Tim Hortons Barbie promotes women’s hockey but one model faces delays

Double double hockey trouble.

Canadians love hockey and they love swinging by their neighbourhood Tim’s for coffee — at least, that’s what stereotypes might have you believe.

Tim Hortons, Mattel, and Toys ‘R Us Canada are testing that theory with the introduction of a new hockey playing Barbie adorned in a red jersey and socks and sporting a stick, helmet, and skates. The new Barbie is available at Toys ‘R Us Canada for $29.99 CAD and will be available in Tim Hortons stores at a later date.

A statement on the NHL website asserts that the Barbie “inspires girls to explore their limitless potential and encourages them to be anything they want to be”.

Unfortunately, the Black doll isn’t yet available, as it was something of a late addition, a company rep explains, noting that such a doll wasn’t originally planned, and “amid the protests against anti-Black racism in recent months, Tim Hortons decided to push the launch to make the product more diverse“. The company has asked Mattel to rush the order and won’t sell either Barbie in store until both are readily available.

Canadians loving Barbies and sports on ice can also purchase the Tessa Virtue Barbie announced earlier this year. The two time Olympic gold medalist ice dancing champion and multi-World Champion told TSN at the time she’s “conscious of how young kids, both boys and girls, perceive success because what you see is a lot of podiums and sequins and smiles, and there’s so much behind that” saying it’s important for children to see what’s needed to achieve a goal while reminding them “they can do anything”.

The Tessa Virtue Barbie is also a Toys ‘R Us Canada exclusive retailing for $39.99 CAD.