GORPCORE: Who’s wearing it?

Gender neutral fashion

Puffer coats are here to stay in 2023

Puffer jackets, walking boots and outdoor brands have rolled in like an avalanche. Searches for gorpcore increased by 368% last year. With the likes of music icons Drake and Stormzy repping this practical outdoor wear, it seems like it has its pegs firmly in the ground. 

According to consumer data specialist Statista, the sports and outdoor clothing market is estimated to reach around $19.6 billion by 2026. Safe to say Gorpcore is not here to mess about. 

Does the general public even know what it is? Would they ever wear this? Although it is practical, is it equally fashionable? 

Our team went out on the streets of Cardiff, talking to a motley crew of people to see what they think of Gorpcore. 

While some are totally on board, others are still on the fence about it. Which team are you on?

‘Would you wear this?’,  ‘Did you know this was Gorpcore?’


Alisha, 20 and Harvey, 21 – students

Harvey: “It’s quite modern”

Alisha: “I wouldn’t wear it but everyone is different ”

Harvey: “ I’ve never heard of Gorpcore before.”

Rae, 19 – student

“I like the first look, that’s the best one. I don’t really like the fashion that much but he pulls it off.”

Mitali, 20 and Leah, 19 – students

Leah: “Oh it’s Gorpcore!”

Mitali: “We are literally shopping for Gorpcore right now. It’s really easy, there are so many pockets for everything , especially for girls.”

Mitali: ”It’s gender neutral as well. You can dress comfortably and also look cool.”

Leah: ”I feel more confident in comfier clothes.I look for this in sports outlets, and even Urban Outfitters.”

Finnean, 20 – student

“I like it. Gorpcore isn’t it? I started wearing it before it was a thing because I grew up in the countryside, and I would go on walks with my parents. Only issue is that it’s quite expensive now.”

Adam, 34 – works in hospitality

“It is not the fashion for me, but I can see it is very suitable for a younger generation. I have never heard of Gorpcore before.”

Amaru, 48 – filmmaker 

“I wouldn’t wear it. It is quite eclectic, very fashionable, and very young. It seems hard to wear in the summer. I haven’t heard of Gorpcore but I know the brand Arc’teryx.”


Do you know what gorpcore is? What are your opinions? Feel free to send us a message on our Instagram – @GORPMAGAZINE