Arc’teryx has historically been popular among outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers, but recently youngsters have been sporting workwear and outdoor gear as fashion statements, elevating the garments to designer territory (to mixed reception). Gorpcore especially has been wildly popular over the last (almost) decade, with Arc’teryx at the forefront of the trend. For the uninitiated, gorpcore isn’t so much defined by specific brands, although Patagonia and The North Face are certainly among the poster children, but by wearing clothes designed for the outdoors in a streetwear-inspired fashion. Many technical/outdoor clothing brands have created sub-labels in order to capitalize on this growing popularity of these clothes, especially streetwear. Arc’teryx’s sublabel, System_A, is the perfect example of a brand understanding what the fashionable young crowd wants and delivering it – without losing the essence of what originally made them popular. Drop 5 is the latest collection of System_A. It features performance clothing that was inspired by rock-climbing, amongst other pieces.
In this collection, we have new jackets, shirts, pants, and hats – along with a nifty waist pack. The insulated, yet breathable Chexa Hybrid jacket is a midlayer garment that can also be worn as a standalone. It features Coreloft Insulation and fleece. The long-sleeve Copal T-Shirt features iconic Arc’teryx graphics, odor resistance, and the company’s Phasic AR II fabric, a moisture-wicking polyester. The collection also includes two hats, the Letro Bucket Hat with matching graphics and the Paltz Cap Print. The Q5 Waistpack is an adjustable pack that’s perfect for both city and outdoor activities.
This collection was inspired by a group of Utah rock climbers who focused on warm, breathable clothing for their sends.
The System_A Drop 5 is out now online and in stores, with more information on the Arc’Teryx website.