AND SHOW YOU HOW TO GET A GRIP ON ‘GORPCORE’
LARA OWEN EMMA JOHNSON
THE rise of “Gorpcore” has transformed hiking from a notoriously unfashionable hobby to a prominent zeitgeist of Gen Z fashion.
Coined back in 2017, ‘Gorpcore’ is widely believed to be inspired by the American expression “good ol’ raisins and peanuts”, which was used to describe trail mix – a snack favoured by hikers.
For the uninitiated, the fashion trend blends outdoor technical gear and urban street style to form a cool but practical ensemble.
Undoubtedly due to Covid 19, the number of people taking to the hills and mountains has increased by 40% since 2016.
So, if you’re one of many indulging in a hike, here’s how to combine fashion and function into your look.
The adoption of outdoor pursuits has boomed among all generations, but particularly Gen Z, as the desire to be immersed in a more raw and rugged landscape rocketed post-pandemic.
“It’s an opportunity to create a more enriched life experience,” says Ben Watkiss, co-founder & CEO of durable bag specialists Stubble & Co.
“Gen Z are also more ecoconscious; with research showing a high preference within this peer group to invest in sustainable goods, which may play a contributing role in their interest being outside.”
This boom has seen hiking fashion revolutionised, with puffer jackets and trail boots being reimagined by high end
Downpour Plus 2.0 jacket, £165, Cotswold Outdoor
fashion houses like Balmain, Miu Miu and Brunello Cucinelli. Influencer Hannah da Silva, founder and creative director of Gorp Girls, explains: “As more women got outside, we started to cater outdoor clothing to be something we wanted.
“Gen Z wanted outdoor clothing to fit into their already existing wardrobes, playing with more fun silhouettes and innovative ideas rather than the
Oasis tank, normal hiking clothes in beiges, blacks and greens that we grew up knowing.”
“Many high-end fashion brands are jumping on the trend,” says Ben.
“That’s not to say that it’s all about aesthetics – consumers are also looking for sustainable call outs, with the inclusion of third-party tech also being a big pull, incorporating smart and innovative fabrics.”
On the face of it, a hike may not seem to lend itself to glamorous fashion. However, with the right balance
Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Gore-Tex women’s hiking shoes, £145
ABOVE: Seal
RIGHT: US women’s
zipped pocket five-panel cap, £26.25
LEFT: Free People Morning Meadow shorts £78
stylist’s
ABOVE: Decathlon at Debenhams working the
RIGHT:
Camelbak
Mini M.U.L.E. rucksack, £49.95 (was £60), Bike Tart
of practicality and aesthetics, it is possible to curate a look that will impress even the most discerning woodland creatures.
“In summer I personally opt for a hiking skort paired with a colourful bag and shoes,” says Hannah. “Black always works, but play with fun colours and silhouettes. We see less and less youth wearing traditional beige hiking trousers that zip off into shorts.”
When it comes to brands, forerunners of the style like Arc’teryx Veilance and Seniq are making hiking wardrobes cool again.
Footwear from the likes of Salomon and Hoka use colour and functional materials in a way that traverses practical-wear and streetwear.
“Versatile accessories that are multipurpose is also key,” adds Ben.
A key piece you must invest in is boots.
“Performance footwear is key, with trail running and hiking brands such as Salomon, Hoka and On soaring,” says Alex Moore, buying manager at Cotswold Outdoor.
For hiking and running footwear, it is recommended to go up one size, as to avoid heavy impact that leads to issues like ingrown toenails.
And of course, a versatile waterproof is also a must.
“Investing in one that can be later repaired can make it last a lifetime,” says Alex.
“Look out for trusted performancebranded technologies, such as Gore-Tex, and heritage high-pile fleece for ultimate warmth and versatility.”
The last essential is your backpack. If you have comfortable and sturdy straps, the walk will be a lot more enjoyable.
“Everything else doesn’t matter as much if you’re embarking on a moderate hike,” says Hannah.
“Just be comfortable, have the right shoes and make sure you have a comfortable bag to carry any necessities.”
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