Lululemon, the official outfitter for Team Canada, has revealed the athlete kits for the upcoming Olympics and Paralympics in Milan Cortina. The kits feature a variety of innovative and inclusive designs, layering techniques, and insulation to cater to the diverse needs of Canadian athletes. CEO Calvin McDonald emphasized the focus on functionality and style derived from insights gathered from collaborating with top athletes like Will Dandjinou, Piper Gilles, Cassie Sharpe, and Natalie Wilkie over a two-year period.
Notable design elements in the kits include a bright red podium jacket with a topographical map of Canada underneath, adaptive footwear, seated-fit styles, abrasion-resistant fabrics, braille details, and magnetic zippers. The garments are engineered to provide thermoregulation and protection against varying temperatures and conditions athletes may encounter during the Games.
The kits showcase Canadian pride through bold Maple Leaf designs, topographic map prints, and a color palette inspired by the country’s landscapes. Performance tailoring meets modern silhouettes, incorporating fabrics like merino wool, jacquard, and translucent glyde to elevate the overall look of the Olympic and Paralympic uniforms.
The opening ceremony attire features an oversized Maple Leaf design on a maroon quilted vest layered over a jacket. According to design director Catherine Lebrun, this is the largest scale representation of the Maple Leaf ever created by Lululemon. Canadian Olympic Committee CEO David Shoemaker praised Lululemon for prioritizing the needs of athletes in the design process, ensuring that the team kit is both stylish and functional.
The athlete kits will be showcased during various Olympic and Paralympic events, including the opening and closing ceremonies, medal ceremonies, media appearances, and while traveling. Additionally, a range of fan gear, such as scarves, bags, and beanies, will be available for supporters looking to display their patriotism. The collection will be launched online and in select stores in Canada and Milan ahead of the Games, with more apparel and accessories to follow as the event dates approach.