Functional legwear is a cornerstone of outdoors style, and some brands do it better than others
Gorpcore: can we still call it a trend at this point? Fashion columnists have been predicting the demise of outdoor gear as a cornerstone of contemporary menswear for years now, but so far they’ve all been wrong. The practicality and functionality offered by fleece jackets, stretchy gorpcore pants, trail runners and the like is an antidote to the age-old notion that being fashionable meant being uncomfortable, and it seems people are reluctant to let that go.
Legwear is central to the gorpcore aesthetic, with relaxed cuts, technical fabrics and functional details underpinning the look. If you’re after a pair of gorpcore pants and can’t find what you’re looking for, this page is for you. Below we unpack what exactly makes a great pair of pants and take a closer look at some of the gorpcore brands making the best options.
What to look for
So, what separates gorpcore pants from your average pair of jeans or cargos? It comes down to a few key factors: the fit, the fabric, and those all-important details that elevate functionality. Here’s what to keep an eye on.
Fit
Gorpcore pants typically lean towards a relaxed, practical fit, allowing for ease of movement – whether you're navigating a mountain trail or manoeuvring through the city. Look for articulated knees, gusseted crotches, and adjustable waistbands, which enhance comfort and flexibility. Slimmer silhouettes exist, but they should still prioritise mobility over restriction.
Fabric
Technical fabrics are the cornerstone of gorpcore legwear. Nylon blends, ripstop materials, stretchy softshells and even GORE-TEX are common choices for their durability and lightweight properties. For wet weather, consider water-resistant finishes or waterproof membranes. Breathable materials are key if you’re planning to layer or stay active.
That said, cotton is still a contender. In fact, Gramicci, one of the brands at the very top of the gorpcore legwear pile, makes the overwhelming majority of its pants in a simple cotton twill construction. The most important part is that they’re loose fitting, comfortable, and designed for outdoor use. In Gramicci’s case, rock climbing and bouldering.
Details
What really sets gorpcore pants apart are the thoughtful, functional details. Think reinforced knees for extra durability, integrated belts for a secure fit, and strategically placed pockets for practicality. Some styles also incorporate reflective accents for visibility, adjustable hems for versatility, or ventilation zips for temperature control. These small but impactful touches ensure your trousers work as hard as you do.
The best brands for gorpcore pants
Arc’teryx
Few brands have managed to reach Arc’teryx’s dizzy heights, both literally and figuratively. The Canadian outdoor brand started life making hasnesses for climbers and mountaineers in the Rocky Mountains and beyond, but, thanks to its knack for fusing technical details with a minimalist aesthetic, it has since found favour with the fashion crowd too. This unlikely crossover appeal has cemented Arc as one of the foremost labels in the gorpcore scene, particularly when it comes to waterproof shells. That said, it’s also a solid option when it comes to legwear too, with styles such as the softshell Gamma Pants serving as firm favourites among those who like their clothes techy and their mountains tall.
Nike ACG
Nike ACG – short for All Conditions Gear – lives up to its name with aplomb. Known for its blend of rugged utility and urban style, ACG has carved out a niche for itself as the go-to for gorpcore enthusiasts who want technical prowess without sacrificing street-ready aesthetics. The pants in its line-up exemplify this ethos, offering practical features such as water-resistant fabrics and articulated fits alongside bold colour palettes and retro-inspired designs. Whether you’re navigating mountain trails or the urban jungle, ACG’s legwear strikes the perfect balance between form and function.
Adidas Terrex
Adidas Terrex might not be the first name you think of when it comes to gorpcore, but it certainly deserves its place in the conversation. The German brand’s outdoor-focused offshoot combines technical innovation with a sleek, performance-driven aesthetic. Terrex pants, like the Techrock or Liteflex styles, are crafted with advanced materials, offering durability and weather resistance while keeping weight to a minimum. Perfect for those who value versatility, these trousers are just as comfortable on a gruelling hike as they are at a weekend coffee spot.
Gramicci
Gramicci’s roots in rock climbing are evident in every stitch of its pants. The brand made its name in the climbing world during the 1980s, pioneering gusseted crotches and integrated belts – innovations that still define its legwear today. Gramicci’s pants offer a laid-back silhouette and effortless functionality, which has helped them transition seamlessly from the crag to the city. Whether you’re wearing the classic G-Pants or the slimmer NN-Pants, they’re a staple of the gorpcore wardrobe, perfectly bridging the gap between outdoor practicality and everyday style.
Goldwin
Understated and refined, Goldwin is the quiet achiever of the gorpcore world. This Japanese label’s approach to outdoor apparel centres on simplicity, quality, and technical sophistication. Its trousers are no exception, often made from lightweight, weather-resistant fabrics and featuring thoughtful details such as articulated knees and discreet pockets. Goldwin’s pants are for those who appreciate clean lines and minimal branding but still demand high performance. Whether you’re hitting the trail or strolling through the city, they’re a sophisticated choice for the modern outdoorsman.
andWander
andWander’s trousers are a masterclass in blending technical know-how with a playful design sensibility. The Japanese brand is beloved for its unique take on outdoor gear, which pairs functional fabrics like Pertex and Cordura with unexpected details such as reflective stitching and asymmetrical pockets. These are trousers designed for adventurers who like their kit to look as good as it performs. With styles that range from lightweight summer trekking pants to winter-ready fleece-lined trousers, andWander offers something for every season – and every Instagram grid.
ELLIKER
A relative newcomer to the gorpcore scene, ELLIKER has quickly made a name for itself with its understated, detail-driven approach to legwear. The brand focuses on quality over quantity, crafting trousers that combine technical fabrics with precise tailoring. Water-repellent coatings, adjustable waistbands, and taped seams make ELLIKER’s pants ideal for those who value functionality without compromising on style. Whether you’re scaling peaks or keeping things low-key, ELLIKER’s trousers strike the perfect balance.
Klattermusen
Swedish brand Klattermusen might not shy away from bold, unconventional designs, but its trousers are as practical as they are distinctive. Sustainability is at the core of Klattermusen’s ethos, with eco-friendly materials and thoughtful construction techniques used throughout its collections. Pants like the Gere 2.0 or the Vanadis trousers offer exceptional durability, weather resistance, and ergonomic fits, making them ideal for challenging terrains. If you want your gorpcore kit to make a statement while respecting the planet, Klattermusen is a solid bet.
CAYL
CAYL, short for Climb As You Love, is a South Korean gorpcore brand with a cult following in the gorpcore community. Known for its lightweight, technical trousers, CAYL combines advanced fabrics like stretch nylon with a minimalist aesthetic. Designed with climbers and hikers in mind, these trousers offer features like reinforced panels and elasticated waists, ensuring comfort and durability. CAYL’s pants embody the spirit of adventure, making them a favourite among those who prefer their style as rugged as their pursuits.
Snow Peak
Snow Peak is synonymous with elevated outdoor living, and its trousers perfectly encapsulate this ethos. Drawing inspiration from its Japanese heritage, the brand crafts legwear that balances technical functionality with timeless design. Snow Peak’s pants often feature innovative fabrics such as flexible ripstop and water-resistant twill, alongside practical details like adjustable hems and multiple pockets. Ideal for everything from camping trips to city commutes, these trousers are a versatile addition to any gorpcore wardrobe.
Next up: The best gorpcore brands for outdoors style.
