It’s getting colder and that means one thing: It’s time to gear up.
When on the lookout for new travel gear, I frequently scour through the latest products and newest releases. This Fall/Winter, I haven’t been disappointed. Countless brands have come out with gear, apparel and outerwear perfect for winter travel.
You might notice that I’ve included some brands that are considered ‘outdoor gear’ brands, not necessarily ‘travel gear’ brands. One thing I’ve discovered when traveling around the world is that good outdoor gear almost always makes good travel gear.
Here are 7 of the best travel gear brands to look out for this Fall/Winter including some of my favorite established brands and some up and coming companies:
1. ZeroGrand: Cole Haan X Mountain Hardwear Collaboration
Travel is all about versatility; being able to wear the same jacket you wore for a morning hike to a fancy dinner. ZeroGrand, the collaboration between Cole Haan and Mountain Hardwear allows just that. The two companies have succeeded in combining urban style with technical features like breathable waterproofing and 800-fill down that insulates when wet.
Currently, you can find jackets, shoes and backpacks in the ZeroGrand collection.
2. Kuhl
Founded in the mid 1980s, Kuhl has been a mainstay in the outdoor apparel industry. While mainly known for their pants, Kuhl makes insulating layers like the Interceptr Fleece Hoody ($119) and the Spyfire Hoody ($220), which are sure to keep you warm this winter. The Interceptr Hoody is made from Alfpaca Gold fleece fabric and equipped with Kühl signature thumb loops.
Check out gear from Kuhl here.
3. Arc’teryx
If you’re looking for technical warm outerwear brands, Arc’teryx is one of your best options. Known for their high quality goods and attention to detail, Arc’teryx makes gear ideal for travelers and adventurers.
I recently had the chance to try the Fortrez Hoodie ($199) and it was probably the nicest fleece I’ve ever put on. Lightweight, warm, and loaded with features it’s a truly top notch fleece.
Another great product from Arc’teryx which I’ve tried is the presentable Skyline button down shirt ($99). The shirt isn’t your average dress shirt, though. It’s loaded with features like UV ray protection, wrinkle resistance and breathability.
Check out more gear from Arc’teryx here.
4. Nau
Nau is a brand that seamlessly balances style and performance, just like ZeroGrand. Right now, Nau’s fall/winter collection is loaded with outerwear ideal for travelers. One top product to look out for is the Copenhagen Recycled Down Trench which is completely waterproof and has 650-fill insulation.
I own a dress shirt from Nau which is stylish, versatile and super comfortable, however I’d admit the sizing is a bit off for me as the sleeves are a bit too long. Other than that, I’m a big fan of the direction Nau is going in.
Check out more gear from Nau here.
5. Cotopaxi
Named after the volcano in Ecuador (which I visited almost 2 years ago), Cotopaxi is an up and coming brand that makes great gear and gives back in the process. Purchases help support organizations around the world including an orphanage in Bolivia and a foundation which gives access to clean water to those in need in East Africa.
One product which I’m excited about in particular from Cotopaxi is the Tianjin Down Jacket ($249). Made from water resistant canvas and insulated with waterproof duck down, the jacket is both warm and durable – two characteristics found in all good winter travel gear.
In addition to apparel, Cotopaxi makes both technical and lifestyle backpacks. One pack which is perfect for travelers is the Nazca 24L Travel Pack ($139).
This backpack opens like a suitcase making it well suited to week-long trips and the name Nazca itself brings back lots of my travel memories. The pack is fully equipped with a waistbelt and a padded laptop compartment.
Check out more gear from Cotopaxi here.
6. Stio
Stio is a relatively new outdoor gear company based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and has been making apparel that blur the lines between technical and lifestyle. To keep you warm this winter, Stio has insulating layers and fleeces including the Wilcox Fleece Hoodie ($159) below:
While their apparel is more outdoor oriented, Stio’s products are stylish and urban enough to be worn when traveling or around the city.
Check out more Stio products here.
7. Icebreaker
When traveling around New Zealand, it was hard to miss all the Icebreaker stores and advertisements. There was even an Icebreaker store inside the Queenstown Airport, which was appropriate since Icebreaker apparel is perfect for travelers.
Founded in the South Island of New Zealand, Icebreaker is known for their high quality merino wool garments. Merino wool is the ideal material for travel clothing since it’s comfortable, breathable, insulating and best of all odor resistant.
Some products to check out from Icebreaker this winter are the Everyday Long Sleeve Half Zip baselayer ($70) and the MerinoLOFT Helix Long Sleeve Reversible Shirt ($250). The reversible shirt is insulated with MerinoLOFT and is great for adventure and casual travel. The fact that it’s reversible adds extra versatility.
Check out Icebreaker’s travel collection here.
What are your favorite brands for winter gear? Leave a comment below.