Hiking Style Is Finally Getting Less Granola
The pandemic may have ended, but one hobby that has endured is hiking. It's no wonder: getting out into nature has been proven to reduce stress, clear the mind, and offer a plethora of physical benefits. However, the clothes suitable for this activity have often been lackluster, with a reputation for being purely practical and not particularly stylish. Thankfully, that's changing. Enthusiasts are proving that you can wear creative outfits in the woods that are both functional and fashionable.
One trendsetter leading the way is Sabrina Bloedorn, a Vancouver-based creator who has gained a following for her unique approach to combining fashion and the outdoors. Whether trekking the Alps or exploring the jungles of Costa Rica, Bloedorn embraces her outfits with a sense of curiosity, fearlessness, and creativity. As she explains, "To be seen as a good hiker, women felt they had to dress like everyone else and not stand out too much. I hated that. I love standing out. I grew up watching sci-fi films, obsessing over the outfits in them, and I wanted to bring that same energy onto the trail."
Bloedorn's style is characterized by wide-leg hiking pants paired with dramatic jackets, the occasional skirt, and exaggerated eyewear. She sources her unique fashion choices through Instagram, drawing inspiration from various sources. "The best place for outdoor style is Asia," she says, "they always carry the most fashion-forward technical brands."
From a head-to-toe blue ensemble by the cult favorite Japanese label Snow Peak to sleek tanks and canvas pants from Singapore-based Dirty Manners, and bright outerwear from South Korea's Kolon Sport, Bloedorn curates a diverse list of labels that challenge the perception of technical wear. Her unique style is not just about looking good; it serves a purpose. As she explains, "If I'm hiking the approach and there's a lot of shrub and tree coverage, I'll wear a lightweight technical skirt to keep my tights from snagging. I'll throw on a bandana or hat, too, for sun protection. Then once I get to the scramble, I'll take the skirt off, pack it away, and put on sunglasses."
Bloedorn's approach to hiking style is not alone. She has noticed a growing trend of hikers embracing their own unique styles. "It's been fun to see people getting confident in their own style," she says. "That's such a beautiful thing."
For those hesitant about embracing a flashy hiking outfit, Bloedorn offers this advice: "You can be the most striking person on the mountain and the strongest one on it. Those were never opposite things."
As hiking style continues to evolve, it's clear that the days of the granola-clad hiker are behind us. With creators like Bloedorn leading the way, hiking fashion is becoming a fun and creative expression, allowing hikers to stand out in the best possible way.
