In the face of ever-changing tariff threats from south of the border, there’s a strong “Buy Canadian” energy in the air and a growing desire to support homegrown talent and spotlight local brands. Canada has long been a quiet powerhouse of design talent, but now more than ever, our apparel and beauty brands are taking centre stage.
Given that sneakers are now a perennial closet staple for everything from sports to the streets (and having yet another sporty moment on the runways), you may be in search of a fresh pair ahead of the strolling, jogging and wandering around on a sunny day season. Why not shop Canadian? From timeless silhouettes to on-trend designs, we’ve sought out homegrown brands serving up standout sneakers. Lace up and get out there.
Hettas
This new high-performance running shoe brand is causing quite the buzz. Based in Vancouver, Hettas was founded by 40-year-old athlete Lindsay Housman, who wanted to address an overlooked truth: most sneakers are designed with men’s feet in mind. Hettas flips the script with shoes engineered to the biomechanics of women’s feet, enhancing comfort, performance and durability. The resulting lineup of three styles are built for everything from slow, steady runs to long races to dynamic track workouts.
Vessi
Known for a sleek, minimalist esthetic and 100 per cent waterproof design, Vessi sneakers were designed to handle Vancouver’s infamous rainy weather without sacrificing comfort and style. The brand’s patented knit technology, developed in Taiwan, makes the sneakers not only waterproof but also breathable, lightweight and temperature-regulating. That means dry feet, no sweat and clean lines, no matter the forecast.
Lululemon
When Lululemon first launched its sneaker collection in 2022, we at The Kit were buzzing to test-drive them, and they didn’t disappoint. The designs are based on foot scans of “more than a million women” to ensure an optimal fit and all-day comfort. Since the debut of the Blissfeel running shoe, the brand has expanded its lineup with versatile styles like the Beyondfeel, Chargefeel and Cityverse, each one combining performance and polish for wherever your day takes you.
Call It Spring
Made with vegan materials, Call It Spring’s cool, trend-driven sneaker collection includes everything from sleek, retro-inspired styles in great colours like this rich burgundy, to classic white kicks that go with absolutely everything.
Maguire
There’s something undeniably special about a pair of Maguire shoes. Founded by sisters Myriam and Romy with the mission to make high-quality footwear more accessible, the Montreal brand is beloved for its standout sandals, ballet flats and boots. Now, we’re shining the spotlight on its sneakers. Featuring slim silhouettes, unique curved stitching and bold and unexpected colourways, these vintage-inspired kicks are for those who don’t mind turning heads.
La Canadienne
While La Canadienne’s boots, timelessly designed and crafted to withstand Canada’s coldest seasons, have long been the brand’s signature, their sneakers are made with the same attention to detail. Crafted from waterproof Italian suede, they’re built to handle unexpected rain (or even snow) without sacrificing style. Add in a breathable leather lining and cushioned memory foam insole, and you know you can expect all-day comfort.
Canada Goose
Since introducing its footwear category in 2021, Canada Goose has been raising its own bar. Designed for both the city streets and alpine trails, its hero shoe, the Glacier Trail sneaker, blends function and design. Fully waterproof and available in a range of great colour combos, these are luxe, performance-driven sneakers made for year-round adventures without compromising on style and comfort.
L’Intervalle
Known for on-trend footwear designs and premium leather craftsmanship, Montreal-based brand L’Intervalle offers street-ready sneakers like this metallic leather style. Some sizes are already sold out but the brand’s signature is small-batch releases so new designs are always just around the corner.
Aldo
If you’re after a wear-anywhere sneaker, Aldo has you covered. The new Sports Club collection also delivers comfy-cool kicks for daily wear, and this season’s lineup spans sleek high tops, cool platforms and retro runners with fun details like this suede pair with colourful mismatched laces. Plus, the Pillow Walk system with dual-density foam and extra padded soles make each step feel like a treat.
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