long-term impact it has on the environment. Here are five outdoor brands leading the way in responsible innovation, circular design, and sustainable performance.

1. Houdini

Based in: Sweden
Best for: Minimalist technical layers with circular principles

Houdini is a pioneer in circular design and one of the most forward-thinking outdoor brands globally. Their entire philosophy centres around doing “more with less”, designing garments that are durable, repairable, recyclable, and made with minimal environmental impact.

Most of their collection is made from recycled or renewable fibres, and nearly all garments are Bluesign® certified. Houdini also offers a rental program, resale platform, and garment recycling system. The goal? Zero waste and zero harm.

2. Patagonia

Based in: USA
Best for: Performance gear with a purpose

Patagonia has become synonymous with environmental activism, and rightly so. For decades, the company has taken bold stances on climate justice, public land protection, and overconsumption. In 2022, Patagonia transferred ownership to a trust that ensures all profits go toward protecting the planet.

From using recycled materials in most products to offering repairs and resales through Worn Wear, Patagonia continues to lead by example. Their commitment is clear: making gear that lasts, and building a movement far beyond clothing.

3. Tentree

Based in: Canada
Best for: Everyday outdoor essentials with a tree-planting mission

Tentree plants 10 trees for every item purchased, with the goal of planting 1 billion trees by 2030. But they go beyond that promise by producing clothing with low-impact materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester.

Their products are casual, comfortable, and suited for light hikes, travel, and relaxed outdoor living. With full transparency on materials and factories, Tentree makes it easy for conscious consumers to feel good about their gear.

4. Ecoalf

Based in: Spain
Best for: Urban-outdoor crossover gear made from ocean waste

Ecoalf is redefining what recycled fashion can look like. Their outerwear and footwear are made from recovered ocean plastics, recycled cotton, used tires, and even discarded fishing nets. Their motto, “Because There Is No Planet B,” captures their deep environmental mission.

Ecoalf’s products work well in both urban and trail environments, ideal for hikers who want performance without the technical "look." They’re also B Corp certified and committed to full supply chain transparency.

5. Fjällräven

Based in: Sweden
Best for: Durable packs and timeless gear built for the wild

Fjällräven’s iconic designs, like the Kånken backpack or the Vidda Pro trousers, are known for their durability and simplicity. But the brand has also ramped up its sustainability efforts in recent years, including using recycled wool, organic cotton, and PFC-free water repellency.

Their Fjällräven Classic events promote slow trekking and responsible travel, while repair and care guides empower users to extend the life of their gear. For Fjällräven, nature is both inspiration and responsibility.

Choose Gear That Respects the Outdoors

As we step outside this season, it's worth remembering that the gear we choose has an impact long before and long after we wear it. Choosing brands that prioritise circularity, transparency, and ecological respect helps ensure that the landscapes we love to explore remain protected for future generations. Because the best adventures are the ones that leave no trace.