Canadian Gift Guide

Everyone and their dog seems to own something from yoga boutique lululemon these days. I am the weird exception to that rule I suppose. I’ve heard nothing but good things about their product line, but I’m not a huge yoga buff (granted, the majority of people who shop there aren’t either) so I haven’t shelled out for some of their trademark stretchy pants or zip-up hoodies yet.

If you happen to be friends or siblings with a yoga or fitness nut, let me introduce you to another Canadian sportswear brand – Lija (pronounced like lee-zjah, a play on leisure). Started over a decade ago, Lija used to butter its bread with ‘Hyp’ golfwear, but today their product line includes stylish tennis and active wear as well.

The active wear in particular is getting some attention because of its relatively new compression technology that sucks you in – a la Spanx – for a flattering yet form-fitting shape, but it also has a practical benefit. When your muscles are constricted they’re more likely to provide stability, making your workout easier and allowing your muscles to recover better once they’re released from the trappings of your Lija wear.
They’ve already sold out of their initial line of active wear, and several pieces in their 2010 have already been snapped up, which is exactly the reason you should be thinking ahead to birthdays and Christmases and getting something for that special gal in your lives.

Any piece in the Lija collection would make a great gift, but above I’ve pulled two pretty random choices from the active wear compression line – a great skort (they have two varieties) for a fun and flirty take on fitness, and one of several active tops in a pretty shade called ‘Optic’. I’d also throw up this gorgeous ‘Destiny’ hoodie they had, but sadly it’s already sold out. Cry.

Lija is a little pricy – but so is lululemon. If you were going to buy a nice piece for your mom, sister, or bestie, why not give them something that’ll make them stand out in the crowd that also has awesome fitness-related benefits? Much like yesterday’s Lush gift set, gifts like yoga wear show you’ve taken an interest in something they need, want, or frequently use but might not be aware of other options out there – enter you, the magnificent gift giver!