February 20, 2025
Found in “Gear”
Is MEC still Canadian? MEC was founded in Canada and is 100% operated and headquartered in Canada. MEC employees are all based in Canada, and we carry 60+ Canadian brands. All MEC Label products are also designed and tested in Vancouver BC. We are proud supporters of Canadian products and the Canadian economy with 50+ years of gearing up passionate outdoor Canadians.
With its rich outdoor culture and rugged landscapes, it only makes sense that so many fantastic outdoor brands started right here in Canada. Some of the most innovative and durable gear comes from Canadian companies that understand the demands of the wilderness first-hand. Here are more Canadian based brands that we know are members are passionate about supporting.
Norda
Founded in Quebec by runners, for runners. Norda tests in the harshest of Canadian conditions, with ultralight and sustainable running gear made with bio-based, bluesign®-approved Dyneema® materials. While their origin story includes experts from all over the world, they’re proudly Canadian. You’ll find their team testing gear in fields and mountains between Montreal and the Eastern Townships of Canada.
Tilley
In the 1980s, a man visiting the Great Lakes in Ontario needed a great hat, and the rest is history. Tilley has been synonymous with heritage and quality, creating the world’s finest hats and adventure clothing. They’re world-famous but still oh-so Canadian.
KOMBI
Designed in Montreal and perfected on Canadian slopes, this epic brand has developed gear to withstand the most extreme winters. Since they were founded in 1961, they’ve called the mountains of Quebec their main testing grounds for winter gloves, mitts, base layers and more, so you can stay warm and dry no matter the weather.
MEC Label
MEC is headquartered in Canada, managed by a Canadian team and operates in 23 stores in communities from coast to coast. MEC Label is our homegrown gear that’s built to last for hundreds of outdoor adventures. MEC Label is designed and curated by our team in Vancouver and tested in the backcountry to make sure it stands up to everything from powder-filled runs to bushwhacking at sunrise. From cozy base layers to hardy tents built for tough environments, MEC Label gear has it all and then some.
Kamik
With over 125 years of experience, Kamik knows boots. Founded in Montreal, this Canadian brand had the perfect environment to test their winter and rubber boots against the harshest (and iciest) environments. They’re built to protect you from the elements and keep you comfortable in all conditions.
Level Six
A Canadian company created by two friends competing on the Whitewater Slalom World Cup, Level Six’s vision has been to redesign and rethink how paddling gear is made. With PFDs, SUPs, rash guards and more, you’ll be well-equipped for the waves with this major leader in water sports gear.
Indyeva
Founded in Montreal, Indyeva is known for its cozy and warm winter parkas and women’s clothing to make the most of the outdoors. They’re also serious about sustainable choices, with fabric from bluesign®-certified mills and down backed by the Responsible Down Standard.
tentree
tentree is a Vancouver-based outdoor clothing company that prioritizes sustainability in a big way. For every item purchased, tentree plants trees in an effort to regenerate ecosystems, capture carbon and provide planting jobs in communities around the world. Their products are made with a focus on the earth, including attention to fair, safe working conditions, sustainably minded practices and recycled materials.
Arc’teryx
Founded on the idea that “there is always a better way,” Arc’teryx’s name has become synonymous with obsessive and expert design. Their insulated jackets, weather-blocking shells, accessories and more are inspired by and tested in the coastal mountains near their HQ in North Vancouver. Their design centre, Arc’One, is in New Westminster, BC, where they lead product design and innovation.
Orage
In 1989, University of Quebec student Evelyn Trempe made her first waterproof ski jacket and pants for her ski team out of her parents' garage, and the rest is history. Since then, Orage has evolved into a leading Canadian brand specializing in ski outerwear built for deep cold. Deeply rooted in ski culture, they design gear ready for any mountain adventures.
