L.L.Bean vs. Patagonia vs. Sorel vs.The North Face: Which Brand is the Best? (History,Quality,Design & Price)

• L.L.Bean Review
  

L.L.Bean History and Origin

L.L.Bean is an American privately-held retail company that was founded in 1912 by Leon Leonwood Bean. The company, headquartered in the place in which it was founded, in Freeport, Maine, specializes in clothing and outdoor recreation equipment.However, they quickly evolved into a ubiquitous lifestyle brand that makes everything from down jackets to sweaters, fleeces, baselayers, flannel-lined jeans (a personal favorite), sleepwear, hiking boots, and much more.L.L. Bean nicely toes the line between casual and performance, although most of their products are best suited for activities like camping and hiking rather than technical backcountry pursuits (think cozy cabin trips, fall hikes, mild-weather snowshoeing, etc.). Availability is another downside for some, as their products are only sold in-store and through their website, with most of their retail locations focused on the East Coast. But it’s hard to knock the styling and all-around appeal, which is why you’re bound to see plenty of L.L. Bean gear on the trails and around town in places like Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire.

L.L.Bean Prices

$7.99-$419, It's clothings average cost around $100-$200, shoes are $50-$200.

L.L.Bean Designs & Styles

L.L. Bean is most known for its signature waterproof Bean Boots. Beyond footwear, there are various types of products, including clothes, outdoor equipment, clothing, footwear, outdoor equipment, bags & travel, home goods.  

L.L. Bean features more contemporary and fashion-forward casual clothes for baby-boomer. The style is relatively simple, casual and sporty. Their travel gear includes rugged backpacks with convenient features for school, work and outdoor adventure, as well as tough, colorful duffles made with nearly 80 years of knowledge. Their versatile furniture comes in classic styles like Misson and Cottage that make it easy to freshen your decor or create a whole new look. 

And their expert staff is ready to help you select the right outdoor gear to make the most of your adventure, whether it's a brief campground getaway or an extended backcountry tour. 

L.L.Bean Quality - Material & Durability

Brands that focus on making highly functional gear, such as L.L. Bean, don’t rely solely on nylon or polyester. They often develop their own fabric technologies or use renowned proprietary materials.

L.L. Bean, in particular, relies on Loomia fabrics and Gore-Tex—one of the most famous fabric technologies when it comes to weather resistance, breathability, and durability. The brand also uses PrimaLoft synthetic insulation.

Along with PrimaLoft’s proprietary synthetic insulation, some L.L. Bean winter coats feature natural down.

Unlike most outdoor brands, L.L. Bean still sells products made from cotton. Cotton is mostly used in jackets that are designed to wear comfortably and be lightweight.In order to improve the weather resistance of these jackets, the cotton is typically waxed.

Even today, L.L. Bean manufactures its classic designs and flagship products in Maine. However, some of the brand’s products are manufactured in Asia.

L.L.Bean Pros and Cons

Where to Buy L.L.Bean Cheapest?

1. llbean.com

2. zappos.com: Up to 11.5% cashback

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Two Popular L.L.Bean Outdoor Apparels

1.L.L. Bean PrimaLoft Packaway Hooded Jacket (@$159-$199)

The L.L. Bean Packaway packs 60 grams of premium PrimaLoft synthetic insulation. But it’s not the only thing that makes this jacket so warm. The secret behind the jacket’s warmth lies in the Cross Core technology it uses.

2.L.L. Bean Rain Jackets  (@$99-$179)

L.L. Bean's Trail Model Rain Jacket is an excellent option for anyone who wants a reliable and versatile jacket that can handle a variety of weather conditions. This jacket is slightly fitted, is best paired with a lightweight layer, and falls below the hip. Its laminate construction is both durable and lightweight, making it a great choice for everyday wear. Plus, its TEK waterproof technology and adjustable cuffs and hem provide extra protection against the elements.

• Patagonia Review

Patagonia History and Origin

Patagonia was founded in 1973 in California. It is one of the most heavily featured brands in my review, comparisons, and selections, and for a good reason. Patagonia’s products are beyond impressive.

The company has been making innovative outdoor gear and clothing for a wide variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountaineering to trail running and fly fishing. I particularly like the company’s down jackets and vests.

The brand has become a symbol of a well-healed outdoor adventure as it is continuously coming up with novel solutions.

Patagonia Prices

Patagonia can be expensive - retail for around $150-$899. The average Patagonia jacket will cost you upwards of $300 and simple t-shirts can cost around $45 to $60. They are pricey, but that is the price for longevity. 

Patagonia Designs & Styles

In terms of fit, Patagonia has a more modern fit with a slimmer silhouette. Their jackets and coats are designed to fit closer to the body, giving off a much more fashionable look.

When it comes to functionality, both brands excel. L.L. Bean has always been known for their durable and long-lasting materials, as well as their focus on keeping their products weatherproof. Patagonia, however, takes things a step further by using eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices. If environmental responsibility is important to you, then Patagonia may be the better choice.

In terms of appearance,  Patagonia has a more experimental approach to design, with brighter colors and more unique patterns. If you're looking for a jacket that's a little more trendy, then Patagonia might be the brand for you.

Patagonia Quality - Material & Durability

Patagonia typically makes slightly higher quality products and sources more sustainable materials, and each fabric must pass at least 6 tests before it can be used. 

And when it comes to manufacturing, 56% of its fabrics are Bluesign-certified. A Bluesign certification means the manufacturer is producing maximum quality with minimal consumption of resources. A significant portion of its products are made from recycled fabrics, and all of its cotton fabric is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard. 

Besides that, their materials are top quality, which reflects on the price tags of their products. The most interesting part of Patagonia's clothing design is its unique H2No technology. It's similar to Gore-Tex, and it is entirely water-repellent and waterproof. It's very comfortable to wear.

Their fleece technology is well-known throughout the outdoor sports industry. Wearing them in winter climbing will not freeze, and still remain soft and not sticky to snow.

Patagonia Pros and Cons

Where to Buy Patagonia Cheapest?

1. patagonia.com

2. dickssportinggoods.com: up to 2% cashback

Two Popular Patagonia Outdoor Apparels

1.Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 Parka (@$699)

The Patagonia Tres Winter Parka is two coats that are zipped together. Each layer of the jacket can handle an array of weather.

The inner layer is filled with 700-fill-power recycled down. The outer shell is made of Patagonia’s proprietary H2No windproof, waterproof, and breathable stretch-twill.

2.Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket (@$239 - $299)

The Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket offers warmth without weight so you can trek into the alpine with a lighter pack.

 Its Primaloft Gold Eco insulation adds the touch of warmth needed for active endeavors in cold places, and it's compressible so the jacket stows inside its own pocket for compact convenience on your harness or in your pack. Patagonia also treated the jacket's tough, recycled ripstop shell to shed snowflakes and raindrops.

• Sorel Review 
  

Sorel History and Origin

Founded in 1962, SOREL combines expert craftsmanship and of-the-moment design to create all-season footwear. What began decades ago with premium boots, crafted with an unparalleled balance of construction and protection, is now a brand dedicated to both functionality and fashion.

The Sorel trademark was bought by Columbia Sportswear. Following Columbia's purchase, the Sorel brand was expanded to other products,such as nylon outerwear and other work-related garments.

They moved the retail outlets from farm and hunting trade shops to boutiques and independent sellers more in tune with the fashionable styling of the brand. Finally due to rising costs Sorel's manufacturing was moved from Canada to China & Vietnam which also made the purchase prices much more affordable.

Sorel Prices

Sorels are usually in the $100-$200 range. So, it's not really a huge difference from UGG.

Sorel Designs & Styles

Sorel focuses on creating functional, durable boots. Sorel boots are made for people who aren't afraid to get their boots dirty. Lately, Sorel's styles have been not only winter-appropriate but stylish and fashion-forward - they've stepped up their fashion game.

Sorel offers a wide selection of styles, the most popular being the Joan of Arctic boot and the killer Joan of Arctic Wedge boot. Sorel boots strike a balance between weather-ready and style-conscious. Sorels are durable and waterproof, and were literally crafted for the worst of winter's weather.

Sorel Quality - Material & Durability

Sorel sometimes put proper synthetic insulation in their boots. Now, it's up to you whether you prefer this or warm lining - in some cases, synthetic insulation is the more reliable choice. It performs really well in wet conditions, and it works fine even in extremely low temperatures.

So, breathability of the boots mostly depends on lining and insulation. Only one type of boots does this properly, and those are Sorels with synthetic insulation. Synthetic is usually really breathable, since it acts as a membrane - it traps your body heat, but also lets some air in from the outside.

Sorel Pros and Cons

Where to Buy Sorel Cheapest?

1. sorel.com: up to 4% cashback

2. macys.com: up to 5% cashback

Two Popular Sorel Outdoor Apparels

1.Sorel Caribou Boots (@ from $200)

The Caribou is another classic Sorel boot, known for its durable construction and warm insulation. It is a great option for outdoor activities such as hiking or snowshoeing.

2.Sorel Joan of Arctic Next Boots (@$220)

This is one of the most popular Sorel boots, with a classic design and excellent cold weather protection. It is available in a range of colors and materials, including waterproof leather and suede.

• The North Face Review

The North Face History and Origin

Named after the coldest side of a mountain, The North Face’s roots go all the way back to the 1960s. It was founded by Douglas and Susie Tompkins, a couple from San Francisco who had a passion for the great outdoors. Their beginnings were humble – the couple started selling climbing and camping equipment from a small retail store.

In the next couple of decades, the brand experienced a lot of highs and lows. For example, The North Face had its big break in the ‘90s, when its Nuptse Jacket became extremely popular on the other side of the country – in New York City. However, the brand also filed for bankruptcy several times and was even caught in fraudulent accounting.

Ever since it was acquired by the VF Corporation in 2000, the company’s revenue has been steadily increasing. Nowadays, it’s one of the most popular outdoor clothing brands in the United States, as well as globally – it’s a favorite of millions of sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.

The North Face Prices

Overall, The North Face products come with a good price range, including both affordable and expensive designs. The North Face is by no means a cheap brand and its average products cost around $150-$400. Some jackets can be up to $800.

The North Face Designs & Styles

The North Face makes clothing for running, hiking, climbing, training, and of course, the cold weather as well. Through the years, the company has expanded from simply making some of the best jackets and fleeces to making pants, shirts, and even travel gear.

The North Face is also paying attention to fashion trends. The North Face clothing has a very sporty but clean look to it.There are many colors and styles available, depending on what your preferences are. You can get coordinating gear for many of the sports and really stand out. In years past, The North Face was known for offering more subtle colors, but as time has gone on, they have gotten quite bold.

The North Face Quality - Material & Durability

The North Face brand is well-known for using recycled synthetic materials. When it comes to organic materials like down or cotton, The North Face makes sure that these are sourced responsibly and ethically, with the goal of minimizing environmental impact.

Just like many other jacket manufacturers, The North Face also uses various durable water repellent treatments. Unfortunately, some of the brand’s DWR finishes contain harmful chemicals, but the company’s engineers are actively working to replace these with PFC-free alternatives.

Those familiar with The North Face products are well-aware of how the company uses a number of specialized fabric technologies. Besides Gore-Tex, which is used by many other apparel brands (including Patagonia), The North Face also uses its own waterproof fabric – DryVent. Available in a couple of different variations, DryVent is water-repellent and fully windproof, but also considerably breathable.

Other proprietary technologies worth mentioning are WindWall (a wind-resistant fabric) and FlashDry (a highly breathable fabric). 

The North Face Pros and Cons

Where to Buy The North Face Cheapest?

thenorthface.com: up to 2% cashback

dickssportinggoods.com: up to 2% cashback

Two Popular The North Face Outdoor Apparels

1.The North Face ThermoBall  (@$230)

If you’re a North Face lover, than you probably already have a ThermoBall jacket in your closet! This jacket is lightweight yet still offers great synthetic insulation to keep you warm in cold temperatures. It’s made with 100% recycled nylon and features 100% ThermoBall Eco recycled polyester on the inside. 

2. The North Face Chilkat 400 V (@$159)

Many winter boots are specialized for warmth, mobility, or even style, but The North Face’s Chilkat 400 V is a true all-rounder. This full-grain leather design features a molded TPU shell, waterproof membrane for sealing out moisture, and TNF’s Surface Control sole for truly impressive traction in cold conditions and on slippery ground. 

In terms of insulation, you get 400-gram Heatseeker Eco, which offers a generous amount of warmth for sustained time in the cold.

• L.L.Bean vs. Patagonia vs. Sorel vs.The North Face: Comparison Side by Side

1.Product Offerings

L.L.Bean 

L.L.Bean brand is known for their high-quality and durable products, and they certainly deliver in the coat and jacket department. L.L.Bean offers everything from lightweight windbreakers to heavy-duty parkas. They have a wide range of styles, materials, and price points to choose from.

If you're looking for a lightweight option, L.L.Bean has a great selection of windbreakers and rain jackets. Their Packaway Jacket, for example, is made from breathable, waterproof material and can be easily packed into its own pocket when not in use. For something warmer, their PrimaLoft Packaway Hooded Jacket is a great choice. It's made from an insulated material that provides warmth without adding bulk.

Patagonia

At a glance, it’s pretty apparent that Patagonia is geared toward the outdoor market, but their catalog offers much more than that. You’ll find gear that’s catered toward specific sports and other activities, and each category has widespread options for men, women, and children.

Their clothing ranges from outdoors, casual, workwear, and more, giving people a little bit of everything to choose from. 

Sorel 

Sorel shoes is well-known for producing reliable winter boots, but nowadays, their range of shoes offers plenty of function and style.Sorel offers a wide selection of styles, the most popular being the Joan of Arctic boot and the killer Joan of Arctic Wedge boot. Sorel boots strike a balance between weather-ready and style-conscious. 

In fact, Sorel is a must-pack for so many readers due to their shoes being mostly waterproof, and their ankle boots, sandals, and sneakers are all well-constructed and stylish. 

The North Face

Moving on to North Face, this brand is known for their innovative and versatile products. Their coat and jacket offerings are no exception. North Face has a range of jackets that are perfect for hiking, skiing, and even just running errands on a chilly day.

One of their most popular styles is the Denali Jacket, which is made from recycled polyester and is both warm and breathable. For those who need a heavy-duty jacket for extreme weather conditions, North Face's McMurdo Parka is a great option. It's made from waterproof material and has a detachable hood for added convenience.

2.Sizing

L.L.Bean 

LL Bean also offers a broad selection of sizes for all kinds of body types, but how it feels when you wear it is much more important. It seems many customers have had to either size up or down depending on the product, which means it may be a little difficult to find the perfect fit.

Patagonia

You’ll find a wide range of sizes in their catalog, but it’s important to note that it may not always feel true to size. There are a handful of reviews that mention their clothing having an odd fit, even when choosing the correct size.

Sorel 

Overall, fit runs quite large with the Sorel boots.Even with a very thick sock on, there is so much foot slop and movement inside this boot that we would consider sizing down. 

If you’re on the fence or plan on wearing normal wool socks not of the extra-thick variety, We recommend sizing down at least half a size.

The North Face

The North Face generally fits true to size, so take your normal fit. If you're after a slightly baggy style or roomier fit, opt for the size up.Most The North Face products offer sizes within the range of XS to 3XL.

To find your most accurate fit, take your measurements using a tape measure and use the The North Face size charts.

3.Brand Reputation & Sustainability

L.L.Bean 

Let's first talk about L.L.Bean. The company has been around since 1912 and has a long-standing commitment to sustainability. L.L.Bean has a department called "Corporate Social Responsibility" that oversees all the sustainability practices of the company. It includes reducing waste, sustainable sourcing of materials, and minimizing the carbon footprint. 

The company is a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, which is committed to reducing the environmental and social impacts of apparel and footwear. L.L.Bean also has a significant program donating to organizations that protect outdoor spaces.

Patagonia

If you’re looking for a brand with a long-standing commitment to the environment and sustainability, then Patagonia fits the bill. Founded in 1973, the company has always been well-regarded for its quality goods and ethics. Today, a large portion of Patagonia products are made from recycled materials, and all of their cotton is either recycled or organic.

More than half of their fabrics are also Bluesign-certified, which means they are guaranteed to be safe for the environment, its workers and their customers. Additionally, Patagonia actively invests in environmental nonprofit organizations working to preserve the planet.

Sorel 

Sorel was originally a line of winter sport/work boots that were introduced in 1962 by the Kaufman Rubber Company of Kitchener, Ontario.They became its most successful product line.

But the company's commitment to sustainability is visible in its actions. 

The North Face

On the other hand, North Face is a relatively younger company, founded in 1966. And The North Face prioritized innovation ahead of other brand concerns. 

It wasn’t until recently they began taking actions to become more eco-friendly. Now, North Face plans for all of their apparel to be manufactured with recycled, responsibly-sourced or renewable materials by 2025. They expect the same for footwear and equipment by 2030.

4.Value& Warranty

L.L.Bean 

L.L. Bean is certainly a more affordable brand than Patagonia. as they offer numerous discounts, sales, and a pretty cost-efficient approach on retail items. This is a big selling point for many people, especially since their product’s quality holds up in most scenarios.

When it comes to the quality and functionality of products, L.L. Bean has a great reputation. The company is especially famous for its customer service. Even today, the company’s flagship store is open 24 hours today, 365 days a year.

Patagonia

Patagonia is one of the priciest outdoor brands on the market, and it’s considerably more expensive than L.L. Bean.

But all of Patagonia’s products come with a lifetime warranty. Patagonia is, without a doubt, dedicated to making gear that’s built to last.Even if the damage on your Patagonia garment isn’t covered by the warranty, chances are the brand will repair it free of charge. Only some of the more technical items are subject to a repair fee.

Many people also like Patagonia’s trade-in program, called Worn Wear. It allows customers to trade in used Patagonia items for store credits. These items are then refurbished and sold on the Worn Wear website.

Sorel 

With prices ranging from around $50 to $200, Sorel shoes aren’t the cheapest shoes, but readers justify the price with how comfortable, long-lasting, functional, and versatile they are. With extreme comfort and foot support, they’ll allow you to enjoy travel adventures to the fullest, and for this reason alone, readers agree that these shoes are definitely worth the price point.

The Sorel boots can get a sole repair, zipper repair, and Velcro repair. They will fit better and last even longer. Boots will look like new & refurbished.

The North Face

The North Face certainly isn’t the most budget-oriented brand out there, but it’s still a relatively cheaper option when compared to Patagonia.This is because unlike Patagonia, which is almost entirely focused on premium apparel and gear, The North Face offers a wider range of more affordable products. 

North Face’s Renewed program is a similar concept to Patagonia’s Worn Wear initiative to reduce waste. They’ll refurbish items for a new life, or recycle and donate them based on their condition. T

In terms of the warranty, most of The North Face products come accompanied by a limited lifetime warranty. While it doesn’t cover damage caused by normal wear and tear or improper care, this warranty does cover defects in the workmanship or the materials.

• Conclusion: Which is the Best Outdoor Gear Brand?

All L.L.Bean, Patagonia, Sorel and The North Face four brand make products for a variety of different outdoor enthusiasts, and they both offer a wide range of choices and designs. But L.L.Bean vs.Patagonia vs. Sorel vs.The North Face : which brand is the best?

In a word, it all comes down to your personal preferences, and if you can live with a pricy brand. You won’t make a mistake by going with either of these brands – both offer waterproof and lightweight insulated jackets that are guaranteed to keep you warm and protected. 

L.L.Bean 

L.L.Bean offers all of the clothing you could ever want for your outdoor needs but they also offer outdoor equipment too such as kayaks, snowshoes, archery sets, and fire pits.In addition to this, you can also get products for your home from LL Bean such as rugs, towels, backyard furniture, and supplies for your dog.No matter what sort of product you are looking for with LL Bean, the range of price points helps you find the ones that best suit your budget and needs.

If you look at LL Bean vs Patagonia in terms of product range, LL Bean covers a lot more ground.

Patagonia

As well as manufacturing some of the best jackets out there, Patagonia offer a wide range of outdoor wear.

From t-shirts to shorts, pants to hats, Patagonia have something useful for pretty much any outdoor activity.They also offer some activity-specific products such as wetsuits and climbing gear.

Patagonia are a hugely popular brand and have built a strong reputation for making products that not only perform well in the wild, but are also incredibly long-lasting and durable.

Whether you go for one of the down jackets, the waterproof shorts, or any other Patagonia product – avid outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased that they chose to buy from this brand.

Sorel 

To put things in perspective, Sorel is for you if: you’re looking for high quality boots that can last your typical winter trip. These boots are comfortable, practical, and can sustain low temperatures and keep your feet warm. Typically, these are for those that take longer winter walks and need something comfortable.

Many of the Sorel boots available today will cost you between $100-$200, a pretty fair price for the quality product you get. These boots are weatherproof, well-crafted, and stylish, making them worth every penny.

The North Face

The North Face is known for their durable products that can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who engage in tougher activities such as mountaineering. 

Meanwhile,The North Face has a range of options that span from premium to more affordable price points. This means that compared to Patagonia, The North Face may fit into a wider range of budgets.

Final Verdict: Which Brand is Best for You?

If price is the biggest deciding factor for you then L.L.Bean has a range of price points that can make your decision easier.

However, if you just look at the performance and quality of products – Patagonia does stand out as the winner.

For the person who only wants to own one pair or winter or snow boots, the Sorel boot is the ideal boot to own, which  you just wear for short trips outside or whilst doing some chores outside. 

However, if you're someone who lives in an area with varying climates, then North Face may be the better pick for you. With a range of insulation options available, you can pick and choose what works best for your specific needs. 

If you’re a new hiker or climber looking for gear to begin outdoor adventures, you really can’t go wrong with the four brand.

Read More:

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