Canada boasts a rich fashion market, with many brands offering high-quality clothing and footwear for children. Canadian manufacturers combine innovative design with functionality, often emphasizing sustainability and the use of natural materials. Below is a ranking of the top 10 Canadian manufacturers of clothing and footwear for children, along with extensive descriptions of each brand.
1. Roots Kids
Roots is an iconic Canadian brand founded in 1973 in Toronto by Michael Budman and Donald Green. Although best known for its adult clothing, the Roots Kids line offers high-quality clothing and accessories for children, combining comfort with distinctive Canadian style.
History and development
Roots began as a manufacturer of shoes inspired by the footwear worn by Canadian pioneers. Over the years, the brand has expanded its offering to include clothing and accessories, earning a reputation for quality and authenticity. Roots Kids brings these values to children's fashion, offering products for children of all ages.
Product offer
- Children's clothing (2-14 years): Hoodies, sweatpants, T-shirts, jackets.
- Accessories: Hats, backpacks, socks.
- Footwear: Sports shoes, moccasins.
Style and design
- Canadian style: Clothes inspired by Canadian nature and heritage.
- Comfort: Use of soft materials such as organic cotton and fleece.
- Build quality: Durable and functional products designed with an active lifestyle in mind.
Sustainable development
- Eco-friendly materials: Use of organic cotton and recycled materials.
- Ethical practices: Taking care of working conditions and respecting social standards in the supply chain.
- Social Initiatives: Support for local communities and educational programs.
Availability
- Retail Stores: Roots has over 100 stores in Canada.
- Online shopping: Full offer available on the official website.
2. Hatley
Hatley is a family business founded in 1986 in North Hatley, Quebec. The brand specializes in clothing for children and women, known for its unique designs and high-quality products.
History and development
Hatley's origins lie in a small gift boutique run by John and Alice Oldland. Inspired by art and nature, they began creating clothing with original prints. Today, Hatley is an international brand, valued for its creativity and quality.
Product offer
- Children's clothing (0-12 years): Pajamas, raincoats, dresses, T-shirts.
- Footwear: Wellies with attractive patterns.
- Accessories: Umbrellas, backpacks, hats.
Style and design
- Fun patterns: Animal and nature motifs, colorful prints.
- Functionality: Garments designed with comfort and durability in mind.
- Material quality: Use of organic cotton and other environmentally friendly fabrics.
Sustainable development
- Ecology: Use of ecological materials and recycled packaging.
- Ethical practices: Commitment to fair working conditions and social responsibility.
- Charitable Programs: Support for organizations that protect the environment and wildlife.
Availability
- Retail Stores: Hatley has stores in Canada, the US and Europe.
- Online shopping: Products available on the brand's website and in selected online stores.
3. Canada Goose Kids
Canada Goose is a renowned brand specializing in the production of high-quality outerwear. Founded in 1957 in Toronto, the brand is known for its down jackets and accessories designed for extreme conditions. Canada Goose Kids offers the same quality standards for the youngest.
History and development
Founded by Sam Tick as Metro Sportswear Ltd., the company initially produced workwear. Over time, under the direction of the founder's son-in-law, David Reiser, the brand focused on winter wear. Today, Canada Goose is synonymous with luxury winter wear worldwide.
Product offer
- Children's outerwear (2-16 years): Down jackets, parkas, jumpsuits.
- Accessories: Hats, scarves, gloves.
Style and design
- Functionality: Clothing designed for extreme weather conditions.
- Material quality: High-quality down, waterproof fabrics.
- Aesthetics: Classic, minimalist design with a distinctive logo.
Sustainable development
- Ethics: Commitment to responsible sourcing of raw materials, including down and fur.
- Environmental Initiatives: Programs aimed at protecting the Arctic environment.
- Social Responsibility: Support for Canada's Northern and Indigenous communities.
Availability
- Canada Goose Boutiques: Located in major cities around the world.
- Online Shopping: Available on the official website.
4. Double Double
Deux par Deux is a Montreal children's clothing brand founded in 1986 by Claude Diwan and Maurice Benisti. Known for its creative design and high quality, the brand offers clothing for children aged 0 to 14.
History and development
Deux par Deux quickly gained recognition for its unique design and attention to detail. The brand is present on international markets and is valued for its quality and innovation.
Product offer
- Baby and children's clothing: Dresses, jumpsuits, jackets, trousers.
- Outerwear: Winter coats, raincoats.
- Accessories: Hats, scarves, gloves.
Style and design
- Creativity: Vivid colors, original patterns, artistic prints.
- Functionality: Clothes designed with comfort and freedom of movement in mind.
- Quality: Carefully selected materials and precise finishes.
Sustainable development
- Ethical standards: Care for working conditions and fair trade practices.
- Ecology: Implementing sustainable production practices.
Availability
- Online Shopping: Official website and selected e-commerce platforms.
- Retail Stores: Products available in boutiques across Canada and abroad.
5. Mini Mioche
Mini Mioche is a Toronto-based brand specializing in organic clothing for babies and children. Founded in 2008 by Alysa McDonald, the brand places an emphasis on sustainability and local production.
History and development
Inspired by the lack of high-quality, sustainable children's clothing in the Canadian market, Alysa McDonald created Mini Mioche. All products are designed and manufactured in Canada, using certified organic cotton.
Product offer
- Baby and children's clothing (0-12 years): Bodysuits, T-shirts, pants, sweatshirts.
- Accessories: Hats, blankets, backpacks.
Style and design
- Minimalism: Simple cuts, subdued colors, unisex patterns.
- Comfort: Soft, breathable fabrics that are friendly to baby's skin.
- Quality: Durable materials and solid workmanship.
Sustainable development
- Local Manufacturing: All products are manufactured in Toronto.
- Ecology: Use of organic cotton and recycled packaging.
- Work Ethic: Fair employment conditions and support for local communities.
Availability
- Retail Stores: Toronto Boutiques.
- Online shopping: Full offer available on the official website.
6. Souris Mini
Souris Mini is a children's clothing brand founded in 1989 in Quebec City by Annie Bellavance. Known for its creative and original design, the brand offers clothes for children aged 0 to 10.
History and development
Annie Bellavance, a designer by trade, created Souris Mini to offer parents an alternative to mass-produced children's clothing. The brand quickly gained popularity in Canada and expanded internationally.
Product offer
- Baby and children's clothing: Dresses, pants, shirts, sweaters.
- Outerwear: Jackets, coats, winter suits.
- Accessories: Hats, scarves, bags.
Style and design
- Artistic designs: Unique prints and motifs inspired by art and nature.
- Colors: Vivid colors and bold combinations.
- Functionality: Clothes designed with active kids in mind.
Sustainable development
- Ethical practices: Care for working conditions and social responsibility.
- Ecology: Initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact.
Availability
- Retail Stores: Over 30 stores in Canada.
- Online shopping: Products available on the brand's website.
7. North Kinder
North Kinder is a brand from Edmonton, Alberta, specializing in eco-friendly clothing for babies and children. Founded by Becky Bossence, the brand combines modern design with social responsibility.
History and development
Becky Bossence created North Kinder out of a passion for fashion and sustainability. The brand focuses on local production and the use of ecological materials, creating products that are safe for children and the environment.
Product offer
- Baby and children's clothing (0-6 years): Bodysuits, leggings, sweatshirts, dresses.
- Accessories: Hats, blankets.
Style and design
- Minimalist style: Subdued colors, simple cuts.
- Comfort: Use of soft, natural fabrics.
- Unisex: Collections suitable for boys and girls.
Sustainable development
- Ecology: Use of organic cotton and recycled fabrics.
- Local Manufacturing: Products manufactured in Canada.
- Work Ethic: Support for local communities and fair employment practices.
Availability
- Online Shopping: Available on the official website and in selected online stores.
- Boutiques: Products available in select boutiques in Canada.
8. MEC (Mountain Equipment Company)
MEC is a Canadian cooperative founded in 1971, specializing in outdoor equipment and clothing. It offers a wide range of products for adults and children, encouraging an active lifestyle.
History and development
MEC was founded by a group of mountain enthusiasts who wanted to provide access to high-quality outdoor gear. Today, it is one of the largest organizations of its kind in Canada, with millions of members.
Product offer
- Children's clothing: Rain jackets, fleece sweatshirts, trekking pants.
- Footwear: Hiking boots, sandals, winter footwear.
- Equipment: Backpacks, sleeping bags, outdoor accessories.
Style and design
- Functionality: Clothing and footwear designed for outdoor activities.
- Durability: Use of durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Safety: Products that meet high quality standards.
Sustainable development
- Ecology: Implementing sustainable production practices and promoting environmental protection.
- Ethics: The cooperative operates on the principles of social responsibility and supports ecological initiatives.
Availability
- Physical Stores: MEC has stores in major Canadian cities.
- Online shopping: Full offer available on the website.
9. Peekaboo Beans
Peekaboo Beans is a children's clothing brand based in Richmond, British Columbia. Founded in 2006 by Traci Costa, the brand focuses on creating comfortable and durable clothing for children.
History and development
Traci Costa founded Peekaboo Beans with a mission to promote a healthy and active lifestyle for children. The brand offers products designed for casual play and comfort.
Product offer
- Children's clothing (0-10 years): T-shirts, pants, dresses, sweatshirts.
- Accessories: Hats, backpacks.
Style and design
- Comfort: Clothes without seams, tags or other elements that may cause discomfort.
- Functionality: Durable materials and practical cuts.
- Colors: Vivid colors and simple patterns.
Sustainable development
- Work ethic: Commitment to fair employment conditions and social responsibility.
- Ecology: Use of environmentally friendly materials.
Availability
- Online Shopping: Available on the official website and through independent consultants.
- Social programmes: Support for initiatives promoting healthy child development.
10. Joe Fresh
Joe Fresh is a fashion brand founded in 2006 by designer Joe Mimran. It offers clothing for the whole family, including a wide range of products for children, combining fashionable design with an affordable price.
History and development
Joe Fresh began as part of the Loblaw Companies Limited grocery chain, offering customers the convenience of shopping for clothing while doing their daily shopping. The brand quickly gained popularity and expanded its presence internationally.
Product offer
- Baby and children's clothing (0-12 years): Casual clothes, outerwear, swimwear.
- Footwear: Sports shoes, sandals, winter boots.
- Accessories: Hats, scarves, backpacks.
Style and design
- Fashionable designs: Current trends at affordable prices.
- Comfort: Use of soft materials and comfortable cuts.
- Diversity: Wide range of products for different styles and needs.
Sustainable development
- Ethical practices: Care for working conditions and compliance with social standards.
- Ecology: Initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact.
Availability
- Retail Stores: Products available in Loblaw stores and select locations.
- Online Shopping: Full range available on the Joe Fresh website.
Summary
Canadian manufacturers of children's clothing and footwear offer a wide range of products, combining high quality, innovative design and sustainability. From well-known brands such as Roots Kids and Canada Goose Kids, through creative lines such as Hatley and Deux par Deux, to eco-friendly brands such as Mini Mioche and North Kinder - every parent will find something suitable for their child. The common denominator is the care for comfort, style and social and ecological responsibility, which makes Canadian children's fashion increasingly valued in the world.
