There's a certain mystique about this Ventura, California-based Company that makes men’s, women’s, kids‘ and infants & toddlers' outdoor clothing. From its founding story and impressive employee and environmental policies to its hard-working, stylish outdoor clothing, Patagonia has stories to tell.

Yvon Chouinard started the company in the early '70s. He learned how to rock climb as a teenager in a falconry club and eventually began making and selling climbing equipment. Today, Patagonia makes clothes for skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, general outdoor fitness and more.

One of the nice things about Patagonia products is their versatility. Often what works on your next hiking adventure also fits in around town, including women's jackets, women's shirts, women's pants and even skirts and dresses.

Patagonia's recycling program adds to their green creed. Many of their products, including a substantial number of Patagonia men's jackets, men's shirts, men's underwear and men's pants, can be recycled through the company's Common Threads program.