Go to any trailhead on a wet Saturday and you will find two logo after another. One is from Vancouver's Arcteryx, they have sharp technical shells. The other one is from Patagonia, the California brand that speaks about planet, not just jackets.Quality lets you know if it will last when the weather turns. Price tells you how much you pay for that assurance and whether or not you think it is fair.Combine the two and a genuine question emerges. What do you have to pay for more to get that you wouldn't get for a cheaper price at another brand? Let's make a quality vs price comparison between Arcteryx and Patagonia, one item at a time.

Meet Arcteryx

Arcteryx started in Vancouver and made a name for themselves among climbers, skiers and guides. It has few logos and lines are neat, looking  arcteryxs.uk plain. So it's that look that makes urbanites favor them as well.The brand focuses on technical aspects. Shells have Gore-Tex and cuts and seams are designed for low weight and good weather protection. Think Jacket for a storm on a ridge, and you're thinking what Arcteryx does best.

Meet Patagonia

It began in California, and remains number one in values with Patagonia. It has no qualms about mentioning recycled fabrics, repair schemes and environmental initiatives. Many of its customers report that this is one of the two half reasons why they buy.It's also a good gear. People wear rain shells, fleeces, down jackets and base layers to the shops and on trails in Patagonia. Many of the brand's rain jackets feature their own waterproof membrane, setting them apart from the Gore-Tex jackets.

How the Quality Compares

These two brands are in the top tier of outdoor clothing and won't offer any poor jackets. The difference is reflected in their pursuit of quality.Arcteryx chases precision. It is stitched tight, the patterns are designed for movement and the shells are made to be light yet effective at shedding rain. When things get serious, reviewers will say it leads.Patagonia dependability pursues consistency over a greater extent of uses. A Patagonia item might not be as elegant, but it's as easy to hike with and carry as it is to take out for the weekend. The brand also prioritizes repair – a number of owners prefer to repair worn items rather than dispose of them.

A set of shell jackets are shown side by side

Let's begin with the rain shells, which will provide the best idea of the difference.An Arcteryx shell is made with Gore-Tex and an athletic cut. It is compact and rolls easily when you stretch out overhead. It's a popular choice for extreme weather and extended outdoor work hours, many reviewers say.The exterior of a Patagonia shell is typically made from a recycled fabric, and its membrane is sourced from the brand itself. Finely adapts to daily wet weather and moderate hikes. Most wearers of one in the city storm feel no gap.

Midlayers and Puffy Jackets

In this case, the two brands are no more than a hairsbreadth apart. Perhaps a comparison of Patagonia's Nano Puff to Arcteryx's Atom is a familiar one; the difference in weight between these two is quite minimal. One test found the Patagonia jacket to be 363 grams while the Arcteryx was 370 grams.So both provide lots of warmth with minimal weight. It may be down to cut and feel. Generally, Arcteryx is closer to the body. Patagonia leaves a little more space, and some people prefer to have it under a shell.

How the Price Compares

Let's discuss the cash, but not the actual figures because they change constantly.Arcteryx is at the top of the market. Reviewers always say that it is the more costly of the two and they attribute that to the fabrics, construction work, and quality checks. The more Gore-Tex, the better.Generally, the price of similar items such as fleeces, insulated jackets and rain gear is lower in Patagonia. It is still considered a high quality brand, so don't expect low pricing. It is a true difference, however, and it increases with higher technical shells.In addition to being a great value, it's also the best place to find each brand.

Value is determined by what you need, not what you pay for

Patagonia is well priced, if you're looking for a solid everyday piece. A fleece, midweight puffy or rain jacket for city use are all in that category. You receive quality, a positive repairing culture and a lower bill compared to Arcteryx.When your equipment gets serious, you will know Arcteryx gave you great value. The lighter shells and tighter fit may be worth the higher cost if you're a climber, backcountry skier, or hiker who hits the backcountry or rough terrain. Those who have maintained a shell for a long time have commented that the higher cost is borne out over time.

The Value and Environmental Work as a part of the role

This is a part which many buyers will have a definite impression on and deserves its own look.Environmental work is a key part of Patagonia's identity for which customers are aware. It discusses recycled textiles, repair services and campaigns that relate to wild places. This devotion is more at the heart of Patagonia than Arcteryx, according to reviewers.Arcteryx has come a long way, too, although the brand is quieter when it comes to activism. Patagonia may be a more fitting choice if you're concerned with the environment. In terms of raw performance, Arcteryx might be a better option.

Quick comparison table

Point Arcteryx Patagonia

Main focus Technical performance Everyday use and environmental work

The use of shell fabric, Gore-Tex and a membrane on many items.

Cut Athletic, close Slightly roomier

Current price Upward Adjustment Downward Adjustment (for comparable items)Moderate hikes and trips Moderate weather conditions For everyday wear and weekend adventures

For a moment forget about the brand loyalty and pose some basic questions

Most of the time, what kind of weather do you encounter? In the case of continuous rainfall and cold commuters a Patagonia item might be adequate. For wind blown ridgelines, Arcteryx could be onto a winner.