Homegrown Business: Nathalie Binda of KOMBI Canada

KOMBI Canada was born in 1961 when Danny Gold, a ski racer for McGill University, developed a special glove with knuckle protection. Since then, KOMBI has continued to be renowned for its carefully crafted gloves and mitts. The brand has now grown to include base layers, socks, hats, and cold-weather accessories. For over sixty years, KOMBI has been keeping its customers warm. We spoke with Nathalie Binda, VP of Marketing & Digital at KOMBI Canada, to learn more.

KOMBI Canada

What is your business called and what does it do?

KOMBI Canada — a proudly Canadian winter accessories brand that keeps winter lovers of all kinds warm from head to toe. From gloves and mitts to base layers and socks, we design innovative products that blend performance, comfort, and style for real life in cold climates.

What made you want to do this work?

I’ve always been passionate about skiing, the outdoors, and everything winter represents — connection, energy, and adventure. At KOMBI, that passion meets purpose: helping Canadians enjoy every moment outside, no matter the weather.

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

Winters are changing. Snow and rain are increasingly unpredictable, and mid-winter thaws or sudden spring freezes have become the new normal. With the Climate Series, we wanted to create a groundbreaking line of protection that adapts to these new realities — keeping people comfortable, dry, and ready for anything.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Families who love being outdoors, skiers and snowboarders, and anyone who embraces winter — from city commuters to mountain explorers.

KOMBI Canada

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

“What makes KOMBI different from other brands?”

KOMBI has been a Canadian original since 1961 — born from real winters and built on innovation. Every product combines technical expertise, thoughtful design, and durability that stands the test of time. Our 5-year warranty reflects that commitment, and we often hear from customers who still wear their first pair of KOMBI gloves from decades ago. Around here, we like to say our products are “made to be vintage one day.”

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part is finding that perfect balance between product innovation and consumer need — when everything clicks, and you see people enjoying what we’ve created out in the wild. The hardest part? When we miss the mark. But every challenge becomes insight for the next launch — it keeps us learning, evolving, and staying in tune with what winter lovers truly need.

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

We take warmth very seriously — but our mittens never sweat the small stuff.

Where can we follow you?

Visit kombicanada.com or follow @kombicanada on Instagram and TikTok, and KOMBI on Facebook.

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Blanka Art Gallery — a hidden gem nestled in Lac-Brome, in the Eastern Townships. It’s a contemporary gallery and refined boutique that curates beautiful objects from around the world. Beyond art, it’s also a gathering place: they host intimate “buvettes” and transform the space into a warm, communal setting where creativity and connection meet.

 

About Bronwyn Lewis 18 Articles
Bronwyn Lewis is a food writer for the Vancouver Guardian. She’s also a screenwriter and producer. Born and raised in Vancouver, Bronwyn lives in Mount Pleasant and you can follow all her food adventures on Instagram.