Gorpcore isn’t a new sartorial aesthetic. It is said to have emerged way back in the 2010s when A$AP Rocky and Frank Ocean would be seen wearing Adidas Terrex AX3 kicks and oversized jackets. It wasn’t until 2017 that the term was coined by The Cut writer Jason Chen. ‘Gorp’ is an acronym for ‘Good Ol’ Raisins and Peanuts,’ a colloquial phrase used by hikers referring to trail mix.
What is gorpcore?
Gorpcore is a utilitarian aesthetic with roots in hiking and camping. It is technical, functional, and outdoorsy in spirit. Think brands like Patagonia, Columbia, and Canada Goose. Gorpcore pieces include fleece jackets, vests, puffer jackets, cargo pants, hiking boots and shoes.
Why is it trendy again?
According to experts, the aesthetic regained traction during the pandemic for a combination of reasons. The first was that it gave wearers practical clothes for heading out–when one could–to run errands or visit loved ones.
The second, as The Fashionista points out, was that it captures the zeitgeist: "In streetwear, the mood and mentality always fits the times, and there's a very definite element emerging of 'harderwear for hard times,' which aligns the aesthetic and performance to the dark geopolitical and economic mood music," says WGSN's Lorna Hall.
This need for comfortable casual wear caught the attention of fashion brands, leading to collaborations like Gucci x North Face in 2021, Arc’teryx and Jil Sander, and more recently, Margiela and Sandy Liang with their Salomon shoes for Spring/Summer 2023, respectively.
But individually, brands have been tapping into the high-clamor aesthetic, which has become more than a passing trend but rather its own subcategory. Prada, Sacai, and Vetements, are just a few examples.
If you haven’t tried gorpcore yet, the easiest way to incorporate it is through shoes. Check out some easy-to-wear styles we’ve edited just for you:
1. HOKA
Project Clifton, $250 (approximately P13,836), HOKA, hoka.com
HOKA is a popular running shoe brand known for its ‘maximalist’ cushioned designs. The Clifton is one of their signature styles and it has a revamped version that’s very gorpcore: textured detailing on the upper and thick soles.
2. Sandy Liang
Sandy Liang x Salomon XT-6 Expanse, $190 (approximately P10,515), SANDY LIANG, sandyliang.info
This wouldn’t be a gorpcore list without mentioning the highly anticipated Sandy Liang and Salomon collaboration, which features the designer’s fun and flirty design ethos. A fabulous everyday shoe given its sleek silhouette.
3. Nike
Nike ACG Air Zoom Gaiadome GORE-TEX, P11,495, NIKE, nike.com
Nike has a wide range of gorpcore shoes but if you want something unique, they’ve also got boots. The sneaker-like appeal of the Gaiadome model makes it a great addition to your rotation.
4. Merrell
Women's Hut Moc 2 Pack 1TRL, $120 (approximately P6641), MERRELL, merrell.com
Technical design is part of gorpcore’s identity, and this pair from Merrell is just that. The shoes can be packed together with the zip detail, and you can clip them onto bags for easy transportation.
5. Arc’teryx
Konseal FL 2 Leather GTX Shoe Women's, $230 (approximately P12,729), ARC’TERYX, arcteryx.com
Arc’teryx has been known for gorpcore long before social media picked up the trend. The Konseal style features a waterproof leather upper for a luxe approach to utilitiarian.
6. And Wander
adidas TERREX x and wander Free Hiker 2.0 Hiking(W), ¥33,000 (approximately P13,545), AND WANDER, andwander.com
And Wander is a high-end outdoor brand known for its sophisticated, technical clothes. Adidas collaborated with them to create cushiony hiking shoes made from ocean plastic. Soft and comfy for the city, too.
7. ROA
Lhakpa hiking shoe, P24,400, ROA, roa-hiking.com
Looking for gorpcore shoes that don’t look too rugged? ROA’s Lhakpa model is a hybrid design that combines the look of modern sneakers with the function of mountain shoes. Hardcore kicks you can wear wherever.
8. Asics
Gel-Sonoma 15-50 Future Trail, $160 (approximately P8855), ASICS, asics.com
Gorpcore shoes also come in interesting colorways; great for those who want a quirky take on the aesthetic. Asics’ Gel-Sonoma style is available in earth-inspired hues like this brown one with suede overlays.
9. Teva
Hurricane XLT2, $75 (approximately P4150), TEVA, teva.com ”‹”‹
Teva is at the forefront of sporty sandals, being a brand that’s been producing them for decades. Fashion influencers are obsessed with their classic Hurricane design. A versatile pair built for hiking and everyday life.
10. Saucony
Progrid Triumph 4 Gorpcore, $160 (approximately P8855), SAUCONY, saucony.com
Nothing says gorpcore more than a good old black pair with lugged soles and a ruggedly handsome upper. The exaggerated heel adds finesse and a retro attitude that can elevate any outfit.
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