Haven Toronto
Haven is a boutique that stocks men’s streetwear. They used to have a shop on Berkeley but have since moved into this larger second floor space.
They originated out of Vancouver, and do all the design for their own Haven brand there, all items made in Japan and Canada. Lots of high-end Japanese companies can be found among the approximately fifty brands represented here.
Haven designed the high-ceilinged, totally open, minimal shop themselves. They moved to a destination area on purpose, it being more of an experience and requiring more intention to get to this intimate-feeling space.
Apparel from brands like Comme des Garcons (tee, $135) is mixed in with some non-apparel items such as magazines like Prodism ($25).
New Balances like these ($160) are part of an extensive footwear selection. This model of trainers has a sock-like fit around the ankle and triple pull tabs at the back so they’re easy to wear.
Nike Komyuters ($200) are designed for urban commutes, water-resistant with major traction on the outsole and magnetic fastenings with locking toggles. No more untied shoelaces in the while hurrying along King during rush hour.
Nonnative is a Japanese brand that provides tough but tender streetwear with a bit of sticker shock, though items like trooper trousers ($580) are made from cotton ripstop with details like zippered hems and flap pockets.
Ystrdy’s Tmrrw also makes deceptively simple items like baggy tees for $155 made from premium American cotton jersey with side slits, an asymmetrical hem and a glasses loop under the breast pocket.
The same brand makes cotton canvas high tops ($235) in olive, charcoal and orange.
Foot the Coacher makes a ton of high end accessories, even “waist bags.” This 5-way bag ($985) goes way beyond a fanny pack, made in collaboration with baggage company Porter out of ripstop nylon. It can be an attache, sling briefcase, backpack, messenger bag or clutch.
Ten C makes sweaters and shells around $500 all the way up to this Cyclone Parka for $1820. It’s embarrassingly covetable, but seems like the last jacket you’d ever need to buy, made out of a knitted nylon/polyester microfibre made in Japan and finished in Italy that molds to your body and acquires a unique finish over time.
Eiger Sanction pants ($1315) are a perfect example of how these aren’t just any clothes, they’re designed with thought and passion almost to the level of art. These seemingly simple pants are named after a Clint Eastwood movie and are made out of custom vintage washed herringbone.
Don’t expect three-packs of tees here: this place is for curious, adventurous (and maybe loaded) shoppers who appreciate the fine details.
Hector Vasquez