How Climbing Became Fashion’s Coolest Sport

Tracksuits, trainers, even gym leggings have long had fashion's seal of approval — the world of athleisure is booming, after all. As is the fashion industry's expansion into sport. Louis Vuitton took a swing at golfers with green-based campaigns and monogrammed clubs, Gucci tried its hand at tennis by bringing Italian champion Jannik Sinner on as brand ambassador, Tommy Hilfiger turned its attention to Formula 1 both on and off screen, and (take a breath) Celine put out a pilates collection that not only sold out instantly but made it onto the moodboard of every home gymmer across the globe. That dated assumption that fashion fans aren't athletic? Right now, it couldn't be further from the truth.

This season, though, there's a subtle shift. True to fashion's rather rapid trend cycle, a new sport is in the limelight, and it has caught the attention of many a luxury label. Johanna Parv sent harnesses, shell shorts, sports bras and sunnies down the Spring/Summer 26 runway. Loewe went full windbreaker and TPU trainers. And both Miu Miu and Prada picked up on functional accessories. Fashion has officially entered its climbing era.

If you're wondering why rock climbing has suddenly been stamped as chic, allow me to offer a few theories.

For one, rock climbing is having a genuine moment. ABC Walls recently claimed that climber numbers are at a record high, and only last year Oxford University's on-campus magazine ran the feature 'Why Does Everyone Suddenly Want to Rock Climb?' The takeaways: there's no winner or loser, the sport has a real sense of community, and it offers a stark contrast to the standard weights section at the gym — which, it turns out, is part of the appeal.

The sport's introduction to the Olympics at Tokyo 2020 didn't hurt either, with 19-year-old Brit Toby Roberts winning gold and giving climbing and bouldering a global stage and plenty of PR.

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In a time where loneliness is so often followed by the word epidemic, I'm also inclined to think its popularity stems partly from it being a solo sport. No paddle, tennis or golf partner required, and certainly no football team. Solo sports, it seems, may be quietly on the rise — although this one comes with particularly good kit, and the fashion industry has certainly taken note.

Take Loewe's latest trainer, the Grip Sneaker, named and inspired by the classic climbing shoe: TPU-moulded toe caps, extra-tight asymmetrical laces, thin sole and all, although landing here with a Loewe spin, of course . Or consider the brand's strong affinity for windbreakers, modular accents and an exaggerated pocket count as two of the more obvious references. And given that the theme carried through to its recently shown Autumn/Winter 26 runway, it's clear this is no fleeting fad.

Then there's Johanna Parv's harness-like belts and vests, finished with a carabiner and boulder-friendly sets. Miu Miu's attachment-packed belt, which would only be enhanced by a small rope keychain. And Prada's explorer-ready Re-Nylon backpack, large enough for an entire overnight kit. Although I'd advise you take something a little less precious out into the wilderness.

Essentially, fashion, yet again, has found its way into every trend circle — whether that's Milan or out in the mountains.