No more than 3 schoolchildren at any one time

As the Winter Olympics in Vancouver edges ever closer, the inevitable selection of merchandise and Olympic-based products will begin to surface. Although clearly not as popular as the Summer Games, Vancouver 2010 is proving far superior to its prettier, more lusted-after sister in the quality of official products currently available.

From the quirky to downright ridiculous, Olympics merchandise generally falls in to two categories, tacky and non-tacky. However, after  a quick look at the official merchandise on the cool-looking website, Vancouver 2010 seems to have got it spot on – a far cry from the hideous and “100% unofficial” goldfish-in-a-keyring from the Beijing Olympics.

So, you’ve got a bit of extra cash and you’re heading to Vancouver/Whistler for the Winter Olympics. Look the business with my guide to the best of the best merchandise for Vancouver 2010.

Firstly, with so many products to choose from you will need to be patient – remember, there are some real gems in there somewhere. Work out what you want and then filter your search accordingly.

Are you a fan of clothing, accessories or collectibles? Whatever your choice, take a look at the medallists in our medal lists below for the very best that Vancouver 2010 has to offer…

Vancouver 2010 Official Merchandise Results

Clothing

Bronze Medal – Paralympic Wool Scarf
Look sophisticated and stylish with this welcome addition to any wardrobe.

Silver Medal – Men’s Kemano Track Jacket
Retro-chic tracksuit top for those of us who miss the BritPop days of the 90s.

Gold Medal – Children’s Mascot Hooded Towel – Quatchi
Whether this is clothing or accessory doesn’t matter. Put simply, coolest thing ever! Get one….NOW

Accessories

Bronze Medal – Tote Bag
It could be seen as a bit mumsy. Not to me, everyone needs a big bag and this is exactly that.

Silver Medal – Thunderbird Salad Servers – Charcoal
Aboriginal design – picks up lettuce and stuff. Brilliant.

Gold Medal – Signature Quatchi Neck Pillow
Never get a neck-ache again. Don’t just wear it when travelling – wear it all the time.

Collectibles

Bronze Medal – Vancouver 2010 Torch Replica
Maybe a tad expensive replica of controversial ‘spliff’ torch that caused big outrage. No smoke without fire?

Silver Medal – A Path of Northern Lights: Collector’s Edition
Read all about the journey of the Olympic Torch with sensational pictures.

Gold Medal – With Glowing Hearts: The Official Commemorative Book
Not available until May 2010, the ultimate memorabilia. Get one to put in your loft.

Image courtesy of TomerCohen.