Call the fashion police, these clothes are a riot.
The 18 employees of Calgary firm X-Zibit A have been working non-stop for the past six months to outfit Calgary police and emergency workers in their custom-made law enforcement outerwear and accessories in preparation for the G-8.
"They're very proud of the things they've done to prepare these people for a very difficult job," said Erin Suton, president of X-Zibit A.
The company has produced "thousands" of items for the Calgary Police Service and EMS staff over the last few months and has done custom fitting in its Highfield Cres. S.E. office for many of the members.
"It's almost like family," said Suton.
The red jackets for motorcycle police, the bike police's red and black outfit and other waterproof and breathable clothes have been made for the people who'll be on the front lines of any protest or action.
They've also made bags for gas masks and pepper spray.
"They're wearing our stuff from head to toe," said Suton.
The items are custom-designed by computer, and clients have the opportunity to give feedback and make any changes in the products.
And while staff take pride in seeing their handiwork on TV and in newspapers as officers work crowd control at protests, they also worry about their customers' safety, Suton said.
"I know they're going out there with a peaceful mind," she said.
"We're hoping everything goes as smooth as it did for the World Petroleum Congress."
X-Zibit A is starting to make its mark outside of Alberta and will now set their sights on the west coast of the U.S., said Suton, who hopes their experience with the G-8 summit will help pave the way for the company's growth.
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