Top 10 Affordable Canadian Athleisure Brands
Did you know? Over 40% of Canadians prefer comfort over fashion when it comes to everyday clothing choices. And for newcomers, one of the biggest challenges is adapting to the local lifestyle while sticking to a budget. Athleisure isn’t just a fleeting trend in Canada—it’s a staple that blends functionality and style, perfect for a country that values comfort in all aspects of life.
If you’re settling into your new Canadian home and finding yourself puzzled about where to find affordable yet stylish athleisure wear, you’re not alone.
From cozy layers for the unpredictable weather to versatile pieces that take you from yoga class to coffee runs, the right athleisure can make a huge difference in your daily routine. In this guide, we’ll look into the top 10 affordable Canadian athleisure brands that will help you look and feel your best without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
- Canada offers a wide range of affordable athleisure brands, from budget-friendly options like Joe Fresh to mid-range classics like Roots.
- Many Canadian athleisure brands, such as Tentree and RYU, strike a balance between quality and affordability.
- Canadian athleisure brands focus on creating versatile pieces that can transition from workout to casual wear.
- Several affordable Canadian athleisure brands, like Tentree and Frank And Oak, prioritize sustainability.
Understanding Athleisure in Canada
What exactly is athleisure? Simply put, it’s athletic apparel that’s designed for both exercise and everyday wear. Think yoga pants that look great at the grocery store or a stylish hoodie that works for both your morning jog and a casual coffee date.
Athleisure has gained immense popularity in Canada for several reasons:
- Versatility: Canadians love clothing that can keep up with their active lifestyles.
- Comfort: With long winters, comfortable layering pieces are a must.
- Casual work culture: Many Canadian workplaces embrace a more relaxed dress code.
For newcomers, embracing athleisure can be a practical way to build a versatile wardrobe that suits various aspects of Canadian life, from outdoor activities to casual social events.
Criteria for Selecting Affordable Canadian Athleisure Brands
When curating our list of top affordable Canadian athleisure brands, we considered several key factors:
- Affordability: Prices that won’t break the bank, especially for newcomers settling into a new country.
- Quality: Durable materials that can withstand regular wear and washing.
- Style: Trendy designs that align with Canadian fashion sensibilities.
- Availability: Brands that are easily accessible across Canada, either through physical stores or online shopping.
With these criteria in mind, let’s check out our top 10 picks for affordable Canadian athleisure brands.
Fun fact: Canada’s diverse climate has played a significant role in shaping its athleisure market. Brands often design their collections to accommodate everything from snowy winters in Toronto to rainy days in Vancouver, making Canadian athleisure some of the most versatile in the world.
Top 10 Affordable Canadian Athleisure Brands
1. Roots
Founded in 1973, Roots has become one of the iconic Canadian sports clothing brands known for its comfortable, high-quality athleisure wear.
Price range: $30 – $150 CAD
Signature items: Sweatpants, hoodies, and their famous “Salt and Pepper” sweats
Where to buy: Roots stores nationwide, major shopping malls, and online at roots.com
2. Joe Fresh
Launched in 2006 by Loblaw Companies, Joe Fresh offers affordable, stylish basics and athleisure wear.
Price range: $10 – $79 CAD
Signature items: Leggings, t-shirts, and activewear sets
Where to buy: Loblaws supermarkets, standalone Joe Fresh stores, and online at joefresh.com
Did you know? The color palette chosen by many Canadian athleisure brands often reflects the country’s natural landscapes. From the deep blues of lakes to the earthy tones of forests, these colors not only look great but also embody the Canadian spirit of outdoor living.
3. Lululemon
Founded in 1998 in Vancouver, Lululemon has become a global leader in premium yoga and athleisure wear. Lululemon has some of the best athletic apparels in Canada.
Price range: $58 – $200+ CAD
Signature items: Yoga pants, sports bras, and their iconic Align leggings
Where to buy: Lululemon stores, select yoga studios, and online at lululemon.com
4. RYU (Respect Your Universe)
Established in 2015, RYU focuses on urban athletic apparel that balances performance and style.
Price range: $40 – $150 CAD
Signature items: Training shorts, lightweight jackets, and gym bags
Where to buy: RYU stores in major cities and online at ryu.com
Reigning Champ
Founded in 2007, Reigning Champ is known for high-quality basics and athletic wear made in Canada.
Price range: $60 – $200 CAD
Signature items: Sweatshirts, joggers, and their signature midweight terry cloth items
Where to buy: Select sportswear stores and online at reigningchamp.com
6. Tentree
Started in 2012, Tentree combines eco-friendly practices with comfortable activewear and casual clothing.
Price range: $30 – $120 CAD
Signature items: Organic cotton t-shirts, hoodies, and leggings
Where to buy: Select outdoor retailers and online at tentree.ca
7. Kit and Ace
Brief history: Founded in 2014, Kit and Ace offers technical cashmere and innovative fabrics for athleisure wear.
Price range: $50 – $200 CAD
Signature items: Technical blazers, commuter pants, and “technical cashmere” tops
Where to buy: Kit and Ace stores in major cities and online at kitandace.com
8. Knix
Brief history: Launched in 2013, Knix focuses on comfortable, functional underwear and athleisure wear for women.
Price range: $20 – $100 CAD
Signature items: Leakproof underwear, wireless bras, and loungewear
Where to buy: Online at knix.ca and select pop-up locations
9. Frank And Oak
Established in 2012, Frank And Oak offers sustainable and stylish casual and athleisure wear.
Price range: $40 – $150 CAD
Signature items: Organic cotton t-shirts, recycled polyester activewear, and minimalist sneakers
Where to buy: Frank And Oak stores in major cities and online at frankandoak.com.
Check out alternative stores to Frank and Oak Brand you should try.
10. Lolë
Founded in 2002 in Montreal, Lolë creates yoga-inspired activewear and athleisure that combines fashion with function.
Price range: $45 – $180 CAD
Signature items: Yoga pants, versatile jackets, and travel-friendly pieces
Where to buy: Lolë stores, select sporting goods stores, and online at lolelife.com
Comparison of Brands
To help you make an informed decision, here’s a comparison table of our top 10 affordable Canadian athleisure brands:
| Brand | Price Range (CAD) | Style | Sizing Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roots | $30 – $150 | Classic Canadian | XS – XXL |
| Joe Fresh | $10 – $79 | Trendy basics | XS – 3X |
| Lululemon | $58 – $200+ | Premium athletic | 0 – 20 |
| RYU | $40 – $150 | Urban athletic | XS – XL |
| Reigning Champ | $60 – $200 | Minimalist athletic | XS – XXL |
| Tentree | $30 – $120 | Eco-friendly casual | XS – XXL |
| Kit and Ace | $50 – $200 | Technical luxury | 0 – 14 |
| Knix | $20 – $100 | Comfortable intimates | XS – XXXL+ |
| Frank And Oak | $40 – $150 | Sustainable modern | XS – XL |
| Lolë | $45 – $180 | Yoga-inspired chic | XXS – XL |
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Based on aggregated customer feedback:
Overall satisfaction:
Most brands receive positive reviews, with Lululemon and Roots often praised for quality, while Joe Fresh is appreciated for its affordability.
Quality vs. price perceptions:
- Lululemon: High quality, but some find it overpriced
- Joe Fresh: Great value for money
- Roots: Good balance of quality and price
- Tentree: Appreciated for eco-friendly practices and reasonable pricing
Durability and performance feedback:
- Reigning Champ and Lululemon often receive high marks for durability
- RYU and Kit and Ace are praised for performance in athletic activities
- Knix gets positive feedback for comfort and functionality
Top Picks for Different Needs
Best for Yoga:
- Lululemon: Known for their high-quality yoga pants and breathable fabrics
- Lolë: Offers a great range of yoga-inspired pieces
Best for Running:
- RYU: Their lightweight jackets and shorts are perfect for runners
- Joe Fresh: Affordable running gear that doesn’t compromise on quality
Best for Loungewear:
- Roots: Their iconic sweatpants and hoodies are perfect for relaxing at home
- Knix: Comfortable loungewear that transitions easily from sleep to casual wear
Tips for Newcomers Shopping for Athleisure in Canada
Understanding Canadian sizes:
- Canadian sizes are similar to US sizes
- Some brands may use numeric sizing (e.g., 0, 2, 4) instead of letter sizing (S, M, L)
- When in doubt, check the brand’s size guide
Where to find the best deals:
- Sign up for brand newsletters to get notified of sales
- Shop during major sale events like Boxing Day (December 26) and Black Friday
- Check outlet malls for discounted items from brands like Roots and Lululemon
Seasonal considerations:
- Invest in layering pieces for versatility throughout the year
- Look for sales on winter gear during spring and summer months
- Don’t forget to include some waterproof options for rainy seasons
Conclusion
Canada’s athleisure market offers a wide range of affordable options for newcomers looking to build a versatile, comfortable wardrobe. From the classic Canadian style of Roots to the eco-friendly offerings of Tentree, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Remember, investing in quality athleisure pieces can be a smart move as you settle into your new Canadian lifestyle. These versatile items will serve you well, whether you’re exploring your new city, hitting the gym, or just relaxing at home.
We encourage you to explore these affordable Canadian athleisure brands and find the perfect fit for your needs and style. Welcome to Canada, and happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Canadian Athleisure Brands
Are these brands available across all provinces in Canada?
Most of these brands have a nationwide presence, either through physical stores or online shopping. However, availability may vary in smaller towns or remote areas.
Do these brands offer international shipping for friends back home?
Many of these brands, including Lululemon, Roots, and Frank And Oak, offer international shipping. Check each brand’s website for specific shipping policies.
Are there any loyalty programs for these athleisure brands?
Yes, several brands like Roots, Lululemon, and Joe Fresh offer loyalty programs that can help you save money on future purchases.
How do Canadian athleisure sizes compare to European or Asian sizes?
Canadian sizes are generally similar to US sizes. For European or Asian conversions, always check the brand’s specific size guide.
Are there any Canadian athleisure brands that specialize in plus sizes?
While many of these brands offer extended sizing, Joe Fresh and Knix are known for their inclusive size ranges.
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