The Canadian team uniforms for this summer’s Pan Am and Parapan Am Games will pay homage to the past.
Track star Jessica Zelinka and champion para-swimmer Benoit Huot were among the athletes modelling the new collection unveiled by Hudson’s Bay Co. on Wednesday in Toronto, the host city for the Games.
The retailer was inspired by the 50-year anniversary of the Canadian flag with the Maple Leaf used as a starting point for the graphics throughout the line.
The 22-piece collection is red and white accented with grey, black and gold.
The line bears similarities to classic varsity sport, while also paying homage to the athleisure trend with garments suitable for both physical activity and everyday casual wear.
The “Canada” wordmark in a rounded font is prominently displayed on T-shirts, as well as vertically on half-zip jackets and pant legs.
Zip-up red jackets and windbreakers feature the Maple Leaf with stripes on the sleeves.
A red-and-white fringed rally scarf includes the words “En Garde” (on guard) in bold white block lettering.
With the exception of a few items, the clothing the athletes will wear will all be produced in Canada. The replica garments for consumers will be manufactured offshore.
The clothing, priced from $30 to $140, is now available in Hudson’s Bay stores and online.
The retailer has also designed two limited-edition collections that will be carried in select stores beginning June 1.
Canada is fielding its largest-ever Pan Am Games team of 700 athletes and has set a goal of finishing second in the medals — behind the U.S. — with 160.
Some 6,600 athletes from 41 countries will compete in 36 Pan Am sports — including 28 Olympic sports — plus 15 Parapan Am sports.
Toronto and the surrounding area will play host to the Pan Ams from July 10-26.
The Aug. 7-14 Parapan Am Games open in exactly 100 days.
