BC Business
Weather B.C. showers with local rain gear that looks urbane without sacrificing performance
DRY DENIM In 2013, Vancouver jeans maker Gary Lenett partnered with performance fabric expert Abid Hafeez to form Pimlico Performance Apparel, producing denim clothing that combines fashion with function. The company’s new Duer Weatherproof Denim jeans incorporate a wind- and waterproof membrane along with stretch, temperature-regulation and odourneutralization features, plus a reflective cuff for cyclists. At the Gastown store and online, $199
URBAN INTELLIGENCE Baro Drywear was founded by a couple of long-time friends, Tyler Quarles and Mike Cerka, originally from North Vancouver’s Deep Cove. When their lifestyle became more urban, they created Baro to offer coats and jackets for men and women that use performance-wear technology and vegan, sustainable materials but look at home in the city. New this spring is the men’s Lowry lightweight jacket. Online and at retailers in Vancouver, Seattle, Portland and Japan; $118-$398
GIMME SHELTER Born and bred in Vancouver, pals Duncan Gillespie and Bryan Pudney know rain, so in 2014 they launched Westerly Goods to produce umbrellas that are both stylish and durable: the latest feature classic stripes inspired by the beach brollies of Italy’s Amalfi coast. Westerly umbrellas are lightweight, and the fibreglass-reinforced frames flex to absorb wind or impact. Online and in shops in Canada, the U.S., Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore; $45-$99
PUDDLE JUMPERS Vancouver’s Vessi Footwear, founded by Mikaella Go, Andy Wang and Tony Yu, is making a splashliterally. Its lightweight shoes, which look like sneakers, are completely waterproof, thanks to Flash Knit fabric that lets air in but keeps moisture out. A Dual Climate Dyma-tex layer provides micro-air pockets for cosy feet in cold weather and cool ones when it’s hot. Vessi Footwear for men and women is available in three styles and various colours. Online, $135-$150
UNDERCOVER Halfmoon Bay residents Tanya and Todd Listwinpurchased women’s clothing brand Mia Melon in 2011 and added weatherproof fashion jackets. By 2014, those represented more than half of their sales, and Sweet Clothing Distribution had found its niche: coats, jackets and hoodies made from fabrics like cotton, rayon and wool with a weatherproof coating. Some also have a waterproof, windproof thermal membrane. A men’s line, One Man Outerwear, was introduced in 2015, and the Mia Melon flagship store opened in Vancouver’s Gastown last August. At retailers throughout North America and online, $169-$299