Summer Gear for Exploring Your Own Province
This summer, we’re exploring our own backyard. Luckily, Canada has a plethora of wilderness to hike, bike, paddle, surf, climb and camp in. We love to support local—so we encourage you to find a new brand with roots in your province or territory to get geared up for local adventures.
Here are nine of our suggestions:
British Columbia
Born out of North Vancouver, Arc’teryx isn’t a cheap brand—but the quality of gear and sustainability initiative is worth the investment. From jackets for rainy West Coast days to climbing gear for interior alpinists, BC adventurers should check out the Spring/Summer 2020 Lookbook.
Alberta
With stores in Edmonton and Calgary, Camper’s Village carries all the best brands for camping, paddling, hiking and paddling. Repeat customers should consider joining the Camper’s Club for incentives like 10 per cent off on your birthday and discounts on Parks Canada passes.
Saskatchewan
Classic Outdoors carries SUP boards, snowshoes, bush craft gear and racks/mounts. The selection is so wide, you should be able to get outfitted for every adventure with just one stop. Visit the store in Saskatoon or shop online.
Manitoba
Headquartered in Winnipeg, this Indigenous-owned company creates beautiful moccasins and mukluks. Manitobah Mukluks have warm winter boots that are waterproof, breathable, comfortable and act as a canvas for Indigenous art on the Vibram® sole.
Ontario
Apparel, outerwear and home goods can be found at Toronto-based Muttonhead. With an emphasis on fair trade ethics, all the garments are designed in Ontario and manufactured in North America. The brand offers unisex clothes with all ages, sizes, shapes (and species!) in mind.
Quebec
Pajar has been making footwear and outerwear for outdoor lovers since 1963. Based in Montreal, pieces pay tribute to Canadian traditions while utilizing modern technology. Find ice grippers, waterproof leather and winter jackets rated to -30 degrees.
The Maritimes (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island)
Founded in 1967, The Trail Shop is an independent outdoor adventure gear store located in Halifax and Truro. With the explicit goal to be a sustainability leader, this company carries products that are high-quality, recycled, durable and environmentally conscious.
Newfoundland and Labrador
St. John’s local outdoor shop carries everything adventure, from speciality clothing to equipment for self-propelled exploring. The Outfitters also offers kayak tours and hiking and camping clinics for groups.
The North (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut)
Founded in 1885, Woods™ was created by James Woods, who supplied lumbermen, miners, surveyors and other pioneers with gear and equipment for Canada’s harsh outdoor climate. Although it began in Ottawa, one of the first major groups that was outfitted with Woods™ gear were “stampeders” travelling to the Yukon during the Klondike Goldrush. Today, Woods™ is a staple adventure brand in homes across the country.
PS. Did this gear list inspire you to get outside and explore more?
For the ultimate adventure inspiration, join explore magazine’s “Live the Adventure” Club.
With thousands of dollars’ worth in gear, prizes, local outdoor advice and a private Facebook community to share all your adventures, it’s no wonder this Canadian subscription box has been inspiring adventures since 2016.
Click here to learn more.
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