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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

It’s (finally) time to welcome 9pm sunsets and weekends filled with bike rides, hiking trails and playing fetch with your pooch at the park. Make the most of the start of summer weather with the latest stuff we’re stoked on:

## BioLite Solarhome 620


The SolarHome 620 lets you add a touch of solar-powered civility to your adventure van, off-grid cabin or base camp. This compact kit includes 3 hanging daisy chain lights that have multiple modes and work like your lights at home; simply flick the switch (and one light has a motion sensor). The control box houses a large battery and doubles as a radio and MP3 player. Dual side-mounted USB ports even allow you to charge your devices.



Garmin packs more into the Edge 130 than any other compact bike GPS. You get GPS-based speed and distance, barometric altimeter-based ascents and descents, navigation through courses setup through the free mobile app (or Strava), plus smart notifications and alerts. The internal antenna connects 3 different satellite constellations, a first for any Garmin unit.



If you’re just getting into road racing, these clipless pedals could be your jam. They’re made with good-quality sealed cartridge bearings to offer reliable performance.



What’s smaller than 2 Tic Tac® boxes and can save your life? Garmin’s new inReach Mini takes the core features from the proven inReach GPS satellite communicators and shrinks them down to pocket size.

- You can send and receive text messages and emails anywhere on the planet, staying connected even where there’s no cell phone coverage.
- Internal GPS handles basic navigation and sends location data with each message, letting your followers track your adventures.
- A dedicated SOS button lets you call for help, no matter where you are.



The ultimate resource for anyone faced with providing immediate care when access to a medical facility is difficult or impossible. Teaches you vital wilderness first aid skills such how to survey, assess and stabilize a victim, how to manage symptoms, and how to care for wounds and orthopedic injuries.



Limited edition ombre colours. The double-wall insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours, hot for up to 6 hours, and won’t sweat on you. Standard wide-mouth opening fits many existing filters and lids.



## MEC Lightweight Baselayer Long John’s – Children


So versatile: they work on their own in the summer, then go under anything in winter. Wicking fabric dries fast, and it’s equipped with antimicrobial technology to keep it smelling fresher for longer. UPF 40 sun protection for when the sun comes out.



## Therm-a-rest NeoAir Camper Duo Sleeping Pad


A two-person sleeping pad that won’t feel like a two-person sleeping pad. Separate chambers give you and your partner the option to customize the firmness. 7.6cm of thickness is a dream come true for side sleepers and toss-and-turners who need extra plushness.



Everything is better with sprinkles. Chuao applies this truth to this new milk chocolate bar, which is loaded with chunks of crunchy waffle cone and buttery hazelnuts, then topped with sprinkles.



Topo Designs, a Colorado based company, makes timeless gear with modern function, and strives to build skillfully crafted pieces that last and don’t slide quickly out of fashion. They also strive to reduce waste through a lifetime warranty and repair program.



## Nite Ize Huck’n Tuck Collapsible Thrower


Play ball all day (and all night) with this fun and bright thrower. A collapsible handle means it’s easy to store in your pocket or pack so you’re always ready for a slobber-free fetch ‘sesh. Durable LED Ball is great for nighttime play.



SPY Happy lenses heighten contrast and colour without affecting clarity. The tough Grilamid® frame is known for flexibility, durability and lightness, excellent for performance eyewear frames.



This hybrid garment bag and bike bag drapes over your rear rack, and keeps your dress clothes clean and crisp. Fits a full suit, a pair of shoes, ties and belts, a towel, a toiletry kit, bike tools, keys, wallet, phone, lunch and a laptop. Designed in Vancouver.



## SRAM XG-1275 10-50T 12 Speed Cassette


The argument is over: the front derailleur is dead. For the first time, you don’t have to choose between gear range, weight and reliability. The Eagle 12-speed gives you the range of a 2x drivetrain. It offers a whopping 500% range (10-50T) so you can climb and descend at the speed you want.



## Related articles
- [Hiking with your dog](/en/explore/hiking-with-dogs)
- [How to choose a sleeping pad](/en/explore/about-sleeping-pads)
- [Just add sun: our favourite solar-powered products](https://www.mec.ca/en)



Just landed: the Garmin inReach mini, cushy sleeping pads for two, beauty water bottles and Topo Designs packs – see what’s fresh and new.

What’s new this week | MEC Blog

What’s new this week

Part of the beauty of going camping is saying goodbye to your gadgets for a few days. But enjoying a digital detox means giving up many of your go-to kitchen appliances, too. Luckily, just because you’re at a campsite doesn’t mean you have to eat hot dogs *all*weekend. Sure, you might not have access to an oven or your complete spice cabinet, but as long as you have a camp stove and a can-do attitude, it’s easy to get creative with camping food and recipes.

## Breakfast
When you plan out camping breakfast ideas, think about what you’ll be doing that day – if you’ve got a full day of hiking or canoeing ahead, you might want a quick breakfast without a lot of clean-up. But if you have time to linger, why not start the day with something different?

### Breakfast burritos with hand-blended salsa


How to Cook Campfire Burritos

Kick off breakfast with espresso in the woods, then stoke the campfire to start roasting veggies for a side of fresh salsa made in the [GSI Vortex Hand Blender](/en/product/5027-635/Vortex-Blender). Get the recipe for breakfast burritos from Chef Chuck Hughes and Danny Smiles.

### Pancakes with canned peaches


Pancakes are about as easy as it gets when it comes to camp breakfasts, especially if you’re using a box mix. While we all love syrup – that’s a Canadian pre-req – swapping in a can of peaches leads to a delicious, less messy and (slightly) healthier version.

### Dressed up oatmeal


Okay, we take back what we said about pancakes. Oatmeal is as easy as it gets with camp breakfasts. Boil water. Pour in oats. Done. But oatmeal can get old really quickly. Emilie Richard, a nutritionist working with MEC Outdoor Nation partner [Chevres de Montagnes](http://www.leschevresdemontagne.com/), suggests throwing in coconut flakes, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, sliced almonds, cranberries, figs, goji berries, maple sugar and a chai spice mix (made with cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom and cloves).



## Lunch
If you plan to leave your campsite during the day, then bring a [small portable cooler](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/coolers-food-storage-and-bar-items/coolers/c/1269) as part of your camp kitchen kit (that way you don’t need to lug the giant main cooler down to the beach).

### Tacos in a bag


A staple of summer camp, this is a great grab-and-go lunch. Take all your traditional taco fixings – lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, meat – and pour them into a mini bag of corn chips. This is one meal you’ll definitely look forward to when you’ve reached the halfway point of your day outside.

### Fancied up GORP


Granola, oats, raisins and peanuts (or good ol’ raisins and peanuts, depending on your source) is a longstanding favourite with campers and hikers. Just throw a bunch of tasty, energy-boosting snacks into a bag and munch on it throughout the day. To mix it up a little, take some advice from our partners at [Parks Canada](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/index) and try it with Shreddies, chocolate pieces, banana chips, raisins, cashews and almonds. (We won’t bother with the acronym for that one.)



## Dinner
Camping dinner ideas often revolve around the campfire, but if there’s a fire ban in place, you can usually still dish up meals with a [camp stove](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/stoves-fuel-and-fire/c/1279) (always check the regulations to see what’s allowed during a fire ban).

### Burgers made of black beans


You can’t go wrong with burgers. For an alternative to the classic beef patty that’s guaranteed to travel well, try whipping up some vegetarian black bean and sweet potato burgers instead. Emilie suggests making the patties at home before you go, then frying them up with your favourite burger ingredients to refuel at the end of a long day.

### Corn cooked on the campfire


Nothing beats a fire-roasted corn on the cob. Once your fire has burned long enough to create embers, load on a few ears of corn. The husks will char nicely and be extremely easy to pull off, and the corn itself will have a delicious roasted taste that’s totally different from boiled or barbecued corn.

### Chili with roasted sweet potatoes


No microwave? No problem. One of the easiest things to do on camping trips, especially if you know you’re going to be out during the day, is to pre-make meals and heat them up over the fire. Chili is a great example – filling, easy and delicious. If you want to dress it up, follow Emilie’s advice and toss in some roasted some sweet potatoes, cheese and tortilla chips – maybe even avocado slices if you’re going full campsite gourmet.



## Snacks and desserts
Along with the quick stuff to munch on, like chips or fruit, you can get a little creative with your camping snacks and treats.

### Spinach dip warmed by the fire


For a belly warming snack idea that you can cook on the fire, throw sour cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese and spinach into some tin foil and cook it beside the embers. You can even prepare the spinach dip at home first, and can customize with whatever you have lying around (like bacon, green onion or artichokes).

### Fruit kebab s’mores


A Twist on Classic Camp S'mores

Amazing when peaches are in season, or you could sub out strawberries or your favourite fruits. Watch Chef Chuck Hughes and Danny Smiles to see how it’s done – they’re using a [fire pit](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/campfire-and-fire-pit-accessories/c/1796) to toast things up.

### S’mores with PB cups


S’mores are a classic camping treat – why not try subbing the simple milk chocolate for peanut butter cups? Or take a page out of Parks Canada’s book, and make full blown s’mores packets instead. Turn tin foil into a basket loaded up with chopped banana, crushed graham crackers, broken chocolate pieces and a couple of marshmallows, then place it in the embers until everything’s just the right level of gooey.

Sharing camping food with friends is half the fun of being outside. Use these new takes on camping classics to make your next weekend away easy and delicious.



## Related articles
- [Craft s’mores: boost your camp snack game](/en/article/craft-smores-boost-your-camp-snack-game)
- [Camp kitchen checklist](/en/article/camp-kitchen-checklist)
- [The art of open-fire cooking](/en/article/the-art-of-open-fire-cooking)



Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you have to eat hot dogs all weekend. Learn how to get creative with your camp stove and liven up your camping menu.

Learn how to put a twist on your standard camping meals

Camping meal ideas with a twist

On paper, in the comfort of my living room, the idea seemed simple: move two wheels from point A to point B along the Arctic Circle.

From the Russell Glacier, a tongue of ice extending off the Greenland Icecap, I’d bike roughly 200km west to Sisimiut, the second-largest “city” in Greenland. I’d do my best to follow the creatively named Arctic Circle Route, scratched into the landscape by cloven caribou hooves and the Vibram soles of a few European hiking boots, but otherwise I’d be on my own among sparsely shrubbed tundra, scoured gneiss rock slabs and gigantic lakes.

I had little information about the route and had heard no accounts of it being attempted by bicycle. The challenge was set.



## Getting to the start
Sure, I could have flown into Greenland, attempted the trail, and left – but where’s the adventure in that? Instead, I worked my way there aboard a vessel more like an iceberg than a ship, earning my keep with One Ocean Expeditions by driving zodiacs, interpreting the desolate landscape of the Northwest Passage, and keeping adventurous visitors safe in the land of *Ursus maritimus*, the polar bear.



Ship life took some getting used to. Confined to a rigid schedule on a mere 113 metres of ship, without the freedom to pedal away my front door, I felt antsy. Surrounded by enthusiastic guests hungry for insight into all things Arctic, I had to be “on” all the time.

My lone reprieve was out on polar bear patrol. Four of us would head off in separate directions with rifles for self-defence, acting as a sort of bear bait while making sure no unseen bears were sleeping in gullies or foraging behind boulders, before we brought our passengers to shore. With tight living quarters aboard the ship, this solo time on the land made me long for more.



After three weeks, we arrived in Greenland and I said goodbye to my passengers and fellow staff. After being surrounded by people 24/7 with few solitary moments, I expected the emptiness of the barren gravel road to be a welcome reprieve.

But the shift was too drastic, too quick and too complete. Almost instantaneously, my excitement was replaced by severe loneliness. Already, I longed for a companion who could share the burden of the unknown.



## Alone in the barrens
Feeling under-confident, overwhelmed and nervous about the violent storm looming in the forecast, I took stock of my food and bought more fuel for my stove. Then, surrounded by swirling dust clouds, I anxiously took the first pedal strokes toward the Greenland Icecap. The trail ahead was cold and uninviting. Low shrubs scattered patches of dull colour across the barren landscape, which looked like it had been carved from stone by a sardonic wind.



But towards the end of my second day, whether through a change in my mental state or a trick of the evening light, the hills burst to life with autumn colours. The bright reds and oranges of dwarf birch, scotch heather and blueberry bushes engulfed me. Tufts of cotton floated from the yellow leaves of miniature willow trees like a warm, gentle snowfall.

With a very short growing season, the flora in this part of the world put their energy into roots and leaves; century-old trees look like baby shrubs compared to their southern counterparts. I rode like a giant through the canopy of this pint-sized old-growth forest, lapping in a fast descent to my campsite for the night.

> “I rode like a giant through the canopy of this pint-sized old-growth forest, lapping in a fast descent to my campsite for the night.”
>


## Battling the land
The Inuit have no longstanding history of long-distance running or trekking, as most land travel in the Arctic occurs in winter – for good reason, as I was harshly discovering.

I measured my riding progress in ratios. A good day would have a 60/40 ratio of riding to hiking, or if I was lucky, 70/30. But I enjoyed the changes in movement. Hiking gave my lower back a reprieve from my heavy pack, and bike descents were an instant mood enhancer – that is, when the trail wasn’t frozen into an icy snake.



Pushing the bike came with its own set of challenges. Although it was only knee-high, the hearty tundra brush fought with a determined vengeance. Stout, rigid branches grabbed at my pedals, spokes and derailleurs.

Bog wrestling was even worse. Staring into sphagnum for hours on end tested my already strained sanity levels. Every slight depression in the ground bred thick, ruffled mounds of moss that sponged up every ounce of water – sometimes stretching for multiple kilometres. Every footstep was a game of Russian Roulette: would it end in firm footing and a sigh of relief, or a disagreeable, soggy squish?



## The final night
I’d been watching the lenticular clouds form ominously earlier in the day. Sculpted by high winds into alien spaceships, they hovered over the highest peaks, forecasting a violent storm. Hastily, I made for the hut marked at the edge of my map.

When the gale hit, I was grateful for the shelter, no matter how humble. As each violent blast of wind screamed down from the mountains, I knew it would have torn my ultralight one-person tent to shreds. The steel cables attached to the hut creaked and groaned under the strain of 100+ km/h gusts, and it sounded like the tin stove pipe would be torn out of the plywood roof at any moment. It might as well have, as there was no paraffin for the heater.

> “The steel cables attached to the hut creaked and groaned under the strain of 100+ km/h gusts, and it sounded like the tin stove pipe would be torn out of the plywood roof at any moment.”
>
I cinched my sleeping bag up underneath my armpits and boiled my nearly tasteless teabag for the third time. There would be no going out today. Pinned down in this tiny refuge, I was down to half-rations – rations which were insufficient to begin with. Cold, hungry and bored, I stared out the small window at the steep cliffs hemming in the tight valley. Frozen streams criss-crossed their faces like icy spiderwebs. My journal provided only a little solace, so eventually, I slept.





## A new dawn
As I forced open the top of the hut’s Dutch door in the faint blue glow of early morning, a thick sheet of rime released from the wall and crashed down onto the wooden steps. The storm had laid down 10cm of fresh snow, and the wind had sculpted it into long streaks and deep drifts. After cooking my last packet of oatmeal, I put on every stitch of clothing I had and waterproofed my feet with used zip-lock bags.

The sky was fearsome. Black streaks rippled among the grey cottonball clouds in the high winds. The rain came down in sheets, blowing sideways from the sea, but I didn’t care. I cinched my hood down, exhilarated by the weather.

Sliding, slipping and skidding my way down from the final pass, I grinned at the unpredictability of it all. And as I plowed through another tire-high snow drift, the colourful buildings of Sisimiut slowly appeared.



*In September 2017, Ben Haggar completed a 200km solo bikepacking expedition along the Arctic Circle in Greenland. MEC was proud to support him with an expedition grant as well as an *InReach SE*, *[*MEC Spark 1-Person Tent*](/en/product/6000-984/spark-2.0-1-person-tent?colour=Neutral+Grey%2FDeep+Navy)*, *MEC Talon -3 Sleeping Bag*, *[*Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm Sleeping Pad*](/en/product/6008-249/neoair-xlite-wv-sleeping-pad?colour=Lemon+Curry)*, and *Power Traveller Powermonkey Extreme Solar Charger*. Way to go, Ben!*

***All photos by Ben Haggar.*



## Related articles
- [How to plan an expedition](/en/article/how-to-plan-an-expedition)
- [Mountain biking in northern India](/en/article/mountain-biking-in-northern-india)
- [Dempster Highway: biking, bonding and sour toes](/en/article/dempster-highway-biking-bonding-and-sour-toes)



On paper, it looked simple enough to bike from point A to point B. Then the adventure began.

Bikepacking the Arctic Circle | MEC Blog

Bikepacking the Arctic Circle

Have you ever floated above the ground in a tent? How about listened to music via bone conduction? This week’s fresh sheet is about to open up your outdoor world (and bring you some new staples). See what we’re excited about:

## Aftershokz Trekz Titanium Headphones


Bone conduction sends sound vibrations directly to your inner ear. This leaves your ear canal free and clear so you can hear your music as well as what’s going on around you. Trekz Titanium Headphones let you listen to music and make and answer phone calls without interrupting your workout.



Take the easy way. Save more than $50 when you buy these 3 products as a bundle. This deal’s only available online. Includes the MEC Camper 2 Tent, Creekside 10C Sleeping Bag and Camper Sleeping Pad. Want another combo? Give us a call at 1-888-847-0770 or shop in-store to [save 10% on a customized MEC camp bundle](/en/explore/special-offers).



Is #vanlife or a long camping roadtrip calling your name? This combo fridge/freezer is a big step up from a box and a block of ice. It runs off a highly efficient compressor, or you can use the DC plug in your car, van, camper or boat. Plus, you can charge your phone from the built-in USB port. Low power consumption and low-voltage battery protection is suitable for solar set-ups.



A portable treehouse. This big hammock/tree tent sleeps 2. Suspend it between 3 trees like a hammock, for a completely different camping experience. This version is light enough to take backpacking.



## Frontiersman Bear Spray with Practice Spray


This kit contains both an active bear spray and an inert training canister filled with water. The training canister is loaded with water but otherwise identical to the real thing, and allows you to become comfortable with canister handling and operation.



A trad shoe that blends performance with comfort, it’s not traditionally stiff, but supports your foot with a tensioning system that runs under the mid-foot and over the heel. The higher cut protects your ankle bones when your jamming or cranking 40 metres of offwidth (you know you love it).



Tired of being covered in splinters and bark after gathering firewood? This waxed carrier holds a bundle of wood for convenient transportation and keeps you clean and splinter-free.



The Tikkid is a compact, lightweight and bright headlamp that gives kids a light of their own. 3 modes:

- Low that’s just right for reading.
- High that’s great for after-dark games or finding the way to the bathroom.
- Flashing mode that helps keep little ones visible (and lights up spur-of-the-moment dance parties).



Socks that stand up to long training days on the trail or pavement. Anatomic arch support hugs your foot, and the performance fabric wicks and breathes.



## Related articles
- [How to choose a headlamp](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-headlamp)
- [Travel tips for a nomadic life](/en/article/the-gear-you-need-for-a-nomadic-life)
- [How to choose climbing shoes](/en/explore/choose-your-climbing-shoes)



Tents that float above the ground, techy headphones and new outdoor staples.

Packing up the car and heading out on a camping adventure with friends is one of the best ways to spend a summer weekend. But sometimes, getting a good night’s sleep in a tent can be a bit of a struggle.

Find out how to handle chilly evenings, busy campsites and rogue roots with the potential to jab you in the back at 2am. Once you’ve mastered the art of camp sleeps, there’s really nothing quite like a night under the stars.

## Get the right gear


#### Pick the best sleeping bag for you
Your sleeping bag is one of the most important camping purchases you make, so it’s worth some research to choose wisely. The first thing to think about is the temperature rating. A summer sleeping bag will have a very different rating than those made for winter camping, but summer evenings can still get a little chilly. For best results, choose a bag that’s rated to a few degrees colder than the temperature you anticipate outside.

You’ll also want to consider the shape of the bag, so think about the way you sleep at home. Do you toss and turn a lot at night? A barrel or rectangle shaped bag gives you more room to move than a mummy shaped sleeping bag. If a sleeping bag just feels too restrictive overall, you can skip one altogether and use a camping quilt instead.



#### Add a sleeping pad or cot
Sleeping pads play a huge role in comfy sleeps, and not just because they’re a layer to cushion your back from roots and rocks. They’re also key to keeping you warm by insulating you from the ground.

A simple foam pad is an inexpensive, yet bulky, option, but sleeping pads have come a long way. Today’s sleeping pads can be filled with just air (like an air mattress) or be insulated for extra comfort. Some of them even provide 10cm of cushiness, yet still pack down small when you’re back home. Want even more space between you and the ground? Consider a camping cot.



When you’re car camping, you might be tempted to bring a full-sized pillow from home. But if you don’t want to infuse your everyday pillow with campfire smell, you can sleep just as well on a camping pillow. For a peek at two options, check out our [video comparing camp pillows](/en/article/gear-vs-gear-camping-edition).



#### Don’t forget earplugs
Even if you’re a fan of nature’s noises, make sure to bring along a pair of earplugs, especially if you’re camping at a large campground. Nodding off is easier when you’re not woken up by the sound of a trunk closing from a late camper arrival, or hear laughing from the campfire a few sites away.

## Set up your space
If you’re a light sleeper, then find a campsite that’s far from heavy car or foot traffic on trails. Skip sites that are close to the road or right beside outhouses and washroom buildings. Another option for quiet? Scope out campgrounds that aren’t as popular… you might find a hidden gem.

When you do pitch your tent, look for a patch of ground that’s as flat as possible and free of tree roots. If you have to set up on an incline, think about how you’ll arrange things inside your tent and where you want the doors to face. Keep your pillow at the highest point to avoid waking up with a headache, and think about where the sunbeams will be shining at sunrise.

#### Keep scented things away
To keep any unwanted night time creatures from visiting your tent, make sure anything scented is outside of your tent (that includes food, deodorant, shampoo and toothpaste). Lock them up in the car if you’re at a drive-in site, or if you’re in the backcountry, put them in bear-safe food lockers, hang them from a tree using ropes and a bag, or use a bear-resistant canister.



#### Find the familiar
If you have a nighttime routine that helps you relax before bed at home, try to stick to it when you’re camping. Maybe some evening stretching or a chapter of a book is what you need to signal to your brain that it’s time to turn in.

#### Have tea by the fire


A cup of hot cocoa can be a favourite campfire drink, but even small amounts of caffeine or sugar can keep you up at night. Try subbing the caffeinated beverage with chamomile tea, known for its calming effects.



## Stay warm
Wet and warm do not mix. Make sure that everything on your body, from your head to your feet, is as dry as possible. This means removing any article of clothing that you may have sweat in throughout the day. Go to sleep in a clean, dry set of long johns (it also keeps your sleeping bag cleaner over time).

Base layers are a great way to help trap heat and stay warm. If you’re sleeping in colder weather, wear multiple layers on the top and bottom along socks, a toque and mitts (your fingers will be warmer when they can share heat).



With the right gear, a bedtime routine and knowing tips for setting up camp and staying warm, getting outside and comfy is simple – you’ll probably want to stay awhile.



## Related articles
- [How to choose a sleeping bag](/en/explore/choose-your-sleeping-bag)
- [Staying warm and sleeping warm](/en/explore/staying-warm-and-sleeping-warm)
- [Camp in comfort: ways to improve your next trip](/en/article/camp-in-comfort-ways-to-improve-your-next-escape)



If getting a solid sleep in a tent can be a struggle for you, here are some ideas to help.

How to get a good night’s sleep when you’re camping | MEC Learn

A recipe for zzz’s in the woods

Get ready for a summer of outdoor adventures. This batch of new gear at MEC includes packs from Osprey and Fjallraven, chairs to kick back or carry with you, a wind-tunnel tested umbrella, and some of the best possible rechargeable batteries available. Here’s some of the latest gear on mec.ca we’re excited to share:

## Fjallraven Kanken Backpack


Originally created as a backpack for Swedish schoolchildren, this pack has swept the globe, and it isn’t hard to see why. A wide clamshell opening makes loading up a breeze. Slip-in side pockets are tried and tested to give you grabbable access to your water bottle or umbrella.



Someone always snagging your hammock? Kick back in Nemo’s Stargaze Luxury Chair. It’s suspended, letting you swing as though you were in a hammock. Toss it in the trunk and bring it car camping or to a BBQ in the park; it works on most terrain.



## Panasonic Eneloop Rechargeable Batteries


Panasonic’s Eneloop line of rechargeable batteries are widely regarded as some of the best on the market. Able to be recharged up to 2100 times, and retain more than 70% capacity after 10 years in storage. Excellent cold-weather performance.



New to MEC – Osprey packs! The Talon’s super-comfortable carrying system makes it great for day hikes, grocery runs or weekend bike rides. Handy features include a stow-and-go trekking pole carrying system and an external hydration sleeve. Stretch-mesh pockets are easy to access and have plenty of room for sunscreen and protein bars.



A soft T-shirt that’s made of cotton, cut for movement and open to anything you have going on.



With deep lenses that block reflected light and the Advancer™ nose bridge that stops fog before it starts, the Field Jacket Sunglasses have you covered. Great for trail riding, road cycling and trail running.



Don’t buy and discard another umbrella. This one is durable and radially tensioned to stop it from blowing inside out. It’s been wind-tunnel tested to simulates gusts getting channeled around buildings and down city streets.



## New Balance BKOv1 Boa Running Shoes (kids’ sizes 4–7)


Great for running on pavement and setting speed records. Lightweight synthetic and mesh upper help feet stay cool and comfortable, and the Boa closure system cinches down for a secure fit.



This chair’s compact aluminum design makes it easy to bring backpacking or on hikes to your favourite picnic spot. Don’t let the lightweight package fool you, though – it’s also mighty enough to support up to 113kg.



A modular system for wearing at a high basecamp or in polar conditions. Pertex® Endurance water-resistant fabric shell protects the down interior. Attach the outer footbed for walking around camp and remove it for bivies or when in the tent.



Lighter than an axe and more efficient than a large knife, this saw will revolutionize the way you maintain trails, collect firewood, or do anything else that requires cutting wood. Designed for professional arborists, the Accel is comfortable enough for all-day use.



In addition to a fun shark pattern on the cuff, these performance socks provide airflow and comfort on long, hot training days on the bike.



## Related articles
- [How to choose and fit a backpack](/en/explore/choose-and-fit-a-backpack)
- [Camp in comfort: ways to improve your next escape](/en/article/camp-in-comfort-ways-to-improve-your-next-escape)
- [Science says: getting kids outside is a game-changer](/en/article/science-says-getting-kids-outdoors-is-a-game-changer)



From Osprey packs to amazing rechargeable batteries, with tons of cool stuff in between.

Gear to elevate your outdoor adventures, whether that means taking your next camping trip to a whole new level (literally) or sending that climbing project (finally). Here’s some of the latest on mec.ca that we’re excited about:

## GoPro Hero


GoPro’s new Hero action camera brings some of the best features of the Hero line to a more affordable price point. The intuitive touchscreen lets you quickly find the right mode, adjust image quality and review footage on the fly. Voice controls let you start and stop recording, take pictures, start time lapse and more, without taking your hands out of the action.



The X1 offers a more sensitive feel than most shoes. Trax SAS outsole, thin midsole and massive toe patch give it a true sock-like fit, without sacrificing security. It’s built on a mid-volume, down-turned, cambered last to suit gym training and sending hard outside.



The Ferrari of stick brushes. The telescopic pole and adjustable head let you clean even the hardest-to-reach holds.



Razor sharp edges at the push of a button. Using a flexible abrasive belt system, this motorized sharpener is a scaled-down version of the belt grinders used by professional knife makers. Perfect for sharpening axes, tools, outdoor knives and even scissors.



Soothe your tired feet after your next long-distance race. The ultra-cush oversized midsole feels fantastic after long days on your feet.



The main 4-person area of this tent mounts easily to the top of SUVs or trucks, sitting pretty while you drive, then springing up and into action in seconds when you reach your destination. This model also includes an enclosed 8-by-8-foot vestibule (called an annex) that encloses the ladder and provides some interior space down on the ground to store gear, hang out, or even sleep 2 more people.



When it’s time to max your comfort level, these bibshorts are engineered for exceptional comfort on epic all day rides.



Part slip-on, part slipper. These beachy warm-weather shoes have a drop-in heel so you can wear them however you like.



A compact table to elevate your outdoor dining experience, and it weighs less than a full water bottle.



## Related articles
- [What’s new: last week’s edition](/en/article/whats-new-this-week)
- [How to choose rock climbing shoes](/en/explore/choose-your-climbing-shoes)
- [How to prepare for a long trail run](/en/explore/how-to-prepare-for-a-long-trail-run)



From rock shoes and rooftop tents to brushes and backcountry tables… here’s some of the freshest stuff rolling in this week.

Nothing says welcome to the great outdoors like the smell of coffee brewing. Okay, maybe it’s not completely synonymous with nature, but as an evolved species, we’re afforded the finer things in life. Enter: truly amazing coffee, served up right in the woods. Sounds pretty fantastic, right?

There are two main schools of thought when it comes to high-quality camp coffee: Aeropress or pour-over. We’re going to show you how to execute both so you can make up your mind for yourself. For both methods, remember to pre-grind your beans or bring along a [hand-powered coffee grinder](/en/product/6019-166/javagrind?colour=Smoke) (smashing coffee beans against a rock is not an ideal way to start).

## How to make Aeropress coffee: video
An [Aeropress](/en/product/5046-862/Coffee%26-Espresso-Maker) is a light and small device that makes coffee (crema and all) without electricity. It may sound complex, but we promise it’s not. There are two common ways to use an Aeropress: the inverted method and the original method. We’ll explain both, and the video below takes you through the inverted method.



Camp Kitchen Secrets: How to make Aeropress coffee

### Aeropress: inverted method
1. Fit the large cylinder and the plunger of your Aeropress together (without pressing the plunger all the way in) and stand them up on a level surface.
1. Add 1.5 scoops of finely ground coffee, or 1 scoop of espresso grind, into the cylinder. The funnel makes it easy to pour in coffee grounds.
1. Fill the large cylinder with hot water (use the numbered notches on the side of the cylinder to see where the maximum is) and let bloom.
1. Stir once using the paddle that comes with your Aeropress.
1. Let steep about one minute (or less, depending how strong you like it).
1. Place a filter in the cap and then twist the cap onto the top cylinder.
1. Carefully and quickly flip the Aeropress over, so it’s on top of your coffee cup and the holes in the Aeropress cap point into your cup.
1. Press down firmly until you hear a hissing sound.
1. Take a sip, and add more water if you made it too strong.

### Aeropress: original method
This method isn’t that different from the inverted method, but there’s no flipping your Aeropress and you use the plunger last instead of fitting it on first. Here’s how it works:

1. Place a filter in the cap.
1. Twist the cap onto the larger cylinder.
1. Sit the filter and cylinder over your coffee cup, so they’re resting on top with the holes in the cap pointing into your cup. Drip a little hot water in to wet the filter.
1. Add 1.5 scoops of finely ground coffee, or 1 scoop of espresso grind, into the cylinder. The funnel makes it easy to pour in coffee grounds.
1. Fill the large cylinder with hot water (use the numbered notches on the side of the cylinder to see where the maximum is) and let bloom.
1. Stir once.
1. Insert the plunger into the cylinder and press firmly until you hear a hissing sound.
1. Sip and enjoy!

Coffee nerds can get very particular about water temperature; hot, not boiling, water is a good place to start. Try leaving your boiling water to sit for a minute or so before adding it to the coffee grounds. This lets the water cool to just below boiling point, which some experts will argue, improves the taste of your coffee. And, as you use your Aeropress more, you’ll be able to fine-tune your grounds to water ratio to customize your own perfect cup.



## How to make pour-over coffee: video
Sweet simplicity. With pour-over coffee, you just set up your dripper and then (like the name implies) pour your hot water over the top.



How to make pour-over coffee while camping



There are tons of pour-over coffee makers to choose from, like the [GSI Collapsible Java Drip](/en/product/5050-845/Collapsible-Java-Drip), the Soto Helix Coffee Maker, the Snow Peak Collapsible Pour Over, and the [GSI Ultralight Java Drip](/product/5018-696/gsi-ultralight-java-drip/). Once you’ve got your maker, just follow these 7 steps:

1. Place your dripper over your mug.
1. Put a filter in the dripper.
1. Add coffee grounds.
1. Add a splash of hot water to bloom (see the note above about water temp – that applies here, too).
1. Add remaining water in a spiral motion.
1. Remove dripper once all the water has drained.
1. Sip and enjoy.



As you can see, camp coffee can be just as good (or better) than your coffee at home, and it’s impressively easy to make. The only thing you have to figure out is whether you’re an Aeropress or a pour-over person.

Happy camping!



## Related articles
- [A coffee addict’s guide to camp coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee)
- [Camping checklist](/en/explore/camping-checklist)
- [Trying to convince someone to come camping? Show them this.](/en/article/trying-to-convince-someone-to-come-camping-show-them-this)



Just because you’re heading off the grid, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your cup of joe.

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