The North Face has been one of the most recognizable outdoor apparel brands since its inception in 1966. Originally a small mountaineering retail store in San Francisco, the brand has grown into a global powerhouse known for its durable jackets and weather-resistant shells that are just as practical for a morning commute as they are for a mountain trail.

For company logo jackets and branded swag, corporate North Face jackets sit in a well-known sweet spot. For one, the brand carries strong name recognition; two, its products are genuinely high-quality, and lastly, the aesthetic is versatile enough to work across age groups and personal styles. That combination has made North Face a go-to for onboarding kits, milestone gifts, and event giveaways for years.

But one brand can't cover every scenario in a swag program. For instance, if you want to impress a C-suite executive or a high-value client, you might need something more premium, the kind of corporate jackets gift that signals real appreciation. Or if you’re just looking to outfit 300 employees and need something more accessible without stretching your budget past its limit. The North Face falls somewhere in the middle, and depending on the use case, there are brands that serve both ends of that spectrum with impressive quality.

That's what this guide is for! We've put together 10 brands like North Face that make great alternatives for branded swag: five that step up the premium factor and five that bring down the price without cutting corners. 

And if North Face itself is still the right call for your program, PerkUp carries that too.

Why should you consider The North Face alternatives?

The North Face is a great brand. Nobody’s arguing that. But a strong swag program rarely runs on a single brand for every use case. So, here’s why exploring North Face alternatives makes practical sense. 

1. Different recipients call for different tiers. The jacket you send a VP of Sales as a year-end gift shouldn't be the same one you hand out at a company picnic. Premium alternatives let you elevate key moments, while budget-friendly options let you extend your swag reach without overspending. Having both in your toolkit means every recipient gets something that feels intentional.

2. Budget flexibility matters if you have a large-scale swag campaign. The North Face pricing sits at the upper-mid range. That usually works for targeted gifting, but when you need to outfit 200 new hires or an event staff of 500, the per-unit cost adds up fast. Several North Face competitors deliver comparable quality at significantly lower price points, giving you more room in the budget.

3. Brand variety keeps your swag memorable. When the same North Face fleece shows up at three consecutive industry events, it might stop feeling special. Rotating company-branded jackets across different campaigns keeps your swag program fresh and gives your recipients branded outerwear they haven't already seen.

4. Unique features and innovation set brands apart. Different brands bring different strengths. Some specialize in proprietary warming technologies, others lead with heritage and craftsmanship, and a few offer technical performance that exceeds what you'll find in The North Face lineup. Exploring alternatives opens you up to features that might better match your recipients' lifestyles.

What are the top 5 premium alternatives to The North Face?

These five brands sit at or above The North Face's price point, and each one brings a specific advantage that justifies the step up. These are the brands similar to North Face you reach for when the moment calls for something premium.

1. Arc’teryx

When comparing Arcteryx vs North Face, the difference comes down to how far you want to push the premium aspect in your swag campaign. That’s because when your swag needs to make a strong impression, Arc'teryx is hard to beat. This Canadian company was founded in 1989 in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The founders, Dave Lane and Jeremy Guard, were climbers frustrated with the gear available to them, so they started making their own. The name Arc'teryx comes from the Archaeopteryx, one of the earliest known birds, representing the idea of evolutionary innovation.

Arc'teryx earned its status through an obsessive focus on materials science and construction. The brand was among the first to license GORE-TEX fabric in the mid-1990s, invented the WaterTight zipper, and pioneered micro-seam construction with 16 stitches per inch.

Why choose this premium alternative

1. Pinnacle technical performance - GORE-TEX lamination, WaterTight zippers, and micro-seam construction set industry standards that competitors still try to replicate

2. In-house manufacturing - Own factory in North Vancouver ensures quality control that no other major outdoor brand matches

3. Fashion crossover appeal - A key brand in the gorpcore trend, making it relevant for both outdoor enthusiasts and style-conscious recipients

4. Highest perceived value - Recipients immediately recognize Arc'teryx as a premium gift, reinforcing their importance to your organization

5. Built to last a decade - Exceptional durability means your branding stays visible far longer than with standard swag, which makes the premium price easier to justify

Some Arc’teryx options you should consider

• Arc’teryx Women’s Atom LT Corporate Vest ($155.79) - The Atom LT vest is one of Arc'teryx's most versatile corporate pieces. Coreloft synthetic insulation delivers warmth without overheating, and the air-permeable side panels let the vest breathe during active use. It works as a standalone layer in transitional weather or as a midlayer when temperatures drop.

• Arc’teryx Men’s Kyanite Jacket ($120.99) - Polartec Power Stretch Pro fabric gives this jacket a distinctive combination of warmth, breathability, and freedom of movement. The nylon face adds abrasion resistance for everyday durability, and the streamlined fit moves easily between a standalone piece and a mid-layer under a shell.

• Arc’teryx Women’s Kyanite Jacket ($120.99) - The women's Kyanite delivers the same Polartec Power Stretch Pro performance with a women-specific trim fit that keeps the profile streamlined without restricting movement.

2. Carhartt

If heritage is what you're after, Carhartt takes the concept further than almost any other brand. In a Carhartt vs North Face matchup, Carhartt wins hands down on durability and workwear credibility. Founded in 1889 in Detroit, Michigan, by Hamilton Carhartt, the brand has been making rugged workwear for over 135 years. Its original mission was simple: create durable, honest clothing for railroad workers who needed gear that could survive tough conditions. 

For corporate teams, Carhartt signals grit, authenticity, and a no-nonsense attitude that resonates especially well in industries like construction, manufacturing, logistics, and energy, but it also translates surprisingly well to tech and creative teams who appreciate heritage brands.

Why choose this premium alternative

1. 135+ years of American workwear heritage - Founded in 1889, Carhartt brings authenticity that can't be manufactured or replicated by newer brands

2. Built for durability - Heavy cotton duck canvas, triple-stitched seams, and Rain Defender finishes mean Carhartt jackets hold up through years of wear, keeping your logo visible longer

3. Cross-cultural appeal - Works for workwear-driven industries and style-conscious recipients alike, thanks to the brand's streetwear crossover

4. Iconic, instantly recognizable silhouettes - Pieces like the Super Dux Soft Shell and Textured Fleece are immediately identifiable, giving your branded swag a familiar, trusted look

5. Solid mid-range value - Quality construction at accessible prices makes Carhartt ideal for outfitting teams in the field or industries where durability matters

Some Carhartt options you should consider

• Carhartt Textured Full-Zip Fleece Jacket ($95.00) - Easy-wearing warmth that moves seamlessly from jobsite to backyard barbeque. A relaxed fit, elastic cuffs, and a drop tail hem add everyday comfort, while the textured 7.3-ounce polyester gives it a slightly more elevated feel than a plain fleece. A reliable all-purpose pick for teams that want something warmer than a sweatshirt but less formal than a technical jacket.

• Carhartt Super Dux Soft Shell Jacket ($130.42) - This is where iconic Carhartt styling meets serious weather protection. The Super Dux nylon is 35% lighter than traditional duck canvas but offers twice the abrasion resistance, and the combination of Rain Defender water repellency and Wind Fighter technology keeps the elements out.

• Carhartt Textured 1/2-Zip Fleece Jacket ($90.00) - The half-zip version of Carhartt's textured fleece hits a nice middle ground between a pullover and a full jacket. Same easy-wearing comfort, same relaxed fit, just a more streamlined silhouette that works well as a layering piece or a standalone top. Takes embroidered branding especially well.

3. Peter Millar

When your swag needs to signal premium without feeling stuffy, Peter Millar is the brand to consider. Founded in 2001 in Raleigh, North Carolina, by Chris Knott, Greg Oakley, and Chet Sikorski, the company began with a single cashmere sweater and has grown into one of America's most respected luxury lifestyle brands. The brand's name comes from an 18th-century Scottish fabric known for its quality and refinement.

Peter Millar has a strong foothold in golf and executive lifestyle circles, with its core collection built around world-class fabrics, including cashmere, merino wool, and proprietary technical blends. For corporate gifting, Peter Millar sits at a price point above everyday swag but with a genuinely premium feel that recipients immediately recognize.

Why choose this alternative

1. Luxury brand positioning - Owned by Richemont (parent of Cartier and Montblanc), Peter Millar carries legitimate luxury credentials

2. Premium fabrics - Cashmere, merino wool, and proprietary technical blends create a tactile quality difference that recipients notice immediately

3. Strong recognition among executives - Particularly well-known in golf, finance, and executive circles, making it ideal for client-facing and leadership gifting

4. Clean, understated aesthetic - Refined, modern silhouettes pair beautifully with subtle embroidered logos for an elevated corporate look

5. Versatile across settings - Works equally well on the golf course or at a client dinner, giving your swag genuine everyday utility

Some Peter Millar options you should consider

• Peter Millar Men's Merge Hybrid Jacket ($150.00) - Warmth and mobility in one well-designed package. Quilted insulated panels keep the core warm while power stretch knit shoulders, sleeves, and sides allow full freedom of movement. A water-resistant exterior handles light rain and wind, and the two-way zip front adds versatility that carries the jacket from office to course to everywhere in between.

• Peter Millar Men's Perth Sugar Stripe Quarter-Zip ($90.00) - A polished, performance-ready layer with a bit more visual interest than your typical corporate pullover. Built from Peter Millar's signature stretch French terry, it brings moisture-wicking comfort and UPF 50+ sun protection to anything from casual Fridays to weekend golf rounds.

• Peter Millar Men's Stealth Performance Quarter-Zip ($88.80) - Peter Millar's acclaimed first-layer jersey fabric gets reworked into a do-it-all pullover. Four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial properties keep the fabric fresh through long days.

4. Nike

Few brands carry as much global recognition as Nike. Founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, Nike has spent six decades defining performance athletic apparel. For custom Nike jackets, that recognition translates into instant perceived value. 

Nike's corporate apparel line brings the same Dri-FIT moisture management and recycled material commitments found in its retail products. Many pieces contain at least 75% recycled polyester, which gives your swag program a sustainability angle without sacrificing performance. The aesthetic is modern and athletic, making Nike a natural fit for wellness programs and active teams.

Why choose this premium alternative

1. Unmatched global brand recognition - The Swoosh is one of the most recognized logos in the world, giving your branded swag instant credibility and aspirational appeal

2. Dri-FIT performance technology - Moisture-wicking fabrics keep wearers comfortable across conditions, from gym sessions to outdoor events

3. Sustainability built in - Many corporate pieces contain at least 75% recycled polyester, aligning with environmentally conscious swag programs

4. Clean, athletic aesthetic - Modern silhouettes that work for wellness programs, active teams, and everyday wear

5. Premium positioning at mid-premium prices - Nike carries a luxury perception without the luxury price tag, hitting a sweet spot for elevated gifting

Some Nike options you should consider

• Nike Dri-FIT Corporate 1/2-Zip ($108.68) - Looks and feels like your favorite sweater but performs like technical gear thanks to Dri-FIT technology. Made from at least 75% recycled polyester with a cadet collar, rib knit cuffs, and a faux leather zipper pull that adds a refined touch.

• Nike Women's Full-Zip Soft Shell Jacket ($127.20) - A smooth, water-repellent soft shell with plenty of stretch and a soft interior. Keeps the elements out while managing moisture effectively, making it ideal for outdoor-facing roles and travel-heavy teams. Contains at least 75% recycled and/or organic content.

• Nike Women's Tech Fleece Full-Zip Hoodie ($149.97) - This premium, top-selling Nike style is a true icon. Warm, soft, and smooth on both sides, it works on its own, over a tee, or under a jacket. Dropped shoulder seams allow easy movement, and the 47/53 polyester/cotton fabric (with at least 50% recycled content) feels elevated from the first wear.

5. TravisMathew

TravisMathew brings a different energy to the premium tier. Founded in 2007 in Huntington Beach, California, by Travis Matthew Johnson, the brand was built to bridge the gap between golf apparel and everyday lifestyle wear. 

For swag, TravisMathew hits a sweet spot that traditional outdoor brands don't reach. The pieces feature wrinkle-resistance, 4-way stretch, and quick-dry performance wrapped in a polished, lifestyle-forward aesthetic. It feels fresher than typical corporate jackets and carries real style credibility with younger employees and golf-enthusiast recipients.

Why choose this premium alternative

1. Modern, SoCal-inspired aesthetic - A fresh, contemporary style that stands out from traditional outdoor brands and feels distinct in a sea of logo fleece

2. Performance fabrics with everyday styling - Wrinkle-resistant, stretchy, and quick-drying materials that work for travel, commuting, and weekend wear

3. Strong appeal in golf and lifestyle circles - Recognized brand among golfers and younger professionals who want swag that feels current rather than corporate

4. Backed by Callaway - Since its 2017 acquisition, TravisMathew has scaled globally with consistent quality and expanded product depth

5. Elevated yet approachable - Feels premium without being intimidating, making it versatile across industries from tech to finance to creative agencies

Some TravisMathew options you should consider

• TravisMathew Surfside Full-Zip Jacket ($100.00) - You'll have no trouble finding perfect vacation style in this crisp, classic full-zip. Designed with 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort, this durable jacket is versatile enough for work and play and is easy to throw on without missing a beat. 3-ounce, 72/23/5 nylon/polyester/spandex 4.7-ounce, 88/12 polyester/spandex (Black) Zip-through collar Embroidered TravisMathew logo on left chest Reverse coil center front zipper with kissing welt Open hand pockets Open cuffs

• TravisMathew Tides Up Hooded Jacket ($165.00) - The ultimate 2-in-1 look. The Tides Up is the total package: we combined our wildly popular Cold Bay Vest (TM1MW453) with a hoodie for one inseparable piece. It is an elevated (yet cool) look that sets you apart. 90/10 polyester/elastane (vest) 4.2-ounce, 55/38/7 acrylic/modal/spandex (hoodie) Easy wash and wear Enhanced 4-way stretch Wrinkle-resistant Hood with dyed-to-match drawcords Cuffed sleeves Side-entry pockets TM logo woven patch label at left hem

• TravisMathew Women's Coveside Full-Zip ($135.00) - A luxuriously soft, plush layer, ideal for early morning walks or layered over your favorite top. This incredibly soft, plush knit style is just what you'd expect from TravisMathew. 6.5-ounce, 72/28 polyester/cotton Easy wash and wear 4-way stretch Wrinkle-resistant Triple-needle details Side-entry pockets At-the-hip length TM logo woven label at left hem

What are the top 5 budget-friendly alternatives to The North Face?

Not every moment in a swag program calls for a premium jacket. Sometimes you need to outfit a full company or cover a large event team without blowing through your budget. These five North Face alternatives deliver solid quality and strong branding potential at price points well below what you'd pay for North Face.

1. Eddie Bauer 

Eddie Bauer is one of the most storied names in American outdoor apparel, and in an Eddie Bauer vs North Face comparison, Eddie Bauer brings something North Face simply can't match: over a century of heritage. The company was established in 1920 in Seattle by outdoorsman Eddie Bauer himself. After a near-fatal bout of hypothermia on a fishing trip, Bauer set out to create better cold-weather gear and, in 1936, introduced the Skyliner, which is widely credited as the first quilted down jacket in the United States. The Eddie Bauer corporate gifting category remains a reliable choice for brands looking for heritage-driven swag that works across diverse teams.

Why choose this affordable alternative

1. Over a century of outdoor heritage - Founded in 1920, Eddie Bauer carries the kind of storied history that adds weight and authenticity to corporate gifts

2. Down jacket pioneer - The brand literally invented the first quilted down jacket in the US, giving it unmatched credibility in insulated outerwear

3. Classic, broadly appealing aesthetic - Eddie Bauer's style leans timeless rather than trendy, making it a safe choice for diverse teams with varied tastes

4. Mid-range pricing - Delivers quality construction and trusted branding at price points that work for most swag budgets

5. Versatile product range - From lightweight fleeces to weatherproof technical shells, Eddie Bauer covers most outerwear needs without forcing you to juggle multiple vendors

Some Eddie Bauer options you should consider

• Eddie Bauer Unisex Fleece-Lined Jacket ($60.79) - A dependable three-season layer that holds up in changing conditions without feeling bulky. The fleece lining adds cozy warmth underneath a clean, easy-to-wear silhouette, making this a strong pick for outdoor-facing roles or travel-heavy teams.

• Eddie Bauer Unisex WeatherEdge Jacket ($80.59) - Built for the days when the forecast won't cooperate. Stretch fabric and a streamlined cut keep movement easy through long commutes, job sites, and travel, while the weatherproof construction handles wind and rain easily.

• Eddie Bauer Full-Zip Microfleece Jacket ($51.38) - Warmth and comfort without the bulk. Flatlock stitching and a low-pill finish give this lightweight fleece a quality feel, and it layers just as easily under a shell as it wears on its own. One of the most versatile custom fleece jackets for year-round swag.

2. Port Authority

Port Authority is the brand that quietly powers more corporate swag programs than almost any other name in the industry. Owned by SanMar, Port Authority was built specifically for the custom apparel market, which means every product is designed from the start to take embroidery, screen printing, and branding beautifully. You won't find Port Authority in mall stores or ski shops, but you'll find it on millions of company employees across North America.

What makes Port Authority essential for a swag program is the combination of quality and price. Jackets and fleeces typically come in at a fraction of what you'd pay for comparable pieces from heritage outdoor brands, which means you can outfit entire companies, event teams, or volunteer programs without blowing through your budget. The brand's catalog is deep too, spanning lightweight fleeces, insulated jackets, soft shells, vests, and windbreakers in a wide range of colors to match your brand palette.

Why choose this affordable alternative

1. Budget-friendly pricing - By far the most accessible option on this list, making it ideal for large teams or any swag program where per-unit cost matters

2. Purpose-built for custom apparel - Designed specifically to take embroidery, screen printing, and other branding methods, including a dedicated Port Pocket for easier decoration access

3. Extensive color range - One of the widest color selections in corporate apparel, making it easy to match specific brand palettes

4. Broad product catalog - Covers everything from lightweight fleeces to insulated jackets, so you can keep an entire outerwear program on a single brand

5. Reliable availability - Consistent inventory and quick turnaround times make Port Authority a go-to for time-sensitive swag campaigns

Some Port Authority options you should consider

• Port Authority Collective Insulated Jacket ($49.16) - This jacket combines low-bulk quilted insulation with flexible soft shell side panels for a weather-resistant look that still moves well. It can even zip into an outer Collective layer for true three-season versatility.

• Port Authority Team Jacket ($60.32) - Sporty styling and a water-repellent nylon shell make this a natural pick for team events or spirit-driven swag. The sweatshirt fleece lining in the hood and body adds warmth, and details like adjustable cuffs and an interior pocket give it real everyday utility.

• Port Authority Heather Microfleece Full-Zip Jacket ($34.62) - One of the most popular and best fleece jacket brand picks for large-scale swag programs. The heathered finish adds subtle visual interest, and the anti-pill microfleece holds up well to everyday wear. At this price point, it's one of the easiest ways to outfit a full team in branded outerwear.

3. Mercer+Mettle

Mercer+Mettle is the newer, more design-forward sibling in the SanMar family (the same parent company behind Port Authority). Where Port Authority is built for pure volume and value, Mercer+Mettle is designed to feel more polished and trend-aware, with cleaner lines, modern details, and fashion-influenced silhouettes. Think of it as the brand for teams that want custom corporate jackets with a bit more personality than traditional corporate apparel, without stepping into premium price territory.

The collection leans into details that most budget brands skip: oxidized molded zippers, diamond quilting, bomber silhouettes, and durable water-repellent finishes. These small touches give Mercer+Mettle a retail feel that punches above its price point, which makes it especially useful when you want branded outerwear to look curated rather than mass ordered.

Why choose this affordable alternative

1. Elevated design at accessible prices - Fashion-influenced details and modern silhouettes create a retail feel without the retail markup

2. Trend-forward aesthetics - Bomber jackets, diamond quilting, and cropped collars give your swag a contemporary edge that traditional corporate brands lack

3. DWR finishes on key pieces - Durable water-repellent coatings on quilted jackets add genuine weather utility, not just looks

4. Built for branding - Like its SanMar sibling, Port Authority, Mercer+Mettle includes decoration access pockets and clean surfaces designed for embroidery and printing

5. Versatile men's and women's options - Women-specific fits and unisex pieces let you cover diverse teams with one brand

Some Mercer+Mettle options you should consider

• Mercer+Mettle Women's Boxy Quilted Jacket ($75.98) - A trend-forward quilted jacket with reliable warmth and a durable water-repellent finish. The diamond quilting, oxidized molded zipper, and baseball-style collar give it a modern edge that stands out from standard corporate outerwear.

• Mercer+Mettle Double-Knit Bomber ($53.64) - Smart, stylish, and built for layering. This bomber blends sport-inspired design cues (rib knit collar and cuffs, exposed zipper) with a streamlined, style-forward fit. A great option when you want swag that looks intentionally cool rather than default corporate.

• Mercer+Mettle Quilted Full-Zip Jacket ($75.98) - The same reliable warmth and DWR finish as the women's boxy version, with a cropped collar and side-seam vents for a slightly different look. Diamond quilting and subtle sheen give it visual interest that takes custom-branded jackets to the next level.

4. Bella+CANVAS

Bella+Canvas has built its reputation as one of the most popular blank apparel brands in North America, and for good reason. Founded in 1992 in Los Angeles, the brand is known for producing soft, retail-quality basics at wholesale price points. While Bella+Canvas doesn't make traditional outdoor jackets, their full-zip hoodies and heavyweight fleeces serve the same purpose for many swag programs: a comfortable, good-looking branded layer that people genuinely want to wear.

What sets Bella+Canvas apart from other budget options is the fabric feel. Their proprietary Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton creates a noticeably softer, smoother hand feel than standard fleece blanks. The retail-quality fit (closer to what you'd find in a direct-to-consumer brand) keeps the silhouette flattering rather than boxy.

Why choose this affordable alternative

1. Premium feel at budget prices - Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton delivers a noticeably softer hand feel than standard blank hoodies

2. Retail-quality fit - Modern, flattering silhouettes that look and feel like direct-to-consumer apparel, not boxy corporate blanks

3. Sustainability commitments - Bella+Canvas uses water-reduced dyeing processes and responsible manufacturing practices across its supply chain

4. Extremely accessible pricing - Starting under $40 for a full-zip hoodie, these are some of the most budget-friendly branded layering pieces on this list

5. Versatile blank canvas - Clean, minimal designs take screen printing, embroidery, and custom decoration beautifully across a wide range of color options

Some Bella+Canvas options you should consider

• BELLA+CANVAS Unisex Sponge Fleece Full-Zip Hoodie ($40.22)  - A retail-fit full-zip hoodie with white drawcords and clean taping details. The 52/48 cotton/poly fleece is soft enough to feel premium while holding up to regular wear. At this price point, it's one of the most cost-effective ways to get branded layers on a large team.

• BELLA+CANVAS Unisex Triblend Sponge Fleece Full-Zip Hoodie ($54.12) - The triblend fabric (poly, cotton, rayon) adds an extra level of softness and drape compared to standard fleece. A step up in feel for teams where comfort and quality matter, without a significant price jump.

• BELLA+CANVAS Unisex 10-Ounce Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie ($40.98)  - A substantial, heavyweight hoodie with a relaxed fit and brushed fleece interior. The double-layered hood and 10-ounce fabric give it real warmth and a durable, structured feel that holds up through frequent wear.

5. AS Colour

Rounding out the budget tier is AS Colour, a New Zealand-born brand that's earned a strong following in the blank apparel space for its clean aesthetic and modern fits. The brand's approach is minimal and design-led, which gives its pieces a retail feel that photographs well and looks intentional on any team.

For swag programs, AS Colour bridges the gap between a basic blank and a branded retail piece. If you're looking for budget-friendly company logo jackets that feel a cut above typical blanks, AS Colour is worth a close look.

Why choose this affordable alternative

1. Modern, design-led aesthetic - Clean lines and contemporary fits that feel intentional rather than generic, giving branded swag a retail edge

2. Substantial fabrics - Heavy canvas, thick CVC fleece, and French terry at weights that feel premium to the touch

3. Sustainability touches - Recycled polyester linings and recycled polyester padded sleeves on select jackets add eco-conscious credibility

4. Budget-friendly with a premium look - Pricing starts in the low $30s for hoodies and stays under $65 even for heavy canvas jackets

5. Growing US availability - Originally a New Zealand/Australia brand, AS Colour has expanded steadily into North America with consistent inventory and faster fulfillment

Some AS Colour options you should consider

• AS Colour Men’s Canvas Heavy Jacket ($63.75) - Built for colder days when you want something durable that still feels easy to wear. The heavy 13.8-ounce duck canvas outer and blanket-lined body add real warmth, and the recycled polyester padded sleeve lining adds a sustainability angle. Multiple pockets and a secure zip make it practical for everyday carry.

• AS Colour Men’s Heavy Zip Hood ($37.80) - A warm, heavyweight layer perfect for cooler commutes and travel days. The oversized fit and dropped shoulders give it a relaxed, modern feel, and the 2-way zip makes it flexible for layering.

• AS Colour Men’s Premium Hood ($31.05) - A heavyweight hoodie with a more structured, elevated feel. The relaxed fit and 10.3-ounce French terry maintain shape while offering a soft, brushed interior. At just over $31, it's one of the most accessible entry points for premium-feeling branded layering.

Finding the Perfect Jacket for Your Team

With 10 brands across two tiers, the best pick depends on what your team actually needs and what the moment calls for. Here's a quick way to think about it.

Are you…

… rewarding executives or high-value clients?

Arc’teryx and Peter Millar both sit at the top of the premium tier. Arc’teryx leans technical with an aspirational streetwear edge, while Peter Millar feels more refined and boardroom ready. Both signal serious appreciation for your recipient.

… outfitting teams in rugged industries?

Carhartt is purpose-built for tough conditions. The brand's workwear heritage and authentic credibility resonate especially well in construction, manufacturing, energy, and logistics.

… looking for recognizable athletic or lifestyle brand power?

Nike and TravisMathew bring global brand recognition and modern appeal. Nike leans athletic and performance-driven, while TravisMathew offers a relaxed, SoCal-inspired aesthetic that resonates with golf and lifestyle audiences.

… looking for classic, broadly appealing swag for onboarding or milestones?

Eddie Bauer's timeless style and century-long heritage make it a safe bet for diverse teams. The brand’s corporate gifting line covers everything from welcome kits to work anniversary gifts.

… running a large-scale campaign on a tighter budget?

Port Authority, Mercer+Mettle, Bella+Canvas, and AS Colour all deliver strong branding potential at price points that let you scale to hundreds (or thousands) of recipients without stretching thin.

Even with all of these questions, there’s really no right or wrong answer, as it all depends on your swag campaign needs. So, remember, you don't have to pick just one. A well-designed swag program often uses two or three of these brands across different recipient tiers.

PerkUp Simplifies Branded Swag Ordering

With all of the jackets on our list, you might probably think: “Maybe, we don’t have to settle for just one brand.” Your executives can get Peter Millar. Your engineering team? Carhartt. Your new hire swag kit can include an Eddie Bauer jacket or a Port Authority one. The point is, each swag campaign calls for a different brand, and each of these brands also comes with its own customization process, sizing conventions, minimum orders, and fulfillment timelines. And if you want all of the items on our alternatives list, then you’re looking at possibly working with four or five vendors.

But with PerkUp, you don’t have to. That’s because every brand covered in this blog (plus North Face itself, and dozens more) lives inside one catalog, with one checkout, one design workflow, and one support team. All of these features make swag sending a seamless process. Order in bulk and mix different brands across different campaigns without juggling vendor relationships.

Beyond jackets, PerkUp’s offering also extends into drinkware, bags, swag kits, gift cards, and On Demand swag. So, whether you're building an outerwear program or a full-year swag strategy, PerkUp gives you the catalog, the fulfillment network, and the design support to run it all from one place.

Key Takeaways

The North Face has earned its reputation as a leading outdoor brand, but as you've seen, there's no shortage of high-quality North Face alternatives that bring something different to the table. While the listed brands have their own unique advantages, remember that the best branded jacket is the one your recipients will actually wear, so choose the one that aligns with your company's values, matches your team's lifestyle, and fits your budget. And when it's time to pull the full program together, book a demo with PerkUp to see how simple multi-brand jacket gifting can be.

Frequently Asked Questions about The North Face Alternatives

Are North Face alternatives actually as good as the original?

Yes. Many brands similar to North Face offer comparable or even superior performance in specific areas. Arc'teryx outperforms North Face on technical shells, Carhartt is more durable for jobsite use, Peter Millar's fabric quality sits in a different tier, and Port Authority delivers significantly better unit economics. The right choice depends on your priorities.

Which of these brands is best for corporate gifting?

It depends on your goals, really. Arc’teryx and Peter Millar carry the highest perceived value for executive gifts. Nike and TravisMathew bring global brand recognition and modern lifestyle appeal. Eddie Bauer hits a sweet spot of quality and accessibility for all-hands gifts. Carhartt is purpose-built for rugged industries. Port Authority, Mercer+Mettle, Bella+Canvas, and AS Colour are the go-to for larger-volume programs on tighter budgets. Many companies mix brands across different recipient segments.

Can I order just one custom-branded jacket, or do I need to buy in bulk?

With platforms like PerkUp, you can order custom-branded jackets in bulk or On Demand with a minimum of just one item. For On Demand, the pricing is all-in, covering the item, decoration, shipping, taxes, and duties with no surprise fees. This is especially useful when you need to send a single jacket to a new hire or VIP without committing to a large bulk order.