What is gorpcore?
Gorpcore is a fashion aesthetic inspired by hiking and outdoor clothing. Essentially, gorpcore turns functional and practical clothing associated with hiking and camping into trendy streetwear—the purpose of the aesthetic is to embrace the outdoors while looking good doing it. Think structured waterproof jackets, shiny nylon puffer vests, cargo pants with lots of pockets and zippers, and sturdy hiking shoes. The essence of gorpcore is about incorporating functional outdoor pieces into your style. Each piece you wear has a purpose, whether it keeps you warm or helps you navigate rough terrain. While gorpcore is a fashion aesthetic, many people embrace the lifestyle and activities it's associated with, like camping, hiking, skiing, climbing, and simply spending time outdoors. The name “Gorpcore” likely comes from the acronym “Good Ol’ Raisins and Peanuts,” which is a popular trail mix snack for hikers. Gorpcore was first coined by Jason Chen in his 2017 article for The Cut. It started gaining traction during the COVID-19 pandemic and reached peak popularity in 2023.
Gorpcore Aesthetic Essentials
Functional outerwear One of the biggest staples of the gorpcore aesthetic is outdoorsy outerwear. Some basics include durable and waterproof shell jackets, like those by Arc’teryx, and warm fleece jackets, like ones by Patagonia. Big puffer jackets and lightweight windbreakers are other must-haves.
Athletic pants When it comes to trousers, a gorpcore enthusiast knows you can never have too many pockets. Breathable cargo pants and hiking pants, like ones from REI, are 2 essentials of the aesthetic. Other functional and outdoorsy options include workout skirts, biker shorts, and running shorts.
Sturdy shoes Durable and sporty shoes are a must to achieve the gorpcore aesthetic. Hiking boots and hiking shoes from brands like Merrel, Salomon, and Hoka are solid footwear staples. However, almost any athletic shoe is a great option, like trail running shoes and chunky tennis shoes. You’re not limited to close-toed shoes! Hiking sandals from brands like Teva and Keen are also gorpcore-approved.
Outdoor accessories A gorpcore look isn’t finished without some functional outdoorsy accessories. Fanny packs, crossbody bags, and totes are a must for carrying all your gear. To block out the sun, wear a breathable cap or fishing hat and sporty shades, like ones from Oakley. In the cooler months, no look is complete without a cozy beanie. When it comes to jewelry, gorpcore is all about minimalism. Think thin gold or silver necklaces, simple rings, and classic hoop earrings. A reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a moisturizing lip balm are also accessory staples.
Layered and baggy silhouette The key to achieving the gorpcore look is layering, as being prepared for all kinds of weather is a must. Along with the loose, breathable fabrics common to outdoorsy clothing, layering usually gives gorpcore looks a baggy silhouette. For instance, you might wear baggy cargo pants with a long-sleeved thermal tee and throw on a fleece vest and puffy jacket.
Technical fabrics Technical fabrics are textiles made to perform a purpose, like to repel moisture, improve airflow, prevent heat loss, and resist UV rays. Most gorpcore clothing is made out of synthetic fabrics like gore-tex, nylon, and polyester, which are durable, breathable, flexible, and water-resistant.
Earthy tones and bold colors The gorpcore color palette leans towards neutrals and nature-inspired tones like black, gray, white, brown, khaki, navy blue, and olive green. However, pops of vibrant color aren’t out of place, either! Simply style your outfit around a jacket or pair of shoes in bright orange, green, pink, blue, or yellow.
Functional and sustainably sourced fashion Achieving the gorpcore look is all about function and practicality. Choose pieces that fit your lifestyle, hobbies, and the other clothes in your wardrobe. Most gorpcore clothes are made sustainably and meant to last, so lots of pieces are easy to find in thrift shops and consignment stores.
Gorpcore Brands
Gorpcore brands include Arc’teryx, Patagonia, Outdoor Voices, and REI. Brands that work with the gorpcore aesthetic are usually outdoors or sport-focused. Some popular gorpcore brands include: The North Face Columbia Saloman 66°North Mammut Moncler Free People Urban Outfitters Luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Balenciaga are also embracing the gorpcore trend.
Gorpcore Outfit Ideas
Cargo pants, shell jacket, and hiking shoes. For a classic gorpcore look, start with a pair of cargo pants in black, gray, or khaki. Throw on a basic tee and layer a shell jacket in a complimentary neutral over it, like in brown, tan, or white. Complete your look with a pair of neutral hiking boots. Or, opt for a more colorful look—make your pants or jacket (or both!) a vibrant orange, blue, or purple and keep your other clothes neutral. Don’t forget to accessorize with a crossbody bag, a baseball cap, and sunglasses.
Jeans, fleece jacket, and hiking boots. As another classic outfit, style a pair of medium-wash jeans in any cut you like with a basic tee. Then, throw a fleece jacket in a muted or vibrant color. Finish off the look with a pair of black or brown hiking boots.
Hiking pants, fleece vest, puffer jacket, and hiking shoes. In the colder months, make layering a priority. Start with a warm but breathable pair of hiking pants in a neutral color. Put on a thermal tee and layer a fleece vest in a neutral or pop of color. Then, shrug on a puffer jacket in an earthy tone or vibrant hue. Simply style the look with a pair of hiking shoes or boots. Finish off your look with a warm beanie in a matching neutral or colorful hue.
Running shorts, oversized windbreaker, and hiking shoes. When it's warmer outside, throw on some running shorts, bike shorts, or a workout skirt in an earthy or vibrant color. Pair them with a light tee or crop top and an oversized windbreaker in a matching tone. Then, scrunch up some crew socks and put on a pair of hiking shoes or chunky sneakers. If it’s really hot, opt for a pair of hiking sandals, instead. Accessorize with a fanny pack or crossbody bag, a bucket hat, sunglasses, and your favorite water bottle.
Why is gorpcore popular?
Gorpcore was popularized by the need to be outside during Covid-19. While gorpcore was coined in 2017, it didn’t gain mainstream popularity until the pandemic. Socializing required people to be outdoors while the rise in cabin fever encouraged people to hike and camp. This led to people naturally incorporating the gorpcore aesthetic into their style.
Celebrities and influencers are embracing the gorpcore aesthetic. Prior to the pandemic, celebrities like A$AP Rocky and Frank Ocean made wearing hiking shoes, fleece vests, and puffer jackets trendy. As gorpcore gained traction in the 2020s, celebrities like Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Hailey Bieber helped popularize the aesthetic. As outdoorsy clothes got more trendy, major fashion houses like Gucci, Prada, Dior, Burberry, and Balenciaga started making their own gorpcore-inspired fashion and collaborating with gorpcore brands, like The North Face.
Gorpcore vs Techwear
Techwear is more futuristic and streamlined than gorpcore. Gorpcore and techwear are similar aesthetics that both focus on functional clothes and technical fabrics. Unlike the gorpcore aesthetic, techwear enthusiasts aren’t aiming to look like they’re always up for a hike. Their aesthetic features a slicker, more streamlined silhouette and is focused on cutting-edge designs. Techwear clothing tends to be all black or a monochromatic neutral, giving it a more futuristic vibe. Techwear enthusiasts tend to be interested in futurism, technology, AI, and cyberpunk media instead of outdoor activities.
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