When looking back at recent years, Gorpcore undoubtedly dominated as the hottest outdoor trend, with its rise reflected in Google Trends data. This trend, centered around high-performance outdoor gear, has significantly enhanced our outdoor experiences. However, after widespread marketing, the aesthetic may have started to feel visually overstimulated for some. Now, in 2025, as an outlet focusing on outdoor lifestyles, we’re curious to see what new outdoor trends are worth embracing.
The answer is clear, new and innovative American outdoor brands are making their mark. While these brands may not yet be on everyone’s radar, they share a defining concept: The New Outdoor.
- What Is the New Outdoor?
Unlike various niche outdoor styles, The New Outdoor embodies a more laid-back and enjoyable approach to outdoor living. It reflects a new wave of American outdoor brands that blend outdoor aesthetics with practicality, staying true to functionality while embracing a fresh, accessible vibe.
For everyday people, the outdoors may not be as distant as it seems. Whether it’s a casual bike ride, camping in a local park, or simply finding a peaceful spot to fish, these activities fall within the scope of The New Outdoor. In this context, there’s no need for high-tech gear; instead, what’s needed are versatile products that seamlessly serve both outdoor and everyday purposes.
- Topo Designs: Crafted for the Outdoors, but not Exclusive To
The first thing that stands out about The New Outdoor is undoubtedly the use of color. Inspired by the outdoor aesthetics of the 60s and 70s, Topo Designs incorporates patchwork patterns and vintage tones as core elements of its design DNA. While the color schemes evoke nostalgia, the materials used are modern and refined. The essence can be summed up in one phrase: a fusion of old and new.
Many of the most extreme outdoor gear pieces aren’t ones we use often. What Topo Designs truly values are simple, practical, and timeless products that offer “long-term potential.” As a result, you’ll find items that are designed for outdoor use but are versatile enough for daily life, too.
Take a look at the impressive list of collaborations with brands like SALOMON, Chaco, KEEN, Danner, and New Balance, and you’ll see just how many brands are seeking new inspiration for outdoor gear through partnerships with Topo Designs.
Ultimately, Topo Designs reflects a genuine love for the outdoors. There are no overly complex functional features or overly bulky designs that try to mimic high fashion. From one perspective, isn’t this just the essence of the “clean fit” trend in outdoor apparel?
- Cotopaxi: The New “Patagonia” of Silicon Valley and Fashion Week
There’s a growing trend in Silicon Valley: executives are moving away from Patagonia and embracing a new sustainable outdoor brand from Utah—Cotopaxi. A quick look at eBay listings for custom backpacks from tech conferences reveals a distinct symbol, the logo of a llama, representing Cotopaxi.
If you’re exploring the New Outdoor culture, Cotopaxi’s influence is impossible to overlook. Known for its bold color blocking similar to Topo Designs, Cotopaxi differentiates itself by drawing inspiration from the vivid dyes and plants of South America. Founded by Davis Smith, whose multicultural background infuses the brand with a lively Latin flair, Cotopaxi is bringing a refreshing energy to the outdoor fashion scene.
When thinking about large-capacity backpacks, what comes to mind? Many of us used to rely on The North Face’s classic Duffel Bag for travel, but with Cotopaxi’s Allpa, packing has become something to look forward to.
What truly sets Cotopaxi apart, however, is its commitment to sustainability. Most of its products are made from leftover materials sourced from larger brands, and the company adheres to a “gear for good” philosophy. As part of this mission, Cotopaxi donates at least 1% of its revenue to nonprofit organizations that support impoverished communities.
- Poler: The Pioneer of Camping Vibes
While many brands today aim to align themselves with the camping lifestyle, Poler Stuff was doing it long before it became trendy. Founded in Portland in 2010, Poler has consistently embraced the idea of creating outdoor gear with a laid-back, camp-inspired vibe.
Poler offers an extensive range of products, from camping essentials like tents to streetwear staples such as short-sleeved tees and baseball caps. For them, camping is just one part of a larger outdoor lifestyle that includes skateboarding, beach surfing, and enjoying outdoor music festivals.
One of Poler’s standout creations is its poncho-style sleeping bag, a true signature piece. Last season, even Japan’s renowned down sleeping bag maker NANGA couldn’t resist collaborating with Poler, adding high-quality 750FP down and their patented AURORA light, a waterproof and breathable material, to the design. With its deep military green hue, it’s safe to say this is one of the top choices for cozy, stylish camping gear.
Ultimately, it’s all about personal preference when it comes to style. If a brand can elevate outdoor experiences for Chinese consumers, it has the potential to carve out its own niche in the market.
