Stio vs. Patagonia vs. Arc'teryx vs. Helly Hansen: Which Brand is Best for Outerwear?
- These four brands - Stio, Patagonia, Arc'teryx and Helly Hansen ALL offer top-quality materials, innovative designs, and functionality that can withstand the elements. Whether you are looking for a durable shell for your next backcountry adventure or a fashionable yet functional jacket for everyday wear, they all have suitable options.But what is the best ski clothing brand? Which brand has the warmest jackets? How does Stio compare to Patagonia? Which is better quality Arc'teryx or Patagonia? Are Helly Hansen jackets high quality? If you’re unable to decide if it will be Stio, Patagonia, Arc'teryx or Helly Hansen, then keep reading. The following will help you determine which one of them offers products and features that are more up your alley.
Stio
What is Stio?
Stio is an outdoor apparel brand for men, women, and kids.
With its headquarters is the nature enthusiast’s holy grail of Jackson Hole, Wyoming—Stio’s location immediately sets it apart.Flanked by three ski resorts, including the famous Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and with Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park on its doorstep (to name just a few monumental attractions)—it’s no quantum leap to understand how the brand draws its inspiration and values from the mountain life.
Stio™ is a new outdoor lifestyle brand created with the help of some talented and wonderful people. Carefully and thoughtfully curated, Stio™ is driven and defined by the mountain world here in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, but very importantly, not limited to it.
Stio™ will deliver creative, functional and versatile products that will compliment your life; products that you will be able to live in – not just outside, but at work, travel, and play. Constructed with the highest quality, function, and performance (Stio™ has partnered with the finest textile mills in the world, Polartec®, Schoeller®, Pertex® and Toray® among them) our product range will target the customer that demands beautiful products that complement their life in more than just their most extreme endeavors.
Stio Outerwear Prices
Stio may offer a slightly more streamlined and technical aesthetic and Stio Outerwears are not cheap,such as Men's Jackets & Vests:$49.50 - $649; Men's Sweatshirts & Hoodies:$47.40 - $189; Women's Jackets & Vests: $39.60- $649;Women's Fleece:$79 - $189
Stio Outerwear Designs & Styles
When it comes to style and design, Stio and Patagonia both have a lot to offer. However, if you're looking for a more modern and fashionable look, Stio is the way to go. They definitely stand out in this department and their jackets are built to work well for both outdoor activities and city life.
On the other hand, Stio has a huge range of styles that cater to both men and women, so you're sure to find something that suits you. However, their designs tend to be more traditional and less fashion-forward compared to Stio’s sleek and modern styles.
Stio Outerwear Quality - Material & Durability
Stio's GORE-TEX fabric is the real star of the show here. This material offers unmatched waterproof and windproof protection, making it perfect for harsh weather conditions. With GORE-TEX, you can be confident that you'll stay dry in even the heaviest rain, and you don't have to worry about the wind whipping through your clothing and chilling you to the bone.
And known for their attention to detail and use of high-quality materials, Stio's coats and jackets are designed to withstand the toughest elements and hold up over time. These jackets are built to last, ensuring value for money for anyone who invests in them.
Their design process is heavily influenced by the need for longevity, so you can rest assured that every aspect of these jackets is engineered to withstand the wear and tear of the great outdoors.
Stio Outerwear Pros and Cons
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Where to Buy Stio Outerwear Cheapest?
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1.Stio Men's Environ Jacket(@465)
Snow sports enthusiasts will appreciate the fact that the Stio Environ Jacket features a helmet-compatible hood, a built-in powder skirt, and a unique PeakProof™ three-layer fully seamed waterproof fabric, which kept us warm and comfortable during different situations, including while snowshoeing and downhill skiing as well as exploring the city in brisk temperatures. The jacket comes with armpit vents as well as plenty of accessible pockets. Overall, this is a high-quality investment piece that should see you through all but the coldest days of skiing.
2.Stio's Hometown Down Hooded Jacket (@$329)
Stio's Hometown Down Hooded Jacket is a great choice for those who prioritize sustainability. Its recycled HTD™ nylon ripstop outer fabric and responsibly sourced HyperDRY™ down make it a great option for those who are looking to reduce their impact on the environment. Additionally, the jacket's combination of high-quality down and water-repellent outer fabric make it perfect for snowy or wet conditions.
Patagonia
What is Patagonia?
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 Outerwear 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 Outerwear 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, all four brands in this guide excel. 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 Outerwear 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 Outerwear Pros and Cons
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Where to Buy Patagonia Outerwear Cheapest?
dickssportinggoods.com: up to 2% cashback
backcountry.com: up to 4% cashback
Two Popular Patagonia Outerwear
1. Patagonia Men's Down Jackets (@$279)
Patagonia's Down Sweater is an excellent choice for those who crave versatility. Its lightweight construction and compact design make it perfect for wearing during everyday activities or packing for a backcountry adventure. Additionally, the jacket's insulation is made up of 800-fill-power 100% Responsible Down Standard down, certified by Control Union. T
2.Patagonia Men's Houdini Jacket(@$75.99)
Made from 100% recycled nylon and featuring a PFC-free DWR finish, this jacket is absolutely weather-resistant and perfect for high-output activities. Plus, its slim fit and drop-tail hem ensure a comfortable and flexible fit, whether you're running, hiking, or biking. The integrated stuffsack is an added bonus, making it incredibly easy to pack and store when not in use.
Arc'teryx
What is Arc'teryx ?
In 1989, a company called Rock Solid Manufacturing was founded in Vancouver, Canada. With just four sewing machines, they made and sold climbing harnesses with great success.
In 1991, upon entering the U.S. market, Rock Solid changed its name to Arc’teryx. The name was a nod to the oldest known bird, Archaeopteryx, whose fossil is depicted in the Arc’teryx logo. The move symbolised the brand’s commitment to durability and evolution.
In 1995, they partnered with GORE TEX and started producing weatherproof gear, beginning with backpacks and jackets. In 1998, they debuted their most beloved alpine hardshell—the Alpha SV, which continues to improve year after year.
Today, Arc’teryx is a veritable international force in outerwear. Despite the fact that their history began in climbing, their products now cater to everyone from hikers to runners and beyond.
Arc'teryx Outerwear Prices
Arc'teryx comes with a varying price range, which features both buyer-friendly prices, as well as some that seem ridiculously high. The brand's average jacket costs around $200-$500, but certain designs can go as high as $750 and above.
And if you’re looking for a full ski suit, you’ll probably find yourself paying well over $1000 for a jacket, pants, and a base layer.
Arc'teryx Outerwear Designs & Styles
Arc’teryx has a toned-down appeal pivoting on functional efficiency. No excess – just apparel that works and moves with you. Simple, solid, and even the logo is subtle. These are go-to’s for snowsports or active individuals that breathe, warm and help you on your way.
Ski jackets, hiking apparel, running shells—go with Arc’teryx. They do have down-filled ultra-warm parkas like the Macai. Arc’teryx blends down with synthetic insulation, placed strategically (or ‘body-mapped’) at humid areas. The result is jackets that function through different climates and adapt to your physical activities.
Arc’teryx also specializes in warming mid-layers that outer shells slip over. These are well-suited for places like the backcountry, where you’d snuggle into the warm Cerium LT under a Beta AR shell and be ready for any kind of weather or activity.
Arc'teryx Outerwear Quality - Material & Durability
Arc'teryx uses many different materials in manufacturing. The "Made by Arc'teryx" label on all of products signifies it as being of the highest quality available, deserving of their lifetime warranty.
One of the materials that Arc'teryx uses is Gore-Tex, which really helped the brand expand its product range and also increase in popularity. This is a nice high-quality fabric that is basically a waterproof fleece. In regards to technologies, Arc'teryx has developed its very own technology, the AC2 technology, which is mainly used in their backpacks.
The raw materials used by Arc'teryx are not just high quality, but also Bluesign® Certified, which is a standard that is made only by fabrics and materials free of harmful chemicals to the human body and environment. The company uses very thin waterproof tape over the seams. This is a way that they keep the jackets lightweight without ruining their ability to be weatherproof.
Arc'teryx Outerwear Pros and Cons
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Where to Buy Arc'teryx Outerwear Cheapest?
backcountry.com: up to 4% cashback
Two Popular Arc'teryx Outerwear
1.Arc’teryx Beta Jacket (@$400)
Arc’teryx’s new Beta Jacket slots into the brand’s expansive collection as a premium hiking shell. Offering more protection than a rain jacket but a step below a full-on winter hardshell, the light and packable Beta hits a sweet spot for three-season adventuring.
2.Arc’teryx Sabre SV (@$900)
Arc’teryx dominates the high-end ski jacket market, and their men’s Sabre and women’s Sentinel collections are fan favorites among resort and backcountry skiers alike. The men's-specific Sabre SV (short for "severe weather") sits at the top of the lineup and offers best-in-class waterproofing and durability for frequent and rough use. For backcountry-goers, it's reasonably light at 1 pound 5 ounces and boasts ample pockets (both zippered and drop-in stash) for divvying up the essentials.
Helly Hansen
What is Helly Hansen?
There aren’t many brands that can match Helly Hansen for longevity. The man who gave his name to the brand, Helly Juell Hansen, was a Norwegian captain who began making specialized jackets in 1877 to protect his sailors on the high seas. By applying oil to cotton canvas, he and his wife Margarethe discovered that the fabric became waterproof, and in 1878 they presented their designs to the world at the Paris Expo.
Fast forward to 1949, and under the stewardship of the founder’s son Leiv, Helly Hansen began developing Helox, a proprietary waterproof technology made from PVC plastic sewn into coats. A few years later, in 1961, the brand would introduce the first fleece sweater, and not long after that, in 1970, Lifa would hit the shelves, and we had our first taste of technical base layers.
Sailing has remained an integral part of the Helly Hansen DNA, but in its 145-year history, that brand has expanded into the world of alpine skiing and trekking. The material has become lighter and the colours more vibrant, but there is still a dedication to outdoor exploration, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Helly Hansen Outerwear Prices
Helly Hansen has a huge range of ski jackets with a huge price range. The average price again is somewhere in the $350 mark, but the big difference is that you can snag a cheaper ski jacket for $250 and you still have a choice of colours and styles.They also have quite a few jackets in their top-tier category, where you can expect to pay upwards of $600 for a jacket.
Helly Hansen Outerwear Designs & Styles
Helly Hansen advertising stocking clothing and accessories for skiing, outdoors, lifestyle and sailing. They also do a small range of swimwear including wetsuits.
Helly Hansen has a huge range of ski wear, from budget clothing to really high-end stuff. There are all sorts of different styles and colour schemes too, so no matter what your taste you’re likely to find something that will suit you.
They also do a good range of base layers of all different types and ski accessories like gloves, socks, and hats. Basically, you can be pretty sure that you can kit yourself out for a holiday on the slopes through their website alone.
When it comes to outdoor gear you can expect the same. A huge range of different jackets for all temperatures and in all styles. They have decent hiking shoes and trainers to choose from, as well as rugged backpacks of all sizes.
Helly Hansen Outerwear Quality - Material & Durability
Although it started out as a manufacturer of waterproof clothing for sailors, the company’s leadership has expanded their expertise to include outdoor apparel for a variety of activities and almost all environments. Helly Hansen has earned itself a cult following in the skiing and snowboarding communities because of the value for money they provide and the tangible superiority of their waterproof technology. In addition to their unique waterproof fabric, Helly Tech, Helly Hansen has a number of special-designed in-house products, such as Lifa insulation.
Perhaps even more importantly, we’ve found it works for a long time without needing treatment. This is especially useful if you live in colder climates or are doing a ski or sailing season where the last thing on your mind is waterproofing your gear.
It’s worth mentioning here that attention to detail is clear in things like the rugged zips, high-vis additions, and special sport-specific features. All of these little extras add up to make life easier in harsher climates and contribute to true quality gear.
Helly Hansen Outerwear Pros and Cons
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Where to Buy Helly Hansen Outerwear Cheapest?
hellyhansen.com: up to 10% cashback
Two Popular Helly Hansen Outerwear
1.Helly Hansen Men's Loke Shell Jacket (@$110)
The essential adventure jacket, Loke is versatile and ready for mountains, forest and beyond. Helly Hansen built it to withstand changeable weather with our trusted waterproof and windproof yet breathable HELLY TECH Protection technology.
Helly Hansen added a front storm flap to further shield you from wind and rain, and vents to prevent overheating. Fully adjustable cuffs, hood and waist let you adjust the fit and comfort for year-round outdoor activity.
2.Helly Hansen Alphelia Ski Jacket (@$475)
Beginners to advanced skiers will appreciate the thoughtfully designed Helly Hansen Alphelia Ski Jacket, which is why it earned the title of best overall.
The jacket is made with high-quality materials like polyamide and elastane with AquaGuard zippers and PrimaLoft insulation lining the coat for extra warmth.
Conclusion: Which Brand is Best for Outerwear?
All in all, these four brands - Stio, Patagonia, Arc'teryx and Helly Hansen make high quality ski/snowboard jackets. In all likelihood, you will be more than satisfied with your purchase regardless of which brand you choose. Ultimately, the decision between the two brands will come down to your individual needs, style preferences, and budget.
Stio
The pricing may place Stio out of reach for some guys on a budget. They’re a premium brand after all, but they do back up the price tag with the quality of their clothing.
it’s backed up with quality apparel that performs when you need it to, and is also versatile and stylish enough for everyday wear. These are the qualities you should be looking for in any clothing you allow into your wardrobe rotation.
Stio seems to understand what outdoor apparel brands should be focusing on with their clothing. There’s real attention to detail here—down to each fabric, pocket, and zipper choice. And the brand gets these choices right because the people that run it in Jackson Hole are clearly living the outdoor lifestyle themselves.
Patagonia
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.
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.
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.
Arc'teryx
If you are the type of person who will use something for multiple years and not worry about immediately changing styles or colors, then an Arc'teryx outwear might be a BEST choice for you. These Arc'teryx clothes are very expensive but Arc'teryx is known for their devotion to quality and truly are a step above other brands.
Arc’teryx has its roots in mountaineering, their snow gear is known for its rugged construction. Arc’teryx was one of the first adopters of gore-tex technology, and their snow outwears repel wind, snow and water while retaining full mobility.
Whether it be climbing, skiing/snowboarding or hiking, Arc’teryx makes high performance gear for all mountain activities.
Helly Hansen
Considering the vast amount of products sold under the Helly Hansen label, they’re a brand for anyone who enjoys time spent outdoors.
If you’re looking for a do-it-all jacket, Helly Hansen has many, but they might lack important features for some outdoor sports. Their skiing, hiking, and sailing equipment thrive in their respective sports. For wintertime errands, they might be overkill.
Helly Hansen isn’t just for Aspen ski chalet owners; they have cheaper options with fewer features if you don’t need pro-tier goods.
Final Verdict: Which Brand is Best for You?
While Stio may offer a slightly more streamlined and technical aesthetic, Patagonia has a wider range of styles and colors to choose from, making it easier to find something that aligns with your personal fashion sense.
There is a much wider range with lots of different styles, colours and prices. Patagonia gear is lovely but it is all quite similar in style.
Although Helly Hansen isn’t cheap, it’s significantly more affordable than Arc’teryx across the board.
Helly Hansen jackets tend to have slightly shorter cuts and narrower waitlines than Arcteryx jackets, which lends them a more defined sense of urban style.
Lastly, if waterproofing is your biggest concern, there’s no doubt that Helly Hansen leads in this department. However, if you’re after the latest and greatest in both materials and technology, Arc’teryx can’t be outdone.
Read More:
Arc'teryx vs. Patagonia vs. Canada Goose: Which Brand of Coat is the Warmest?
Moose Knuckles vs. Canada Goose vs. Nobis: Which Brand Wins the Canadian Winter Outerwear Showndown?
Arc'teryx Atom vs. Proton vs. Nuclei: Differences and Reviews 2024
The North Face vs. Columbia vs. Patagonia: Which is the Best Outdoor Gear Brand?
Patagonia Nano Puff vs. Micro Puff vs. Down Sweater: Differences and Reviews 2024
Patagonia R1 vs. R1 Air vs. R1 TechFace vs. R1 Daily: Differences and Reviews 2024
Patagonia R1 vs. R2 vs. R3 Fleece Jackets: Differences and Reviews 2024
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