While activewear is the holy grail of the wardrobe (an Aucklander’s, anyway), when it comes time to turn on your OOO and head for the hills, the snowy mountains, the rock walls or—hell—an especially enthusiastic walking holiday, you might like to level up that fit.
Technical activewear is like glamping—you want to be immersed in nature, but not too in nature. Old school adventurers might call it cheating but I’ll choose warm and dry over purist anyday.
Here’s the best next level activewear so you can get the most out of your next adventure (or just walk down to the dairy in total luxury).
Mons Royale
5 Gore Street, Britomart, Auckland
Image credit: Mons Royale | Instagram
Proving that being clad in snow isn’t just for snowmen—’Mons’ is ‘snow’ backwards—your après ski fit (and mid-ski and pre-ski, for that matter) wouldn’t be complete without some kit from Mons Royale. Founded in Wānaka back in 2009 by Hannah and Hamish Acland, given half a chance the label will deck you out head to toe in merino. While that’s ideal when you’re near a snow-capped mountain, if you’re a cold-blooded Aucklander like I am, it’s equally fitting attire for merely leaving home mid-winter. (One person’s mild is another person’s borderline hypothermic.)
Cotopaxi
Within Allbirds & Friends, 31 Te Ara Tahuhu Walkway, Britomart
Image credit: Cotopaxi | Instagram
Look, you could absolutely cart your stuff around in a non-descript backpack but why would you when you can slap one of Cotopaxi’s colourful packs on your back instead? Made ethically using deadstock materials and other wonderful sustainable bits and pieces (the brand’s B Corp certified), these upbeat lil’ numbers are giving serious OOO energy. Plus, they’re built to last, so they really do have your back.
Inselberg
Online
Image credit: Inselberg | Instagram
As we retreat further and further into the metaverse (better living, everyone), it’s fair to say brands have to work a weeny bit harder to capture our attention. Luckily, Inselberg got that memo and founder Jarlath Anderson fitted out the Britomart Inselberg pop-up store with an actual functioning shower to prove how hardcore their Axiom Shell jacket is. Even more wonderful but absolutely damning for my future bank balance is their puffer jacket in periwinkle blue that’ll set you back a crisp $550 but is sure to make you prance through the snow with joy.
Patagonia
Online
Image credit: Brent Doscher for Patagonia | Instagram
Guys, I have a confession. I think I’m in love with Patagonia. (Ryan Gellert, if you’re reading this, slide into my DMs—I’m not above sponsorship.) The company’s early origins were actually as a one-man rock climbing kit label which has since grown into the global B-corp we know and froth today. P.S. The initial rock climbing company? It’s now called Black Diamond aka a major player in the rock climbing scene, just casually. *Swoon*
Crocs
142 Broadway, Newmarket
Image credit: Crocs | Instagram
A year ago if someone had suggested I put on a pair of Crocs I’d have retorted “Over my dead body.” But, times change (have you seen their loafers?!), and while I’m still clinging to my clog allergy persona—and just between you and me—there’s something about walking on a cloud. Especially after a hard day’s tramp. And especially when said cloud is in a matcha hue, or, in fact, whatever colour takes your fancy. But don’t tell anyone I said so.
Hoka
9 Jean Batten Place, Auckland Central (plus at outlet store at Mānawa Bay)
Image credit: Hoka via @jesssbarnard | Instagram
Not to be dramatic but when I was being fitted for Hokas the salesperson basically said from this moment on, I’d be ruined for all other shoes. She wasn’t wrong. It seems like every shoe brand is always waxing lyrical about their ‘enhanced cushioning and support’ but Hoka actually delivers, with every step, over and over again whether it’s hunting down my next matcha or climbing Rangitoto. My weapon of choice? The Bondi 8.
Teva
Online
Image credit: Teva via @steveakation | Instagram
Wet socks on a trail? Not a vibe, period. In fact, Teva got me thinking socks don’t belong on adventure trails at all. Why risk soggy feet when you can sandal up and live the good life, even when you’ve just crossed a river? But if you’re firmly attached to your socks (fair enough), you’ll be stoked to know that alongside their iconic sandal range, Teva also does some pretty neat sock-friendly kicks. Come one, come all.
GoPro
Online
Image credit: GoPro via @tuckeranddually | Instagram
Sure, my friends don’t need to see me crossing rivers or running trails or just, like, walking down the road to get mochi-stuffed cheesecake but I’m sure we can agree it’ll make their day a little brighter (indulge me). Not convinced? How about using it to capture cute pup antics? I knew you’d come around. Top tip: GoPro footage is so high quality—flex—that if you try to upload the original content direct to socials, IG and Tiktok throw a bit of a tanty so make sure you export your clips in socials-friendly sizing to keep things looking spiffy.
Want more? Check out:
- The 10 Best New Zealand Great Walks You Need To Try
- All The Trails To Hit Near Queenstown
- 9 Of The Most Dog-Friendly Beaches Across Aotearoa
Image credit: Mons Royale | Instagram.