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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

As summer winds down (and we get prepped for ski season events), it’s time to look back at all the amazing events we’ve had in the last few months. Have a peek at some of our favourites – we hope to see you at winter events coming up: 

### There’s No Place Like Camp 

To celebrate the camp season in July, we welcomed campers to events across the country in Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary. Big thanks to our friends at The WKNDRS, the [L.A. Foundation](/en/explore/la-foundation), MSR, Nemo and more. Everyone took part in camp clinics, gear tutorials, bingo games and s’mores stations (yum). 

*Photo: Kieren from the L.A. Foundation gave clinics on how to pack your pack and goal setting for the outdoors.*

### Out and About Pride 

This year, Pride was more important than ever. In partnership with Arc’teryx, we had a full weekend of Pride events across the country from June to August – everyone was welcome to come and celebrate their true colours. Local community groups and climbing partners joined the festivities, Vancouver-based artist Leah Day transformed the MEC twin peaks into an epic art installation, and we worked with four incredible artists across Canada to design one-of-a-kind The North Face Base Camp Duffles inspired the outdoors to raffle off. In total, we donated over $5400 to five different 2LGBTQIA+ outdoor communities across Canada – amazing.  

*Photo: MEC members across the country left special “love letters” on the art installations by Leah Day.*

### Learn-to Camp with Parks Canada 

From June to September, MEC teamed up with [Parks Canada](/en/explore/parks-canada) at their annual Learn-to Camp overnight events across the country. MEC members joined us for in-store workshops led by Parks Canada, where they learned basic camping skills and safety in the wilderness. 

*Photo: Learn-to Camp attendees found out how to use a camp stove, set up a tent, light a campfire and more.*

### Moncton Grand Opening 

A huge one! We celebrated the opening of our newest Maritimes-based store in [Moncton](/en/stores/moncton), New Brunswick. Climb clinics were hosted, local musicians played some tunes, prizes were won and delicious coffee was sipped. New friends lined up down the sidewalk (even in the rain!) to get in on the action – over 5500 Monctonians paid us a visit over the three days of the grand opening event. 

*Photo: Moncton members had a blast at the grand openings with live music, gift bags and tasty trail mix at the new store.* 

### International Trails Day 

On June 3, we celebrated International Trails Day – an annual celebration of trails, trail development and the active lifestyle they encourage. On the West Coast, we met up with MEC Outdoor Impact partner [North Shore Mountain Bike Association](/en/explore/north-shore-mountain-bike-association) for a day of trail building and maintenance.  

Want to join us for a Trail Day? [Learn more](https://nsmba.ca/attending-a-trail-day/) about what to expect and sign up for the next event.  

*Photo: Our amazing team helped maintain the Expresso Trail at Mount Fromme for future bikers.*

### Trail Party with Hike MTL 

In Montreal, we joined MEC Outdoor Impact partner Hike MTL for their annual Trail Party. This event is an opportunity for BIPOC of all ages to learn about camp life in a safe environment while highlighting a sense of belonging. MEC staffers joined the event with games, hike workshops and prizes to celebrate the end of the summer season. 

*Photo: The Hike MTL crew met up in Saint-Hippolyte for a day of epic outdoor workshops.*

A major thank you to the incredible organizations who helped make these events a reality, and thanks to everyone who came out and had a blast with us. Here’s to another great summer in 2024! 

Stay tuned for more events as we launch into our celebrations of all things winter soon, with the return of the annual MEC x POW Season Opener (tickets go on sale October 5). 

Camp workshops, Pride, a new store and so much more. 

Everything We Did For Summer 2023

Everything we did for summer 2023

*One of our favourite parts of ski season? All the ski films that kick it off. MEC is proud to announce the world premiere of* People Like Us, *a short film that explores queer identity in mountain towns and the snowsports world by filmmaker Ryan Collins.*

*Check out the trailer, film screening dates, and a behind the scenes look about the creation of this film.*

People Like Us | Trailer

## What inspired People Like Us?
**Ryan**: I’ve negotiated my sexuality and role in the outdoor sports industry, and the small towns I find myself in, for many years. I’ve often asked myself what it is about the adventure industry and its rural settings that make me, a gay man, so uncomfortable. Is it the activity or the space? What is it like for other queer people in the industry?

*Photo by Laura Szanto*

I’ve explored this discomfort in the past both professionally and academically. I have worked throughout the outdoor industry, from surf, to rock, to snow. While each industry holds up a select few queer professionals, overall members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ still feel out of place.

*Photo by Laura Szanto*

I’m making *People Like Us* for this community, whether they’re a pro or a newbie. This film is for people who live, work, and play, in rural outdoor settings. People who maybe need more than a gay Olympic athlete to feel welcome. I aim to share stories and experiences that paint an honest picture of queer life in rural spaces and hopefully allow for conversations on how both the outdoor community and municipal communities alike can create a more inclusive environment.

## Fall 2023 film screenings
Interested in hosting a screening of your own? Fill out this [screening request form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfhepY5gduRtI5g_S3FSGkyjT9lcMSjY-22fFinyy7L0HkSEA/viewform) to get started. Keep an eye out for more dates and locations being added to the list below:

- October 14: [World premiere at MEC Vancouver, BC](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/people-like-us-world-premiere-tickets-717992072617?aff=oddtdtcreator) 
- October 26: Portland, Oregon (details TBD)
- December 1: Revelstoke, BC presented by MEC and Arts Revelstoke (details TBD)

*MEC supported People Like Us with funding and gear donations. Additional support for the film came from Mountain Hardwear and Story Hive.*

A short film that explores queer identify in mountain towns and the snowsports world.

Film premiere: People Like Us

Picture this: crisp air, clear skies, perfect friction on rock. If you love to climb, you're in for a treat this month. “Fall is prime season for climbers,” says MEC Ambassador [Emma Contaoe](/en/explore/emma-contaoe). “Most of us train all summer so that we get to send our projects in the fall when climbing conditions are ideal.”

Let's dive into a few reasons why September (a.k.a. Sendtember) is the best time of year for rock climbing. Plus, some top gear picks for this season.

## 1. Milder weather
Bid farewell to the scorching sun. September’s cooler temps creating an inviting atmosphere at crags across the country. Without the intense heat of summer, you can focus more on the climb and less on battling sweat. Just-right temperatures makes crushing projects truly enjoyable.

## 2. Strong and in the flow
When working on your strength for climbing, it’s important to start slow or risk injury (like a finger pulley injury), which can take a long time to recover. More often than not, September is when you hit your strongest climbing strength and feel the most confident in terms of the mental strength required for lead climbing. This combination will set you up for being ready to tackle your hardest projects.

> “I'm kicking off fall by hosting climbing clinics and a retreat, then heading to Spain and Portugal for a climbing trip. I’m excited to come back to Quebec to try projects I started in spring, and hopefully send them!” – MEC Ambassador Emma Contaoe

## 3. Less crowded crags
There’s nothing worse than getting to the route you’ve been planning to climb only to see four groups ahead of you waiting to go. With schools back in session and summer vacations ending, climbing destinations tend to be less crowded. This means more time spent climbing and less time waiting.

> “Most of the crags near me become less busy after the summer rush. On a smaller note, when the trees change colours it's quite majestic.” – MEC Ambassador [Sean McColl](/en/explore/sean-mccoll)

## 4. Optimal friction
Gripping holds and finding secure foot placements are the essence of climbing. September's cooler temperatures translate to better friction on rock surfaces. In simple terms, this means your hands and climbing shoes will find better purchase on the rock, which can give you the confidence to tackle more challenging routes.


## 5. Less buggy
Climbing’s all about focus, determination and flow. An unexpected insect buzzing around can throw you off balance and break that flow. Fortunately, September sees a decrease in insect activity compared to warmer months. This means you can focus on your climb without swatting at mosquitoes or other buzzing distractions during crux moves.

> “For fall comps, my focus is the PanAmerican championships in October. If I win, I'll punch my ticket to the Olympic Games in 2024. Outdoors, Squamish conditions will be prime and I'll be looking for my next project.” – MEC Ambassador Sean McColl

## Best gear for fall climbing
“It’s all about layering,” says Emma. “The [MEC Rockwall Midlayer](/en/product/6011-749/rockwall-midlayer) is comfortable and warm, yet breathable and flexible, so I can move easily on the rock. For an insulated jacket, the [MEC Northern Light Hoodie](/en/product/6016-911/northern-light-hoodie) is great to throw while belaying but light enough to climb with too.” 

“For fall layers, I’m excited to put on my [MEC Northern Light Hoodie](/en/product/6016-910/northern-light-hoodie),” says Sean. “There’s nothing better than feeling warm between attempts before taking it off for the send.”

Gear up, pack your chalk bag, and get after it. Next up: Rocktober.

Let's dive into a few reasons why September (a.k.a. Sendtember) is the best time of year for rock climbing.

5 reasons why September is the best month to go rock climbing

The MEC Toaster Suit first showed up in our catalogue in 1992 – yep, more than 30 years ago. Ever since then, the Toaster Suit has been a huge hit with parents and kiddos alike. So much so, that it almost always sells out (hint: that’s why we start talking about it in August).

One of our all-time favourite designs, this year’s version is easily our best yet. Here’s why parents have loved it for more than three decades, and why it’s good to get your hands on one before the mercury drops.

*Above: The Toaster Suit has gone through many evolutions over the years, along with plenty of colours and prints. Today’s versions are made with bluesign®-approved fabrics, which means a reduced environmental footprint.*

## They’re hand-me-down ready
We’ve heard it countless times since 1992 — Toaster Suits are legendary for their hand-me-down durability. Case in point: one MEC staffer told us she’s bought three Toaster Suits over the years for her son, and they held together so well that she was able to hand them down to her daughter… and then along to her nephew.

Over the years, we’ve made it even more durable. Redesigned and updated based on member feedback, Toaster Suits are waterproof and tougher than ever. Toast on!

> *“We have two of these suits and they’re awesome! Washed and worn endlessly over two years and still perfect. I only wish they came in bigger sizes.” – review from Liz888*
>
## They prevent tantrums
Few things are worse than “trying to get out the front door” tantrums. That’s why we’ve improved the Toaster Suit again and again over 30+ years to make it super easy to put on and take off. Your kid steps in, you zip it up, and voilá – they’re ready for snow. It’s even easy for kiddos to put on themselves before recess or at daycare. So, rest easy — they’ll always be cozy.

> *“This is the fourth winter with the MEC one piece snowsuit and we absolutely love them! My son is now in kindergarten and he find it’s quick and easy to take on and off independently.” – review from Momofboys*
>
## They stay warm and waterproof
With 300g of MEC Hyperloft insulation, the Toaster Suit just might be the coziest kids’ snowsuit out there. And it's waterproof-breathable too. That means kiddos can brave slushy, wet snow without getting soaked, cold and bummed out. Snow fort architects, toboggan pros, or recess rascals, the Toaster keeps the snowy good times rolling even when the going gets really, really cold.

> *“True to its name, it’s toasty warm even below -30C. My kids are now all approaching 20 and they still dream of the times they spent out in the winter wonderland on our acreage in Edmonton wearing these suits.” – review from CKP*


## There are clever details
Remember when powdery snow or slush would creep up your pantleg as a kid? If you don’t, your kiddo will remind you. To prevent dreaded slush and powder leaks, the Toaster features a foot cuff liner. 

And because we want every Toaster Suit to keep them warm season after season, we included a grow hem. The grow hem lets you undo a line of stitching at the ankle, allowing for a longer pant leg when the time comes. Neat, right? 

> *“We put our three kids through these suits. Outstanding. It was worn under Halloween costumes, in strollers, playing in the park and at daycare. One suit was worn by all three, and still solid enough to be handed down…” – review from Denis*
>
## Snowsuits are just the beginning...
With Toaster Suit being such a huge hit, the Toaster name now spans an entire collection of winter go-tos. Gloves, snow pants, parkas, hats and more – the entire range is purpose-built to keep kids cozy and happy as clams. 

For new parents (and parents-to-be), check out the [Toaster Bunting Suit](/en/product/5037-265/toaster-bunting-suit). Just as warm and insulated as the Toaster Suit, it keeps infants warm, even if they aren’t wriggling around quite yet. 


### But it’s August... why talk Toaster Suits now?
It might seem a bit weird to talk about snowsuits before there’s even a hint of snow in the forecast. Thing is, Toaster Suits sell out fast – especially when the temperatures really start to dip. 

Our advice? Get your hands on the colour and sizes you’ll need now – and before things get chilly. The last thing you want is to run around looking for that right size when the first October snow drops. And you can let them pick their favorite colour, too.

Whatever you need to keep them warm this winter, the Toaster Collection has you and (most importantly) them covered. Stay toasty out there.

## Related articles
- [Outdoor clothing tips to keep your kids warm all winter](/en/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-keeping-your-kids-warm-all-winter)
- [How to enjoy winter activities with kids](/en/explore/how-to-enjoy-winter-activities-with-kids)
- [How to choose the best backpacks for kids](/en/article/7-tips-to-find-the-best-backpacks-for-school)

Why has the MEC Toaster Suit been a hit for 30+ years?

30+ years of MEC Toaster Suit coziness

30+ years of Toaster Suit coziness

If you like to get outside and stay warm, you’re probably familiar with down insulation. It might be in your favourite winter coat, your sleeping bag, or even in the duvet on your bed. It’s a great insulator for outdoor activities since it’s lightweight, compresses small, and keeps you toasty.  

Which is why we’re excited to announce a totally new option for MEC Label products: recycled down. It’s the first time ever we’ve been able to do this – and you can see it in action in the [Classic Bush Pilot Down Sweater](/en/product/6022-107/classic-bush-pilot-down-sweater), part of the limited-edition [MEC Classics Collection](/en/p/mec-classics-collection).  

Find out what makes recycled down so special, where it comes from, and what to expect next. 

## Why recycled down?  

When our Vancouver-based MEC Label team started to design the Classics Collection, it felt like the perfect chance to try something new with materials. Recycled content is a goal for the materials we use, and recycled polyester and nylon is something we’ve been doing for years. So this time, we set our sights on a whole different material: recycled down. 

Down has a long lifespan. As a material, it’s well-suited to use over and over again. Even better, recycled down helps us address the growing issue of textile waste. The recycled down in the Bush Pilot Down Sweater comes from post-consumer products (like bedding or pillows) that would otherwise have gone to the landfill, which means we’re helping to keep perfectly good materials out of the waste stream.  

*The MEC Classic Bush Pilot Down Sweater uses RENU:700 Performance Recycled Down. The 700 stands for 700-fill-power, which gives you great warmth-to-weight ratio.*

## Where does the down come from? 

We work with ALLIED Feather + Down for our RENU:700 Performance Recycled Down. Each season, they collect about 500,000 pillows and comforters that are otherwise destined for the landfill. They grade the items by quality and colour, then sort it into piles.  

> Did you know? Over 37kg of textile waste per person ends up in landfills each year ([source](https://wrwcanada.com/en/our-themes/waste-reduction-week-daily-themes/textiles-tuesday)) – about the same weight as 544 Clif bars. Recycled down is one way to reduce this waste. 

Next up: an intense washing process to sterilize the down, using [bluesign®-approved](/en/article/what-the-heck-is-bluesign) washing methods. Finally, there’s one last round of sorting to remove any broken feathers or fibres. One thing that’s especially nice about this whole process is acts as a bit of natural selection with the down clusters – the ones that remain at the end are very strong and give great loft per cluster. Recycled down retains its performance, so as long as you take care of your gear, you won’t even notice a difference. 

*Recycled down goes through an intensive grading, sorting and cleaning process to get it ready to be used again. Photo: ALLIED Feather + Down.*

## What’s next for recycled down?  

One of the great parts of trying recycled down in the Classics Collection is that we can experiment in a limited-edition run. We get to dabble in new ideas and materials in smaller quantities to make sure members love it. 

So far, recycled down has been a hit with our design team. We’re excited to introduce this material into another product coming up; keep your eye out this fall for the MEC Label Bromont Ski Jacket with recycled down. 

*Close-up of a down cluster, the magic behind down’s ability to give you awesome warmth for weight. Thousands of tiny filaments radiate out and connect with filaments from other clusters, which creates what ALLIED calls a “structural web of insulating air.” Photo: ALLIED Feather + Down*

## Recycled down vs RDS-certified down 

Some of you may be asking how recycled down stacks up against [RDS-certified down](/en/explore/animal-welfare) (Responsible Down Standard). We asked ourselves this question too, as both kinds of down have more positive impacts:   

- RDS-certified down ensures that ducks and geese are raised humanely, with no live plucking or force feeding.  

- Recycled down ensures waste does not pollute our environment and helps in our transition to a more circular economy.  

Comparing RDS-certified down to recycled down is like comparing apples to oranges: both are great options and it’s hard to definitively say which is better. Something we’re looking forward to? Down suppliers are working on ways to verify that recycled down is also RDS-certified, which would be the best of the best when it comes to down.  

One thing we can say for certain, though, is that all down used in MEC Label gear will be either 100% recycled down or (for virgin down) 100% RDS-certified. 


## How to look after your down products 

A little TLC keeps your down jackets and sleeping bags lasting longer. Check out our videos and articles on [how to wash a down jacket](/en/explore/how-to-wash-a-down-jacket) and [how to wash a sleeping bag](/en/explore/cleaning-down-clothing-and-sleeping-bags) for expert tips.  


*If you have down products that you want to recycle, check out [RENU bedding](https://renubedding.com/index.html) to find out more.*

Keeping textile waste out of the landfill and giving it new life.

Now landing: recycled down at MEC

The best times outside usually involve people to share them with – your hiking partner, your riding buddies, your family camp crew. So when we got major news, we had to share it with our outdoor communities. We also want to say a huge thank you for making it happen.

MEC just tied for top place as [Canada’s Most Trusted Brand](https://www.uvic.ca/gustavson/brandtrust/top-10/index.php), alongside COSTCO. This isn’t the first time we’ve received this accolade from The Gustavson Brand Trust Index (we also held top spot in 2020 and 2019). But it’s the time we’re most proud to politely toot our outdoorsy horn, because we shot up to the summit from eighth place last year to first place this year.

We know you have a lot of choices out there, and shopping for outdoor gear looks wildly different than it did when we started with a one-page catalogue in the early 1970s. We also know that some things don’t change – gear that’s made to last will help you get outside for life. 

“We’re always challenging our teams to innovate, so you get gear that combines quality, sustainably sourced materials, and has just the right features you need,” says Michele Guimond, VP of Marketing at MEC. “We want to offer products that are made for the long run. Buy once, buy right.”

**To members**: We love hearing your plans and dreams, your questions and feedback. We want to match you with just the right gear for your hike, climb, ski, bike, paddle – you name it. We’re stoked every time you choose MEC.

**To staffers**: You live and breathe getting outside, and you bridge the gap between our stores and the outdoors. Your advice, knowledge and stories are a huge part of the reason people keep coming back, over and over again. 

**To everyone** who’s been part of MEC’s journey for five decades and running: Thank you for choosing us, for trusting us with your outdoor gear, for being members for life.

## Want to know more about the award?
Glad you asked (it wouldn’t be a trusted brand award without transparency). MEC was recognized as Canada’s Most Trusted Brand – tied with COSTCO – in the ninth annual Gustavson Brand Trust Index (GBTI) presented by the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria.

This year GBTI featured 407 national and global brands across 33 categories, and more than 13,000 impartial adult consumers participated in the survey. The survey measures brand trust, and different dimensions of trust that influence whether people recommend a brand to their networks: values-based trust, functional trust, relationship trust and word of mouth. For more details, see the [full report](https://www.uvic.ca/gustavson/brandtrust/assets/docs/2023/gustavson-brand-trust-2023-final.pdf).

MEC just tied for top place as Canada’s Most Trusted Brand, alongside COSTCO. A huge thank you to members and staffers for making it happen.

Thank You! MEC Tied for Canada’s Most Trusted Brand

Thank you! MEC tied for Canada’s most trusted brand

[Parks Canada](/en/explore/parks-canada) and MEC have been working together for over 10 years. As part of its 100th anniversary celebrations in 2011, Parks Canada (in partnership with MEC) launched the first Learn-to Camp events – and they’re still going strong.

The [Learn-to Camp program](https://parks.canada.ca/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc) connects first-time campers with the Canadian camping experience. Participants learn all kinds of outdoor skills, like how to set up a tent, use a camp stove, and stay safe in the woods. The goal is to foster an appreciation for nature and set families up for a lifetime of camping memories.


## Learn-to camp overnight events
This year again, Parks Canada will offer Learn-to Camp overnight events across the country, in partnership with MEC – join us! If you’ve never been camping before (or want to brush up on some skills), these events are a fantastic introduction.

At these overnight camping experiences, you’ll take part in hands-on workshops and participate in outdoor activities, such as how to use camp gear, how to cook in the outdoors, hiking and paddling tips, and much more.

## Learn-to camp workshops
Can’t make the overnight events? Come by MEC stores for in-store workshops, hosted by Parks Canada Learn-to Camp staff – they’re a quick 45-minute lesson on camping basics.

From June to mid-August, you can catch workshops at MEC stores in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax.

These in-store workshops are awesome to cover the basics – everything from camping with kids and toddlers to tracking wildlife and AdventureSmart programs that cover surviving outside or what to do if you get lost.

## Camping basics
Can’t make it to our overnight events or in-store workshops? Check out some videos on camping basics:

### How to set up a tent
Tents are essential for any camping experience and come in all shapes and sizes. Follow these handy tips to make set-up a breeze:

How to set up a tent

Camping gear for your home away from home:

- [Tents](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-tents-tarps-and-bivies/c/1436)
- [Sleeping bags](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-and-pillows/sleeping-bags/c/1410)
- [Sleeping pads and mats](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-pads/c/1416)
- [Camping pillows](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-and-pillows/camp-pillows/c/1408)

## How to start a campfire
Campfires are a great way to keep warm, cook food and set the mood for some camp games and sing-a-longs.



How to light a campfire

Find what you need to help your camp meals come to life:

- [Campfire and fire pit accessories](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/c/1279)
- [Fire starters, matches and lighters](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/fire-starters-matches-and-lighters/c/1282)
- [Camp stoves and ovens](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/camp-stoves-and-grills/c/1835)

## How to set up a tarp
Wind, rain or sun? A tarp’s got you covered. Follow these tips to put one up at your campsite:



How to set up a tarp

Gear to keep sheltered:

- [Camping tarps](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-tents-tarps-and-bivies/tarps-and-light-shelters/c/1441)
- [Ropes and cord](/en/products/climbing/ropes-cords-and-slings/c/1390)
- [Bug nets and dining tents](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-tents-tarps-and-bivies/tent-parts-add-ons-and-repair/bug-net-shelters/c/1442)



Parks Canada is also offering a variety of Learn-to Camp activities – without having to stay overnight! Visit our pop-up campsites at municipal parks, beaches, libraries and special events near you, and participate in activities that introduce you to camping. At home activities are also available for those who want to start exploring now.

From June to September, they’ll be happening in parks around the Metro Vancouver area, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, Ottawa, Montreal, Québec City and Halifax.

The Learn-to Camp program connects first-time campers with the camping experience.

Learn-to Camp with Parks Canada and MEC

Happy Pride Month! This year, MEC strongly believes that showing our Pride is more important than ever. We’ll be recognizing and celebrating 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in the outdoors and beyond, and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve got planned. 

## Return of Queer Gear Kits 

After last year’s super successful launch, we’re excited to announce that [Queer Gear Kits](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits) are back. MEC wants to increase equity in the outdoors, and these grants help support 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups getting more folks outside.  

Last year's recipients are using the Queer Gear Kits grant for all kinds of awesome outdoor plans – everything from land-based cultural activities to camping retreats and bikepacking trips. Take a look at our chat with [last year’s recipients](/en/article/meet-the-2022-queer-gear-kit-recipients) to how they’re using these grants and the impact the grants are having for their community groups. 

### What’s in a Queer Gear Kit?  

- **$1,000** grant for outdoor activities with your community group  

- **Epic camp set-up** for your crew (tents, sleeping bags, camp kitchen gear and more)  

- **Pride outside gear** from MEC  

Applications are open **June 1 to 30** (we’ll contact recipients in August). Spread the word if you know any groups that would be interested. 

## Base Camp Duffle Artist Collab 

Pride month is an opportunity to showcase the talents of incredible 2SLGBTQIA+ artists across the country, so we’ve teamed up with our friends at The North Face for an exciting collaboration. We’ve worked with four artists from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal to customize iconic The North Face Base Camp Duffles in their own unique ways – and you have a chance to take one home. 

You can see the finished designs on our [Base Camp Artist Duffle Collab page](/en/explore/base-camp-duffle-artist-collab), or in-person at MEC Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. The best part? You can enter our raffle for a chance to win one. All raffle proceeds will go to The Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity. 

Buy your raffle tickets **before June 30**.

## Out and About Pride 

Ready to get this Pride party started? Join us in-stores for free events to celebrate Pride, use our climbing wall (beginner climbers welcome!), win prizes, and meet community groups. There’ll be music, giveaways, cold plunge fundraisers, local climbing crews to connect with, and much more. We have a hunch these events are going to be super popular, and we’d love to see you there. 

**See event details:** 

- MEC Vancouver: August 5–6  

- MEC Calgary: August 19-20  

- MEC Toronto: June 24-25  

- MEC Montreal: August 5-6  

## Love Letters, in collaboration with Leah Day 
  
We partnered up with Vancouver-based multi-disciplinary artist Leah Day to transform the MEC twin peaks into special in-store installations at six stores across Canada.  

Stop by one of the stores listed below to see the incredible art piece she’s created. Come by, spread some love and leave your own note on the installation to share with your local community. 

**Love letters installation** 

- [MEC Vancouver](/en/stores/vancouver): July 24 – August 13  

- [MEC Victoria](/en/stores/victoria): June 19 – July 16   

- [MEC Calgary](/en/stores/calgary): August 14 – September 10   

- [MEC Toronto](/en/stores/toronto): June 12–July 12  

- [MEC Ottawa](/en/stores/ottawa): August 7 – September 3   

- [MEC Montreal](/en/stores/montreal): July 31 – August 20 

**About Leah Day**:  

Leah Day 
IG: [@leahdayarts](https://www.instagram.com/leahdayarts/)  
[leahdayarts.com](https://www.leahdayarts.com/)  



Originally from the wilds of the Yukon Territory, Leah is an artist, avid naturalist, and fierce environmentalist who cares deeply for our environment and all beings who live on our earth.

## Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion 

MEC is committed to being a DEI leader in the outdoor space, and Pride month is the perfect time to reflect on the work we do year-round to create and nurture a culture of belonging and build an inclusive community for our staffers. The past few years have been a time of learning and growth for MEC; some of the many initiatives we’ve adopted include unconscious bias training, inclusive bathrooms, a practice of sharing inclusive community agreements at every meeting, and an evolving collection of resources and training programs which help staffers continue to learn from the lived experiences of others. A dedicated DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging) Committee provides a platform for open dialogue and collaboration which centers the diverse voices of our staffers, to ensure our work is driven from within.  

This June, as every year, you’ll see many of our staffers sporting the Pride flag in the stores. Internally, we’ll celebrate with a series of events, from Pride-themed Field Experiences (outdoor-based gear and activity education sessions for retail staff) to fireside chats, to film screenings and more. At each moment of coming together, we ask one another to reflect on what Pride means to each of us, and how we can all make the outdoors more inclusive, no matter the month of the year.  

While we love, love, LOVE celebrating Pride, it’s important to note that building and fostering an inclusive workplace is a practice, not a project. We are excited to continue to grow and deepen this practice over years to come. 

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