This article compares Haglöfs, a Swedish brand known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly materials, with The North Face, an American company renowned for high-performance gear and technical innovation.
Haglöfs emphasizes eco-friendliness and quality, while The North Face focuses on cutting-edge performance and comfort without leaving sustainability behind.
Both brands offer compelling options for outdoor enthusiasts, catering to different priorities and preferences.
But, which is better? And when? Let’s find out!
Contents:
1. Haglöfs Outdoor Gear
History of the Brand
Haglöfs official website
In 1914, a Swedish carpenter named Wiktor Haglöf established the Haglöfs brand with the goal of developing a durable backpack suitable for various travel conditions within Sweden.
Since its inception, the company has expanded its product range and remained committed to pioneering advancements in craftsmanship.
Haglöfs is deeply committed to conserving the natural environment for the benefit of future generations, advocating for outdoor exploration and affirming that individuals can engage with nature irrespective of the weather.
Don’t miss:
9 Swedish Outdoor Clothing and Jackets Brands: Our Favorites
7 Backpack Brands from Sweden: Our Favorites
Materials, Fabrics, and Production Process
Haglöfs has set a target to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030. They are concentrating on utilizing eco-friendly materials and renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and involving consumers in minimizing their impact.
The company is incorporating recycled and natural materials like organic cotton, hemp, and Lyocell/Tencel to craft new items for outdoor pursuits and sports. Additionally, they are implementing low-impact dyeing methods and decreasing the use of plastic bags.
Haglöfs is dedicated to responsible management of chemicals, water, and energy in their facilities. The brand also employs the Higg Index to evaluate the sustainability of its products across their entire life cycle.
Regarding animal-based materials, Haglöfs is prioritizing suppliers that adhere to best practices for animal welfare and ecosystem preservation. For instance, their natural down is certified by the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) to ensure ethical sourcing.
Haglöfs also integrates various technologies in its products for protection, warmth, and breathability, including Recycled Polyamide (Nylon), Recycled Polyester, Mimic PLATINUM Ultracluster Graphene insulation, and GORE-TEX membranes in its jackets, among other innovations.
The video will be loaded from YouTube.com, a third party. If you play it, you accept their terms of service, and their use of cookies.
Read also: Haglöfs vs Arc’teryx Outdoor Gear: Which Brand is Better?
Haglöfs vs Mammut: Outdoor Gear Comparison
Where is Haglöfs outdoor gear made?
Haglöfs gear is predominantly made in Asian countries like China and Vietnam, as well as in European countries such as Poland and Romania. The company’s dedication to superior quality criteria has increased its appeal in numerous countries, particularly in Scandinavia.
Recommended Products
Haglöfs Men’s Riksgränsen Down 850 Hood Jacket
Image: haglofs.com
Check it out at Haglofs.com
The Riksgränsen Down 850 Hood Jacket for Men is specifically crafted for cold-weather freeride skiing and snowboarding. It incorporates 850-fill-power goose down insulation, ensuring exceptional warmth, and features hydrophobic down.
The jacket boasts a relaxed, comfortable fit with reinforced shoulders for added protection. Its oversized hood is compatible with helmets and includes an adjustable brim that can be easily set with one hand. Storage options include hand pockets, a chest pocket, and an inner mesh pocket.
The elastic cuffs and adjustable hem allow for a personalized fit. Constructed from recycled and Bluesign-approved materials, the jacket compresses efficiently for convenient packing in its provided pack bag.
Haglöfs L.I.M 35 Hiking Backpack
Image: haglofs.com
Check it out at Haglofs.com
The Haglöfs L.I.M 35 Hiking Backpack is specifically crafted for trekking and hiking, offering a weight of 920 grams and a 35-liter volume. Its Airback suspension system ensures comfort during strenuous activities by facilitating airflow through the back contact area.
Additionally, it is equipped with elastic side pockets, zippered elastic hip belt pockets, and an elastic cord for gear attachment and compression. This backpack is compatible with hydration systems and boasts a fixed top lid with a pocket, an adjustable sternum strap, a padded hip belt, and load lifters.
Constructed from bluesign® approved Rip-stop Polyamide, it prioritizes durability and sustainability.
Prices
Haglöfs typically offers products within the mid-to-high price range. Their jackets range from $100 to over $600 for the most advanced designs, while the bags and backpacks are priced between $60 and $300.
Are Haglöfs products worth the price?
In our opinion, they are! Considering the numerous technologies, an emphasis on eco-friendliness, and a diverse selection of outdoor equipment, we are of the view that this brand is a great investment.
Read next: 11 European Brands for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Our Top Picks
2. The North Face Outdoor Gear
History of the Brand
The North Face official website
The North Face stands out as a renowned American brand within the outdoor gear industry, boasting a strong following among outdoor enthusiasts.
Since its establishment in 1966, the brand has maintained its dedication to crafting high-performance mountain apparel and gear, initially introducing hiking bags, tents, sleeping bags, skiwear, and other outerwear.
The brand’s appeal transcended technical gear in the 1990s, gaining popularity among celebrities. In 1993, the Steep Tech jacket was featured in a music video.
The brand’s name originates from “the north face” of a mountain in the northern hemisphere, renowned for its extreme cold and difficult climbing conditions.
Don’t miss:
11 Brands like The North Face: Our Top Alternatives
12 Best American Jackets and Outdoor Clothing Brands
Materials, Fabrics, and Production Process
The North Face predominantly utilizes Nylon and Polyester, like most outdoor gear brands, and integrates various technologies into its products, such as the FUTURELIGHT membrane.
FUTURELIGHT incorporates a thin nanomembrane in jackets, enabling airflow while repelling water. Its waterproofing capabilities have been proven effective even in extreme outdoor conditions.
Additionally, the brand utilizes goose down for thermal insulation, ensuring comfort and warmth during extended trips. This lightweight insulation allows outdoor enthusiasts the freedom of movement for strenuous activities.
Many of The North Face’s products feature the renowned Gore-Tex technology, providing waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability. Gore-Tex facilitates moisture passage while preventing water ingress.
The North Face has also its own technologies including DryVent, WindWall, FlashDry, and the famous ThermoBall synthetic insulation.
The video will be loaded from YouTube.com, a third party. If you play it, you accept their terms of service, and their use of cookies.
Read also:
The North Face vs Mammut: Which is Better?
The North Face vs Helly Hansen Outdoor Gear: A Comparison
Where is The North Face outdoor gear made?
The majority of The North Face outdoor equipment is manufactured in Asian nations like China, Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam, although the company also offers product lines made in the USA.
Recommended Products
The North Face Men’s McMurdo Parka
Image: thenorthface.com
Check it out at TheNorthFace.com
The Men’s McMurdo Parka delivers great warmth and defense against the elements and wind. This coat offers a loose fit and is filled with 600-fill recycled waterfowl down, making it a superb option for cold conditions.
The parka is both windproof and waterproof, featuring a seam-sealed DryVent™ 2L shell with a non-PFC DWR finish that also allows breathability. It includes secure-zip chest pockets, two dual-entry front patch pockets, and a zip internal chest pocket.
Also, it has an attached hood with an internal drawcord for adjustability and a detachable faux-fur ruff, along with a stormflap covering the two-way front zip. The parka has an embroidered logo on the left chest and back-right shoulder.
Adjustable hook-and-loop cuff tabs offer a comfortable fit, making the McMurdo a functional choice for difficult winter weather.
Read also: The North Face Diablo vs. Nuptse: Which Jacket is Better?
The North Face Borealis Backpack
Image: thenorthface.com
Check it out at TheNorthFace.com
The North Face’s Borealis Backpack is a popular product to meet your everyday requirements with both reliability and practicality. Its bungee cord and spacious interior ensure the safety of your objects. The backpack’s upright structure, detachable waist belt, chest strap, and safeguarded laptop section make it suitable for a range of uses.
Equipped with the FlexVent™ suspension system, this backpack ensures a comfortable fit even during prolonged use. For organization, the Borealis provides an external bungee-compression system, side bungee cords, and bottom compression.
It also features a protective dedicated laptop compartment, a roomy main compartment, and a front compartment with internal organization, secure-zip pockets, and a tablet sleeve. Made from a combination of recycled nylon and recycled polyester, it not only offers great functionality but also aligns with sustainable practices.
Read also: How To Wash a North Face Backpack: Step by Step
Prices
The products from The North Face are usually expensive, but generally, the brand falls within the mid-to-high price range. For instance, their jackets are priced between $70 and $800, while their bags and backpacks range from $50 to around $300.
Are The North Face products worth the price?
If you’re a serious adventurer or outdoor enthusiast, The North Face justifies its cost in our opinion. Their equipment is made for utility, comfort, and high performance.
When it comes to everyday clothing and gear, it depends on what you expect and need. But, in general, you can get a few reasonably priced items from this brand, making The North Face a good choice even in that case.
Learn more: Why Is The North Face So Expensive and Popular? Are Its Jackets Worth It?
3. Which is Better? Haglöfs or The North Face?
Both are very good brands. In this case, in our opinion, the final decision will largely depend on the design and roots of these two brands. Do you prefer an American brand or Scandinavian-rooted outdoor gear?
Here are our considerations to keep in mind for your purchase:
Style: The North Face tends to have a more classic, streamlined style and focuses also on fashionable pieces. Haglöfs clothing has a bit more technical, Scandinavian-inspired design elements.
Price: On average, Haglöfs gear tends to be slightly more affordable than comparable The North Face items. But both offer products at a wide range of prices.
Types of products: Haglöfs has roots in Scandinavian hiking and mountaineering and emphasizes technical clothing. The North Face started in climbing and also caters more to casual urban and lifestyle wear nowadays. The North Face is also more popular and recognizable on the streets.
Warranty: Both companies stand behind their products with strong warranties against manufacturing defects.
Sustainability: Both have their programs in place for using recycled raw materials and reducing their impact on the natural environment.
Technology: Both use advanced technologies. Gore-Tex membrane, The North Face FUTURELIGHT membrane, and Haglöfs MIMIC synthetic insulation are only a few names from the large list of innovative technologies you can get from these brands.
So, in the end, if you want a Scandinavian style, slightly lower prices, and less recognizable products, go with Haglöfs. If you want a wider range of casual wear The North Face is a better choice. In any case, you’ll get high quality from either brand.
Read next: 8 Best Sustainable Outdoor Clothing Brands: Our Top Picks
