Auclair
Auclair is a Canadian glove and mitten brand founded in 1945 by Mathieu and René Auclair. Based in Montreal, it makes gloves for skiing, outdoor activities and everyday winter wear.
| Founded | 1945 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Mathieu and René Auclair |
| Base | Montreal, Canada |
| Speciality | Cold-weather gloves and mittens |
| Website | auclair.com |
What is Auclair?
Auclair is a Canadian brand specialising in the manufacture of gloves and mittens, particularly for extreme cold and harsh winters. Montreal remains the centre of its operations, and the brand sells internationally.
History
The company was founded in 1945 by Mathieu and René Auclair, who set up a glove factory in Loretteville. It started with fashion gloves and from the 1960s moved into specialised gloves for outdoor life and motor sports, later adding models for alpine skiing and other winter activities.
Products and positioning
- Ski and snowboard gloves
- Mittens for winter sports and city wear
- Heated gloves developed with the technology company eWool
- Powgirl collections designed for women
- Casual gloves for everyday winter use
Recent work has focused on materials such as vegetable-tanned leather, recycled insulation and eco-designed fabrics, together with the gradual removal of PFAS from water-repellent treatments and a glove repair and recovery programme planned for 2026.
Distribution
Auclair products are sold through specialist outdoor and sporting goods retailers in Canada and Europe, such as MEC, as well as online.
Why it matters
Auclair is one of Canada's longest-standing accessories specialists, showing how a heritage glove maker has adapted to technical outdoor demand and sustainability requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Auclair from?
Auclair is a Canadian brand founded in 1945, with its operations centred in Montreal.
What does Auclair make?
Auclair makes gloves and mittens for skiing, snowboarding, outdoor activities and everyday winter wear, including heated gloves.