As trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. continue to rise, the call to “Buy Canadian” is growing louder across industries—including outdoor gear. While Canadian consumers have long faced competition from American brands, our own homegrown companies are proving that quality and innovation thrive north of the border. For outdoor lovers, there’s no better time to support Canadian brands that design and manufacture world-class gear built for our rugged landscapes.
Here are some of the best Canadian outdoor brands, some of which are even manufactured in Canada, although not all.
Outdoor Apparel & Gear
Arc’teryx
Founded in North Vancouver in 1989, Arc’teryx is a global leader in high-performance outdoor apparel. While some production has moved overseas, their packs and specialized gear are still made in Canada. The brand continues to set the standard for innovation and quality.
Canada Goose
Since 1957, Canada Goose has been crafting premium outerwear built for extreme cold. Headquartered in Toronto, the brand remains committed to quality craftsmanship, sustainability, and domestic production.
Tilley
Originally designed for Ontario cottage-goers, Tilley hats have become a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. While much of its production has moved overseas, some classic styles are still made in Canada.
Taiga Works
Vancouver-based Taiga Works is one of the few outdoor brands that still manufactures much of its gear in Canada. Their down parkas, fleece, and rain gear are built for Canadian climates.
Westcomb
This Vancouver-based brand produces high-performance outdoor apparel, keeping its entire design-to-production process local. Westcomb’s focus on craftsmanship and sustainability ensures top-tier gear.
Chlorophylle
Founded in 1980, this Quebec-based brand specializes in sustainable outdoor apparel designed for Canadian conditions. Their jackets, fleece, and winter gear are built to last.
Stanfield’s
Founded in 1856, this Nova Scotia-based brand is best known for durable base layers made from Merino wool, microfibre, and fleece. Despite ownership changes, some production remains in Canada.
Canuk
A Quebec-based outdoor apparel company focusing on winter clothing and technical outerwear.
Big Bill
A Canadian brand specializing in workwear and durable outdoor apparel.
Rough Duck/Tough Duck
Manufactures rugged workwear and outdoor apparel designed for harsh conditions.
Integral Tactical
A Hamilton-based company producing outdoor clothing, sleeping bags, and packs.
Norda
A Quebec-based trail running shoe company, designed in Canada but manufactured overseas.
Camping & Backpacking Gear
J.B. Fields
Since 1877, this Canadian brand has been making high-quality socks for adventurers, with production still based in Canada.
Hotcore Products
A Canadian-owned brand offering tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and tarps for outdoor enthusiasts.
Durston Gear
Designed in the Canadian Rockies, Durston Gear specializes in ultralight tents and backpacks engineered for serious backpackers.
Northern Ultralight
This company produces ultralight backpacks and accessories for minimalist adventurers.
Adotec Gear
A Woodstock-based ultralight gear company, particularly known for bear bags.
Lite Outdoors
Specializes in ultralight tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags for weight-conscious backpackers.
Little Shop of Hammocks
A Canadian company making custom ultralight backpacking quilts and hammocks.
Whiskyjack Outdoor
A Grimsby-based brand specializing in winter camping gear.
For backcountry enthusiasts, Harvest Foodworks provides hearty, nutritious freeze-dried meals made in Ontario.
Canoes, Kayaks & Marine Gear
Delta Kayaks
A Canadian-owned and made brand specializing in thermoformed plastic kayaks.
Nova Craft Canoe
Manufacturing canoes in London, Ontario, since 1970, this brand is known for durable, high-quality designs.
Swift Canoe & Kayak
A Canadian company producing lightweight composite canoes and kayaks, with production in Ontario.
Esquif Canoes
A Quebec-based manufacturer specializing in high-quality T-Formex canoes.
Kisseynew Canoe Company
Based in North Saskatchewan, this brand produces handcrafted canoes for rugged expeditions.
H2O Canoes
Manufacturing in Tavistock, Ontario, H2O Canoes specializes in lightweight, performance-driven designs.
Salus Marine Wear
A Canadian company producing high-quality PFDs (personal flotation devices) for water sports.
Outdoor Equipment & Accessories
Nanuk Cases
A Canadian manufacturer of durable protective cases, offering an alternative to Pelican cases.
Bowman Gear
A Markham-based brand specializing in packs and pouches for outdoor and tactical use.
Piactiv
A Canadian-made insect repellent brand known for its effectiveness against mosquitoes and ticks.
Canvas Tents & Bushcraft Gear
Capital Canvas
A Canadian company producing heavy-duty canvas tents for outdoor adventures and bushcraft.
Deluxe Wall Tents
Offers premium, long-lasting canvas tents built for extended use in rugged environments.
Arctic Trading
Provides high-quality canvas tents designed for extreme weather conditions.
Yukon Tents
Manufactures durable canvas tents for harsh Canadian outdoor conditions.
Esker Tents
Produces rugged canvas tents designed for bushcraft and winter camping.
Hoffman Outdoor Fabrics
A supplier of high-quality outdoor fabrics for DIY camping and outdoor gear projects.
Why Buying Canadian Matters
In an era where trade disputes and economic uncertainties loom large, supporting Canadian brands ensures that jobs stay in Canada, supply chains remain resilient, and quality remains uncompromised. For outdoor lovers, choosing Canadian-made gear is not just a patriotic decision—it’s a smart one. Next time you gear up for an adventure, consider the best that Canada has to offer before looking beyond our borders.
Where to Buy Canadian Outdoor Gear
Most dedicated hiking and outdoor gear stores in Canada are Canadian-owned and operated. While not everything these stores sell is Canadian, supporting them helps keep businesses thriving in Canada. Here are a few retailers to consider:
Altitude Sports
Based in Montreal, Altitude Sports is an online outdoor retailer with a dedicated section for Canadian-owned brands. Their partner site, The Last Hunt, offers discounted and clearance gear.
Valhalla Pure Outfitters
With 13 stores across British Columbia and a strong online presence, Valhalla Pure Outfitters is an independently owned retailer known for carrying high-quality outdoor brands.
SAIL
Headquartered in Quebec, SAIL operates 12 stores across Ontario and Quebec, selling hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure gear.
MEC (Mountain Equipment Company)
Originally a cooperative, MEC is headquartered in Vancouver with Canadian-based designers. However, since its 2020 sale to a U.S. investment firm, its ownership has changed. Still, it remains a go-to retailer for Canadian outdoor gear and has a good in-house brand. We know it’s not the same, but the company has invested a lot in Canada so we give it a pass.
Local Outdoor Stores
Most cities and outdoor towns have independent gear stores that are locally owned. Supporting them fosters community and ensures more money stays in Canada.
By choosing Canadian brands and retailers, adventurers can enjoy high-quality gear while strengthening local businesses and reducing dependence on foreign markets. Whether you’re shopping for apparel, footwear, or outdoor essentials, there are plenty of exceptional Canadian options to explore.
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