Canadian curling athletes are set to showcase new team uniforms on the global stage next year, as unveiled in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Designed by an artist from the northwest region of the province, Curling Canada describes the uniforms as embodying significant imagery inspired by nature, Canada’s Indigenous Peoples, and the iconic Maple Leaf.
Nolan Thiessen, CEO of Curling Canada, expressed optimism that the incorporation of Indigenous Peoples in the design will encourage greater participation in the sport. He emphasized the importance of creating inclusive platforms within curling to resonate with a diverse audience.
The uniforms, available in red, white, and black variations, will make their debut in 2026 at various prestigious events including the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics and Paralympics, the World Women’s Curling Championship in Calgary, the World Men’s Curling Championship in Ogden, Utah, and the World Mixed Doubles Championship in Geneva.
The central theme of the uniforms revolves around a hummingbird motif, symbolizing the four-year life cycle that aligns with the Olympic and Paralympic quadrennial cycle. This symbolism reflects Canada’s high-performance athletes’ strategic planning around major international competitions.
Shelby Gagnon, a multidisciplinary 2-Spirit Anishinaabe/Cree artist, collaborated with Regina-based designer Steph Schmidt on the final uniform design. Gagnon highlighted the significance of merging sport, culture, and art in creating a design that symbolizes the birds and plant life of Turtle Island.
Former world curling champion Heather Houston, present at the uniform unveiling, praised the design for its beauty and inspirational qualities. She acknowledged the intricate process and collaboration that culminated in the creation of uniforms that athletes will proudly wear on the international stage.
The commercial versions of these unique uniforms will be available for purchase starting November 22, both in-person at the 2025 Montana’s Canadian Curling Trials in Halifax and online.
Overall, the collaboration between artists, designers, and athletes has resulted in a collection of uniforms that not only represent Canada’s curling team but also embody cultural significance and artistic expression, poised to make a statement at major sporting events in the coming year.
