OUTDOOR CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT BRAND OF THE YEAR

PÁRAMO

AFTER SEVERAL GOLD awards in a row, it looked like Rab was never going to be knocked off the top spot in this category – but Páramo has achieved that feat in 2021, securing an incredible 50% of the public vote. Richard Pyne, commercial director at Páramo, said: “It’s fantastic and hugely rewarding to know that Páramo plays a role in enabling so many people to enjoy the outdoors. On behalf of Páramo I would like to thank all of the TGO readers for their support.” What do those readers think of Páramo? “The brand of the century” and “the absolute best” said some voters, whilst many others praised the longevity of the brand’s clothing: “it lasts forever”, “long-lasting gear” and “still going strong after many, many years of abuse” were just a few of the comments. The brand’s sustainability, ethics, customer service and faultless performance were regularly praised too.

 Rab

Settling for second spot this year, Rab is a consistent favourite amongst readers of The Great Outdoors.

The fit, quality and reliability of Rab gear featured highly in voters’ comments, with one commenting “I love Rab’s gear – it’s well-thought-out with good environmental credentials”. Another praised Rab for its “excellent and extensive range of clothing, offering quality and good value” whilst another summed it up as “just high-quality, durable and functional products”.

 Patagonia

“Everything else is not Patagonia,” commented one voter, whilst another praised the brand for its “beautiful clothing that’s light, warm and cosy.” But it was the ethical and environmentally-friendly approach of Patagonia that catapulted the brand into bronze position this year. “For a global brand, they are the best role model for ethics and quality” said one voter, referencing Patagonia’s commitment to sustainable and planet-friendly production.