With Halloween just around the corner and a chill hanging in the air, there’s no doubt we are in the thick of fall. From warm footwear and accessories to the newest tech and household items, read on for a list of must-have pickups this season.
Initially launched a decade-and-a-half ago, the original Fitzsimmon boot by Vancouver’s own Native Shoes was praised for its lightweight EVA construction, array of colours and affordable price point — and even took home the Red Dot Design Award for a unique contemporary take on the timeless hiking boot in 2011. Now in 2025, the model is reimagined again as the Venture.
Arguably the biggest upgrade is the addition of a hardwearing Vibram Ecostep Natural outsole, which the brand says is made using 90 per cent natural ingredients including plant-based pigments, for improved traction. The sockliner has evolved into a cozy microfiber-lined removable bootie that can be worn as an indoor slipper after a day’s activities, and the algae-derived, water-resistant foam upper is the result of a long-standing partnership with Bloom Sustainable Materials. Reflective shoelaces are the cherry on top.
Feel a little bit better giving in to your child’s screen time requests and hand them the Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Kids instead. Essentially a vibrant variant of the standard e-reader, the display is glare-free and easy on the eyes thanks to an adjustable warm light. There’s no built-in apps or games to minimize disruptions, and a Parent Dashboard feature allows easy book transfer between accounts, the viewing of reading progress, ability to set an on/off timer and more.
Fully waterproof, the device includes a 12-month complimentary Amazon Kids+ subscription, three months of Kindle Unlimited, two-year replacement warranty and a cover case. Standard storage capacity is 16 GB, and a special Signature Edition is available bumping memory to 32 GB and adding an auto-adjusting front light and wireless charging.
Just in time for autumn, Canadian cold weather gear specialist Kombi has released two glove collections from its new Climate Series. The first is the Multilayer — a deconstructed three-piece set designed to be worn in a mix-and-match fashion. Starting with warm touchscreen-compatible Polarec fleece gloves, the next layer is a pair of breathable insulated mittens, and finally waterproof mitts as the last line of defence against the elements. Everything stores neatly into the packable left mitt, which is a nice touch.
The Rain Collection is the Quebec business’ first-ever line of rain accessories for both adults and children. The Drop comes in either glove or mitten form, and the lightweight waterproof shell keeps hands dry during inclement weather. The latter (and women’s) is sold in many fun colours like Barbie Pink, Ducky Yellow and Luxury Purple.
Providing Aussies with clean bottoms in a sustainable fashion since 2012, toilet paper, facial tissue and paper towel company Who Gives A Crap is further expanding internationally and is now carrying its supplies in Canada. The post-consumer-paper-recycled (or bamboo) TP is three-ply containing 400 10 x 10-centimetre sheets to a roll, while the two-ply paper towels are absorbent and made from bamboo. The small tissue boxes are square, hold 65 each and also bamboo-based.
One of the best things about the products is the presentation. Think bright geometric packaging and no plastic in sight — certainly makes replacing a roll feel like an event. WGAP states that 50 per cent of profits are donated annually (to organizations such as WaterAid) supporting access to clean water and toilets for the masses.
Celebrating its 55th anniversary this year, the iconic Superstar II continues to look fresh. Slightly revamped, Adidas has added padding to the tongue and heel area of the full-grain leather sneaker, upping the comfort level whether you’re busting out some b-boy moves or just chilling on the street. This Core Black/Cloud White colourway stays crispy even on those gloomy wet days, and still boasts the shell toes and serrated contrasting stripes on the side.
Pair the kicks with another returning classic, the Firebird tracksuit. Relive the 80s and 90s via the remixed full-zip jacket highlighted by a stand-up collar, embroidered Trefoil chest logo, 3-stripes down the shoulder and arms, ribbed hem and cuffs and a modern fit. Pick up the matching pants to complete the set. Offered in kids and adult sizing and various colours.
Starbucks is no stranger to collaborations, having featured well-loved IP from Peanuts to BTS in different global markets over the years. To celebrate friendship for the upcoming holidays, the latest team-up for Canada and the U.S. is Hello Kitty (alongside her teddy bear Tiny Chum) that will appear on tumblers, mugs and cold cups available in-store starting Nov. 6.
Perhaps the jewel of the collection is the adorable plushie. Standing approximately 22 millimetres tall, she is cosplaying a barista wearing the signature logo green apron (with Hello Kitty by Starbucks text) and a pair of tan pants. Packaged in a cute branded box ready to gift.
Kensington H1050 EQ Bluetooth On-Ear Headset
For students and professionals alike, trying to find quality Bluetooth headphones at an affordable price point can be challenging. That’s where the new MSRP $59.99 Kensington H1050 EQ comes in. There’s some neat tech built-in, for example an environmental noise cancellation microphone to ensure you’re being heard clearly on the other side, passive noise cancelling ear cups and Bluetooth version 5.4 permitting two active connections at the same time.
Physical onboard controls offer easy access to volume and media play/pause, and simply flipping up the arm conveniently mutes the mic. A full charge of the battery yields up to 40 hours of talk time and 80 hours of music playback, and leatherette cushioned earpads provide a comfortable wearing experience.
Benjamin Yong 