Outdoor Retailer Fall 2011
Words/Tradeshow Images Judith Ecochard
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| Hybridge on Adult Mannequins |
A highly regarded outerwear brand--- Canada Goose has gained respect (and high-end retail outlets) in southern climes too---here in the lower 48.
We really noticed authentic C.G jackets this winter---- the circular insignias on fantastically constructed outer wear pieces…
Not attiring swaths of Big Apple humans like North Face...but on a visible few-that makes sense for a premium label.
AND a highly technically performing one too. Canada Goose apparel can protect against the elements atop Mt. Everest--- as easy as stylishly maneuvering through rush hour in urban locales.
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| Original Expedition |
We had a flashback about the terrific Canada Goose assortment of new apparel when we went to a Fall 2011 editorial presentation last week ---of a major, major globally distributed lifestyle brand---where the designer who we admire on so many levels ---was there---and answered our queries about his collection.
No way ---spoke our inner dialogue-in another bone chilling winter --will anyone--- besides maybe the chauffeured around town few, buy outerwear made from 100% untreated natural fibers like wool---beyond a few weeks in September unless they live in Miami. No matter how fashionable.
Fabrics this designer (his team) used extensively for these outerwear items.
Especially when there are beyond fashionable and rugged, hardcore handsome options, (all made in Canada)---like every piece we saw (WANT, WANT) at Canada Goose’s OR clean, exhibit space---
Made from cutting edge, gee whiz fabrics fused with the acclaimed proprietary blend of insulating Hutterite down, plus.
WHAT’s NEW:
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| NICE-Buttonhole inside flap ensures weather proof |
Fresh colors for the new season…on the core collection-like an attractive shade ---Maize…a mustard-y wheat shade that can work as a neutral (meaning it won’t date in a year like some of the other bold tones we saw at other labels this season…IMHO).
And a bright tea green---here in the Expedition…
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| Side arm pocket-id /ski pass |
Berry----.
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| Split hood |
A new collaboration with Laurie Skreslet, the first Canadian to scale Mt. Everest (1982).
Field-tested for extreme conditions, the new jackets are available in “Summit Pink” (yup, that was by HIS request, btw).
We thought the shape and lines of the jackets, both the hard core Skreslet parka ($895) and the stylish Mountaineer $695)---terrific…but what more than justifies the price tag are the textiles and composition details…antiderm Nylon ripstop shell for abrasion resistance par excellence, 750 fill power Hutterite duck down insulation, additional ventilation in the forearms, a longer back (helpful for pack positioning in case one is hauling a 52 lb backpack as well as one’s iPad)---fully seamed seals for 100% waterproof, a four-way adjustable hood with a bracing wire for high wind conditions (we so wish we had this feature this winter----),
---A double outer storm flap over the center zip secured with a single Velcro® inner storm flap with a fleece lined chin guard (a must), wide sleeve cuffs with Velcro® closures (handy-can roll them up)….
...3M reflective tape strips and two Napoleon chest pockets, zipped up with the best-YKK® zipper closures that make these compartments 100% waterproof.
No stinting.
And there are now women’s versions of the claim to fame Expedition jacket- that lucky for Canada Goose, were on display---and not in our size. HA HA. But the same bells and whistles as the men's---
We really appreciated the two heat warming pack slots on either side, plenty of inner compartments---including space for gloves/hats, and the snow skirt…a must have to keep the fluffy stuff out--- for snowy mountain sliders during rigorous winter hikes/snowboarding/back country skiing etc.
The debut of the new Hybridge Lite assortment---very chic take on Canada Goose’s smart MO of strategically placing down insulation (gender specific, proprietary THERMAL MAPPING TECHNOLOGY)----where one needs it for the ultimate warmth without the bulk.
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| Soversatile---could run in this |
With soft shell like flexibility, the new jackets and vests can be worn on their own or as mid layers--- and features serious 800 fill power Hutterite white duck down and Polartec Powerstretch.
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| Slightly long back-benefit for pack haulers/bikers |
The regular Hybridge bunch gets a reboot with the cutting edge PolarTec ® Power Shield® Pro with wicking properties (a hard core buzzed about fabric)--- and all pieces are treated with a DWR finish. (meaning highly water-resistant).
AND---a new travel collection…for the ladies (YES)…with a Thompson Jacket with high fleece collar and very handy internal shoulder straps so one can wear this breathable waterproof laminated piece draped on the shoulders when indoors…
And the car length, 650 fill Palliser coat with flattering princess seams shaping the waterproof shell.
The Artic Down Program---
---we admired (coveted) the Montebello (and for women, the Montebello CG 55)--- in pearl white, a 650-fill outerwear item with handsome military styling (buttons, fleece lined flap pockets).
Loro Piana ---the uber high-end Italian cashmere /wool purveyor has an amazing waterproof Storm System® finish that it applies on 100% percent virgin wool---think about that---and Canada Goose is the first company in North America to use this fabric…on outerwear with the 675 fill power white goose down and strategically placed seams.
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| Metal ring-Livigno Parka-in black too |
The men’s Como Parker (with a two way adjustable hood-$1295)---with serious rib knit cuffs and the new Canada Goose metal logo…
And the Aosta Bomber ($995)…are part of this new premium sub-collection.
ADDED PLUS:
Mini-me kid’s versions---including reversible vests with matching pants…
AND accessories… a super thick soft merino wool scarf, shearling bomber...
A cozy weather resistant PBI Aviator Hat (Artic –Tech fabric)===with a portion of the proceeds earmarked for Polar Bear International.
FYI: Canada Goose has strict policies on a host of corporate practices that they post online…including a strict policy against purchasing down obtained from live plucking.
AND: For those desperately dumb enough to even think about buying always inferior counterfeits---health as well as ethical/legal reasons not to---- are provided also.
A versatile option---by itself or over base layers...
A versatile option---by itself or over base layers...
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| Thumb holes ensure a fit |
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| Multi-Velcro® tabs secures hoods |
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