June 25, 2023
Fleece sweatshirts, oversized bomber jackets, ripstop waterproof jackets and padded gilets, colourful hiking shoes, beanies and hats, backpacks made of durable cotton twill or practical belt bags — everything you could possibly need for a mountain hike, not only with specific, high-level technical features, but also with a distinct style and aesthetic — we’re talking about Gorpcore.
After Normcore (an extremely minimalist style, characterised by classic looks such as jeans and a white T-shirt), and Cottagecore (inspired by the romantic settings of early 19th-century England), Gorpcore stands out for its ability to combine the comfort and practicality typical of outdoor camping and hiking looks with shapes and lines characteristic of high-end fashion. The term 'Gorpcore' was coined in 2017 by TheCut and was inspired by the expression 'good ol' raisins and peanuts', referring to a favourite snack of trekkers. Particularly popular with Gen Z, Gorpcore style was born as a reaction to the fashion trends of recent years, emphasising practical and technical features rather than the purely aesthetic details of clothes and accessories. In fact, it is no coincidence that Gorpcore brings together many of the themes dearest to the new generations: breaking down binary distinctions — which are replaced by genderless connotations — and focusing on sustainability and respect for the environment by using recycled materials to make durable garments that can be used for many years, an approach diametrically opposed to the aim of fast fashion. More than six years after its birth, with over 1 billion views for #gorpcore on TikTok, this style seems to have become the true star of a fashion landscape that is constantly developing and transforming.
But how do you create the perfect Gorpcore look? Here are some must-haves for your wardrobe! Let's start with the most important piece of the whole outfit, the shoes. The right outdoor footwear is essential not only from a technical point of view to ensure the right performance, but also to add an extra touch of personality to your look. Surely one of the most iconic brands of the Gorpcore aesthetic is Salomon. From the Xt-4 to the Xt-6, all Salomon trainers are colourful, comfortable and simply perfect for trail running or an afternoon in the city. Another essential for your backpack is a waterproof windbreaker. Available in different shades, light and versatile, K-Way's Claude hooded windbreaker is an outdoor clothing classic, now revisited, with new details. Filson and Barbour both offer windbreakers with large, roomy pockets and a soft, slightly boxy fit, ideal to take with you when the weather is uncertain, whether in the mountains or in the city, for a look with a clean, linear style. We can't talk about the outdoors without mentioning Goldwin, a technical brand with an unmistakable style, perfectly represented by our selection of ripstop waterproof jackets, soft fleece sweatshirts, cargo shorts and light, soft trousers. Gramicci trousers never fail, with an integrated belt to adjust the fit as needed and straight legs. Light, soft and tear resistant, these trousers are the ideal companion when the trails in the woods get rough or when the days in the city are really hectic. Let's not forget about accessories. Key fobs, belt bags, crossbody bags and backpacks have a dual function, letting you carry all your essentials and adding a personal touch to your outfit. BlueAndTrue's rope straps, colourful and fun, are perfect for keeping your iPhone close at hand while keeping your hands free. Filson's backpacks are waterproof, lightweight and designed to withstand even the harshest conditions. With the arrival of the summer heat, drinking and staying hydrated is also essential. Have you already had a look at Stanley's water bottles and thermal bottles? Well, maybe you should. Don't waste any more time. Create your Gorpcore outfit now.