We’ve all noticed the rise of ‘Gorpcore’, and even if you don’t wear the outdoor-focused activewear for morning hikes, it’s a cool, effortless and practical trend to scoop up

Frank Ocean’s appearance at Paris Fashion Week in January 2019 was a big catalyst for this trend when he wore a bright orange puffer with straight legged blue jeans and hiking boots. The trend can range from the technical Japanese brands worn by Vampire Weekend lead singer Ezra Koenig to the Burton snowboard jacket made famous by Bernie Sanders.

‘Gorpcore’ is a more practical evolution of the normcore style of the mid 2010’s. This time, instead of flannel shirts and Carhartt jackets, it is grounded in clothes that are built for activities like hiking and camping. Due to the pandemic, we were all left with no choice but to fill our free time with long walks and hikes instead of pubs and clubs.

We’ve picked out 15 standout items that will make your fit scream Gorpcore. From heritage brands to more technical pieces that focus on function.

The North Face Denali 2 Logo-embroidered colour-block fleece and shell jacket (£135/$183)

We’re aware every suburban family and university student currently owns a fleece jacket, but this two-tone piece by The North Face with shell lining is a good way to stand out at the next family reunion. Whenever that happens.

Nike X Stüssy NRG insulated pant (£260/$353)

Self Care is not bubble baths and face masks. Self care is wearing a sleeping bag on your legs and these Nike X Stussy insulated trousers fit the bill.

Uniform Bridge 3 pocket heavy fleece jacket (£229/$311)

Look like that one cool Art teacher you always admired in high school with this three-pocket jacket  in rich dark brown fleece.

The North Face Black Series spacer mountain light jacket (£469/$555)

The North Face has become a symbol for Gorpcore and this jacket is no exception. While you may not be able to climb Mount Everest in this Spacer Mountain Jacket, it’s a practical take on a more elongated jacket. 

Rossignol Palmares zipped jacket (£165/$224)

Rossignol’s Red Palmares zip-up jacket offers a sleek look that will not go unnoticed. From the double-zip fastening  to the rooster logo on the left arm, this item will give you the ultimate motivation for those morning jogs you’ve been avoiding.

Arc’teryx Cerium LT packable hoody £339/$460)

Your friends will never lose you in the thick bushes of nature with this Arc’teryx bright orange hoodie. It will also protect you from the cold with its goose-down lining jacket, which, of course, is removable if the sun decides to come out.

The North Face Check Down Parka (£685/$930)

Gorpcore meets Americana for this North Face checkered down Parka. With a waterproof fabric, adjustable hood and oversized pockets, this soft fluffy jacket has you covered for your forest explorations.

Taion reversible fleece down jacket (£169/$230)

Whether you enjoy the shepherd look or the classic outerwear fit, this reversible heated Taion jacket has got your back – literally. Offering warmth and water protection, what more could you ask for?

Nike ACG NRG convertible tech cotton-blend trousers (£155/$210)

Nike provides us with yet another hyper-practical garment – and we are here for it. These Tech Cotton-Blend Trousers will keep you protected from the morning breeze and ready to face the hopefully soon-to-come afternoon sun.

Pas Normal Studios Off Race organic cotton sweatshirt (£60/$81)

This Pas Normal Studios olive-green sweatshirt is the perfect way to show off the fact you’re different to all those other boys and girls.

The North Face unisex steep tech printed cotton-jersey t-shirt (£45/$61)

This long-sleeved printed t-shirt pays tribute to The North Face’s ‘Steep Tech’, an athlete-designed collection from 1991. Do some research and feel like one of those curated Instagram accounts the next time someone notices it.

Gramicci cargo pant (£129/$175)

Feel like Bear Grylls in these Gramicci Cargos, except hopefully you’re carrying a reusable bottle full of water in one of the many pockets, and not, you know, pee. 

Neighbourhood Heavys crew sweat (£209/$284)

This multi-pocketed Neighborhood sweatshirt is perfect for keeping all the daily necessities of the modern pandemic world, if only you could remember which pocket your keys are in. 

Fjällräven Singi trekking overshirt(£109/$148)

Picture yourself floricking in a fjord with this FJÄLLRÄVEN overshirt, the height of fishing fashion.  

And Wander reflective COOLMAX shirt (£300/$407)

Made from COOLMAX® cloth, this And Wander Reflective shirt is the perfect piece to up your Instagram game. This shirt has reflective stitching, keeping you safe during your night-time adventures and cool for those impromptu photoshoots.