A style inspired by practical hiking, camping and general outdoor wear, it’s a big trend that continues to pick up pace for another season. This woody-inspired movement got its name from the colloquial term for trail mix used by hikers (‘Good ol’ Raisins and Peanuts’) and is now style focused around wearing utilitarian, functional, outdoors-inspired gear. Here we show you a few key items for mastering the ‘gorpcore’ that are just the right amount of outdoorsy and sporty.

Outdoor pants

Wide legged and straight, utilitarian pants are the garment choice – often featuring lightweight fabrics and multiple pockets. All-weather type trousers will last the distance and if you go for a waterproof style, you’ll never get caught out. Look for a breathable fabric as the quicker they dry the better. Two hand pockets in each pair and a couple of back pockets will make them practical as will a zipped pocket or two to secure your personal bits away.  

Hiking boots & trail shoes

Traditionally relegated to hiking you can expect to see them just as much in the city as you do on trails. These practical shoes are made to handle all terrains with added grip and chunky soles and, in all weather, but feel free to keep things simple and pair with jeans as well as hiking trousers or shorts.

The extras

Chunky, colourful socks poking out of boots are an integral part of this trend. And for when it gets cold you can’t go wrong with a plaid scarf. Buffalo plaid or a check pattern will suit this look, topped off with a beanie. 

Winter layering

Just to remind you of the golden rules of winter layering so you stay warm and dry all the time.

Layer 1 

Wear a light, long-sleeved base layer next to your skin. Thinner layers wick sweat better and dry faster. Opt for shirts with thumbholes which keep drafts from sneaking in between your sleeve and glove.

Layer 2 

Next comes the thin midlayer, either wool, polyester, or a blend of the two.

Layer 3 

A puffy, zippered jacket with a hood. This heat trap is your best friend in frigid temps.

Layer 4 

A shell made of waterproof/breathable fabric with taped seams. Size it big enough so it fits over everything else.

Get into gorpcore

Mid fleece layer

There’s no single piece that defines gorpcore more than a fleece mid-layer. These fleeces often feature full-length or quarter length zippers, though snap buttons are also common. A fleecy liner jacket can complete this look and before the temperature really drops you can wear it alone or it is the ultimate layering piece in the cold.

Breathable base layer

While every outfit needs a base layer in the cold, gorpcore’s t-shirts and long sleeves are breathable and comfortable. Designed to be worn under fleeces, ideally, they are lightweight, moisture wicking and whether made of merino wool or a synthetic textile they take their cues from the humble white t-shirt. 

The puffer jacket or vest

A sporty down puffer will go with everything and is an essential element of gorpcore. Designed to be the outer-most layer these types of jackets are often warmer than necessary for urban living. If your day is sportier than city, shorter styles are best as they are easier to move around in.

Ripstop rain jacket

Designed to stop you getting soaked, thanks to the reinforced crosshatching, ripstop is a fabric of choice for those thinking ahead to loose-fitting outerwear. Often lightweight, these types of rain jackets are extremely versatile and can be worn in warmer weather or layered with a fleece or down base layers.