Walking down Robson Street one day The Urban Dweller came across the sign for El Kartel. At first I thought it was a store dedicated to lucha libre masks and Mexican wrestling gear. Curious as to why such a store would be located on Robson I decided to venture in. Once I was inside I realized that I was in sneaker heaven. A heavenly voice greets me (actually it was a beautiful Asian girl with a great sense of style) and tells me about the sale going on. This is one of the funkiest stores on Robson Street, scratch that in all of Vancity.
This was evident when there were long lines outside the store as customers wanted to catch a glimpse of the Baxbear designer toy release party (the first designer toy made in Canada) last November.
This place is more than your typical boutique sneaker/urban clothing store. They got a DJ spinning live, an art gallery that rotates everyone couple of months and great customer service. The cute Asian girl went out her way to find me a pair of Chuck’s that fit just right (apparently the Chucks run a little long). They have probably the best selection of Chuck Taylors in all of Vancouver, for that alone this store is a must visit. Some of the other brands that they carry are 10 Deep, Stussy, kid robot and Buddhist Punk. Moreover, El Kartel represents for the ladies really as there is a great selection of womens tee’s and kicks.
Since the initial visit to El Kartel, visits to this jewel on Robson Street have been quite frequent by The Urban Dweller. The Shop is located at 1025 Robson Street. Don’t be a cheapskate like my man Money J Skeets and go check out this unique shop.
(photo courtesy of Elkartel.com)
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