Cotopaxi is a brand that has made a name for itself in the outdoor gear industry. They are known for producing quality products that are not only functional but also stylish.

Quick Verdict
If you’re looking for a brand that offers stylish and functional outdoor gear while also prioritizing sustainability and giving back to the community, then Cotopaxi is definitely a good brand to consider.
Cotopaxi is a brand that prides itself on being “gear for good.” They are committed to creating high-quality products that are environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
In terms of the gear itself, Cotopaxi offers a wide range of products, from backpacks and jackets to sleeping bags and tents. Their products are designed to be both functional and stylish, with bold colors and unique designs that set them apart from other outdoor gear brands.
One thing to keep in mind is that Cotopaxi products can be a bit pricey compared to other outdoor gear brands. However, many customers feel that the quality and sustainability of the products are worth the investment.
Our Cotopaxi Brand Ratings – 83/100
When it comes to evaluating a brand, there are several factors to consider. In this section, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of Cotopaxi’s performance in various categories.
Criteria | Rating (out of 10) | Description |
---|---|---|
Reputation and Trustworthiness | 9 | Cotopaxi has a strong reputation in the outdoor gear industry, with many customers praising the brand for its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. The company is also a certified B Corp, which means that it meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. |
Quality and Durability | 8 | Cotopaxi products are generally well-made and durable, with many customers reporting that their gear has held up well over time. However, some reviewers have noted that the quality of certain products, such as backpacks, could be improved. |
Innovation | 7 | While Cotopaxi is known for its unique and colorful designs, it doesn’t necessarily push the envelope when it comes to innovation. That being said, the brand does offer some innovative products, such as its Teca fleece made from recycled materials. |
Customer Support | 8 | Cotopaxi has generally positive reviews when it comes to customer support, with many customers praising the brand for its responsiveness and helpfulness. However, some reviewers have reported issues with shipping and returns. |
Value for Money | 7 | Cotopaxi products are generally priced in the mid-range for outdoor gear, which some customers may find to be a bit expensive. However, the brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practices may justify the higher price point for some consumers. |
Sustainability and Ethical Practices | 10 | Sustainability and ethical practices are at the core of Cotopaxi’s mission. The brand uses recycled materials in many of its products, and it has committed to donating 1% of its revenue to support nonprofits that focus on health care, education, and livelihood in Latin America. Additionally, Cotopaxi is a certified B Corp, which means that it meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. |
Brand Authenticity | 9 | Cotopaxi has a strong brand identity that resonates with many consumers. The brand is known for its colorful designs and commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, which helps it stand out in a crowded market. |
User Experience | 8 | Cotopaxi’s website is well-designed and easy to navigate, with helpful product descriptions and reviews. However, some customers have reported issues with shipping and returns, which can impact the overall user experience. |
Longevity and Stability | 8 | Cotopaxi has been in business since 2014, which is relatively young compared to some of its competitors. However, the brand has shown steady growth and has established a strong reputation in the outdoor gear industry. |
Industry Recognition and Awards | 9 | Cotopaxi has received numerous awards and recognitions for its sustainability and ethical practices, including being named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies in 2020. Additionally, the brand has been featured in numerous publications and has a strong presence on social media. |
Who Is This Brand Good Suit For?
Cotopaxi is a brand that is best suited for individuals who are looking for high-quality, sustainably made outdoor apparel and accessories that make a positive impact on the world.
If you are someone who is passionate about the environment and social justice, then Cotopaxi is the perfect brand for you. The company is a certified B Corporation, which means that it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
If you are an avid hiker or backpacker, then Cotopaxi’s line of lightweight and versatile jackets and layering pieces are perfect for you.
The Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker and Fuego Down Jacket are two fan favorites, with secure zip pockets and padded sleeves to keep your essentials safe and easily accessible on the trail.
For travelers, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a must-have. This airline carry-on compliant backpack has a cushioned laptop/tablet sleeve, rain cover, and plenty of storage for all of your essentials.
The Bataan 3L Fanny Pack is another great option for day trips, with adjustable belts and repurposed nylon materials available in a range of color variations.
History of Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi was founded in 2014 by Davis Smith, a serial entrepreneur with a passion for the outdoors. Smith wanted to create a brand that combined his love for the outdoors with his desire to make a positive social impact.
He believed that outdoor gear could be both high-quality and sustainable, while also helping to alleviate poverty and support communities in need.
From the beginning, Cotopaxi’s focus has been on creating outdoor gear that is both functional and stylish. They use innovative designs and sustainable materials to create products that are built to last, while also reducing their environmental impact.
Cotopaxi believes that outdoor gear should be both practical and fashionable, making it accessible to a wider audience and encouraging people to get outside and explore.

In addition to their focus on producing high-quality outdoor gear, Cotopaxi is deeply committed to social impact.
They work with nonprofits and other organizations to help alleviate poverty around the world, and they use their business as a force for good. Cotopaxi has donated over $3 million to date to help support various social impact initiatives.
Cotopaxi Products
Cotopaxi has a diverse product line that caters to outdoor enthusiasts. The brand produces high-quality gear for various outdoor activities, including backpacking, camping, hiking, and running.
Their products include backpacks, jackets, hoodies, t-shirts, hats, sleeping bags, tents, and more.
What sets Cotopaxi apart from other outdoor gear brands is their use of sustainable materials. They use recycled fabrics and materials in their products, reducing their environmental impact.
They are committed to ethical manufacturing practices and prioritize fair labor conditions for their workers.
In addition to their focus on sustainability, Cotopaxi’s products are designed with functionality and durability in mind. Their backpacks are equipped with numerous pockets and compartments, allowing for convenient storage of outdoor essentials.
Their jackets and sleeping bags are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring the user’s safety and comfort.
Here is a table showcasing some of Cotopaxi’s popular products:
Product | Description |
---|---|
Allpa Travel Pack | A versatile travel backpack with multiple pockets and compartments for storage |
Teca Fleece | A lightweight and breathable fleece made from repurposed fleece scraps |
Nazca 24L | A durable backpack with a hydration sleeve and numerous pockets for hiking and other outdoor activities |

Also see: Is Siroko A Good Brand
Quality of Cotopaxi Products
When it comes to outdoor gear, quality is essential. A product that fails to perform in a critical moment can be a safety hazard. With Cotopaxi, customers can trust that they are getting high-quality gear that is built to last.
Cotopaxi uses only the best materials available, ensuring their products stand up to even the toughest environments. From backpacks to jackets, each product is designed to be durable, yet lightweight, allowing adventurers to pack efficiently and move with flexibility.
But don’t just take our word for it. Customer reviews consistently praise the quality of Cotopaxi products, with many remarking on how their gear has held up through numerous trips and adventures. From backpacks to sleeping bags, customers have consistently reported that their Cotopaxi gear exceeded their expectations.
With Cotopaxi’s commitment to sustainability, customers can trust that their gear is not only of high quality but also environmentally responsible. Each product is made with sustainable materials and is designed to minimize waste, making Cotopaxi a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

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Sustainability at Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi has made a commitment to sustainability, striving to reduce their environmental impact and work towards a more sustainable future.
They use a variety of sustainable materials in their products, including recycled polyester, organic cotton, and bluesign-approved fabrics. In addition, Cotopaxi works with factories that comply with fair labor standards and they ensure that their products are made in a responsible manner.
One of Cotopaxi’s notable sustainability initiatives is the Del Día Collection which consists of products made from leftover materials from other companies’ production lines.
Each product is unique in color and design, reducing the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills. Cotopaxi has also implemented a carbon offset program, making sure that the carbon emissions caused by their shipping and travel are offset by supporting renewable energy projects.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
– Use of sustainable materials | – Del Día Collection may not appeal to everyone’s style preferences |
– Commitment to fair labor standards | |
– Carbon offset program |

Social Impact at Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond just the environment. The brand also works towards poverty alleviation and supports various charitable causes around the world.
One of their most notable initiatives is the Cotopaxi Foundation. The foundation’s goal is to alleviate poverty through targeted grants and sustainable solutions. Since its inception in 2016, the foundation has given over $2.5 million in grants to support education, health, and livelihoods around the world.
In addition to the foundation, Cotopaxi also supports various charity programs through their Questival events. These events are a combination of adventure race and scavenger hunt, where participants compete to complete challenges and earn points. In 2019, Questival events raised over $200,000 for various charities and causes.

Cotopaxi also partners with like-minded organizations to support social impact causes. For example, they have partnered with the International Rescue Committee to provide emergency relief to refugees and other disaster-stricken communities.
They have also partnered with SheLift, a nonprofit organization that empowers young women with disabilities through outdoor activities.
Cotopaxi’s Philanthropic Mission
Cotopaxi’s philanthropic mission is an integral part of their overall brand values and beliefs. They believe in using business as a force for good and have made a commitment to giving back to communities in need.
One of the ways they do this is through their various charity programs. They partner with organizations that align with their values and work towards social impact and poverty alleviation.
One such program is the Cotopaxi Foundation, which supports community development projects around the world. They focus on initiatives that address key needs such as education, health, and livelihoods.
Award/Recognition | Year |
---|---|
Good for the World: Overall | 2021 |
Good for Community Impact | 2021 |
America’s Most Just Companies | 2021 |
Cotopaxi has also been recognized for their philanthropic efforts by receiving various awards and accolades. For example, in 2021, they were named one of “America’s Most Just Companies” by Forbes and JUST Capital.
They were also recognized by B Lab as “Good for the World: Overall” and “Good for Community Impact”.

Cotopaxi’s Awards and Accolades
Over the years, Cotopaxi has received numerous awards and recognition for their efforts towards sustainability and social impact.
In 2019, Fast Company named Cotopaxi one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for their work in creating sustainable outdoor gear and their commitment to reducing their environmental impact.
Cotopaxi has also received recognition for their charity work, being named one of the 50 most innovative companies in the world by Fast Company in 2018 for their Questival events, which raise funds for various charities.
In 2020, Cotopaxi was recognized by Forbes as a company “doing well by doing good” and was among their list of 25 social impact leaders.
These awards and accolades not only showcase Cotopaxi’s commitment to sustainability and social impact, but also demonstrate that they are a reputable and respected brand in the outdoor gear industry.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the Cotopaxi brand?
Cotopaxi is a sustainable outdoor apparel and equipment company that was founded in 2014 by Davis Smith. The company is named after Cotopaxi, an active stratovolcano located in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador.
Are Cotopaxi products ethically made?
Yes, Cotopaxi takes pride in producing ethically made products. The company is committed to using sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices. Cotopaxi also partners with non-profit organizations to help alleviate poverty and support sustainable development in the communities where its products are made.
How does Cotopaxi sizing compare to other brands?
Cotopaxi sizing is generally true to size. However, some customers have reported that certain products may run slightly small or large. It is recommended to check the size chart on the product page and read customer reviews before making a purchase.
What are some reviews of Cotopaxi jackets?
Cotopaxi jackets have received positive reviews for their quality, durability, and unique design. Customers have praised the brand for its commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. Some customers have reported that Cotopaxi jackets may run slightly small, so it is recommended to check the size chart before making a purchase.
Who owns the Cotopaxi brand?
Cotopaxi is a privately held company that is owned by its founder, Davis Smith.
Is Cotopaxi a good alternative to Patagonia?
Cotopaxi and Patagonia are both sustainable outdoor apparel and equipment companies that are committed to ethical manufacturing practices. Cotopaxi offers a unique and colorful design aesthetic that sets it apart from Patagonia. Both brands offer high-quality products, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Final Verdict: Is Cotopaxi a Good Brand?
After evaluating Cotopaxi as a brand, it is clear that they are not only a good brand but a great one.
From their commitment to sustainability through the use of environmentally friendly materials to their dedication to social impact initiatives, Cotopaxi has set a high standard for other outdoor gear brands to follow.
The Quality of Cotopaxi Products
Cotopaxi products are of high quality and designed to last. The use of durable materials ensures that their products can withstand the toughest outdoor adventures.
In addition, customer reviews attest to the quality of their products, with many customers stating that they are impressed with the durability and overall performance of Cotopaxi gear.
Sustainability at Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi’s commitment to sustainability is evident in everything they do. From using environmentally friendly materials to reducing their carbon footprint, they are doing their part to protect the planet.
Their efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainability are an inspiration to others in the outdoor gear industry.
Social Impact at Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi’s social impact initiatives are commendable. They have made a real difference in the lives of people around the world through their charitable programs focused on poverty alleviation and education.
They have shown that it is possible for businesses to make a positive impact on society while still being profitable.
Cotopaxi’s Philanthropic Mission
Cotopaxi’s philanthropic mission is at the heart of everything they do. They are committed to using their business as a force for good and have set a great example for other companies to follow.
Their focus on making a positive impact in the world is something that sets them apart from other outdoor gear brands.
Cotopaxi’s Awards and Accolades
The awards and recognition Cotopaxi has received for their sustainability and social impact efforts are well-deserved. They serve as a testament to their commitment to making a positive impact in the world and their dedication to sustainability.
Cotopaxi’s accolades are a source of pride for the company and reinforce their reputation as a brand that is doing things right.