The emergence of the sneaker culture in Canada can be seen throughout the nation. As the sneaker community in Canada continues to grow, so does the expansion of Canadian sneaker stores. Now, with such a variety of retailers to choose from, you can bid farewell to paying duties on your new kicks!
Here are the best Canadian online sneaker stores:
Livestock
One of the original Canadian boutiques that specialize in sneakers and streetwear, Livestock has been a mainstay in the Canadian sneaker community and is one of the best boutiques in the nation. Their choices in footwear include brands such as Nike, adidas, PUMA, Converse, New Balance, Jordan, Reebok, and Saucony. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop where you can buy a complete outfit, Livestock has you covered with their selection of apparel and accessories.
STAY FRESH
Established in 2014, STAY FRESH is a Vancouver based marketplace boutique that specializes in premium and collector sneakers, streetwear, and accessories. It features a curated catalogue with brands like Nike, adidas, Air Jordon, Yeezy, Supreme, BAPE, Palace, Anti Social Social Club, and more.
HAVEN
This Canadian sneaker store’s name speaks for itself as it is a true haven for those who love footwear, as well as Japanese and other globally recognized fashion labels. You may recognize the name from their latest collaborative project with adidas or highly sought after Yeezy collaborations. In addition to the latest and best from adidas, they also carry an amazing selection from Nike, New Balance, Converse, and more.
Capsule
Since 2003, Capsule has continued to build their reputation as one of the premier boutiques in all of Canada. Capsule was a part of the first Canadian collaboration on the “Canadian Tuxedo” 580MT, complete with three different denims on the upper with a maple syrup sole. In addition, you’ll find brands like Air Jordan, Converse, Nike, New Balance, and more — they also have a selection for women.
Off the Hook
Montreal residents understand the importance of having a boutique like Off the Hook in their city. A significant member of this community since 1999, the team has done a tremendous job with the growth of their store. OTH is Canada’s only Vans partnership store with Canada’s most important selection of Vans products, and this relationship has resulted in numerous OTH x Vans collaborative projects. In addition to Vans, Off the Hook carries an amazing selection of other brands such as Nike, adidas, New Balance, Converse, PUMA, Timberland, Red Wing, and more.
ALDO
ALDO has a huge variety of not only sneakers, but other footwear as well. From casual to dressy, you’ll find it all. It’s also the first fashion footwear and accessories company in the world to be certified climate neutral.
Courtside Sneakers
Courtside Sneakers is the premier boutique in Atlantic Canada, with three stores throughout the Maritimes. It offers a great selection of basketball and retro sneakers, from Nike to PUMA for men, women, and youth, while showing tremendous growth over recent years. Nathan and his team are doing an excellent job with their curation of products and customer service, evident by the interaction with customers both in-store and online.
Less 17
It was about time that the Calgary sneaker community got some love, and this is exactly what happened with the arrival of Less 17. With an excellent selection of menswear and sneakers, this Calgary shop can be your one stop shop for everything from adidas and Nike sneakers to the latest pieces of clothing from the likes of Stone Island, Reigning Champ, and North Face Black Series. For all of their Canadian online shoppers, Less 17 offers free shipping within on all orders over $100!
Call it Spring
The ultimate destination for not only shoes but handbags and accessories as well. Call It Spring is always on top of the latest trends with an affordable price tag.
NRML
Canada’s capital city is the home of NRML, one of Canada’s oldest sneaker shops. Opened in 1997, this shop has been an instrumental part of the Canadian sneaker community for over twenty years with their wide selection of streetwear and sneakers. In addition to their streetwear and sneaker centric shop, they also have NRML Femme and NRML Select. Keep an eye out for the retailer’s killer sales, where you can sometimes score sale items for an additional 50% off.
Solestop
Located in the heart of downtown Markham, Solestop is the embodiment of a success story in the sneaker business. They began their journey as an online shop and have since grown to a full sized storefront with a diverse selection of adidas, New Balance, Asics, Saucony, and more. Along with their men’s sneaker selection, they also carry a full range of sneakers, clothing, and accessories for women and kids as well.
BB Branded
Windsor is typically known as one of the main border cities from Canada to the U.S. in Ontario, but the city is so much more than that, it is the home of an amazing sneaker shop called BB Branded. Having overcome its share of ups & downs, the shop grew from a jewellery store that carried apparel to the main sneaker shop in Windsor that carries the latest Air Jordan retros.
Vessi
Vessi creates shoes that can be worn all day, every day, in any weather. Wear them in the snow, rain, or sun, because sneakers that can do it all. It produces products that move you forward, get you out there, and let you live your best life.
SSENSE
Based in Montreal, SSENSE is a no brainer when it comes to all things designer. The retailer carries classic sneaker brands like adidas, Converse, Vans, and Nike, but as more high-end luxury brands move into the sneaker world, you’ll also find those here. If you’re looking for the latest kicks from labels like Off-White, Moschino, Balenciaga, Maison Margiela, Givenchy, and more, be sure to visit SSENSE.
Gravitypope
Founded in Alberta, this Canadian sneaker store, Gravitypope is a high-end boutique that also has locations in British Columbia and Ontario. But if you can’t make it in-store, you can also shop the store online, where you can discover brands like Common Projects, New Balance, Vans, Asics, Clae, and more.
Blacktoe Running
If you’re looking for the best sneakers to train in, you have to check out Blacktoe Running. It has all of the runners you need whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned marathoner. The brand finds the most innovative and best products available on the market today!
Browns
Browns’ mission to search the world for the best brands, and to provide the most unique, head-turning styles for you and your whole family— at the best possible value— since 1940. It even produces its own in-house brand to offer an even larger variety.
Little Burgundy
Little Burgundy was founded in 2008 in Montreal, Quebec. It’s a branded footwear destination with its own unique style for discerning tastes. It operates over 39 stores across Canada and offers the best brands on the market like adidas, Converse, Nike, Vans and Herschel Supply.
The Shoe Company
The Shoe Company first opened in 1992 and the chain has since grown to more than 75 locations across Canada. The brand believes that style shouldn’t demand a huge investment of time or money. Style should be comfortable, accessible, and easy to achieve.
Simons
While the selection of sneakers at this Montreal-based retailer isn’t the largest or rarest to find, it’s still worth a peak for essentials. Online, you’ll find high-end picks from brands like Marni and Versace, as well as favourites from Nike, Vans, adidas, The North Face, and more, as well as a budget-friendly in-house line.
Adrift
This Canadian sneaker store, Adrift, is Toronto’s premier skate and lifestyle boutique, and luckily for you, they ship all across Canada. Founded over 10 years ago, the shop stocks brands like Vans, Nike SB, Converse, and adidas.
Exclucity
Montreal-based Exclucity has carries a collection of sneakers for both men and women. The store originally operated out the back of the CEO’s car and has since evolved into an online destination for streetwear enthusiasts. You’ll find brands like Nike, Jordan, adidas, and Puma on Exclucity’s roster.
Casca
Casca develops sneakers made to last and withstand the test of time. The brand believes that shoes should make you feel good, and enable you to do anything, so Casca was founded to do just that.
Groovy Shoes
Groovy Shoes boasts itself as the number one Canadian sneaker store, so it’d be remiss of us to leave them off this list. The retailer has two locations in Ontario but boasts a huge selection of sneakers for men, women, and kids online. Find brands like Nike, Asics, Saucony, New Balance, and more beyond.
Parlor 23
This Toronto-based consignment shop specializes in deadstock and collectible shoes and accessories. Head here for hard-to-find sneakers or to consign a pair that’s been collecting dust in your closet. Parlor 23 ships worldwide.
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2019 was a whirlwind of a year in the world of sneakers where we saw new trends start and old trends return. We saw high-end brands continuing to join the sneaker world and we saw standard brands make premium iterations of its silhouettes, both sides showing that they can play at each other’s playing field. We also saw countless brand collaborations come to life, some which made so much sense, some of which made none. For 2020, we’re here to help you narrow down what you think you need in your wardrobe, whether it’s some eye-catching pairs with vibrant colours and textures, or it’s a few under-the-radar staples that will last you the entire year.
Here are sneakers to add to your closet this coming year!
Mens:
Womens:
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2018 was an interesting year when it came to the world of sneakers.
It feels like this is said every passing year but the sneaker industry is constantly evolving and there is no stop in sight. 2018 was the epitome of a sneakerhead’s dream as it was filled with countless retro models, new silhouettes, new technologies, and collaborative projects.
In anticipation of 2019, we have put together a list of the sneaker trends that you should keep your eyes on to stay ahead of the game.
More Luxury Designer Sneakers
As the sneaker industry evolved, so did its surrounding industries and consumers. There has been a drastic rise in the popularity of designer sneakers over the past few years and there is no stopping it now. Luxury fashion houses such as Balenciaga, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and others have expanded their footwear catalogue to include highly sought after sneakers, and the brands’ presence in the sneaker market is no joke.
When a streetwear designer who grew up wearing Air Jordans becomes the Men’s Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton, it’s no surprise to see a pair of Louis Vuitton sneakers with a glowing resemblance to Air Jordan models on the horizon.
More Collaborations
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We may have said it at the beginning of 2018 when it was declared that 2017 was the year of the collaboration, but 2018 may have exceeded its predecessor. Footwear brands are realizing that their consumers are best connecting with their products when it is associated with a brand, athlete, or celebrity they love. Not only does it strengthen the brand’s relationship with its target audience, but it also creates a sense of exclusivity around the shoes and it is often released in limited quantities.
Whether it was Jerry Lorenzo’s collaboration with Nike for the Air Fear of God, or Kendall and Kylie Jenner’s partnership with adidas, these brands are continuing to find ways to collaborate with different entities throughout the world.
More “Deconstruction”
Instagram/@tarkan.bekar
When the first Nike x Off-White collection launched, a big deal was made about the “deconstruction” of original silhouettes to create “new” silhouettes. Off-White has been continuing to push out countless colourways of their “deconstructed” Nike models but other brands also began to follow suit, with numerous brands creating their own “inside-out” shoes to follow to the popular trend.
More Women in Sneakers
Instagram/@alealimay
2018 was a celebratory year for women’s footwear. Footwear brands saw the demand for smaller sizing on exclusive and limited sneakers, and it was evident as numerous notable brands aligned its strategies to ensure there was a strong push behind this women’s movement.
We saw individuals such as Aleali May get her own Air Jordan collaboration and also saw Serena Williams release a highly sought after collection with Nike and Off-White. What used to be a predominantly male industry began to see a shift. And don’t expect it to change this year — expect to see an even stronger female presence in the world of sneakers.
Split Sole Sneakers
Instagram/@eriko_0501
With the advancements in sneaker technology in today’s market, there had to be a way to highlight the different types of technology while maintaining the traditional look of sneakers. Many brands are incorporating new technologies to the uppers and soles of the designs to maintain the classic look while offering consumers a new ride and feel.
There were countless sneaker designs featuring a sole which split into two portions, such as the Reebok Sole Fury and the adidas POD-S3.1. Expect to continue seeing split sole sneakers throughout 2019.
Advanced Technology
Nike recently released the Adapt BB which is a self-lacing basketball performance sneaker which features the advanced power-lacing system that worked in conjunction with a Nike app on your smartphone. It also comes at a much more reasonable price point, allowing more general consumers to try the technology and feel like Marty McFly themselves.
Featured image: Instagram/@fabioferreirajr
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Speaking from personal experience, shopping for the perfect suit is one of the most difficult tasks when it comes to shopping. Whether you’re looking for a suit to wear to the office or a suit to wear to a wedding, it’s often incredibly hard to find the suit for you. There are so many elements to take into consideration from fabric, collar style, number of buttons, different cuts, colours, patterns and so much more.
Although the landscape of menswear will constantly be in flux, something that will never go out of style is a well-fitting suit.
We’ve put together a list of six retailers in Toronto where you can get your perfect suit, whether it’s bespoke or off-the-rack.
Garrison Bespoke
Arguably the most well-known bespoke tailor in Toronto, Garrison Bespoke is often recognized as the top place for bespoke handmade suits and they offer a suit-making experience like no other. They create exceptional garments that can range from your everyday versatile suit to a waterproof or bulletproof suit. They use traditional tailor methods passed down from English tradesmen on Savile Row.
The level of craftsmanship in each of their products goes above and beyond the traditional duties of a bespoke tailor.
They have been acknowledged as an outstanding place to purchase a suit by local publications such as Toronto Life and The Globe and Mail, as well as international outlets such as GQ and Fox. In addition to their outstanding media coverage, their list of notable clients includes Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Gabriel Macht of Suits. Located in the heart of Toronto’s Financial District, Garrison Bespoke is the place to go for the finest quality suit and the most sophisticated retail experience.
Sydney’s
When it comes to Canadian made bespoke suits, Sydney’s is the destination to go to. Sydney’s works exclusively with Canadian production teams for its in-house lines, providing a local line to the designed pieces but it also helps to employ over 800 people in the local community. The owner, Sydney Mamane, opened shop in Toronto in 2003 and since then, they have gained a reputation for their impeccable service and a single destination for everyone’s menswear needs.
Syndey’s focus on fabric, quality and design is one of the main reasons that their expertly curated menswear brands are one of the most revered in Canada. Their products feature clean lines and minimal details with classic silhouettes that have a modern feel. The full-service shop offers bespoke and made-to-measure suiting options as well as off-the-rack options and in-house alterations to satisfy the demands of all of their clientele.
Alian Designs
Sometimes, you stumble upon a lesser known shop and find a hidden gem that most people in the city may not be aware of. Located in the downtown core of Toronto, Alian Designs is a retailer offering handmade suits and shirts to its loyal customer base. The owner, Alian, offers bespoke suits that are tailor-made to fit you perfectly and they are also able to make alterations to articles of clothing that may not fit you as well as it once used to.
Alian Designs offers flexible hours and can often turn around specific tailoring requests to your required timelines. One of the perks of being a lesser-known store is that their customer service is top notch and you will be able to get quality one-on-one time with the designer to ensure that your bespoke designs and alterations are to your specification.
Suitsupply
Located in the Yorkville area of downtown Toronto on Hazelton Avenue, Suitsupply is one of the best international retailers in the Toronto area for your perfect suit. With countless custom and off-the-rack options available, you are able to book an appointment or walk in to find the perfect fitting suit. They are fast and effective while providing their clientele with the top-notch craftsmanship that every suit needs.
Their customer is top notch and they are known to be extremely accommodating to their customers’ desires and needs. If you have an older jacket or pants that you love which they no longer may carry, feel free to bring it in store and ask their employees to help you find the ideal replacement. They will not only look in their physical in-store inventory for a replacement, but they will also look at their online store’s inventory to see if they could find the perfect match.
Indochino
Indochino is something that came out when two Canadian entrepreneurial students from the University of Victoria saw the need of a retailer offering proper fitting suits at an affordable price. Indochino is now a massive retailer and one of the top options for custom suits that can be purchased without putting a giant hole in your wallet. Indochino took the opposite route of the traditional factory-made suits and began creating suits specific to each individual.
They are now one of the industry leaders for accessible, affordable, well-fitting and fashionable suits which led to their immense business growth since their inception. With three retail locations spread throughout Toronto, they have turned their online store into physical locations offering budget-friendly and made-to-measure suiting that can be ready in approximately four weeks.
Surmesur
Founded in 2010, Quebec-based Surmesur has seen incredible growth over the past few years. The menswear company specializes in creating affordable custom-made clothing, priding themselves on impeccable quality and service. Surmesur’s custom-made suits start at just over $400, and customers can choose from over 10,000 fabrics. The entire process takes about four to six weeks, and at the end of the process, customers walk away with perfectly tailored pieces that will last a lifetime. Right now, you can find Surmesur at 108 Queen St. East in Toronto, but expect to see new stores pop-up across Canada within the next few years.
Featured Image: Facebook/Indochino
As the holiday season approaches and the spirit of giving is in the air, it’s time for one of the most difficult times of the year, gift shopping. Gift shopping can be difficult for anyone but with the trends that come and go on what seems like a near-daily basis, gift shopping for millennials can be seen as a challenging task for anyone.
We’ve put together the ultimate millennial holiday gift guide of 10 items to help you find you the perfect gift and save you the time of additional research.
Apple AirPods
Image: Apple
As many people are transitioning to wireless headphones, the AirPods by Apple is one of the best gifts for any millennials. They look fantastic and are extremely useful for any iPhone user, and they will also instantly make you one of the favourites of the recipients.
Fitbit Charge 3
Image: Fitbit
A Fitbit Charge 3 is a great gift for millennials who are serious about their health. The fitness tracker can do a number of tasks such as tracking your heart rate at all times, the number of calories burned, how many steps you’ve taken, your pace, and distance. The perfect stocking stuffer for the health-conscious individual.
GoPro HERO7
Image: GoPro
Whether you’re shopping for an international traveller or a city wanderer, the GoPro HERO7 offers brilliant performance. It is smart, tough, and made for adventure with hyper smooth stabilization offering smooth, gimbal-like video without the gimbal. Intelligent photo technology captures the best images by applying HDR, tone mapping, or noise reduction automatically. And even without a housing, it’s waterproof to 30 feet.
Google Home Mini
Image: Google
If you’re in the market for a gift that provides hi-tech assistance at your command, Google Home Mini is the perfect gift for you. Powered by Google Assistant, this voice-activated speaker responds to your voice to deliver the information you need and the music you crave. You’ve all seen the commercials where you simply call upon with “OK, Google”, to get the hi-tech assistance you request.
mophie Powerstation Plus XL
Image: mophie
If you know someone who’s constantly on their phones and always on 10% power, then you won’t find a more clutch gift than this portable charger. It saves the hassle of bringing around extra cords as the charging cables are built right in and there’s even an extra USB port that allows you to charge two devices at once.
Nintendo Switch
Image: Nintendo
The Nintendo Switch is the perfect modern-day gaming console. It combines the mobility of a handheld console, such as the Gameboy, with the power of a home gaming system. It offers unprecedented gaming and entertainment experiences with its single or multi-player uses at home and on the go.
Polaroid Snap Instant Camera
Image: Polaroid
Reminiscent of the modern Instagram logo with inspiration from classic cameras, the Polaroid Snap recreates the magic of classic instant photography. It is the perfect blend of nostalgic Polaroid instant photography and modern, digital technology. The snappy design is compact and sleek, so it will easily fit into a fanny pack or clutch.
Sonos One
Image: Sonos
Powered by Amazon Alexa, the Sonos One allows you to control all of your music services with the sound of your voice. Just ask for what you want to listen to and enjoy. Although an app is required to use the Sonos One, it’s a great product as it pumps out quality sound through its powerful smart speaker.
Subscription Box
Image: Frank And Oak
Whether it’s a subscription box for shoes, clothing or healthy meal kits, there is a subscription box service to meet a variety of needs. It’s perfect for an indecisive person who loves to be surprised each month with a variety of products from an array of brands.
Incase ProConnected 4 Wheel Hubless Roller
Image: Incase
Just in time for the holiday vacation, this smart suitcase from Incase is the perfect gift for your loved one who’s always on the road and needs to stay connected. This carry-on smart luggage is TSA-approved and has enough reserve power to charge a MacBook via USB-C Power Delivery and includes two additional USB-A ports to keep the rest of your technology charged and ready for action.
Featured Image: Mophie
The holiday season is one of the best time of the year for sneaker lovers. There are some amazing sales available throughout the holiday season as it is sandwiched right in between Black Friday sales and Boxing Day sales. In addition to some of the great savings that you can find at various retailers, the holidays are also the time when a lot of brands save their best releases of the year.
It can seem difficult at times to find the right gifts for sneaker lovers as sneakers can be a tricky gift with everyone having such different taste buds and different trends coming and going.
Something that most gift buyers overlook is the fact that you don’t have to buy sneakers for sneaker enthusiasts, there are countless fantastic options available from different brands that may fit the bill for a wide array of sneakerheads.
We’ve put together a list of 10 items to help you find the perfect gift for sneaker lovers that range from sneakers to stocking stuffers.
adidas Ultraboost LTD
Image: adidas
The good folks over at the brand with three stripes have been making a splash recently by bringing back original colourways of their most popular silhouette, the Ultraboost. Some of the most highly sought after colourways have been releasing throughout the last quarter of the year and it would be a fantastic surprise for any Ultraboost enthusiasts or casual sneakerheads.
ASICSTIGER Coach Jacket
Image: Asics
With sneaker brands offering a wide array of fantastic apparel options to complement their footwear products, the Coach Jacket from ASICSTIGER is a perfect item that can be tightly rolled and stuffed into a stocking. The slim and slightly elongated fit of the minimally branded jacket makes this jacket something that can be worn at all occasions in multiple seasons.
Converse x Just Don Hat
Image: Converse
Converse recently teamed up with luxury sportswear brand, Just Don, on a retro style collection inspired by the hardwood. With Just Don being a highly sought after brand among sneakerheads that carries a hefty price tag, the apparel and accessories from this collection make it a more affordable while providing the luxury allure of the Just Don brand.
Jason Markk Holiday Box
Image: Jason Markk
Jason Markk is arguably the best and best-known provider of sneaker care products and each year, they put together an amazing holiday gift set that includes a variety of their products. It ranges from a variety of their brushes, their cleaning solution, microfibre towel, the quick wipes and a custom cleaning apron.
Jordan x Paris Saint-Germain Vapor Match Jersey
Image: Nike
Sneaker lovers can be extreme brand loyalists and Jordan Brand collaborated with soccer powerhouse, Paris Saint-Germain, on a full apparel and footwear collection that is perfect for soccer enthusiasts or casual soccer fans. These soccer jerseys from Jordan Brand can be worn in a casual setting or to watch a soccer match.
Nike Tech Hip Pack
Image: Nike
With the rise in popularity of hip bags and fanny packs, the Nike Tech Hip Pack is the perfect gift for those seeking a small bag that can be worn in place of a backpack. The hip pack is the perfect size that lets you carry your essentials hands-free with multiple zip pockets for secure, organised storage.
Nike & Jordan NBA Elite Socks
Image: Nike
Socks are a quintessential stocking stuffer and they are often one of the easiest gifts for the holiday shopper stuck in a limbo. There is no better way to take the classic stocking stuffer and cater it to the sneaker enthusiast than by getting the new official socks of the NBA by Nike and Jordan Brand. Not only are they great looking, but they are also one of the most comfortable socks on the market.
PUMA x Staple Pigeon Suede Classic Sneakers
Image: PUMA
When two iconic brands such as PUMA and Staple Pigeon work on a collaborative project, they always produce eye-catching products that become moments in sneaker history. With countless Staple Pigeon collaborations being atop the must-have lists of many sneaker enthusiasts, a release that goes under the radar such as this PUMA Suede Classic can be a fantastic surprise for sneakerheads.
Reebok Lost & Found Vector Bag
Image: Reebok
One of the most underrated accessories has to be a good backpack. Whether it’s for carrying a photographer’s camera, a student’s books or just an extra pair of shoes that you want to save from the outdoor conditions, having a versatile backpack is hands down an underrated gift that will be loved by sneaker enthusiasts.
Foot Locker Gift Card
Image: Foot Locker
If you’re gift searching for a sneaker lover with a very specific taste, one of the best options is a gift card from Foot Locker. You can choose how much goes on the gift card and the recipient can use it on anything they would please. It can go towards a sneaker purchase that they are looking at down the line or a variety of footwear, apparel and accessories that are available at Foot Locker.
Featured image: Instagram/ @cll.ctr
Some call them replicas, some call them knock-offs, and some call them fakes.
Counterfeit products have been prominent in the streetwear and sneaker industries for years, but it wasn’t until a few years ago when mainstream media got ahold of the news and made it front page news. The subject became a hot topic when the focus shifted from the effects of counterfeit sneakers on the community to the potential financial benefits of the counterfeit industry.
A segment by Vice called, “We Went To The Fake Sneaker Capital of China“ aired on HBO, focusing on how the counterfeit sneaker industry was the backbone of the local economy in the Chinese city of Putian. They spoke with a counterfeit vendor, Chan, about his business and his transition from a medical school student in the UK to a now world-renowned replica sneaker seller. The segment speaks on one of the myths behind counterfeit sneakers that was never confirmed.
YouTube/VICE News
Many brands, like Nike and adidas, have factories in the same city as the counterfeit producers.
With both retail and counterfeit industries having production facilities in the same city, the counterfeit producers have potential access to legitimate materials from the brands’ factories. They even have access to the people who work in those factories. When there is an overlap of that magnitude, it explains why the quality of counterfeit products continues to be on the rise.
Instagram/@yeezybusta
Even to a sneaker enthusiast, it is becoming increasingly harder to spot the counterfeit sneakers.
Counterfeit producers are taking notes of the details that they have missed in the past and fixing those mistakes for their next batch. Guides on forums and online communities are vital for the average consumer to learn about the intricate details of what differentiates the counterfeit from the actual sneaker. But they have become a textbook allowing counterfeit producers to learn on the fly.
To see how good counterfeit sneakers have become, we can use the video of one of Toronto’s top sneaker YouTubers, Heat Ledger Kicks, as an example to demonstrate the crazy level of details that go into spotting a fake pair of sneakers.
The video begins with a side-by-side comparison of the real sneaker and the counterfeit.
Most people would have thought they were the exact same shoes if they didn’t read the title of the video. From the details on the box — such as the tags, the font on the tags, and the barcodes — most things look identical.
Within the box, you will see that the internal packaging looks almost identical, minus small details such as the thickness of the tissue paper that often go overlooked. It isn’t until you get down to the sneakers that you begin to see slightly more noticeable differences to tell the two apart.
YouTube/HEAT Ledger
YouTube/HEAT Ledger
At the end of the day, counterfeit sneakers are nothing new to the community, especially in Toronto and throughout Canada.
Over the years, many international sellers on online forums and eBay have tried to scam Canadians by selling counterfeit products, and later blaming it on the shipping companies or the lack of knowledge by the Canadians. In addition to that, Toronto has been the home of some of the sneaker community’s most notorious counterfeit sellers. They were able to make a fortune, stepping away from it before they got caught.
Having been in the Toronto sneaker community since the mid-2000s, I have seen people within the city get sold counterfeit sneakers countless times — many disputes have come from those illegitimate transactions.
YouTube/VICE News
Some people may call it a scam, and some people may call it a learning process, but it’s something that the industry will never get rid of.
With the prices of sneakers continuing to rise on the resale markets, there is a larger incentive than ever for these producers. The best thing that sneakerheads can do is to educate themselves.
There are platforms such as StockX and GOAT that have their own authentication processes, but they’re still human, and there have been counterfeit sneakers that made it through their authentication processes in the past.
It’s these reasons that I stick to a very strict philosophy when purchasing shoes these days: If you aren’t able to buy it at retail, it wasn’t meant to be.
Featured Image: YouTube/VICE News
As time passes and the weather gets wetter and colder, it marks the time to put away your runners that may only be suitable for summer. For those who love the comfort that sneakers provide, this is probably one of the toughest times of the year as many people put away their sneakers and begin wearing chunkier boots to protect you from the variety of weather conditions such as rain and snow.
The ideal scenario for a sneaker lover as the weather changes is to have weather resistant sneakers that provide the comfort they seek but also protect them from a variety of conditions. With the innovations seen in footwear in recent years, the prayers of sneaker enthusiasts have been answered!
Here are 8 of the top water-resistant sneakers you need:
adidas Ultra Boost All Terrain
Image: Sneaker Politics
One of the bestselling sneakers of the past few years, adidas redesigned the Ultra Boost into the perfect all-weather sneaker. The shoes have a knit upper with a water-repellent coating for protection in wet conditions and the high collar acts as an ankle splash guard. The newly designed all-terrain outsole provides additional traction for the different conditions you may face.
allbirds Wool Runner
Image: YouTube/Andrae Henry
allbird made a splash on the sneaker industry when they released their runner with minimal design and outstanding comfort. The Wool Runner is designed with simplicity, comfort and versatility in mind. Whether you’re wearing them around the office or around the city block, the Wool Runners are made with a superfine merino wool upper that is soft on the inside and durable and water-resistant on the outside.
Asics GEL-LYTE MT G-TX
Image: Oneness Boutique
Inspired by the mountains and designed for the streets, the GEL-LYTE MT model features the design elements that made the GEL-LYTE series popular and adds GORE-TEX elements to make this the ultimate shoes for all conditions. The waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX material rounds out the design creating an ideal shoe to carry you through all seasons.
Converse x GORE-TEX Chuck 70
Image: FitMySole
Converse took the iconic Chuck 70 and incorporated GORE-TEX throughout the shoes while maintaining the classic silhouette that made the Chuck Taylor what it is today. The upper is constructed with a water-repellent GORE-TEX canvas and it sits on a cushioned OrthoLite insole. The timeless Chuck Taylor silhouette provides the vintage feel while the addition of the technological elements makes it the perfect sneaker for all weather conditions.
New Balance 247 GTX
Image: Packer Shoes
When New Balance introduced the 247 silhouette last year, it was an instant hit with iconic New Balance elements throughout a new, modern design. The 247 has now become winter friendly with the incorporation with GORE-TEX material throughout the upper so the wintry elements can be kept at bay, making it the go-to sneaker for everything from busy workday commutes to laid-back weekends.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Shield
Image: Scrooge UK
When Nike decides to make one of it’s best running silhouettes for wet conditions, it becomes an instant hit. The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Shield features a water-repellent upper with an outsole that provides optimal grip on wet surfaces, making this the ideal sneaker for those looking a water-resistant shoe for running or casual wear.
PUMA AVID Repellent
Image: Undefeated
PUMA has been making a lot of noise in 2018 with the re-launch of their basketball line and trendy silhouettes such as the Thunder collection. For those looking for a sleep and weather-resistant design, PUMA offers the AVID Repellent as it features a one-piece knitted upper with a water repellent finish that will help protect you from the elements.
Vans Sk8-Hi MTE
Image: Footshop
The Vans Sk8-Hi is one of the most legendary Vans sneakers of all-time and the MTE version has been designed with the elements in mind. Premium weather-resistant leather uppers, warm textile linings and a heat retention layer between the sock liner and outsole will keep your feet warm and dry, regardless of the weather.
Featured image: Asics Tiger Canada
When news broke in late October 2018 of Under Armour stocks soaring to its biggest gain since October 2008, it was no surprise to those who have been paying attention to the evolution that the brand has been undergoing throughout the ten year period. From the beginning, they have taken a long-term approach towards revolutionizing the brand from a strictly performance-centric brand to one that is now excelling in the lifestyle realm with its versatile products.
The evolution of the Under Armour apparel line has been fascinating to see, as they continue to make the compression gear and athletic wear that everyone associates them with but they have definitely noticed the industry trends and have tailored their products to fit the consumers’ desires in recent years. With the popularity of tracksuits and jogging suits, Under Armour has one of the most underrated collections currently on the market with their Unstoppable / MOVE set which combines everything you’d want in a jogging suit with the technological integration of athletic materials.
Image: Under Armour
Not only is Under Armour catering to the lifestyle apparel market with their new designs, but they are also catering to athletes in new ways in addition to their performance gear. Not only are they targetting athletes during the game with their performance gear, but they found an innovative way to target athletes after the game with their Athlete Recovery collection. The collection features tracksuits, sleepwear and even bedding, providing athletes with a specially designed collection for the ultimate recovery experience.
Although the apparel collection is an aspect Under Armour has developed tremendously, the biggest splash they have made in recent years has to be the advancements in their footwear products. They have developed an amazing cushioning technology called the UA HOVR that have been incorporated into everything from lifestyle to running and basketball performance shoes. Under Armour likes to say that “Gravity holds you down, UA HOVR lifts you up” and that is something that people who have tried the cushioning technology will attest to.
Image: Under Armour
In addition to the development and integration of the UA HOVR technology, another way Under Armour has taken the spotlight is with their strategic partnerships and collaborative projects. They have always had partnerships with prominent athletes but they have made the news thanks to their recent partnerships with notable and influential individuals such as Stephen Curry, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, A$AP Rocky and most recently, Joel Embiid.
This year has shown that Under Armour has taken a giant step forward and that they are raising the bar in the footwear and apparel industries. They are making their presence known and the competition has been forced to take notice and recognize the evolution of Under Armour.
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Float through your city. Shop the new #UAHOVR Phantom this Thursday. #WEWILL
Featured image: Instagram/ @underarmour
What do you think of the brand’s new strategy? Let us know in the comment section.
With the sneaker community constantly growing in Toronto, it’s common to see some of the mainstays of the local communities get overshadowed by up-and-coming social media influencers. Toronto is home to many of Canada’s top sneakerheads and it’s amazing to see some of these individuals grow into influential figures with a strong social media following.
If you are from Toronto and a member of the sneaker community, Sean Go is a name that you may be familiar with. He is a well-known photographer and well-respected YouTuber who is known for his in-depth sneaker reviews and quality photos. His knowledge of technical details and product history are a few of the reasons that people love his work and his following will only continue to grow as he consistently produces amazing content that is suitable for sneakerheads of all levels.
We sat down with Sean and asked him a few questions about himself:
When did the sneaker craze start for you?
My exposure to sneakers started in the late 90s when I got handed down a pair of the original Air Jordan 12s. However, the “craze” of buying sneakers at an obsessive rate didn’t start until the mid-2000s when I started earning my own money. I discovered numerous Internet sneaker forums like Niketalk and ISS which introduced me to a worldwide community of likewise sneaker aficionados where we would discuss old and new releases, and give us an outlet to buy, sell and trade our shoes!
Were you always into photography and videography before sneakers?
I’ve always had an interest in photography since I was young, and I’d be seen playing around with those wind-up disposable cameras. That interest really was taken to another level though when my sister bought her first DSLR camera, which I would eventually end up taking from her. Ever since then, I’ve self-taught and improved my own skills and merged my passions of photography and sneakers together. As for videography, I still consider myself a beginner in this space as I’ve only started dabbling in it for a couple years now with the creation of my YouTube channel.
What led to you starting your YouTube channel?
Sneakers and photography have always been two things I’ve proudly been passionate about, but I’ve always had an interest to explore other avenues to be creative. A natural progression from taking sneaker photos was doing something video related, and I finally decided in 2016 to overcome my fear and awkwardness of speaking in front of a camera and just go for it. I wanted to do something that I, as a fan of sneakers, would want to watch, so I decided that providing no-frills, objective sneaker reviews would address a segment in the “Shoe-tube” market that was at the time, still largely untapped.
How were you able to grow your social media following?
It’s been a long but steady trend of growth. I started my Instagram with no intention of ever having a significant following, but as I began posting more content related to my shoes, that following sort of just organically happened over the years. The creation of my YouTube channel also helped to kick-start my following to another level, and I feel people can relate to me more as they can see who I am and actually identify me as a person rather than just a faceless account that posts sneaker content.
What are three tips you can give upcoming photographers and YouTubers?
- Find out how you can carve out your own niche, and not just a replica of existing artists and creators.
- Do it for the right reasons – be sure you have a true passion for it, and aren’t simply doing it for fame, product, money, etc.
- Practice doesn’t make perfect, but it does make things better. Keep working but never be satisfied with where you are.
All Images: Sean Go
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