Because wearable memories never go out of style.
Introduction
When guests head home from your resort, they’re not just bringing back photos, they’re bringing back memories. And for many, wearable keepsakes are the perfect souvenir: functional, stylish, and emotionally connected to their winter getaway
At Hotline Apparel, we specialize in helping winter resorts turn their logos and landscapes into premium-quality apparel that sells. Here’s what we’ve learned from outfitting top resorts across Canada, like Big White, Lake Louise and Panorama, about what actually works in today’s gift shops.
1. Crewnecks & Hoodies Are the Cornerstone
Whether it’s après-ski comfort or cozy cottage wear, fleece rules the resort.
- Midweight and heavyweight fleece crews and hoodies consistently top the sales charts.
- These aren’t your average souvenir sweatshirts—texture matters. Additions like crackle print, puff ink, tonal logos, or chenille elevate the look and feel.
- Embellishments that feel premium help justify higher price points and increase perceived value.
🧥 Great fleece becomes part of the memory. Worn on the drive home, or gifted to someone who didn’t make the trip.
2. Design Trends that Resonate
The most successful gift shop apparel connects emotionally and visually with the resort experience.
What sells:
- Vintage ski graphics: Think ‘80s-inspired typefaces, ski lift illustrations, and retro snow goggles.
- Mountain & landscape logos: Stylized line art or local topography reinforces that “I was here” sentiment.
- Tonal or textural designs: For buyers who want a premium, subtle look. Great for layering and everyday wear.
🎨 Custom artwork aligned with your resort’s identity turns apparel into a wearable brand touchpoint.
3. Yes, Great Quality Still Matters
Guests are discerning. The apparel you offer should match the elevated experience of your resort.
- Canadian-finishes and designs ensure consistency and ethical production.
- Quality stitching and soft fabric make it more likely the piece gets worn again (and again).
- A higher-quality garment means less markdown risk and a better customer experience.
🧵 A fleece that pills or fades doesn’t just reflect poorly on the shirt, it reflects on the resort itself.
4. Toques & Tees: The Impulse Stars
While fleece drives the bulk of revenue, toques and T-shirts punch above their weight.
- Toques are an affordable add-on that guests often grab on the way out.
- T-shirts appeal to younger travelers and spring break visitors, especially when the designs feel local and fresh.
- Both categories offer high-margin, low-footprint inventory for tight shop spaces.
💡 Pro tip: Bundle with fleece for upsell potential.
5. Quick-Turn Reorders = Full Shelves, Happy Guests
Two of the biggest challenges resort buyers face are limited storage space and short reorder windows. That’s where Hotline Apparel shines.
- We keep production local. This means faster turnarounds, reliable sizing, and flexible order quantities.
- Order as few as 48 units to start, then reorder quickly as stock moves.
- Our quick-turn system ensures you can stay agile, even when visitor traffic spikes unexpectedly.
📦 Running low mid-season? We’ve got you covered.
Closing Thoughts: Wearable Memories That Sell
Your shop isn’t just selling clothing, it’s offering your guests a way to remember their trip and represent your resort long after they’ve gone home.
From custom fleece to vintage-inspired graphics, your apparel lineup should feel as intentional as the slopes you groom. At Hotline Apparel, we help winter resorts create collections that are Canadian-made, uniquely designed, trend-aware, and ready to move.
👀 Looking to refresh your winter lineup or introduce a signature resort fleece? We’re always here to share ideas and examples from resorts like yours.
