When it comes to outdoor winter gear, two of the main contenders are Canada Goose and Patagonia. While both offer an immense array of clothing and accessories, each brand has its distinct advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, I’ll look at what makes Canada Goose and Patagonia two of the top outdoor brands and give some key differences to help you choose the better option!.
Canada Goose Overview
Canada Goose is a Canadian company that was founded in 1957. This company produces a range of outerwear including parkas, bomber jackets, raincoats, and snow pants. They also make sweaters, footwear, and accessories like hats and gloves.
Sizes
Products are designed for the whole family, with gear available for men, women, babies, kids, and youth. They offer a wide range of sizes, for instance, their women’s parkas range from XXS to XXXL.
Many products come in a standard size as well as the fusion fit, which is designed for smaller bodies and features a smaller hood, narrower chest, and shorter sleeve.
Customization
A unique feature of Canada Goose products is that they are customizable. You can choose from custom reflective detailing and interchangeable hood tribs. They even have the option to add your initials or geographical coordinates to products.
Materials
Canada Goose products are made with various materials including fur, down, and wool. The company states that these materials are sourced from suppliers that do not mistreat or cause undue harm to animals.
Reclaimed fur will soon be the sole option for Canada Goose products as the company intends to stop purchasing new fur for its gear. They also plan to use more organic materials and source more recycled fibers for production.
When it comes to keeping warm, Canada Goose ranks their products on the Thermal Experience Index. Items are categorized as lightweight, versatile, fundamental, or enduring, offering protection in various temperatures.
Shipping and Warranty
Canada Goose offers free standard shipping within 3-6 business days. Customers can opt for express or next-day shipping for an additional fee. The company provides a warranty for defects in materials and workmanship that covers the lifetime of the product.
Patagonia Overview
Patagonia is an American company that was founded in 1973. They make a range of outdoor clothing like parkas and jackets. In addition, they also sell pants and shirts, backpacks and bags, wetsuits, and fishing wear, although they aren’t considered a luxury brand.
Sizing and Materials
Products are offered for all ages and come in a range of sizes. Women’s parkas start at XXS and go up to XXL. Most gear comes in regular or slim-fit options. 87 percent of fabrics used are made with recycled materials.
Ethical Practices
Patagonia has committed to environmentally and socially sustainable operating practices. In addition, they provide detailed information on their website about regulations that suppliers must adhere to in regards to animal welfare.
Guaranteed Products
All items made by Patagonia are covered under their Ironclad Guarantee. The company states that if customers are not satisfied with their products that they will be repaired, replaced, or refunded.
Similarities Between Canada Goose and Patagonia
One important factor when comparing two popular brands is to look at what they have in common. Here are the important similarities to think about when looking at Canada Goose and Patagonia.
Products They Sell
Both companies offer plenty of selection for outdoor and winter wear for the entire family. If you’re looking at items like backpacks, this is not something Canada Goose offers at this time.
Available products from Canada Goose:
- Outwear
- Jackets
- Rain coats
- Footwear
- Boots
Patagonia offers gear for the following activities:
- Mountain biking
- Surfing
- Fishing
- Winter gear
- Camping
Patagonia and Canada Goose sell products in a wide range of sizes including a slim or fusion fit option for smaller individuals. Canada Goose products go up to XXXL, one size larger than what Patagonia offers.
If you’re interested in personalizing your gear, Canada Goose will do so for certain products, however, this is only available at select locations.
Warranty
With either company, your products are covered by a warranty or guarantee. The Canada Goose company offers a guarantee against defects for the lifetime of the product.
This doesn’t account for any damage or harm to the product including the natural wear and tear from using the item. They also offer a pretty nice return policy if you run into any issues with their gear.
For the Patagonia warranty, they allow products to be returned for repairs, replacements, or a refund if you’re not satisfied with the quality of the gear. Just like with Canada Good products, any wear that happens over time while using the product is not covered in the warranty.
Differences Between the Two Brands
Price
There is a big difference between these two companies when it comes to price, which may be a deciding factor for some customers. Overall, Canada Goose products tend to be more expensive than Patagonia.
Looking at women’s parkas, Patagonia offers a price range of $249-$999. Canada Goose parkas for women start at $850 and go up to $1,695. Similarly, men’s raincoats at Patagonia range from $189-$625, while Canada Goose sells raincoats for men in the $595-$1,495 range.
Winter Gear
Canada Goose products are designed specifically for cold weather, which makes them a good choice for those who live in places that have long, cold winters. Patagonia products include cold-weather items, but also have a lot of products for rainy or milder weather.
Which Brand Is Better – Canada Goose or Patagonia?
When comparing Canada Goose vs Patagonia, you’ll need to consider your needs and wants, as well as your budget.
Overall, both companies offer great items for outdoor clothing that are protected with a warranty or guarantee. If you’re willing to spend more, Canada Goose has the added benefit that you can customize your gear.
