Father’s Day is fast approaching, and it’s time to think of finding the perfect gift for dad. But some dads are notoriously hard to shop for, especially the ones who seem to have it all.
Why not get dad something truly Canadian this Father’s Day?
9 Canadian brands that cater to every type of dad
From personal care to clothing and sweets, these nine Canadian brands have the perfect gift for every type of dad.
For the sustainable fashion-forward dad: Ecologyst
If dad could use a new sustainable sweater, shirt, or cozy pair of pants, check out Victoria-born Ecologyst. Clothes are made with sustainable materials—think certified organic cotton and Merino wool—right here in Canada.
This Canadian company has a direct-to-consumer model designed to cut down on costs and make the entire process a little more sustainable. Ecologyst wants to prove that “planet and profits can coexist.” They do that by implementing a less wasteful production method, creating their clothes close to home, and selling them direct to you.
For the hair-conscious dad: Everist
Does dad have luscious locks? Toronto-based Everist makes a waterless haircare combination that is both eco-friendly and perfect for travellers (when travelling becomes a thing again!). It’s basically a shampoo and conditioner concentrate that you activate when combined with a little water.
This is a great Father’s Day gift for dads who are conscious about what’s in their personal care products (Everist uses clean ingredients), wants to avoid wasteful packaging (the only thing leftover is the cap, and you can return it), and also really wants great hair.
For dads that love the heat: Heartbeat Hot Sauce
Heartbeat Hot Sauce is the perfect example of how a hobby can turn into a full-fledged business. This Thunder Bay company started out with a love for making homemade hot sauce and turned it into a beloved Canadian business.
Pick your dad up one of their six sauces (doesn’t Pineapple Habanero sound delicious?) at retail locations across the country, or right from their online store. While you’re there, why not throw in a hot sauce merch like a retro T-shirt hat or tote bag.
For dads with a sweet tooth: Craig’s Cookies
Craig first learned to bake with his mom back in Newfoundland. As owner of Craig’s Cookies, he has over 100 flavours of delicious treats to choose from, including unique flavours like Apple Pie, Cherry Blasters, Pop Tart, even Terry’s Chocolate Orange.
If dad has a bit of a sweet tooth and is hard to shop for, a pack of cookies could be the answer. This Toronto-based business will make your dad a gift box full of cookies and ship it pretty much anywhere in Canada. So, even if you can’t be there in person on Father’s Day, you can still show dad how sweet you think he is!
For the dad who appreciates a good pair of underwear: SAXX
SAXX Underwear wants your dad to have better underwear. Maybe not your dad specifically, but all men in general. Which, let’s face it, includes dads. Founded in Vancouver in 2006, SAXX have expanded their brand beyond underwear to include men’s bottoms, tops, and socks. So, if buying underwear for your dad doesn’t top your must-do list, you have an easy out.
Check out their Father’s Day gift guide for their colourful and cheeky collection of items. The best part is, even if you live across the country, you can order online and have it shipped directly.
For the outdoorsy dad: MEC
MEC has been a beloved Canadian outdoor brand since 1971. They sell great outdoor equipment (like relaxing hammocks and cozing sleeping bags) to stellar clothing for adventure-loving fathers (like Merino wool-base layers and windbreaker jackets).
If your dad’s idea of a perfect vacation is an off-the-grid camping trip or a nature-filled hike through the hoodoos in Drumheller, there’s definitely something at MEC for them.
For the bearded dad: Baarden
Dads with beards tend to take their facial hair seriously, so why not support their routine? Toronto brand Baarden makes small-batch beard care products that are created in their workshop and shipped to beard-lovers across Canada.
Baarden’s product selection includes beard balm, wash, butter, oil, and accessories—basically anything dad needs to maintain his valued facial hair. Baarden uses locally sourced ingredients without toxic components, and their packaging is recyclable.
For the dad who likes to workout: Agu Athletics
If your dad likes to hit the gym in style, then Calgary-grown Agu Athletics might just have the perfect Father’s Day gift. They aim to help you look good while building good fitness habits.
Their high-quality products for men include Premium Athletic Tee along with their Fearless Dual Training Shorts. They also have hip bands for glute exercises.
For the dad who appreciates a good cup o’ Joe: Kicking Horse Coffee
Who doesn’t love a good, quality cup of coffee? Kicking Horse Coffee has been delivering their delicious brew to Canadians for over 25 years. If your dad is a java fan, then freshly roasted beans from this famous Invermere brand might be perfect to wake up to this Father’s Day.
While their coffee is available in many Canadian retail stores, you can also order it online, along with a branded hat and travel mug!
Finding the perfect gift for dad
All dads are different—some are hard to shop for while others have clear interests you can easily accommodate. But you don’t have to go big this Father’s Day. The best gifts are thoughtful, personal, and from the heart. And it doesn’t hurt to support Canadian entrepreneurs at the same time.
If you have a business idea that would make the perfect gift for fathers, Ownr can help you get started on your entrepreneurial journey!
This article offers general information only, is current as of the date of publication, and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While the information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by RBC Ventures Inc. or its affiliates.