Shop Swag
Every day Fernie receives visitors from around the world. Gone are the days when town was only busy in winter and these days, we don't really have downtime. This is wonderful for the local folk who rely on visitors and it means that businesses have the opportunity to thrive year-round. If you take a walk down 2nd Ave, especially on the weekend, you will see many a posse making their way up and down, stopping by all of the one-of-a-kind stores we’re known for.
I often hear that people are surprised by the selection. It's a wonderfully unique collective of originality and inspiration. Yes, we have many gear stores to supply sports enthusiasts with their hearts’ desires, but we also have little surprises at every corner that will fulfil your Fernie swag dreams. If you are looking for the perfect memento from your time here, you'll find quality, locally made items that you’ll be proud to own or even better, share with your family and friends. Oh, AND shop swag! I looove a good logo tee from a board (snowboard, skateboard surfboard - I'm not picky) store from a distant land.
Shop swag is definitely getting more sought-after, and these days most stores in town have some kind of product with their logo on it. Here’s how you can support local, look good and keep your friends at home happy.
If you know of the Legend of the Griz, then you have likely seen a picture of him. Did you know that this image was initially designed by the folk at Ski Base? Yep, they are the original creator of the well-known Griz logo, and when you walk into the store, you will see a wall of t-shirts dedicated to the great bear/man who delivers the legendary snow to Fernie. He's on tees, hoodies, mid-layers, hats - just about everything. If the Griz isn't the perfect Fernie memorabilia, then I don't know what is.
This year Edge of the World celebrated its 20th-anniversary, and over the years, they've had 22 different logos. How do I know that? I counted them. They printed a commemorative t-shirt with all 22 logos. It's a very cool idea and a great way to remember this Fernie institution. They also have a range of tees and hats with their current logo.
Commit Snow & Skate has a brand-new line of hoodies and t-shirts. The artwork was designed by Josh Lloyd and is very cool. I love how Commit always takes a step outside the box; it really shows. They also have Commit logo hoodies, hats, t-shirts and even technical streetwear tees that are designed for all climates. Perfect for our extreme mountain town.
It was fun chatting with the guys in Straightline and to hear a little more about what their best-selling shop swag is. I wonder if you can guess... it's their socks! Yep, they sell hundreds of pairs ever year. I love that! They also have hats, biking jerseys and even t-shirts with a local Fernie design that incorporates all that we love.
I love a good basic block letter logo, and if you're the same, Boardstiff has you covered. They also have a good range of t-shirts and hoodies with a few different designs, from their current logo, to a Three Sisters hoodie that was originally designed by their Rip Curl rep.
When it comes to local clothing, Giv'er Shirt Works is a must. Since 2003, Giv'er has been delivering the most extensive range of Fernie swag in town. With in-house design and screen printing, you will find every wall is covered in hoodies, tees, hats and toques celebrating this wonderful little town of ours. This is the place when looking for Fernie branded gear.
Every now and then, a product comes along, and it feels like everyone in town owns it, and the Coal Town trucker hat is just that. The ladies at Coal Town know what looks good, and they've done a brilliant job at keeping it simple but making it work. The hat is very worthy of its 'most worn' title! Psst, I heard that they are working on launching a collection of new Coal Town sweatshirts and t-shirts. I can't wait to see what they come out with - I'll keep you updated!
I was pleasantly surprised when I walked into No. 3 Boutique to see how many different Fernie/mountain swag they have. From fridge magnets, flasks, bottle openers, coffee and wine cups, caps, beanies, candles, luggage chains, key chains, beer cozies, tees, hoodies – I guarantee that they have the perfect little keepsake for you. I love the keychain that says, 'Take me to the mountains!' I feel like that's a memo you should abide by.
One last mention, they're not on 2nd Ave, but I feel like I can't write this column without mentioning Fernie Alpine Resort and Fernie Brewing Company. Both companies will have your bags filled up with iconic swag that will help you remember the good times you had, and the good beer you enjoyed!
**Please note a few of these great local businesses are offering online shopping during COVID-19.