GorpCore, Reimagined

Too often, the style of the moment -GorpCore- has separated itself from the environment it was designed to inhabit. Following the drab philosophy of “form follows function”, it has come to be recognised as an aesthetic in which its materials wouldn’t look too out of place in a camping tent manufacturing centre. Wholly practical- with zips, pockets and shock cords an ironclad guarantee- it’s common belief that ornamentation is its antithesis, and arguably, in GorpCore alongside Adolf Loos’ eyes, a crime.

But therein lies the problem- in its translation from utility to aesthetic, the reverence of nature has been forgotten and instead the human tendency to override our surroundings with little regard for their inherent beauty has won out through design. This is where Cecilie Bahnsen X Asics’ latest collaboration comes in. 

Teaming up once again to reimagine the GelKinetic FR trainers, inspiration is drawn from the kinetic energy of flowers- specifically- “petals falling, stems growing and nature constantly shifting.” Translated across the shoe through embossed and debossed flower motifs, their organic forms echo the topographies and shifting contours of the natural landscape whilst flower-shaped eyelets, beads and charms are layered rhythmically to let Asics’ heritage technicality flourish amongst high fashion. Where GorpCore has historically celebrated the machinery of the outdoors, Bahnsen brings the outdoors back into the machine, a feminine note Mother Nature would thank herself.

Coming to us in two colourways- “Piedmont Grey Silver” and “Black Coffee”- the collaboration arrives on September 12th, offering a compelling counterpoint to GorpCore’s often austere uniform. In Bahnsen’s hands, Asics’ language of performance becomes organic: it's less about conquering the outdoors and more about moving with it, intertwined. 

And if September 12th is still too far away for you, shop our favourites below: