Essentials Hoodie by Fear of God has become one of the most sought-after streetwear items in Canada, combining elevated design with casual comfort. Loved for its oversized fit, premium materials, and timeless neutral palette, the hoodie appeals to both fashion enthusiasts and those Essential Hoodie who simply want a versatile piece that works in almost any setting. But while the hoodie’s aesthetic is consistent, the price you pay in Canada can vary widely depending on where you shop. Retailers, stock availability, import duties, and seasonal promotions all influence the final cost. Understanding these factors can help you find the best deal without compromising on authenticity.
Why the Essentials Hoodie Commands Its Price
Before comparing prices, it is important to understand why the Essentials Hoodie often costs more than an average sweatshirt. The Essentials line is part of Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God brand, known for its meticulous design, high-quality materials, and signature oversized fit. While the Essentials range is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the mainline Fear of God collection, it still carries premium streetwear pricing. The hoodie’s clean branding, muted tones, and durability have helped it become a staple piece that holds its value well over time, even on the resale market.
In Canada, prices are influenced not only by brand prestige but also by factors like currency exchange rates, import fees, and retailer markups. Knowing how these elements work together can make a noticeable difference in how much you spend.
Retail Prices Across Major Canadian Sources
In most official channels, the retail price for an Essentials Hoodie sits between CAD $120 and $150 for standard releases. However, that number is just the starting point. Shipping fees, sales taxes, and duties can push the final cost higher, especially when ordering from outside Canada.
For example, PacSun often lists the hoodie in USD, which means Canadian buyers are subject to currency conversion at checkout. A hoodie listed at USD $100 might end up costing CAD $135 before shipping, and that does not include potential import fees upon arrival. On the other hand, Canadian-based retailers like SSENSE and Nordstrom Canada list prices in CAD, making it easier to understand the total cost upfront.
PacSun: Youthful Appeal with Extra Fees
PacSun remains a popular choice for Canadians thanks to its wide selection of Essentials pieces and frequent restocks. The retailer often has the latest colors and seasonal drops, making it a go-to for those who want trend-focused availability. In terms of price, PacSun’s base cost for an Essentials Hoodie is often lower than Canadian luxury retailers when converted from USD. However, the added expenses of international shipping and duties can quickly erase those savings.
A typical PacSun order to Canada might cost around CAD $150 to $170 all-in, depending on the exchange rate and shipping method. While PacSun occasionally runs promotional discounts, Essentials items are rarely included. This means the main value of shopping here lies in selection rather than deep savings.
Fear of God Official Store: Authenticity at a Premium
Buying directly from the Fear of God website guarantees authenticity and early access to new drops. The official price for an Essentials Hoodie is consistent with other retailers at approximately USD $100, which converts to about CAD $135 before shipping and duties. However, international shipping from the United States to Canada can be costly, and duties are almost always applied upon delivery.
The total cost when buying direct can easily reach CAD $180 or more, especially when factoring in taxes. While this might not be the most cost-effective route, it appeals to buyers who value authenticity above all else and do not want to risk missing out on limited releases.
Nordstrom Canada: In-Person Shopping and Transparent Pricing
Nordstrom’s Canadian locations offer a more straightforward buying experience for the Essentials Hoodie. Prices are listed in CAD, taxes are calculated at checkout, and there are no unexpected import fees. The in-store experience also allows customers to try on the hoodie before buying, which is important given its oversized fit.
Nordstrom’s retail price for an Essentials Hoodie typically falls between CAD $135 and $150. This puts it slightly higher than the converted price from U.S. retailers, but the transparency and convenience of buying locally make it worthwhile for many shoppers. Nordstrom also occasionally runs seasonal sales, though Essentials items are not always included.
SSENSE: Canadian Luxury Retailer with Occasional Deals
Montreal-based SSENSE has built a reputation as one of the leading luxury fashion retailers in Canada, offering both domestic and international brands. Because SSENSE is Canadian, prices are listed in CAD, shipping is quick, and there are no duties for domestic orders. An Essentials Hoodie from SSENSE usually costs between CAD $130 and $150.
One of the major advantages of SSENSE is its seasonal sale periods, where discounts on Essentials pieces are sometimes offered. While these sales are unpredictable and items sell out quickly, they can present one of the few opportunities to buy an Essentials Hoodie at a reduced price from an authorized retailer in Canada.
Resale Market: Paying a Premium for Sold-Out Pieces
The resale market plays a significant role in Essentials Hoodie pricing. On platforms like StockX, Grailed, and even Canadian resale groups on Instagram, prices can range from CAD $180 to over CAD $250 depending on the rarity of the colorway and condition of the piece. Resale is often the only option for buyers seeking discontinued styles, but it comes at a premium.
While resale prices may seem steep, they sometimes make sense for collectors who missed out on retail drops and want to secure a specific look. However, buyers must be vigilant about authenticity, as Essentials is one of the most counterfeited streetwear brands on the market.
Seasonal Trends and Timing Your Purchase
Like many fashion items, the price of an Essentials Hoodie in Canada can fluctuate based on timing. New releases often sell out at retail within days, leading to a spike in resale prices. However, as hype dies down, prices sometimes settle closer to retail levels. Buying during seasonal sales at retailers like SSENSE or Nordstrom can also yield modest savings, though these deals require patience and quick action when they appear.
Another factor is the exchange rate. For Canadians buying from U.S. retailers, a favorable currency exchange can make a noticeable difference in final cost. Monitoring both release schedules and exchange trends can help you plan your purchase for maximum savings.
Choosing the Best Value for Your Money
Ultimately, the best place to buy an Essentials Hoodie in Canada depends on your priorities. If you value selection and trend-driven drops, PacSun is worth considering despite its extra fees. For those who want guaranteed authenticity and are willing to pay a little Essentials Tracksuit more, buying directly from Fear of God provides peace of mind. Nordstrom and SSENSE offer the advantages of Canadian pricing, no import duties, and faster shipping, making them attractive options for most buyers. The resale market remains the only choice for rare or discontinued styles, but expect to pay significantly above retail.
Final Thoughts
The Essentials Hoodie is more than just a fashion trend—it has become a modern streetwear icon in Canada. Prices vary based on where you buy, with the total cost influenced by factors like shipping, duties, exchange rates, and retailer policies. By understanding the pricing landscape across PacSun, Fear of God’s official store, Nordstrom, SSENSE, and the resale market, Canadian shoppers can make informed decisions and potentially save money. Whether you pay retail or a resale premium, an Essentials Hoodie offers timeless style, comfort, and versatility that make it a worthwhile addition to any wardrobe.
