If you’re a Canadian, you know Roots. Simple as that. Who doesn’t remember the 1998 Olympics and those red hats became a national trend? I doubt those are still sold (although it would probably make a great retro item for hipsters that tire of skinny ties), but Roots still flourishes with their line of Roots Athletics, Roots Home, and Roots Genuine Leather. Shopping at Roots is a great way to embrace Canadiana, and we all know how much Calgary loves its Canadiana. Their logo is a beaver for crying out loud!

Despite the huge propensity for everything Canadian, until recently Calgary only had five Roots stores and they were all in malls or shopping centres. The company has upped the ante in Calgary, opening its first streetfront flagship store. This location is designed to draw attention to itself with gigantic green awnings, frequent events (including the recent Grand Opening party), and more beaver hoodies than you can comprehend.

At 2,600-square-feet, this is by far the biggest Roots in Calgary, and one of the biggest retail clothing stores in general. Located at 17th Avenue and 4th Street Southwest, it's also primed to extend the downtown shopping core northwards (the de facto Canadian manifest destiny). It just shows the kind of confidence that Roots has in the Calgary market, opening a mammoth sized flagship outside of the major commercial area in the midst of a heap of economic woes.

Then again, Roots isn't exactly Prada. Nothing at the store is going to break the bank and you're not going to go here looking for high fashion. Instead you'll be able to get comfortable but humble sweaters, pants, hats, bags, shirts, and toques that will help you survive the cold Calgary winter. - R.T.

399 17th Avenue SW
Calgary, Alberta
403-209-4037