Arc’teryx Equipment, the global design company specializing in technical high-performance apparel and equipment, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest store in
Banff, Alberta.
Having opened its doors to the public on April 12, this location represents a natural extension of the brand’s deep-rooted connection to the region—an iconic hub for Canada’s mountain culture and a premier destination for climbers, skiers, snowboarders, runners, and hikers alike.
Megan Cheesbrough, VP North America Retail, said the new store is located on Banff Avenue, the community’s main street, in space formerly occupied by Hudson’s Bay.
“We’re a mountain brand, and our community really drives so much of our retail strategy. We have four stores in the Calgary market, and it was time to open a store in the mountains and really service that more endemic mountain community.
“There’s a huge pro community in the area. We also have some fantastic wholesale and community partners based there. So, it’s an important part of our strategy to be close to the mountains. The opportunity came up in an old Hudson’s Bay location.
“It’s a big space, around 4,000 square feet, with a stunning interior space. We’ve completely overhauled the façade. It’s a beautiful location. When you’re staring at the front of the store on Banff Ave, you look to the right and see Cascade Mountain, and to the left, Tunnel Mountain. I’ve literally been smiling since I got back from Banff last week. It’s just such an incredible expression of who we are and why we exist. It all really came to life in Banff.”
The brand currently has 38 stores in Canada plus two outlets.
Cheesbrough said there are a few things unique in this store that really sets it apart.
“We wanted to lead with community. When you enter the space, you’re not hit with product right away. Instead, you’re introduced to a concept called the Gear Library. It’s a curated collection of in-season products that people can try on and demo before they decide to purchase something,” she said. “It’s just an ongoing commitment for us to the mountain community.
“Right now, there are some ski products—a jacket, ski pants, an insulation piece. Since the mountain resorts in the area close toward the end of May, we’ll keep the ski product in the Gear Library until then. After that, we’ll shift to hiking and soft shell items. It’s a really unique offering for us and a chance for people to test out product before purchasing.
“We also have our ReBIRD Service Centre. It’s not new to our retail expression or the brand—we’ve always stood behind our product and offered care and repair. But the ReBIRD Centre is really a one-stop shop for product care, repair, and education.
“It’s a deep connection point with our community. In the first few days of being open, we had first responders, search and rescue, and ski instructors come in with gear that needed minor love. We were able to fix them on the spot, complimentary, and get them back out into the wild. They were so excited.”
Cheesbrough said more store openings are on the horizon with Halifax opening in early May.
“We also have a beautiful Maker’s Table in the (Banff) store. It’s a place where, when we’re talking about our shell jackets, we can lay them out and walk through their technical features. The Banff Maker’s Table has a three-dimensional topographic map of the area,” he added.
“In the first few days after opening, people were just gathered around it, leaning over and pointing out trails they’d been on or wanted to explore. It was such an incredible element within the store.
“The local community has been warm and welcoming. We feel like we opened the right way—representing both the brand and Banff really well. We’re excited to see how tourists engage with it this summer and to continue building on our success in Alberta.”
Founded by climbers in 1989 in the rugged Coast Mountains of BC, Arc’teryx has built a legacy of designing high-performance outerwear that empowers mountain athletes to perform their best when it matters most. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global leader with over 160 stores and more than 2,400 wholesale partners in over 50 countries, the brand has always adhered to its core belief: “there is always a better way.”
“One of the most iconic mountain communities in Canada, Banff is a core place of practice for Arc’teryx’s athletes, ambassadors, friends and partners, and home to a thriving Pro community. With this opening, the brand is creating space to more closely service the endemic outdoor community while also fostering deeper connections with the people who call the mountains home,” explained the retailer.
“Alongside a network of local and regional ambassadors, athletes and impact partners, the store
will also host regular events to build connections, inspire excitement and promote skill-building in the mountains.
The Banff store spans 4,091 square feet and every aspect of the store was made to reflect Arc’teryx’s commitment to innovation and the mountain community.
“Its distinctive curved storefront features a welcoming porch and window bench, inviting visitors to pause, take in the surroundings, and connect with the space. Designed with a strong local connection, the store incorporates Rundle stone elements that mirror the surrounding topography, while the exterior bench encourages guests to gather. A sliding glass storefront system allows the indoor and outdoor areas to blend seamlessly during the warmer months, reinforcing the brand’s deep connection to nature,” noted the retailer.
“Upon entering the store, guests will discover a dedicated storytelling area offering an immersive journey into the brand’s heritage, design philosophy, and ongoing commitment to the mountain community. The space provides a deeper, more engaging experience than other locations, allowing visitors to explore the values that have shaped Arc’teryx’s iconic products.”
“Arc’teryx has had enduring ties to Banff, outfitting athletes, guides, and SAR professionals in the Bow Valley for decades. It’s a place we come to push ourselves and find peace in the mountains. Through our longstanding wholesale and pro partners, we’ve built deep community ties in the town, and we’re so excited to deepen our connection with the opening of our first Banff brand retail store. From the ReBIRD Service Centre to the Gear Library, and our broad roster of community events and activations, this store has been thoughtfully designed to support our community, creating a place for connection, enablement and skill building in the mountains we love,” added Delaney Schweitzer, Chief Commercial Officer.
Related Retail Insider stories:
- Arc’teryx Opens First ‘Alpha’ Store Concept on Bloor Street in Toronto [Photos]
- Arc’teryx Plans Major Expansion with 15 Stores Planned for 2023 [Interview]
