What is Gorpcore Style?
Gorpcore is a fashion style inspired by outdoor clothing and technical gear. It mixes functional pieces like waterproof jackets, fleeces, cargo trousers and hiking shoes with everyday streetwear. The name comes from the hiking snack "GORP", meaning "Good Ol' Raisins and Peanuts", which symbolises outdoorsy culture.
Instead of hiding technical fabrics and outdoor silhouettes, Gorpcore celebrates them, turning practical clothing into a fashion statement. It is comfortable, practical and hugely popular across second-hand platforms.
Gorpcore Meaning
Gorpcore means: a fashion style that embraces outdoor clothing and technical gear worn as everyday streetwear, featuring fleeces, rain jackets, puffer coats and functional accessories.
It blends performance with fashion, creating a look that is both practical and stylish.
Key Gorpcore Features
Gorpcore pieces are easy to spot. They often include:
waterproof or windproof jackets
fleece pullovers and gilets
puffer jackets
hiking trousers or cargos
trail runners or hiking boots
technical backpacks and waist packs
thermal layers
beanies and outdoor hats
breathable, moisture-wicking materials
The emphasis is on function first, style second, but the look has become extremely fashionable.
Why Gorpcore Became Popular
Comfort and practicality: People love clothing that works in bad weather, lasts a long time and feels comfortable.
Outdoor culture revival: Hiking, camping and outdoor activities became more popular in the 2020s, in the post-COVID era.
Streetwear crossover: Streetwear fans embraced technical fabrics and outdoor silhouettes after years of graphic-driven fashion.
Sustainability appeal: Outdoor clothing often has a long lifespan and is excellent for buying second-hand.
Celebrities and influencers: Artists and models often wear puffer jackets, fleeces and branded outerwear, pushing Gorpcore into mainstream fashion.
Second-hand availability: Outdoor brands last well, making them easy to find in charity shops and vintage stores.
Brands Commonly Associated with Gorpcore
You can build a full Gorpcore outfit from brands like:
The North Face
Patagonia
Arc'teryx
Columbia
Salomon
Berghaus
Montbell
Finisterre
Rab
Nike ACG (All Condition Gear)
And Wander
These brands focus on technical performance, durability and weather protection.
Gorpcore and the Second-Hand Market
Outdoor clothing has a strong resale market because it is durable and holds value well. Gorpcore is a major trend across second-hand and reselling platforms, including:
Depop
Vinted
eBay
Grailed
Facebook Marketplace
Outdoor gear resale groups
Vintage outdoor pieces, such as retro 90s fleeces or old-school Gore-Tex jackets, are particularly sought after.
Gorpcore vs Normcore vs Streetwear
Gorpcore
outdoor-inspired
technical fabrics
functional silhouettes
Normcore
deliberately plain
basics and minimalism
no emphasis on technical gear
Streetwear
graphic-driven
sneaker culture
oversized, casual silhouettes
Gorpcore sits somewhere between outdoor gear and streetwear, with a strong focus on utility.
Tips for Buying Gorpcore Items Second-Hand
check zips, seams and waterproof coatings
look for Gore-Tex or similar materials
try on fleeces to ensure a good fit
examine trail shoes for sole wear
look up the model name to compare retail prices
shop vintage for 90s and Y2K outdoor pieces
Outdoor clothing is built to last, so second-hand pieces can be excellent value.
Related Terms
Find second-hand outdoor shops, vintage fleeces and Gorpcore gems near you with the Ganddee app.