Recently, a fashion trend known as “gorpcore” has emerged in China, blending streetwear with outdoor elements to create a distinct and unique style.
2023 八大风格标签：圈层经济的崛起
| 风格 | 代表时尚IP |
| #Gorpcore | White Mountaineering Goldwin And wander Samuel Ross ROA Hiking DAWA PIER39 FFFPOSTALSERVICE |
| # 复古 | |
| #Y2K | |
| #解构主义 | |
| #可持续 | |
| #先锋东方 | |
| #高街 | |
| #极简 |
Source: 2022全球时尚IP白皮书
Unlike the bold confidence of women’s yoga pants or the rugged aesthetic of men’s fitness wear, gorpcore’s outdoor style bridges the gap between city life and nature, reflecting a love for the outdoors and a connection to nature.
The rise of outdoor sports, fueled by the pandemic’s impact, has led to an exploration of niche activities such as camping, frisbee, skiing, and cycling. As fitness enthusiasts turn to the outdoors, outdoor gear is merging with urban fashion. Brands that were once seen as catering exclusively to middle-class men are now gaining popularity for their fashionable appeal. The traditional dark, utilitarian look of outdoor wear has been transformed into something vibrant and stylish, now symbolizing a youthful, expressive attitude among young Chinese consumers.
- Gorpcore Fashion Trend Among Young Middle-Class Chinese
Data shows a significant surge in interest in gorpcore fashion, with search volume reaching 17 times that of 2021 by June 2022. By October, the Google search index for gorpcore peaked at 2.2 times its August figure, marking a 614% increase compared to May.
As the sports market recovers from the pandemic, the rise of outdoor sports complements the booming fitness industry. Young people, no longer content with the confines of the gym, are eager to explore the outdoors.
Though time constraints and the demanding 996 work schedule have made outdoor activities seem like luxury, functional outdoor clothing and shoes are redefining this perception. Young consumers are embracing this outdoor style, integrating it into urban life and the world of fashion. Gorpcore fashion effectively breaks boundaries between city living and nature, offering an alternative to traditional gym wear or formal attire, and establishing itself as a statement of youthful freedom and exploration.
- Gorpcore Fashion Appeals to Both Men and Women
Initially popular among young men due to its outdoor influence, gorpcore fashion has gained significant traction among women, expanding the trend beyond men’s outdoor attire. Referred to as “outdoor women’s fashion,” it has quickly gained popularity on social media platforms. This shift in fashion aesthetics mirrors the evolution seen within sports and outdoor culture.
No longer confined to the traditional “hot girl” style of tight-fitting Lululemon outfits, women are now opting for functional work pants and outdoor shoes, embracing a cooler, more practical approach to outdoor socializing. The rise of fashion bloggers specializing in gorpcore style further amplifies its reach. For instance, Hannah da Silva, invited by Arc’teryx UK, showcased the new Beta LT Hadron Jacket while also founding the GorpGirls online community. The platform, born from her deep appreciation for outdoor activities and nature, advocates for the growing intersection of outdoor adventure and gorpcore fashion.
- From Hardcore to Casual, Young People are Merging Sports with Fashion
The pandemic has transformed outdoor activities into a luxury, with recreational sports like camping, urban cycling, and frisbee gaining significant popularity among Chinese youth. More and more young people are drawn to these leisurely outdoor pursuits, embracing the chance to connect with nature and enjoy moments of relaxation.
When it comes to outdoor gear, young consumers are no longer just focused on functionality. Comfort and style have become equally important, as outdoor clothing now serves as a versatile option that allows them to seamlessly transition between outdoor adventures and urban commutes. Additionally, these fashion-forward outdoor outfits have become valuable social currency, sparking conversations on various platforms.
The shift in outdoor fashion is a result of evolving user needs. What was once strictly “hardcore” outdoor attire is now embracing a more casual aesthetic, encouraging a wider range of individuals to try outdoor activities.
Fashion has evolved into a cultural symbol, and gorpcore represents the desire of young people to infuse their urban lifestyles with an outdoor spirit, even amidst the high-rise buildings of the city.
