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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Get ready to roll. Whether your city calls it Bike Month, Go By Bike Week or Bike to Work Week, it’s the time of year when people discover (or rediscover) the efficiency and fun of life on two wheels. Here are a few helpful tips to boost your pedal power.

## 1. Find a great route
A little planning goes a long way. There’s a good chance the route you drive or take transit won’t be best route for biking. Find your local cycling map to see what infrastructure exists; for example, Toronto has its own [Toronto Cycling Map](https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/streets-parking-transportation/cycling-in-toronto/cycling-google-map/). You can usually link routes together to avoid busy traffic areas. 

Google maps also has a “biking” layer (under map details) to help you create a route, though be warned: sometimes it can give some odd suggestions for riding, so you may want to use it as a starting point and fine-tune your own route from there.

One of the best route-finding tips? Ask a fellow bike commuter. They’ll be more than happy to share advice on favourite quiet bike lanes and ways to skirt around hills. 

## 2. Ease into it
When you’re planning your rides, give yourself a bit more time than you think you need. It’s totally fine to relax and not race to your destination – in fact, that’s part of what makes biking enjoyable. You may need a couple minutes when you arrive to change and lock up too.

If you’re new to your bike route, it may be useful to try some practice rides on quiet weekends to get the hang of it before bike lanes get busy at rush hour. And if the idea of biking a full week feels outside of your comfort zone, try a single day out to start. 

## 3. Get your bike ready
You don’t need a fancy bike to ride to work, but you do need a functional one. First, pump up your tires – they’ll lose air pressure even if your bike was just sitting in your garage or bike storage all winter. Next, give your chain some TLC. It likely needs a bit of lube and it might even benefit from a nice cleaning. Check out our videos and tips on [how to clean and lube your chain](/en/explore/how-to-clean-and-lube-a-bike-chain) (it’s easier than you think and is incredibly satisfying). For squeaks and creaks you can’t fix, stop by your [local MEC bike shop](/en/explore/bike-service) for a tune up.

Finally: accessorize. You’ll need a bell, front white light and rear red light. A [well-fitting helmet](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-cycling-helmet) is always recommended.

> “I like to keep a plastic grocery bag in my backpack in case of rain. When I park my bike outside on a light showers day, I cover my bike saddle with the bag – dry seat, guaranteed.” – MEC staffer tip

## 4. Get yourself ready
There’s a huge range of personal preferences for what to wear for biking to work, school or on errands. Some people like to ride in their everyday clothes; others prefer bike tights and cycling jackets, then change at their destination. Just remember you want to be comfortable on the bike as well as when you reach your destination. Many bike trips are also short commutes, so many riders don’t feel like they need to shower when they arrive. 

You’ll also want a way to bring lunch, your laptop and maybe a change of clothes. Panniers and a rack keep the load off your back, while a backpack is more convenient for walking around at your destination.

> “Most of my bike to work clothes are just my gym clothes with two exceptions: a good bike jacket and bike gloves. They make a big difference.” – MEC staffer tip

## 5. Lock it up, register your ride
Look into where to park your bike at your destination. There might be a special bike room, bike lockers or a covered space with bike racks; ask the building manager or other riders if you’re not sure. 

A bike lock is a must for public places and not a bad idea for any bike storage room either. Most U-locks provide a high degree of security – check out our article on [choosing a lock and how to lock up your bike](/en/explore/locking-your-bike) for great tips and advice. 

Another must many riders don’t know about: register your bike! [529 Garage](https://project529.com/garage) is a free service that lets the bike community and even police know if your bike has been stolen – and more importantly, helps with recovery if it’s been found. Your area may also have their own bike-theft prevention program in place.

> “If you plan to park your bike in public places, look for bike lights that are easy to take on and off, so you can bring them with you when you lock up.” – MEC staffer tip

## 6. Build your skills
Just because you know how to ride a bike doesn’t mean you know how to safely ride in a city. Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve biked, maybe you’re in a new neighourhood, or maybe you’ve never ridden near traffic before. If you’re not feeling confident, look into bike classes (yes, they exist for adults, and they’re fantastic). Check with your local or provincial bike advocacy group for info; many offer training materials and education.

Remember to follow the rules of the road, know how to turn at intersections, and know how to safely move with and overtake other road users. Be especially careful around parked cars, where drivers may be entering traffic suddenly, or where doors may be opening into your path. Be aware that some drivers fail to yield right-of-way, so making eye contact with drivers is big; assume that no one sees you. Wherever you ride – quiet street or busy bike route – you’ll want to communicate with drivers and other cyclists. Shoulder check and brush up on your hand signals (left-hand turn, stop, right-hand turn) and use them. 

*Have a fun and safe season of cycling! The MEC staffer community will be kicking off this month by tracking our total bike commute kilometres for some friendly competition between locations. Like the sounds of co-workers who ride? If you’re passionate about the outdoors – [we’re hiring](/en/explore/careers).*


Get ready to roll out with advice on everything from gear to route selection.

6 tips to get ready for bike to work week

We were pretty dang excited to welcome Tommy Caldwell and the [Edelrid](/en/products/climbing/c/301?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=edelrid) crew to BC for a jam-packed few days of activities. Judging by the massive line-up outside our Vancouver store, the MEC community was pumped too.

So what do you get up to when a climbing legend comes to town? You *CUDDLE*, talk climbing gear and hit Electric Avenue. A massive thank you to Tommy and Edelrid for a fun time with MEC members and staffers – check out the highlights below.

## Day 1: sold-out event
A full house! The evening talk with Tommy sold out in a record-breaking 16 hours. It was great to welcome the climbing community to our store, and all event proceeds went to the [Climbers’ Access Society of British Columbia](https://www.access-society.ca/) – **$4,136 in total**. 


## *CUDDLE* film screening
Attendees got to see Tommy Caldwell’s latest film *CUDDLE*, which covered his latest adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park with Alex Honnold and Adam Stack. 

Tommy told us that it was the first time on film that he’s “truly getting his ass kicked”. Somehow, they managed laughs between a missed resupply, a serious lack of pants, climbing exposed terrain by phone flashlight overnight, and plenty of gut-wrenching hours. 

Here's the preview to give you a sense (the full film is currently available on [Reel Rock](https://reelrocktour.com/products/reel-rock-unlimited)):

During the Q&A session, Tommy weighed in all kinds of topics: weather in the Rockies, environmental advocacy, testing the heck out of products, a 6mm simul-climbing system (for the record, not tested, not approved, not recommended), bringing kids on adventures, risk assessment, and most importantly, the snacks Adam Stack rescued them with during the CDUL (answer: enormous burritos).

Huge thanks to local groups that joined us: [Vancouver Climbers Association](https://www.vanclimbers.com/), [BelayAll](https://www.belayall.com/), [Protect Our Winters Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada) (POW Canada) and the [Climbers’ Access Society of BC](https://www.access-society.ca/). 

Tommy shared how he likes to support at least three non-profits at a time, including the POW Climb athlete alliance. “They’re doing great work on policy to make a real difference for climate change.” We highly recommend checking out POW Canada or your local climbing group – protecting access and the environment keeps crags, cliffs and climbing areas going.


There was plenty of time to say hi, snap a pic, and get gear or books signed. An enormous stack of raffle prizes from Edelrid’s Climb Green collection rounded out the night, and the grand prize was a morning climbing session with Tommy the next day. Nice!

## Day 2: rise and climb
Bright and early the next day, raffle winners joined Tommy and folks from Edelrid, MEC Label, The Hive, POW Canada and the Vancouver Climbers’ Association at the store. 

Morning Climb with Tommy Caldwell

Edelrid and their team from Germany chatted about developing their Climb Green collection and the future of more sustainable climbing gear. They’re a leader in this space and are proof that sustainability doesn’t mean compromising safety or performance. Recycled rope, PFC-free dry-treated ropes, and bluesign®-approved harnesses are just a few of the wins. Plus, they hinted at a major announcement for 2023.

Coffee, carbs and crushing to start the day. Yep, MEC Vancouver has a bouldering wall – stay tuned for future invites to join us.

## Day 3: Squamish climb session
To round out the visit, Edelrid, Tommy and MEC staffers went to Squamish for an experiential product knowledge session. We were lucky to have three people from Edelrid Germany – the CEO and owner, head of product, and global sales manager.


Product knowledge sessions (a.k.a. PKs) are one of the ways staffers get experience with gear. “Everyone was very excited to get an informal PK where you get to try and use the products in the field, and learn directly from the Edelrid team,” said Graham, MEC staffer and climbing product expert. 

“One of the things that Edelrid developer spoke about is how they focus on the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) when creating products,” Graham shared. “He emphasized how important reduce and reuse are, and that recycle is a last resort because the product is already made and therefore energy intensive.”

“We spent the whole day at the Electric Avenue crag, and safety was a top priority with a hired guide and the experienced Edelrid crew giving everyone the attention and support they needed,” said Graham. 

“There was a wide range of climbers and some big moments – we even had a staffer climb their first route ever (ever ever) belayed by Tommy Caldwell… not many people can say that.”

“Another staffer was coming back to climbing after a two-year hiatus, and found confidence and support from everyone,” Graham shared. “Someone else had a goal of leading a 5.10 and ended up leading (and sending) and least two of them. It was honestly just a great day to get people from stores and the office out together with a common interest.”

“Folks from the Vancouver MEC store were so happy to be there, and really sent the psyche and positivity levels through the roof.”

Thank you to Tommy, Edelrid, MEC staffers and members of the climbing community who came out to make these three days a blast. Let’s do it all again soon. For more photos from the event, check out our [full Facebook album](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10158454346291610&type=3).

*Like the sounds of being an MEC staffer? If you’re passionate about the outdoors – [we’re hiring](/en/explore/careers).*

We were pretty dang excited to welcome Tommy Caldwell and the Edelrid crew to BC for a jam-packed few days of activities.

We spent 3 days with Tommy Caldwell (yes, it was awesome)

Oh, we know rain. For over 50 years, MEC has called the wet west coast home, so we understand just how important the right waterproof-breathable jacket is for getting outside. Bottom line: you don’t need to hide from the rain – you can embrace it with open, GORE-TEX-clad, arms.

To help you find your wet-weather match, check out this guide to the best MEC Label rain jackets for all level of activities, from urban rainforest walks to stormy mountain epics.

## Our best everyday essential rain jacket
**MEC Aquanator Jacket**
Great for: Around town, walking the dog, car camping, relaxed hikes


Meet the “just in case” jacket you’ll always be happy you brought along. The Aquanator has been popular with MEC members for a decade, thanks to its dependable waterproof-breathability and stellar price. Pertex® Shield coating sheds raindrops when you’re running errands on spring days, and the unlined 2.5-layer construction is easy to pack along for weekend getaways. Other features we love: the adjustable hood and underarm zips. Consider it your official everyday lightweight rain jacket.

The Aquanator comes in a wide range of colours for adults and kids, and also has matching rain pants (if you haven’t discovered the brilliance of rain pants yet, they’re game-changers).

*Wondering what the difference is between 2.5-layer and 3-layer jackets? Check out this helpful article with [rain jacket 101](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-rain-jacket).*

## Our most versatile rain jacket
**MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Jacket**
Great for: Hiking, light trail runs, camp weekends, entry-level alpine trips, bike commuting

The jacket you’ll wear for all kinds of activities and seasons. It’s stretchy, waterproof-breathable, and up for just almost anything. Like the Aquanator, it has a 2.5-layer Pertex® Shield laminate, but with a higher waterproof rating, more breathability, and 4-way mechanical stretch for awesome range of motion during a full day of activities. If you’re on the hunt for an entry-level adventure jacket, the Hydrofoil is for you. A helmet-compatible adjustable hood and underarm zips round out the package. 

Pairs with the Hydrofoil Stretch Rain Pants for head-to-toe coverage.

> “I’ve owned a Hydrofoil for years and it’s kept me dry on so many soggy west coast days. I use it for trail weekends and even on bike commutes in serious Vancouver winter rain.” – MEC staffer KB

## Our most packable waterproof-breathable jacket
**MEC Flash Cloud GORE-TEX Jacket**
Great for: Day hiking, multi-day backpacking trips and camping

The jacket you’ll stash in your pack for every adventure. If the weather turns, the waterproof-breathability will save the day, plus it’s super lightweight when every ounce counts. Extremely compressible 2.5-layer GORE-TEX® PACLITE® PLUS fabric takes up a tiny corner of your pack, and is ready to whip out when the skies open up. Technical features like the built-in RECCO® reflector and water-tight/water-resistant zippers are made with wild environments in mind. The hood is adjustable and underarm zips vent heat.

Lightweight, packable Flash Cloud GORE-TEX Pants are equally great to tuck into your pack.

## Our gold standard for year-round adventures
**MEC Synergy GORE-TEX Jacket**
Great for: Hiking, camping, alpine missions, mountaineering, skiing

The jacket you’ll trust to protect you in seriously bad weather. The adventure-hungry Synergy uses highly durable, gold standard 3-layer GORE-TEX® fabric technology and has tons of alpine-specific features. Watertight zippers and fully sealed seams keep out driving rain, and if mountain conditions turn, the high collar keeps out blowing snow. MEC Ambassadors love the Synergy so much there’s a whole blog post devoted to it – see why it rises to the top of their picks.

> “When I stuff the Synergy in my pack, I know I’m carrying something I can trust to protect me in severe conditions. It’s my go-to on the ski hill, and any time conditions might whip up.” – MEC Ambassador Bruce Kirkby

## Our most-loved rainwear for kids
**MEC Heritage Newt Suit**
Great for: Rainy recess, wet playgrounds, rainy hikes, staying dry in the carrier

For over two decades, the MEC Newt Suit has been a must for keeping mini-explorers dry, happy and playing longer outside. This outdoor classic is made of durable nylon with a waterproof coating to shed rain and mud. Parents love the solid value, the long zips for easy on and off, and the ability for their kids to sit in deep puddles and somehow stay dry. Their only complaint? It doesn’t come in grown-up sizes. 

> “These are incredibly durable and my son is extremely hard on his clothing. He has crawled in wet, sharp gravel and mud, climbed trees, played in torrential downpours and laid down and rolled around in puddles. This product stands up to everything he puts it through!” – review from outdoormom on mec.ca

## Related articles
- [How to wash and re-waterproof your rain jacket](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket)
- [How to choose a rain jacket](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-rain-jacket)
- [Spring hiking tips to hit the trail early](/en/article/hit-the-trails-early-with-these-spring-hiking-tips)


The best rain jackets for your outdoor activities

To help you find your wet-weather match, check out this guide to the best MEC Label rain jackets for all level of activities, from urban rainforest walks to stormy mountain epics.

It’s finally dropping.

Meet our new Apex Backcountry Ski Collection, a limited-edition ski touring line that’s got us more excited than a powder day (okay, almost as excited).

This collection blends innovative fabrics, modern lines, and deep backcountry heritage – along with some vintage surprises. We sat down with MEC Label designers to find out why we think you’ll dig what it’s all about.

## The big idea behind Apex

Our goal for this collection was to bring MEC’s return to the mountain to life. To kick it off, a small crew of devoted backcountry skiers from the MEC Label team combed through stacks of old MEC catalogues. Their goal? Select a shortlist of classic backcountry touring products we could transform into the best technical outdoor gear of today.

The early 1990s catalogs were a treasure trove – colour-blocking was prime, gear was loaded with practical features, and fat skis hit the scene for the first time.

“The pieces we chose to redesign for the Apex Backcountry Ski Collection are examples of authentic, time-tested products,” says Adam, MEC’s Chief Product Officer. “With modern updates, they enable the same spirit of mountain celebration and personal expression we saw in the 1990s, but with the technical design standards of 2022.”

To celebrate our roots, each piece has a special label hidden inside with the story of the original product that inspired it.

## Apex Icefield Jacket

The technology behind stormproof jackets has exploded since the Icefield jacket first graced the pages of our 1990s catalogues. To create the new Apex Icefield Jacket, MEC Label designer Nicole took cues from the originals, then reimagined it from the fabric up.

“The biggest update is the material,” says MEC Label designer Nicole. “The MEC Apex Icefield is 3-layer construction with an electrospun polyurethane membrane instead of a traditional waterproof-breathable membrane. This gives incredible breathability when you’re working hard. It also has fully taped seams and offers the same level of waterproofness rating as MEC DriBase tent floors.”

Electrospinning is a newer innovation in the world of outdoor apparel. To picture how it works, imagine a membrane made of layers of super fine nanofibres, like a microscopic plate of spaghetti. The space between the nanofibres is small enough for air to pass through, but not big enough for water to get through. It also makes the fabric feel lighter (not crunchy) and prevents you from feeling clammy.

Of course, the fabric wasn’t the only update. MEC jackets used to have flaps covering the zippers, since watertight zippers hadn’t been invented yet. The Apex Icefield now has watertight AquaGuard® zips, along with glued cuffs to minimize the number of stitch lines to create a more watertight package.

> “The Apex Backcountry Ski Collection is pretty unique, since it mixes heritage-inspired designs with really innovative materials.” – Nicole, MEC Label designer
>

## Apex Salopettes

Like the Icefield Jacket, these bib pants got a major fabric upgrade from their 1991 predecessor. One thing we did keep? The Salopettes name; it’s French for (you guessed it) bib pants.

Something we think skiers will love about these pants is the mix of materials. The upper bib section is the same highly breathable electrospun membrane as the Apex Icefield Jacket, as you’ll be shedding heat in that zone. On the legs, we’ve used sturdy 3-layer Pertex Shield, since that’s the section knee-deep in snow.

The Apex Salopettes are perfectly paired with the Apex Icefield Jacket. Overlaying zippers are all designed to be in the correct spots, and the modern silhouette carries through from top to bottom.

> “These are highly functional products that can really perform in different environments: high-output needs for breathability, temperature changes for cold or wet weather, durability and packability.” – Adam, MEC Chief Product Officer
>

## Apex St. Elias Expedition Down Parka

Our warmest and most packable backcountry parka feels as toasty as a sleeping bag because it takes design principles from a sleeping bag. When the MEC Label team set out to reinvent the St. Elias Parka from the 1992 MEC catalogue, they applied equipment advancements to apparel.

“Like a sleeping bag, this parka has offset box baffle construction to minimize cold spots,” says Nicole. “It also has water-resistant Pertex® Endurance coated materials where you need it (hood, shoulders, cuffs and back panel), similar to how sleeping bags use coated materials at the head and footbox.”

The 800-fill is ridiculously warm. The parka is made to be a shelter piece, perfect as insulation on lunch stops while touring, staying as comfortable as possible while belaying on drippy ice, and hunkering down on alpine routes.

MEC staffer and climbing product expert Graham had the chance to try it out for some winter bouldering sessions in Squamish, BC. “Even though it was about -12°C with the windchill, the St. Elias was super warm when I wore it between attempts. We needed a mini propane heater to keep our hands warm and the rock was so dry it was almost slippery, but I couldn’t feel the cold at all with the St. Elias on.”

## Apex Weeping Wall Backpack

“Funny story – I actually bought a vintage Weeping Wall pack years ago, way before we decided to create the Apex collection,” says Joel, the MEC Label designer behind the Apex Weeping Wall. “When I had the chance to update this pack, I couldn’t wait to find ways to tweak the design to make it even better.”

We kept the minimalist ethos, daisy chains and of the heritage pack, which was called “state-of-the-art for skiing and climbing” in our 1992 catalogue. To modernize it for today’s ski tourers, the Apex Weeping Wall has new essential features: a bottom loop for a diagonal ski/board carry, a full-length YKK AquaGuard® zipper for easy access, and a dedicated snow safety gear pocket for probes, shovels and skins.

A huge innovation for this pack is the fabric. Spectra® material is incredibly durable and stronger than steel, pound for pound – this pack is built to last. Who knows? Maybe thirty years from now, a future MEC designer will pick up a vintage version of the 2022 Apex Weeping Wall to keep the legacy going.

It’s an awesome feeling to see the twin peaks on MEC backcountry gear again, and to launch a new line that’s inspired by our legacy and geared toward human-powered adventures. We can’t wait to see them all in action.

Collection, a limited-edition ski touring line that’s got us more excited than a powder day (okay, almost as excited).

Introducing: MEC Apex Backcountry Ski Collection

Happy birthday, fleece! That’s right, technical fleece is celebrating a milestone birthday this year.

Forty years ago, fleece first hit the outdoor scene; it was developed by a textile company in Massachusetts called Malden Mills, now known as Polartec. Today, it’s hard to imagine a camping weekend or ski trip without fleece along for the journey.

To celebrate the big fuzzy 4-0, MEC and Polartec teamed up to create the special edition [’82 Polar Fleece Pullover](https://www.mec.ca/en/product/6015-304/%2782-Polar-Fleece-Pullover). Inspired from an original design in the 1982 MEC catalogue, this updated version has the same great features but more efficient Polartec fleece.

And because we like to think big when it comes to milestones, we’re combining two of our favourite things into one celebration: fleece and mountains.

### This fleece gives back for International Mountain Day

[International Mountain Day](https://www.un.org/en/observances/mountain-day) is a United Nations initiative to highlight the importance of mountains as biodiversity hotspots, freshwater sources and natural treasures. To help look after the mountains we love, MEC will donate **$10 to** [**Leave No Trace Canada**](https://www.mec.ca/en/explore/leave-no-trace-canada) from every ’82 Polar Fleece Pullover purchase (until December 13).



## Why we love this fleece
The ’82 Pullover is made with plush Polartec® Thermal Pro fleece, which is warm yet lightweight with a classic wool shearling look. For a nod to fleece history, we’ve added a retro Polartec flag label next to the new MEC mountain patch. We love the relaxed fit for layering, the high collar to keep out drafts, and the bluesign-approved fabric for reduced environmental impact.

## Why we love Leave No Trace Canada
This year’s International Mountain Day on December 11 is all about sustainable mountain tourism, so Leave No Trace Canada seemed like the perfect match for this initiative. Leave No Trace Canada educates and promotes ways to enjoy the outdoor responsibly, which is especially important these days as more people discover the power of nature, mountains and wild spaces.

Need a refresher on the 7 principles of Leave No Trace? Here are the basics:

### 1. Plan ahead and prepare

Research before you hit the trail. Check the weather, conditions and regulations and bring the essentials. Poor planning can mean putting yourself at risk or damaging nature through things like poor campsite selection or not knowing a fire ban is on.



### 2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces

Fragile ecosystems can take years to recover, especially in places like alpine meadows. Stick to the trail when you’re hiking (no cutting switchbacks) and when you pitch your tent, look for gravel, dry grass, snow or bare dirt.



### 3. Dispose of waste properly

Always pack out what you pack in, even for biodegradable stuff like apple cores. When nature calls, get at least 70 paces away from trails, campsites and water sources. Dig a small hole about 15cm (6in.) to do your business, and bury your toilet paper if you can’t pack it out.



### 4. Leave what you find

Take photos as your way to remember time on the trail. Leave neat rocks and wildflowers in nature so other hikers and campers can discover them too.



### 5. Minimize campfire impacts

Stoves can be an excellent fire alternative to traditional campfires, especially in fragile environments (and always check fire ban rules). Since fire bans are becoming more common, make sure to have a campfire-free back up plan.



### 6. Respect wildlife

Give wildlife lots of space; watch them through binoculars instead of moving closer. It may be tempting to feed cute chipmunks or whiskeyjacks, but resist the temptation so they don’t become dependent on human junk food.



### 7. Be considerate of other visitors

Have fun and help others have fun in nature too. Keep the noise down, wear headphones and respect the guidelines around pets for where you’re visiting.



*MEC was a founding member of the non-profit organization Leave No Trace Canada in 2006, and we’re proud to keep supporting their mission through our [Outdoor Impact](/en/explore/outdoor-impact) program. Read more about the [7 Leave No Trace principles](https://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles).*

To help look after the mountains we love, MEC will donate $10 to Leave No Trace Canada from every ’82 Polar Fleece Pullover purchase (until December 13).

Polar power: special edition fleece that gives back

A mountain of thanks to all 6 million MEC members, long-standing and new – your support helps MEC give back to the outdoor community. We’re proud to partner with incredible Canadian organizations all year long through our Outdoor Impact program. For Giving Tuesday, we’re pumped to share that MEC and Smartwool have teamed up to donate $10,000 to the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS), thanks to the success of our special sock week offer.

If you haven’t met our Outdoor Impact partners, we highly recommend checking them out below. They’re doing awesome work to get more people outside on Giving Tuesday and the other 364 days of the year.

## The gift of nature
[CPAWS](/en/explore/canadian-parks-and-wilderness-society) is dedicated to the protection of Canada’s public land, ocean, and freshwater. With MEC’s support, they’re holding the federal government accountable for its commitments to protect 25% of Canada’s land and ocean by 2025 and 30% by 2030.

Highlights from 2021:

- **First [CPAWS Report Card for Canada](https://cpaws.org/our-work/reportcard/)**: tracks and assessed how Canada did against its targets or protecting land and ocean.

- **Release of the [MPA Monitor](https://cpaws.org/our-work/ocean/oceanreport/)**: investigates how well-protected and well-managed Canada’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) really are.

## The gift of empowering youth outdoors
[Spirit North](/en/explore/spirit-north) empowers Indigenous youth to be unstoppable in sport, school and life. Through the transformative power of sport and play, Spirit North helps youth find the courage to take on any challenge, develop leadership skills, improve health and wellness, discover new talents and unlock limitless potential. [See their latest impact report](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5e84ea4277b64d7a9fe76afd/t/6171b9a98281027e1e87c5d8/1634843056658/2020%3A2021_CommunityImpactReport.pdf).

## Highlights from 2020–21:

- **Programming with impact**: delivered programs to over 2,700 Indigenous youth across 40 communities, including in-school and after-school sessions, knowledge and skill building events.

- **Trail building**: worked with 10 communities to develop trail networks to create a legacy that supports and inspires community recreation for generations to come.

- **New regional programs**: in Terrace, Kitsumkalum and the Nass Valley that provided mountain bike skills to youth aged 7–14.

## The gift of real change
The mission of [Protect Our Winters (POW) Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada) is to turn outdoor enthusiasts into climate advocates. MEC’s support has allowed POW to dig deep on policy advocacy, diversity, equity and inclusion, and community building.

Protect Our Winters Canada

Highlights from 2020–21:

- **More educational programming and training**: to grow POW membership to 22,736 climate action advocates.

- **POW Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan**: diversity and equity in the outdoors is integral to solving climate change; this plan includes DEI training for POW staff, board and ambassadors.

- **Support of advocacy work**: on Bill C-12 and the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, likely the single most important piece of climate policy ever passed.

## The gift of winter safety
Avalanche safety training is so important for winter backcountry trips, and MEC has supported [Avalanche Canada](/en/explore/avalanche-canada) since 2001. They offer mountain weather forecasts, a free avalanche forecast app, and [Avy Savvy](https://avysavvy.avalanche.ca/en-ca) – a free online avalanche tutorial to take before a training program.

Highlights from 2020–21:

- **New MEC Avalanche Safety Grant**: aimed at non-profit organizations that serve racialized communities. It was awarded to four incredible organizations: [Indigenous Women Outdoors](https://www.indigenouswomenoutdoors.ca/), [Rocky Mountain Metis Association](https://www.cranbrookmetis.com/), [K8 Mountaineering Club of AB](https://www.facebook.com/k8mountaineeringclubofalberta/), and [Colour the Trails](https://colourthetrails.com/).
- **MEC x Avalanche Canada webinar series**: [free webinar series](https://www.avalanche.ca/events/avalanche-canada-bi-weekly-webinar-series-2021-22), including recognizing avalanche terrain, getting the most out of the Mountain Weather Forecast, leveraging social media for a safer winter, and more.

## The gift of more time outside
[Take Me Outside](/en/explore/take-me-outside) believes in a future where spending time outside learning, playing and exploring is a regular and significant part of every student’s day. They work with organizations, schools and individuals to encourage kids to spend more time outside.

Take Me Outside Day 2021

Highlights from 2021:

- **More programming for [Take Me Outside Day](https://takemeoutside.ca/2021-summary-report/)**: 9,000 teachers and 400,000 students participated, and it included presentations with Indigenous storytellers, Olympic athletes and Dr. Jane Goodall.
- **[Take Me Outside for Learning Challenge](https://takemeoutside.ca/take-me-outside-for-learning-challenge-2021/)**: doubled in growth from 2020 – 6,700 teachers signed on! It’s a commitment to outdoor learning and taking your class outside once a week.
- **Student video contest**: Check out the [winning videos](https://takemeoutside.ca/video-contest/) from creative students.

## The gift of camping for the first time
For a decade, MEC and [Parks Canada](/en/explore/parks-canada) have worked together to provide Learn-to Camp. It aims to instill confidence and outdoor skills so new campers can discover the joy of tents and s’mores. Although 2021 looked a little different, Parks Canada has still hosted 844 Learn-to Camp events (virtual and in-person) so far to help folks get outdoors responsibly, along with at-home activities on the Parks Canada website.

Highlights from 2021:

- **Outreach booths**: free info sessions at popular trailheads to introduce people to Parks Canada, camping and outdoor safety.
- **Learn-to Camp free workshops**: virtual and in-person workshops for families and newcomer organizations to learn camping skills, safety considerations and tips about camping in national parks.
- **Regional programs**: new Learn-to Paddle activities in Montreal, and lending camping gear to interested organizations in Saskatoon and Edmonton.
New to camping? Check out [Learn-to Camp tips](/en/article/learn-to-camp-with-parks-canada-and-mec) and keep an eye out for future [Learn-to Camp events](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc).

## The gift of gigantic adventures
We have a rich history of partnership with the [Association of Canadian Mountain Guides](/en/explore/association-of-canadian-mountain-guides) (ACMG), which trains and certifies guides and instructors in climbing, backcountry skiing, hiking and more. MEC supports their Adventure Access program to fund schools, clubs and youth groups to hire ACMG-certified guides and instructors for outdoor adventure trips.

Highlights from 2021:

- **MEC Adventure Access Program**: for groups that represent youth, BIPOC, LGBTQ2S+, adaptive and marginalized communities to access subsidies for certified guides and instructors for exciting trips. There are enough barriers to recreating outside – money shouldn’t be an added one.
- **Community scholarships**: tuition support to the next generation of ACMG guides.
- **DEI training**: for ACMG members and instructors on diversity, equity and inclusion and mental health issues to better support outdoor communities.

## The gift of caring for the wild
As a founding member of [Leave No Trace Canada](/en/explore/leave-no-trace-canada), MEC supports its mission to promote the responsible use of outdoor spaces through education, research and partnerships. Their training and programs show that even small changes in behavior can have monumental impacts on the outdoors.

Highlight from 2021:

- **Plans for public education**: We’re working together on videos and content to spread the word about Leave No Trace to share with the community of people exploring outside… stay tuned!

*Learn about the [7 principles of Leave No Trace](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly).*

## The gift of visiting parks
[Parkbus](/en/explore/parkbus) connects city dwellers with nature through accessible transportation, and operates bus services to national and provincial parks. MEC partners with Parkbus to run two special programs focused on community building, education, inclusion and diversity: ActiveDays and NatureLink.

Highlights from 2021:

- **ActiveDays is back**: with restrictions easing, Toronto and Vancouver [ActiveDays programs](https://activedays.parkbus.ca/) returned with 1,900 participants so far!
- **More [NatureLink](https://www.parkbus.ca/naturelink) programs**: subsidized transportation to outdoor spaces, plus programs and adventures for newcomers, with 500 participants this year (and counting). Thanks to MEC’s support, Parkbus is recruiting new partners for NatureLink – if you’re a non-profit working with new Canadians and low-income individuals or families, [find out more](https://www.parkbus.ca/naturelink).

## The gift of backcountry trips
MEC’s annual funding supports the operation and maintenance of the [Alpine Club of Canada](/en/explore/alpine-club-of-canada)’s hut network, along with initiatives such as Girls on Ice and women’s only climbing camps to help more folks access the backcountry.

Highlights from 2021:

- **Women’s climbing camps**: the ACC’s Women’s Program expanded to team up with [Darken the Mountains](https://www.darkenthemountains.com/) and [Colour The Trails](https://colourthetrails.com/), bringing inclusivity to outdoor spaces through subsidized mountaineering trips that build upon mountaineering skills for communities of BIPOC women.

- **Girls on Ice Canada**: a unique, tuition-free wilderness science expedition. This year, accompanied by certified mountain guides, scientists and artists, a team of young women spent 12 days exploring and studying ecosystems in Glacier National Park. MEC supports Girls on Ice Canada through diversity, equity and inclusivity funding.

- **Philippe Delesalle Memorial Grant**: given annually to underprivileged youth, this grant aims to expand access to alpine experiences, knowledge and culture to more Canadians. The [next deadline to apply](https://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/web/ACCMember/Community/Financial_Grants.aspx) is January 31, 2022.

## The gift of inspiring expeditions
Best known for its *Canadian Geographic* magazine, [The Royal Canadian Geographical Society](/en/explore/royal-canadian-geographical-society) also supports the outdoor community with expedition grants and scholarships for cutting-edge geographical research. MEC is proud to support these expedition programs.

Highlights from 2021:

- **Expedition grant program**: expeditions are currently underway! This year, MEC funding supported all the Society’s expedition grants, including the Women’s Expedition and the Indigenous Expedition grants, as well as the Expedition of the Year. Have an expedition goal for 2022? [Applications are now open](https://rcgs.org/programs/expeditions/apply-for-funding/) (deadline is January 7, 2022).

- **Outfitting for expedition teams**: when you’re exploring in extreme conditions, you need gear that can withstand harsh conditions. Expedition teams are outfitted with MEC gear to support their adventures.

*Thanks again, MEC members. In 2021, MEC’s Outdoor Impact program is donating $1 million to Canadian outdoor organizations to teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces, and grow the communities of people getting active outside. We’re looking forward to another year of giving back to the outdoors ahead.*

A mountain of thanks to all 6 million MEC members, long-standing and new – your support helps MEC give back to the outdoor community.

Giving Tuesday and giving back to the outdoors

The right jacket changes everything. To help you stay out longer this fall, our outdoor experts have selected their favourite storm-blocking shells and core-warming insulation.

Meet our **top ten picks for go-to jackets** you can wear all day, every day, everywhere.

## 1. Arc’teryx Atom LT Hoody
**Your go-to for**: Insulation for endless active pursuits



An incredibly versatile insulating layer for active people – look at the hundreds of 5-star reviews as proof. Coreloft™ synthetic fill provides reliable warmth, feels weightless and is highly compressible. The outer taffeta nylon shell is DWR treated for wind and water resistance, and the whole package is designed with breathability in mind.

> “My favourite mid-layer for backcountry skiing. When I kick out heat skinning up, it lets moisture escape well. Plus the cuffs keep out the cold and the hood cinches nicely to do the same.” – MEC staffer Nick A.
>


## 2. Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket
**Your go-to for**: Protection in demanding mountain conditions



Lightweight and hard-wearing for fast-moving alpinists or anyone who wants solid protection when the weather turns. The 3-layer GORE-TEX® is waterproof-breathable, water-tight zippers seal out wetness, and the helmet-compatible hood has a laminated brim to deflect rain and snow. When things heat up, pit zips cool you down.



## 3. MEC Synergy GORE-TEX Jacket
**Your go-to for**: Durable protection in wet, cold alpine environments.



Our top-of-the-line MEC waterproof shell. The adventure-hungry Synergy uses gold standard GORE-TEX® fabric technology with alpine-specific features like watertight zippers, a high collar to keep out blowing snow, and a helmet-compatible hood. It’s such a hit with MEC Ambassadors that we devoted an entire blog post to [why the Synergy is so well-loved](/en/article/gear-i-love-the-synergy-jacket).

> “When I stuff the Synergy in my pack, I know I’m carrying something I can trust to protect me in severe conditions. It’s my go-to on the ski hill, and any time conditions might whip up.” – MEC Ambassador Bruce Kirkby
>


## 4. MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Jacket
**Your go-to for**: Maximum wet-weather protection, plenty of stretch



Waterproof construction that’s ridiculously breathable. The 4-way stretch fabric is soft and supple, never crunchy. It’s lightweight and packable with fully taped seams and provides awesome value for a rain shell.

> “I’ve owned a Hydrofoil for years and it’s kept me dry on so many soggy west coast days. I use it for trail weekends and even on bike commutes in serious Vancouver winter rain.” – MEC staffer KB
>


## 5. Patagonia Torrentshell 3-Layer Jacket
**Your go-to for**: All-day comfort, long-lasting waterproof durability.



Durable waterproof protection in a lightweight design to block torrential (get it?) downpours. Nice details include underarm zips for venting and an adjustable hood with laminated visor. Since it’s so packable, it’s an essential piece to bring anytime there’s a hint of precipitation in the forecast.



## 6. MEC Aura Hoodie
**Your go-to for**: Core warmth, even if it’s wet



Loaded with 100g insulation under a DWR-treated shell, so it stands up to dampness and keeps chills at bay. Synthetic insulation stays warm when it’s wet (a benefit over down). Elastic cuffs seal out the drafts and lock in the warmth. Plus it stuffs into its own pocket for packability.



## 7. MEC Aquanator Jacket
**Your go-to for**: All-round waterproofing on soggy days



Breathable, totally waterproof, and won’t feel clammy during moderate activity. If you’re looking for an everyday jacket for rainy walks or wet-weekend campouts, the simple yet effective Aquanator is it. The unlined 2.5 layer construction keeps it packable, but it’s still feature-rich with fully-taped seams, an adjustable hood and underarm zips.



## 8. MEC Airstream Hoodie
**Your go-to for**: Breathable warmth that does the work of multiple layers



Technical enough for mountain missions, invaluable for adventures with variable temperatures. The durable nylon shell stretches, breathes and has a DWR finish to shed light precipitation. Inside, warm synthetic fill is breathable and stretchy. A helmet-compatible hood, cinchable hem to seal out wind, and zippered pockets top it all off.

> “A critical part of my layering system from October to May – I love how breathable it is since I heat up fast. I use it for brisk morning bike commutes, setting up camp, and cold ski days as a warm layer on the uptrack or under the Synergy on the descent.” – MEC Label product designer Joel F.
>


## 9. Patagonia Down Sweater
**Your go-to for**: Powerful warmth in a light, packable layer.



The modern standard for extreme conditions. The outer shell fabric is extremely light with a DWR finish to keep it water-resistant and windproof. Quilted construction keeps the premium, traceable 800 fill-power goose down in place and the clean design is roomy enough for added base layers.

> “I’ve worn the heck out of my Patagonia Down Sweater and it doesn’t have a single tear. It was my go-to fall jacket in Ottawa and isn’t bulky under a shell in winter. The packability is amazing – I took it all over Scandinavia one November.” – MEC staffer Sarah U.
>


## 10. The North Face Thermoball Eco Jacket
**Your go-to for**: Versatile insulation that packs down small



Light and compressible to squeeze into your pack for climbing, skiing and hiking trips. It’s also made with the earth in mind – ThermoBall insulation is 100% post-consumer recycled material that adds warmth, even when wet. The shell is recycled nylon and has a DWR finish to block wind and shrug off drops.



Looking for even more options? Check out our full fall jacket collection from trusted outdoor brands.



To help you stay out longer this fall, our outdoor experts have selected their favourite storm-blocking shells and core-warming insulation.

Expert picks: best jackets for every kind of fall weather

When we ask MEC Ambassadors about gear they love, one product rises to the top over and over again: the [Synergy](/en/brand/mec/products/clothing/jackets/c/1018?text=Synergy). It’s has been part of our MEC jacket line-up since 2007, which means it’s had more than a decade of field-testing and fine-tuning.

Bottom line: we’re way overdue on giving the Synergy time in the limelight. It’s been a hit for years and provides incredible value for the fabric and tech involved. If you’re hunting for one jacket to rule them all, find out why our Ambassadors love the Synergy so much, and why it could be your new go-to.

## HD vs GORE-TEX
First up, there are two Synergy models to choose from. MEC Label product designer Nicole G. breaks down the differences.



“The [Synergy GORE-TEX](/en/products/clothing/jackets/c/1018?f=CFSeasonalCollections%3ASynergy) is a great year-round jacket,” she says. “It’s the more packable lightweight version and has a softer GORE C-Knit backer against your skin. I have this jacket and it’s fantastic for backcountry ski touring and always bring it along for rainy hikes.”

“We’ve designed the [Synergy HD](/en/products/clothing/jackets/c/1018?f=CFSeasonalCollections%3ASynergyHD) as a burlier option. Think of ‘HD’ as Heavy-Duty,” she explains. “It uses a heavier weight fabric with a durable tricot backer against your skin. The cut is also longer and boxier with more pockets. It’s awesome for winter sports or cold weather where you’re wearing your jacket the whole day.”

## A bombproof jacket
**The Jacket**: MEC Synergy GORE-TEX
**Ambassador review by**: [Bruce Kirkby](/en/explore/bruce-kirkby)

Amongst the most critical key piece of gear I carry – and this stretches back to my earliest days of mountaineering – is a bombproof jacket, a final layer that acts as the ultimate protection against storms, snow, winds and rain. For many years, that piece for me has been the Synergy.



I was involved with the jacket from its earliest days, testing early prototypes, offering feedback and suggestions. The jacket has evolved over the years, continuous tweaks improving subtle design features, but for me, the bottom line in describing the Synergy is “quality.”

> The Synergy today is a trusted friend that has never let me down.
>
Hold one in your hands and it feels sturdy and robust. The best, breathable, non-rip material. The best zippers. A generous hood that fits over helmets and zips up to protect your face. Venting zips. Cinches in all the right places: sleeves, hood, waist. Sure, it looks great around town and on the ski hill, but when I stuff it in my pack, I know I’m carrying something I can trust to protect me in severe conditions. It’s my go-to on the ski hill, and any time conditions might whip up.



> I’ve taken the Synergy skiing in Chile, hiking in Ireland, on west coast sea kayak trips, and mountaineering in the Rockies.
>
## The one I can’t live without
**The Jacket**: MEC Synergy HD
**Ambassador review by**: [Yuki Tsubota](/en/explore/yuki-tsubota)

We all know the feeling when you find a favourite T-shirt or hat – you can’t imagine how you lived without it. The Synergy HD makes feel this way about a jacket. I’ve been wearing it for the past couple of seasons and it hasn’t let me down once. It’s become a staple in my gear closet.

> Whether I’m spending a day on the resort or in the backcountry, it’s guaranteed the Synergy jacket will be coming with me.
>


When I used to ski competitively, it was crucial for me to find a well-fitting jacket that I could feel confident and comfortable. Looking good without sacrificing comfort and performance is still key, and the Synergy delivers every time.

I’ve been using the HD version, and the cut’s been great for skiing. I find there’s a bit of extra space under the arm, which eliminates the restrictive feeling other jackets often cause. The overall body is also just a little longer, dividing itself from the rest by allowing a women’s jacket with a bit extra room.



Not going to lie, I’m quite the fair-weather skier. But sometimes the heavy wet snow days end up being the best… those days where you’re flirting with the freezing level and it’s threatening to soak you by the bottom of the lift, then freezing back up by the top. Those are the times when I’m really thankful to depend on a solid shell like the Synergy to keep me totally dry.

> I’ve found the Synergy easily doubles as a great rain jacket, especially in the wet west coast’s climate.
>
*A big thank you to Bruce and Yuki for putting this jacket to the test. Bring on the cold, the wet, the wind. The Synergy is good for it, time and time again.*



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