Roots clothing

Roots is an iconic Canadian apparel and lifestyle brand known for its emphasis on comfort, quality, and heritage. Founded in Toronto in 1973 by Michael Budman and Don Green, the brand initially gained fame for its 'negative heel' shoes before expanding into its signature 'salt and pepper' sweats and high-quality leather goods. The brand has become a symbol of Canadian identity, often associated with the great outdoors and athletic leisure.

While Roots maintains a strong commitment to domestic manufacturing—particularly for its leather bags and footwear made in its Toronto factory and various items from Italy—its broader apparel line is manufactured globally. This includes production facilities in Southeast Asia and other regions to maintain its diverse inventory. Despite its global manufacturing footprint, the brand's design and heritage remain deeply rooted in the Canadian landscape.

In 2015, the founders sold a majority stake in the company to Searchlight Capital Partners, a private equity firm. Today, Roots Corp. is a publicly traded company on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The brand continues to focus on its premium positioning, leveraging its long-standing reputation for durability and classic design to appeal to both domestic and international markets.