Blogs
How to choose your back-to-school bag
Summer flies by, right? August means a return to reality. Whether you're heading back to school, college, work, or simply a more regular routine, one thing's for sure: you need a practical bag to keep up with you everywhere you go. Here are our tips for choosing the perfect backpack for your lifestyle – and some favorite models available at Homies. 1. What will you use your bag for? Not the same need if you carry a laptop, 500-page manuals or just your lunch and a bottle of water. For school or work : Look for a bag with a padded laptop compartment, multiple pockets to keep your gear organized, and comfortable straps. 👉 Check: Herschel Little America, Eastpak Padded For everyday life : if you're more of a minimalist, a more compact bag will do the job. 👉 Check: Vans Old Skool, Herschel Heritage For sports or getaways : go for a sturdier bag with more volume, or even a sports bag to carry over the shoulder. 👉 Check: TNF Base Camp, Herschel utility bags 2. Style matters too (obviously) You're going to be lugging your bag around everywhere - so it might as well be presentable. Classic and versatile : Herschel remains a safe bet. Minimalist, elegant, and neutral colors that go with everything. Bold and retro : Eastpak offers classic and timeless colorways. Streetwear vibes : Vans and TNF give you more urban looks, inspired by skate, the mountains or the street. Clean & Technical : For a more techwear or utilitarian look, opt for black models with pockets and functional details, like TNF. 3. Don't forget the accessories A good bag is better with good accessories. Pencil cases : so your bag doesn't become a chaotic mess. Laptop cases : for added protection if your bag doesn't have a dedicated compartment. Fanny packs or shoulder bags : practical for keeping your essentials close at hand. 👉 Discover our entire selection here . Brief, If you're waiting for a sign to change your bag... well, this is it. Come visit us in store or check out the collection online, we have something for you!
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COOLWAY: New favorite brand
Want to wear something other than the same pair of shoes you see everywhere? We have something for you. You may not have stumbled upon it yet, but it might just become your next favorite brand. It's called Coolway . It comes from Spain. And Homies is the first shop in Canada to have it. Coolway is for you if you like the classic look, but want to break away from the mold a little. We think of the Samba, but with more personality. Same lowkey spirit, but with fresh colors, original textures, chunky but lightweight soles, a little more fun. It's the kind of shoe you can wear every day, that goes with everything, but still gives you a little edge . The kind of pair your friends will notice, without really knowing why. Plus, it's ultra comfortable and it's still a well-kept secret (for now). The first pairs are arriving soon in stores and online. So if you like to be ahead of the rest of the world, stay tuned—it's something to be envied.
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Skullcandy – Good sound for your sport
When you think of brands that have always been connected to skateboarding and snowboarding, Skullcandy quickly comes to mind. They've been there from the beginning. They've never just "spoken" to our world—they've become part of it. Skate, snow & good sounds Skullcandy was born in the world of board sports, with the desire to create headphones designed for active people, riders, those who spend their lives outdoors, on the move. – action enthusiasts. No wonder they have a solid team of skaters and snowboarders, whom they genuinely support. It's not a facade: they're there in the parks, on the mountain, in the culture. A notable comeback: the big 2000s headphones We all wore them (or envied them) in the 2000s: the big, colorful Skullcandy earbuds, often seen on snowboarders. Good news: they're back. Today, they're the same bold style, but with more comfort, better sound quality, and most importantly, wireless. Essential Buds: small, powerful, practical If you want something more discreet, the Essential Buds Bluetooth are perfect. Super practical for skating, snowboarding, working out, or even just walking around town. They fit well, the sound is good, the battery lasts a long time—and they don't cost a fortune. In short, the kind of thing you almost forget you have in your ears (until your favorite song comes on). Skullcandy at Homies We have a great selection of Skullcandy products in-store and online – earbuds, headphones, Bluetooth models... perfect for your activities or just to give you a solid look during your next session. You can see them here → Our Skullcandy selection A brand that makes noise for the right reasons In addition to delivering great sound, Skullcandy also gives back: their “ Join Us ” initiative gives access to music to those who need it most, by supporting music education programs for young people. Whether you're nostalgic for the 2000s or looking for your new favorite headphones, Skullcandy is a good choice. Stop by Homies to try them out for yourself!
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Quebec brands at Homies
At Homies, we don't just love overseas brands; we like to support the local scene. There are some really solid businesses happening right here in Quebec. Brands born in alleys, in parks, in garages, by people who truly live the culture. Here's an overview of the Quebec brands we're proud to have in store. DIME MTL Founded in Montreal in 2005, Dime MTL was born thanks to Antoine Asselin and Phil Lavoie, two passionate skaters. Starting out as a skate crew, Dime is now one of the most respected streetwear brands internationally. Known for its minimalist aesthetic, absurd campaigns, and killer collaborations with Vans, Reebok, Asics, and Adidas, Dime offers hoodies, pants, t-shirts, and accessories. Dime is the very essence of Montreal skateboarding! Nineties Entertainment Another Quebec brand we love: Nineties, as its name suggests, draws directly from the skate aesthetic of the 90s. Their designs echo the aesthetic of this era, with vibrant colors, vintage patterns, and a decidedly old-school vibe. Streetwear designed for nostalgics... or those who wish they could live in the 90s. LOVIAH Founded by a team of skaters, Loviah is a streetwear brand that embodies Montreal skateboarding in its purest form. The kind of brand that takes the time to do things right. Loose cuts, sustainable materials, a simple yet powerful look: Loviah creates locally sourced, functional, and stylish pieces designed to move freely. Each garment is designed with meticulous attention to detail and manufacturing. The brand captures the essence of skateboarding while maintaining a responsible and sustainable approach. Mehrathon Mehrathon is both a distributor of iconic brands (Baker, Deathwish, Shake Junt, etc.) and a streetwear brand in its own right. Founded in 2009 in Montreal, the company regularly collaborates with local artists like Matthew Lauricella (Pigeon Boy Art) to offer original collections. It's raw, creative, and deeply rooted in skate culture. Snowboarding Souvenir Souvenir is a crew that decided to give snowboarding a new lease on life. The aesthetic is clearly inspired by the 90s, but the cuts and their technologies are very much of today. Jackets, pants, hats: everything you need to ride in the cold without looking like you've stepped out of a catalog. It's roots, it's true, it's for those who really love snowboarding. ULC Skateboards ULC is Montreal's underground on your board. Known for its striking graphics and support of the local skate scene, ULC designs boards with bite. If you love bold visuals and the raw energy of skateboarding, ULC is for you. Brother Merle Behind Brother Merle is Gab Lalande, a Montreal illustrator and animator with an instantly recognizable style: dark humor, satire, skate culture, and visual absurdities. If you've ever seen his drawings, you know what we're talking about. His works have traveled the world (Thrasher, Birkenstock, Tech Deck, April Skateboards, etc.) and can be found on clothing, stickers, posters, and accessories. Brother Merle is a brand that's both funny and committed, and deeply rooted in the local skate scene. Ambition Snowskate Winter doesn't kill skateboarding—it transforms it. Ambition makes rugged, high-performance snowskates capable of withstanding Quebec's harshest winter conditions. With a focus on quality and innovation, the brand allows skaters to keep shredding even when the snow settles in. 100% made for winter. Homies And of course, we haven't forgotten our own brand: Homies. Designed here, designed for you. Whether it's quality basics, stylish pieces for the city, or gear designed for riding, our house brand reflects our identity, our passion for boardsports, and our love of the local scene. Supporting local brands means supporting the culture that inspires us. At Homies, we strongly believe in the importance of promoting local designers. Come see us in store or online to discover these Quebec brands that deserve all the spotlight!
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Second-hand at Homies
At Homies, we believe in giving clothes a second life—in pieces that have a life of their own, in quality that lasts through the seasons, and in the joy of finding THE piece you won't see on anyone else. And good news: we have everything you need to make you go crazy for thrifting, 100% available in our Chicoutimi boutique. New: our selected vintage section We've just launched a new section dedicated to vintage. There's no need to rummage through dusty bins here: each piece has been selected for its quality, authenticity, and longevity. Whether you're a fan of more classic, retro, or simply different clothing, you're sure to find something you like. In addition to being more affordable than new, it's also a more environmentally friendly approach. Bon Flow – the flair of Saguenay in a second-hand version We also collaborate with Bon Flow , a local company specializing in second-hand women's clothing. Their booth, set up directly in our Chicoutimi boutique, is restocked every month with new, carefully selected finds. A great option for those looking for unique, well-maintained, and affordable clothing—all while supporting a local business. Staff Stock – From Inside to Your Wardrobe Our employees have style, and you can too. Thanks to our internal consignment system, Homies team members can sell their clothes directly in-store. The result: a diverse, affordable selection of pieces still in great condition, definitely worth a second (or third) ride. Graphic tees, crewnecks with just the right amount of wear, vintage hoodies, or nearly new snow jackets—everything is sorted, checked, and sold at a fraction of the price. Why do we love second-hand so much? It's good for the planet : less production, less waste, less impact. It's good for your wallet : inexpensive pieces with style. It's good for your style : unique, original pieces with character. It's good for local culture : we support local businesses and initiatives. It's available now : no need to wait for a drop, just pop into the store and browse! Stop by, browse, check out the Bon Flow booth, check out the staff rack, and explore our brand-new vintage selection. Who knows, your next find might be waiting for you right there. See you soon in store 🖤
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Birkenstock Sandals: What You Need to Know
If you're looking for a pair of sandals that's comfortable for your feet while being durable and well-made, Birkenstock is probably already on your radar. Known for its comfort, anatomical approach to the foot, and quality materials, the German brand has a well-deserved reputation. But between narrow and regular models , soft or unique footbeds, natural or synthetic materials... it can be confusing. Here's a little guide to help you navigate it all—and a sneak peek at what's in store right now. Narrow or Regular: Which width should you choose? Birkenstock offers two widths: Regular fit : for normal to wide feet (empty foot icon) Narrow fit : for narrower feet (full foot icon) You can see the icon inside the sandal: It's all about fit. If your sandal is too wide or too narrow, you won't get the comfort the brand is known for. The best thing to do is come try it on in-store. We can help you determine what fits best. The footbed: the basis of Birkenstock comfort It all starts with the footbed. It's what makes your feet feel good, even after hours of walking or standing. It follows the natural shape of your foot and provides precise support for each area (heel, arch, toes, etc.). You have two options: Original footbed : firmer. It may take a little getting used to, but it provides great support. Soft footbed : A little softer, with a thin layer of foam. You'll feel the difference right away, especially if you have sensitive feet. In both cases, the surface is made of soft, breathable suede, which becomes even more comfortable over time. Materials: durability and comfort Birkenstock relies on natural or sustainable materials, chosen for their durability and comfort. Here's what you can find depending on the model: Cork and natural latex : used in the insole, for flexibility and support. Natural leather : sturdy, breathable, it forms to your foot as you wear it. Suede and nubuck : more flexible, softer, with a matte texture. Birko-Flor / Birkibuc : synthetic materials without leather, easy to maintain and vegan. EVA : A super lightweight and waterproof foam. Ideal for water sandals or beach sandals. Maintenance: to make your sandals last a long time Even though Birkenstocks are sturdy, they do need to be taken care of. Here are some good habits: Avoid soaking them in water (except for EVA models). Clean the insole with a soft brush from time to time. If it's leather, you can use a product to nourish the material. And always let them air dry, away from a direct heat source. What we have in store at Homies You can try these models on in store (and shop them online): Arizona The timeless classic with two straps. Available in: Natural leather (Tabacco, Black) Sweden (Taupe) Birko-Flor (Khaki, Faded Lime, Mocha) EVA (Khaki, Black) With soft or original footbed depending on the model. Boston The versatile clog that you wear all year round. Available in suede (Taupe) — perfect with or without stockings. SHOP BIRKENSTOCKS
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The importance of buying local
Buying local is more than just a gesture. You're supporting skate culture, Quebec creativity, and human service.
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Guide: Choosing the right first skateboard
Ready to get on four wheels but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Don't worry, we'll make it easy with our guide! Whether you want to ride street, park, or just cruise around town, here's what you need to know to choose your first skateboard. Skateboard Basics: Deck, Trucks, Wheels, and Bearings The deck (the board) : Made of maple wood, its width varies from 7.5" to 9'" and more. The wider it is, the more stability you gain but the less maneuverability you lose. A deck between 8.0" and 8.25" is often a good compromise for beginners. Trucks : The metal axles that attach the wheels to the board. Their width should match your deck for proper balance. Truck height can be low, normal, or high, influencing stability and maneuverability: low trucks are more stable for street riding, while high trucks offer more range for turns and tricks. Price differences are often related to weight and more durable materials, which can make a big difference for regular riders. Wheels : Their diameter and hardness influence your speed and ability to ride on different types of surfaces. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are ideal for street riding, while larger wheels (56-60mm) are better for park riding or cruising. The hardness rating, measured in durometers (e.g., 99A), determines grip and glide: harder wheels are ideal for technical tricks, while softer wheels absorb shock better and grip better on rough surfaces. Bearings : Their ABEC rating determines how smooth your ride will be. ABEC 5 or 7 is perfect for starting out. The most important thing is to avoid water and sand if you want them to last longer. What type of board is right for you? The complete : A setup that's already assembled and ready to ride. This is ideal if you're just starting out and want good value for money without the hassle. Custom : If you want a skateboard that's perfectly suited to your style and skill level, choose each piece separately. Perfect if you're already a bit experienced! Cruisers and longboards : If you're looking for a board to comfortably get around town or for relaxing rides, cruisers and longboards are perfect options. A cruiser will be more compact and maneuverable, ideal for the city, while the longboard offers more stability and comfort for long distances or downhill riding. Choosing the Right Deck Size The size depends on your style and preferences: Street and technical tricks: Between 7.75" and 8.0" for more control. Park and bowls: Wider (8.25" and larger) for stability. Cruising and transportation: A longboard or cruiser, perfect for the city. Avoiding beginner mistakes Choose a board that is too narrow if you have big feet or too wide for technical tricks. Wheels too hard on uneven ground = washing machine vibes. Ready to skateeeeee? Whether you're a beginner or looking to take your skateboarding to the next level, come see us at Homies. We have a selection of complete skateboards and parts, and our experts are here to help you choose the perfect board and answer your questions! Visit us in store or order online!
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Jeans Guide: The Different Cuts of Jeans
If you spend as much time as we do searching for the perfect fit, you know that the right jeans can make all the difference. But with all the different fits out there, how can you be sure you're not wearing the wrong pair? We're making it easier for you with an overview of the different fits. Baggy Jeans – The Unbeatable OG If you love comfort and a loose flow, baggy pants are your best friend. Born in the 90s and still iconic, they let you move however you want. They sit low on the hips, wide at the thighs and ankles, perfect with an oversized hoodie and a good pair of chunky skate shoes. We can't stop loving them! Carpenter Jeans – Workwear inspiration With their extra pockets and tool loops, the carpenter jeans are inspired by the work pants worn by construction workers. They combine a relaxed fit with functionality and create a utilitarian look that works just as well with an oversized hoodie as with a jacket. A must-have for those who love workwear vibes. Loose Fit – Comfort without excess Less extreme than baggy, but still very relaxed, the loose fit gives a casual look without overdoing it. It's the perfect in-between if you want to be comfortable without feeling lost in your jeans. Tapered Fit – Fitted on the bottom, relaxed on top If you like the look of jeans that are wider at the thighs but don't drag too much at the ankles, tapered jeans are for you. They taper down gradually, perfect for a more modern look and easy to wear with sneakers. Straight Leg – The timeless classic Neither too wide nor too tight, the straight leg is a must. It falls straight from the thigh to the ankle, a clean and versatile fit that goes with everything. Whether you wear it loose or more fitted, it does the job without ever going out of style! Relaxed Fit – Loose but structured Quite close to a loose fit, but with a bit more structure. It's loose through the thighs and slightly tapered at the ankles, giving it a good balance between freedom of movement and a clean silhouette. Flared Jeans – The Return of the 70s The flared jeans are what you saw on Kendrick Lamar at the Superbowl halftime show! Iconic. They're straight-leg jeans that flare out at the bottom of the legs, perfect for an old-school look. They add a little retro twist and pair really well with low-top sneakers or even boots if you're into a more workwear vibe. Slim Fit – Fitted but not too tight If you like more structured jeans without going skinny, the slim fit is for you. It hugs the leg without clinging, ideal for a clean look. A good choice if you don't want to bother rolling up the hem of your pants. Skinny Jeans – Always there for those who take responsibility Let's not kid ourselves, skinny jeans aren't as high-street favorites as they once were, but they're still an option for those who like a snug fit. They hug the leg from thigh to ankle, making them ideal for a more rock or minimalist style. Whether you're a baggy type for comfortable skating or a slim type for a more tailored fit, you now have everything you need to find your perfect match. Come to the shop and try on what appeals to you most; our advisors can help you make your choice!
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