For better or worse, Vancouverites are known around the world for their casual fashion sense, with a dope pair of sneakers often being a major part of their daily rotation.
From a low key hike in Lynn Valley to brunch and shopping in Gastown, a pair of reliable kicks are all you need to navigate everything the city has to offer.
So to help you find your next pair of kicks, here’s our guide to the best independent boutiques in Vancouver that carry the latest and greatest in women’s sneaker fashion.
Livestock
Image: Livestock
Well know as a haven for sneaker heads around the world, Livestock began integrating women’s footwear into their stores a few years ago and haven’t looked back since. Continuing to be one of the few retailers in the city that get almost every single limited edition release, expect to see the best selection in stores from brands like Nike, Puma, New Balance, and more.
Address: Livestock Chinatown – 141 East Pender (for the best selection)
Hours: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily
Phone: 604-559-0877
Check out their website for more information.
El Kartel
Image: El Kartel
With their latest location now open in Vancouver’s Chinatown, this local institution of contemporary streetwear has been operating within the city since 2003. Continuing to evolve their brand and style offerings as trends come and go, local art and music has always been a cornerstone of this unique boutique and will never cease to be. Here you’ll find the newest styles from brands like Converse, Native Shoes, and more.
Address: El Kartel – 104 East Pender
Hours: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday – Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday – Saturday
Phone: 604-683-2171
Check out their website for more information.
J2 Sneakerbox
Image: J2 Sneakerbox
Opening just a few years ago in Metrotown mall, J2 Sneakerbox brings a unique mix of Asian inspired streetwear offerings to Vancouver’s fashion scene. Showcasing brands like Nike, Adidas, Vans, New Balance, and more, the small boutique features a full wall of sneakers geared specifically towards women.
Address: J2 Sneakerbox Metrotown – #2112 – 4700 Kingsway
Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Mon-Sat, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Thurs-Sat
Phone: 604-433-1640
Check out their website for more information.
Gravity Pope
Image: Gravity Pope
Located on Kitsilano’s main shopping strip, Gravity Pope has one of the largest selections of both mainstream, independent, and high end brands for women’s sneakers. Carrying everything from Marc Jacobs and Jil Sander, to New Balance and Asics Onitsuka Tiger, it’s virtually impossible to go home empty handed after entering this local boutique.
Address: 2205 West 4th Ave
Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday
Phone: 604-731-7673
Check out their website for more information.
Neighbour Women
Image: Neighbour Women
Looking for more of a contemporary minimalist sneaker? Look no further than the Neighbour Women boutique in Gastown. At just a couple years old, this small boutique offers a tightly curated selection of casual footwear for discerning women from brands like Common Projects, Acne Studios, and more.
Address: 45 Powell
Hours: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday, 12 – 6 p.m. Sunday
Phone: 778-379-1409
Check out their website for more information.
