Gorpcore Fashion: The Outdoor Aesthetic That’s Here to Stay

Once reserved for hiking trails and weekend camping trips, Gorpcore fashion has officially taken over city streets, TikTok feeds, and your favorite brands' latest collections. If you’ve spotted someone casually rocking a puffer vest with trail sneakers while grabbing coffee in the city, you’ve witnessed the rise of Gorpcore firsthand. This outdoor-inspired trend isn’t just about looking effortlessly cool—it’s deeply rooted in functionality, sustainability, and a shift toward investing in quality over fast fashion.

What Exactly Is Gorpcore?

Let’s break it down. Gorpcore (named after the classic hiker’s snack, “Good Ol’ Raisins and Peanuts”) is an aesthetic that blends high-performance outdoor gear with everyday fashion. Think technical fabrics, oversized silhouettes, waterproof shells, and the kind of sneakers designed for long hikes but worn for Sunday brunch. It’s cozy, practical, and—most importantly—built to last.

With sustainability becoming a non-negotiable for many Gen Z and Millennial shoppers, Gorpcore naturally fits the bill. It prioritises durable, long-lasting pieces over fast fashion’s short-lived trends, making it a solid investment for both your wardrobe and the planet.

Why Is Gorpcore Everywhere Right Now?

A mix of factors has fuelled Gorpcore’s rise:

• The Patagonia Effect: Sustainable outdoor brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Arc’teryx have become unexpected streetwear staples, blending high-performance materials with a cool, utilitarian aesthetic.

• Fashion Meets Functionality: As more people embrace comfort and practicality in their wardrobes, Gorpcore’s relaxed fit and weather-resistant designs feel like a no-brainer.

• Eco-Conscious Shopping Habits: With resale platforms like Depop and The RealReal booming, second-hand Gorpcore gear has become an affordable and sustainable way to hop on the trend.

• Celebrity & Streetwear Influence: A-listers like Bella Hadid, Frank Ocean, and A$AP Rocky have all been spotted in Gorpcore pieces, proving that outdoorsy fashion is officially cool.

How to Nail the Gorpcore Look

Ready to embrace the trend? Here’s how to build your Gorpcore-inspired wardrobe while keeping it sustainable.

1. Start With the Staples

Look for key pieces that define the aesthetic:

• A quality puffer jacket or fleece (Patagonia’s Retro Pile Fleece is a cult favorite)

• Technical sneakers like Salomon XT-6 or Hoka’s Bondi 8

• A waterproof shell jacket from Arc’teryx

• Utilitarian cargo pants or relaxed-fit trail pants

2. Shop Second-Hand & Upcycled Gear

While we just made some suggestions to some items listed above, the resale market for outdoor gear is huge, and it’s a sustainable way to invest in quality brands without paying full price. Check out eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and dedicated platforms like Rerouted for pre-loved outdoor gear.

3. Prioritize Sustainable Brands

Not all outdoor brands are created equal. Look for companies that prioritize ethical production, recycled materials, and transparency. Some of the best include:

• Patagonia – A pioneer in sustainability, offering repair programs and a second-hand marketplace.

• The North Face Renewed – A collection of refurbished and repaired outdoor gear.

• Outerknown – Founded by surfer Kelly Slater, this brand blends sustainability with everyday wear.

  
  

4. Function Over Hype

While Gorpcore has undeniable streetwear appeal, it’s ultimately about practicality. Choose pieces that serve multiple functions—whether that’s a packable windbreaker for unexpected weather shifts or all-terrain sneakers you can wear from the city to the trail.

The Future of Gorpcore

Unlike fast fashion micro-trends, Gorpcore is built to last. Its focus on durability, versatility, and sustainability makes it more than just an aesthetic—it’s a shift toward intentional shopping and embracing fashion that works for real life.

So whether you’re layering up in a fleece or finally justifying that waterproof jacket, Gorpcore is here to stay. And the best part? It’s one of the easiest ways to make your wardrobe more sustainable—without sacrificing style.