Mountain Equipment Co-Op

Mountain Equipment Co-Op - The best store for outdoor gear, period.

I have been shopping at MEC for over 25 years and for the life of me, I cannot recall ever having a bad shopping experience there. There was the one time in the late eighties when they politely declined my application for a position in the store. Apparently, camping once a summer with my parents in their tent trailer doesn't qualify me. Who knew?

Whether you are shopping for a knapsack for school or a pair of technical boots to hike the west coast trail, Mountain Equipment Co-Op will have just the one you are looking for in stock. The staff are friendly and helpful, never pushy. If you're picking out your first kayak or  a new lightweight backpacking tent, they have knowledge staffers at hand to help you with your decision.

One of my only complaints is in the clothing department. Much of the technical  and casual clothing carries the MEC badge. That in itself is not bad, it's the lack of selection in style that is the drawback. I preferred when there was a selection of Patagonia and North Face designs to choose from. I do understand the reasoning behind it though. MEC strives to "provide quality gear and excellent value. We also want to minimize our environmental impact, by building products that last." which is great, but sometimes you want a jacket that also looks cool. It's a compromise I've learned to live with.

In case you haven't had the chance to drop into one of their stores, here's an idea of the selection you will find. You can buy gear for hiking, climbing, ice climbing, snow shoeing, skiing, kayaking, canoeing, biking, running, camping and my favourite, very comfy flip flops for the beach.

Published Jan 3, 2010
K. R. Marhue enjoys walking the parks and beaches of Vancouver Island. He writes from a sunny place in Victoria, B.C.