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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

We’ve always wanted to know what it takes to compete in this sport, so we took a group of Canada’s strongest climbers through a rigorous Q&A session. Read on to get a taste of everything, from prepping for comps and the future of Canadian climbing to recovery tips and how to keep your climbing shoes from stinking.

Our crew of crushers included:

- Sean McColl: World Champion climber, future Olympian
- [Tosh Sherkat](https://massifsupply.com/blogs/athletes/tosh-sherkat): MEC Climbing Ambassador
- [Cat Carkner](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa3MLSYW_Os): Youth Olympics athlete and MEC Ambassador
- [Lucas Uchida](https://gripped.com/profiles/lucas-uchida-has-incredible-year/): Canadian National Team Member and MEC Ambassador
- Allison Vest: Canadian National Team Member



### 

*All these athletes are part of*[*Climbing Escalade Canada*](http://climbingcanada.ca/)*, the not-for-profit group that promotes Canada’s competition climbing community and oversees comps. Through MEC All Out (our community program), MEC is the CEC’s*[*founding partner*](/en/explore/partnerships)*,* *and we’re excited to support the development of young climbers in our country.*



#### 1. Climbing at the Olympics combines three disciplines: speed climbing, bouldering and lead climbing. What do you think of this format?
I was heavily involved with the format of combined for Tokyo 2020. As the IOC only gave the **IFSC one set of medals**, the combined of all three disciplines made perfect sense. For the 2024 Games, speed has been proposed to be split apart. The goal of the IFSC was always to have at least three set of medals for our original three disciplines of speed, lead and boulder. – Sean McColl



#### 2. What’s your favourite discipline to compete in?
Bouldering. A big part of that is due to the atmosphere at the competitions. There’s an **electric energy** at a good bouldering comp that’s just so fun to climb in. It’s more fast-paced and less mentally taxing. – Cat Carkner

I have always been split between lead and bouldering. I like having to **adapt to different scenarios** and using my mind to problem solve and execute. I find the mental components of lead and bouldering really interesting. – Lucas Uchida



#### 3. What does a typical week of training look like?
It depends on what phase of training I’m in. For the most part, I train five to six days a week, for three to six hours per day. A day can have any combination of: warmup, hanging, campusing, bouldering skills, circuits, lead climbing, cardio, stretching, mobility, recovery exercises. On average, this means anywhere from **15 to 30 hours per week**. – Sean McColl

I won’t give you all my secrets, but a typical week involves a lot of work on the **components of climbing**, rather than just climbing. I usually spend two to three days focusing on the strength components and two to three days focusing on technical skills. – Tosh Sherkat

Training **varies depending on the season**. If it’s lead season, I spend a lot of time going round and round on circuit walls. If it’s bouldering season, I get as much variety in styles of climbing as I possibly can. – Allison Vest

A typical week involves five days being in the gym climbing. Among those five days are two days of strength training. There’s **a lot of climbing involved**. – Lucas Uchida



#### 4. How do you mentally prepare for a comp?
The same way I do before every competition: think of how much time I spent training to get there, and enjoying the process of being able to **represent my country**. – Sean McColl

I like to spend some time before imagining the sensations I might feel competing. Kind of a **mental rehearsal** of all the feelings I might have and how I would deal with them. – Lucas Uchida



#### 5. What’s it like to compete in front of a crowd?
It may sound weird to some people, but I love it. I have always loved it. Maybe it’s because I am a bit of a drama queen, but I have always fed on the **energy of a large crowd** and allowed it to build me up while I am competing. – Allison Vest

Fun, thrilling, and exciting. The **bigger the crowd** the better! – Sean McColl

I like it. I’m not totally sure why, but I know that when the clock is running down; I want to do the climb, and the crowd wants me to do the climb and it **just feels very wholesome**. – Tosh Sherkat



#### 6. How important is it to you to be a mentor to the next generation of Canadian climbers?
To be a mentor, especially to Canadians, is one of my ultimate goals. I know that eventually I will stop competing, but if knowledge can be passed on repeatedly, then the **program will continue to thrive**. – Sean McColl

To me, it is one of the most important things. Obviously as an athlete I want to succeed and reach my goals, but the **development of climbing in Canada** in general is also extremely important. I was lucky enough to have role models and mentors growing up and if I can make a difference to even just one kid, that would be super cool. Across the boards, our youth team is psyched, kind, and passionate. The future looks bright. – Allison Vest

I have worked as a coach for a competitive youth team for the last two years. I spend a lot of time with them and find it important to be a **part of the next generation**. – Lucas Uchida



#### 7. What’s your favourite part of the team Canada comp jerseys?
The white, the red, and **the pride I feel** while wearing it. – Sean McColl

The speckled “CANADA” side panels. **So slick**. – Allison Vest

This is the first time we have had a jersey made from scratch specifically for the team. For me it represents a **big step in the right direction**. – Lucas Uchida



#### 8. Who do you look to for inspiration?
I really admire climbers who have used their **influence to advocate for positive change**, like Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell. On a pure admiration basis, I’m a big fangirl for Janja Garnbret and Akiyo Noguchi. – Cat Carkner

**Sonnie Trotter**. He was my coach when I was 15, and he displays such an unbridled love for the sport and for his own stoke! The IFSC livestream is also a huge inspiration. I obsessively watch world cups, and try to replicate the movements in my own training. – Tosh Sherkat



#### 9. Top tips to recover after an intense comp or training sesh?
Active recovery, and then **rest**. Many kids don’t know how to properly rest anymore, it’s weird. – Sean McColl

**Epson salt baths** are the waaaaaaay. – Tosh Sherkat



#### 10. As a competitive climber you travel a lot. What’s your favourite place you’ve competed?
**Japan** was one of the coolest places I’ve gotten to visit. I like the culture, the food, and the Japanese are very respectful like Canadians. – Sean McColl

**Vail** is always fun because you are competing in the mountains and are surrounded by an outdoor sport culture. **Wujiang** is a favourite of mine because of how different China is from home and how the competition venue and accommodation are right next to each other. Creates a bit of a community even if it’s just for the event. – Allison Vest



#### 11. Best travel hack when you’re on the road?
Eye mask for sleeping. I am super light sensitive so when I am travelling (or when I am at home) I always make sure to **bring my eye mask**. I usually even pack an extra in case something happens to the first one. Crucial beta. – Allison Vest



#### 12. What’s the best way to clean climbing shoes?
I sprinkle some **baby powder** in them everyday. During comps I lay out a foot towel under the boulder so I can wipe off excess chalk from the mat. – Cat Carkner

I shove chalk up my nose. There’s **no cure** for my stinky-shoes. – Tosh Sherkat



#### 13. Last one: how do you stay motivated?
The **next competition**. – Sean McColl

Reflecting on my goals and on how far I’ve come keeps me motivated. As long as I’m **psyched for more**, I feel like I’m doing the right thing. – Allison Vest



## Want to know more about comp climbing in Canada?
Check out the [CEC](http://climbingcanada.ca/en/home/) – they’re doing a lot behind the scenes to amp up climbing as an organized sport.

“The CEC is working hard to grow climbing all over Canada,” says Joachim Stroink from the CEC Board. “We’re expanding our competition series by adding regionals. We’re also connecting more with gyms and coaches, investing in high-performance programs and working to build out long-term athlete and coach development guidelines.”

“Seeing climbing at Olympics will be huge,” he continues. “It builds awareness in the general population about climbing and makes it seem much more accessible. It’s great for attracting new athletes, building and even stronger base of next-generation climbers, and making everyone proud of our sport and the community we belong to.”

*Top photo: Allison Vest at the 2019 Worlds in Japan.*



## Related articles
- [Crag etiquette: the do’s and don’ts of climbing outside](/en/article/crag-etiquette-the-dos-and-donts-of-climbing-outside)
- [15 things I wish I knew before I started climbing](/en/article/15-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-climbing)
- [Rock climbing checklist](/en/explore/rock-climbing-checklist)





A group of Canada’s strongest climbers talk everything from training to how they keep their shoes from stinking.

What it’s like to be a pro comp climber in Canada

If there’s one thing the MEC Label design team knows, it’s Canadian winter. Knee-deep snowdrifts, face-numbing wind, and west coast downpours – they’ve seen it all.

To get you ready for whatever weather is blasting your way, we spoke to MEC Label designers James and Nicole for the inside scoop. Here are their top picks for the warmest, most waterproof, easiest to pack and best to layer up.

## Our warmest winter coat
##### Snowfall Down Puffer


**The Snowfall Down Puffer is for you if**…

- You live in a place with icy winters – we’re talking double-digit negative temps
- You spend a lot of time in chilly weather (e.g., walking your dog or waiting for the streetcar)
- You need a toasty warm jacket that doesn’t take up tons of room in your luggage for travel

**Why it’s great**

The Snowfall is all about warmth and comfort. It’s designed to shut out the weather for as much of your body as possible. From the generous length to the sheer volume of down, it’ll comfortably get you from point A to point B in harsh, cold environments. Bonus: It transforms into a neck pillow so you can easily bring it travelling.

> The downproof fabric is super comfortable and soft – it feels like you’re wearing a sleeping bag. – Nicole, MEC Label designer
>


## Our most versatile jacket
##### Transference 3-in-1 Down Parka


**The Transference 3-in-1 Down Parka is for you if**…

- You do a lot of travelling or deal with unpredictable weather
- You live in a wet, mild climate (like Vancouver) and want a single jacket that does it all, all year round
- You want a trusty jacket to keep you dry and warm for shoulder seasons and the edges of winter across much of Canada

**Why it’s great**

Waterproof-breathable fabric keeps showers and storms out, ultra-warm down keeps you toasty, and plenty of pockets keeps your gloves handy. The first layer is a down liner that keeps you comfortable on dry chilly days around the city. The second layer is a shell that you can wear on its own on rainy days, or snap to the insulator for warmth and waterproofness combined.



> In backcountry design, we always talk about clothing systems. The Transference 3-in-1 builds off that idea to give you an all-in-one system for everyday life: a shell jacket and an insulator that connect perfectly together. – James, MEC Label design manager
>


## Our most durable waterproof shell
##### Synergy GORE-TEX Jacket


**The Synergy jacket is for you if**…

- You ski or snowboard, and want a jacket you can depend on season after season
- You like being out in the rain (but you don’t like getting wet)
- You have an insulated layer you can wear underneath when the temperature drops, or you run hot and don’t need insulation

**Why it’s great**

It’s our most durable feature-rich mountain shell. The Synergy Jacket has been part of our roster for many years, and is ready for howling, snowy or sideways-rain conditions – the GORE-TEX®, 3-layer waterproof-breathable shell feels light and supple, and it has lots of alpine-specific features.



> The Synergy is designed to last as long as we can make it last for you. It’s our pinnacle performance shell – if I’m going into serious weather, this is what I bring. – James, MEC Label design manager
>


## Our most versatile down insulator
##### Boundary Light Down Jacket


**The Boundary Light Down Jacket is for you if**…

- You camp, hike, ski or snowshoe in cold weather and want a insulating layer to stay warm
- You’re looking for something to keep you comfy in fall or spring around town, too
- You have a rain shell that needs a little extra warmth underneath

**Why it’s great**

You get amazing value for the quality of down in this jacket (and like all MEC Label down, it’s ethically sourced and traceable to ensure the birds are responsibly raised and cared for). This is an excellent crossover piece you can use for skiing or snowshoeing as a midlayer, and you’ll reach for it again and again on cold, dry days in the city too. Plus the colour-blocking looks great in your hiking pics. Also comes in vest versions.



I love this jacket. The fit is designed with movement and activity in mind, and it packs down small so you can always bring it along. The 700-fill down gives it a high warmth-to-weight ratio too. – Nicole, MEC Label designer



## Our most active insulator
##### Airstream Hoodie


**The Airstream Hoodie is for you if**…

- You’re active and want a jacket you can wear all day as you heat up and cool down
- You spend time in the backcountry and need an insulating layer that keeps you warm whether you’re moving or stopped
- You want a puffy that’s easy to layer under a shell, and looks good enough to wear solo on cool days in town

**Why it’s great**

The Airstream keeps you comfortable when you’re moving, all the way from a 4:30am start to the headlamp-lit return to the trailhead. Don’t be fooled by the streamlined fit – it’s warmer and more technical than it looks. The whole package (face fabric, insulation, liner) is breathable to manage moisture when you’re working hard. When you stop to check your map or eat a snack, the synthetic insulation kicks in to keep you warm, even when wet.



> It’s a quintessential MEC piece. If you’re doing stuff in the mountains, it’s amazing. I’m going to take it backcountry touring this year for sure. – James, MEC Label design manager
>




## Our most packable waterproof jacket
##### Flash Cloud Jacket


**The Flash Cloud Jacket is for you if**…

- You want a waterproof-breathable jacket that you can whip out of your pack at a moment’s notice (west coast: we’re looking at you)
- You need to stay dry when clouds roll in, but not get overheated when you’re slogging uphill
- You don’t want your jacket to take up a ton of room in your backpack when you’re travelling, hiking or around town

**Why it’s great**

The fabric is a big winner. The Flash Cloud uses GORE-TEX Paclite Plus, which makes the jacket lightweight and extremely compressible. It’s waterproof-breathable with fully sealed seams to block out showers, and has underarm zippers in case you need to let off some steam. It’s also comfortable against your skin; you don’t get that clingy plastic feel of some other 2-layer jackets.



> On a recent trip to visit factories, I took the Flash Cloud as a “just in case” rain jacket since it packs down so small. I’m glad I did – it poured the entire time we were in Vietnam. – James, MEC Label design manager
>


## About MEC Label
Forty-eight years of wilderness experience informs everything we make. We have decades of experience creating clothing and gear with sustainability in mind, and publish a [full factory list](/en/explore/factories) so you know exactly where your MEC Label gear is made.



## Tips to look after your jacket
- [How to wash and re-waterproof your jacket](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket)
- [How to clean your down jacket](/en/explore/how-to-wash-a-down-jacket)
- [How to fix a zipper](/en/explore/how-to-fix-a-zipper)



Top picks for Canadian winters, from the icy east to the soggy west.

MEC winter jacket guide: warm, waterproof, do-it-all

We’ve all been there. It’s Thursday, the weekend forecast looks good and all you want to do is get outside and go hiking somewhere beautiful. But what if you don’t have a vehicle to get to the trailhead? Or maybe you’ve just moved to a new city and haven’t met an adventure buddy yet, or you don’t know where to get outdoors near you?

Enter: Parkbus. This bus service is an awesome way to get to parks and wild spaces from cities across Canada, no car required. I’m a big fan – and MEC has been supporting Parkbus as one of our community partners since their humble beginnings.



## What’s Parkbus?
Parkbus connects many major Canadian cities to almost 75 national and provincial parks. It’s been going for nearly a decade and serves about 20,000 people across Canada every year (!). The goal? To help more people get access to being active outdoors. Day trips, family camping or wilderness expeditions – Parkbus can get you there. Check out [Parkbus destinations](https://www.parkbus.ca/destinations) to find trips near you, and see what group hikes they’ve got planned through the [ActiveDays program](https://activedays.parkbus.ca/).

Along with reducing barriers to people getting outside, Parkbus has some other wins. Collective transportation (i.e., a bus) helps minimize environmental impact of individual cars. The team works very closely with national and provincial parks to decide on where to go and when to go, and teaches people to be responsible outdoors along the way.

“For every trip, we send pre-departure info, including tips on packing, safety and Leave No Trace, along with trip preparation for people who are going to remote wilderness,” explains Alex Berlyand, one of the two founders of Parkbus.

“There’s a pretty strong educational component that’s emphasized by our Ambassador program – volunteers on board who talk about these kind of things,” he continues. Parkbus also partners with organizations such as the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and the Nature Conservancy of Canada to provide experts to talk about the educational side of their programs.



## How it all started
“Parkbus came from our personal experience of living in a big city without a car,” explains Boris Issaev, the other Parkbus founder. “When we turned 18 and started driving, we realized all these amazing places outside of Toronto exist. It was an eye-opening experience, so we wondered why there wasn’t a bus service. We never really expected this to be our full-time job.”

In 2010, Boris and Alex emailed MEC Toronto with their idea for a bus that goes to parks, and a short time later they were invited to the store to survey what MEC members were looking for with a park bus service. “This really was the catalyst for the whole project,” explains Boris.

Initially, the pair aimed to work with larger bus companies, but were pushed back. “So we rented a big white van,” Boris says. “We were under 25 then, and only one place in the middle of nowhere would rent to us. We drove everyone for free out of our own pockets because we didn’t want to disappoint people. On that first run there were some amazing people who really inspired us to continue,” he adds.

Shortly afterward, MEC jumped on board with funding to help kick things off, and Parkbus has been growing ever since.



## Group hikes, free shuttles and more
Along with lack of transportation, other issues can prevent people from enjoying the outdoors. Lack of outdoor skills and gear, financial constraints, and not knowing people to go with are real barriers, so MEC is working with Parkbus to help break these down.

**Guided hikes**: In partnership with MEC, Parkbus offers [ActiveDays](https://activedays.parkbus.ca/), which aims to build communities in the outdoors. These outings give you the opportunity to meet other hikers, go on a guided hike with a Parkbus facilitator, and learn about the park you’re in from outdoor experts.

**Free shuttles**: A free (yep, free) shuttle service you can take from four Canadian cities to national parks. These [TD Park Express free shuttles](https://www.parkbus.ca/parkexpress) greatly reduce the financial barriers to getting outside.

**Subsidized trips**: Parkbus runs [NatureLink](https://www.parkbus.ca/naturelink), a program that provides subsidized trips for new Canadians to introduce them to the outdoors.

In the past three years, Parkbus has really taken off and MEC has been with them the whole way. An idea that started with one bus every few months has grown into multiple programs that work with different age ranges, abilities, demographics and places – it’s exciting to see how they have programming for everyone.

Not bad for something that started out with two guys and a van.

*MEC All Out is proud to support Parkbus as one of our*[*community partners*](/en/explore/partnerships)*. Top photo: Parkbus trip to Cypress Provincial Park from Vancouver.*



## Related articles
- [Introducing: MEC All Out](/en/explore/outdoor-impact)
- [NatureLink: Connecting newcomers to nature](/en/article/naturelink-explore-parks-in-torontos-backyard)
- [7 ways to hike and camp responsibly](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly)



Your ticket to adventure in the great outdoors. See how two guys with a van have grown into a service that gets 20,000 people into parks each year.

Want to go hiking but don’t have a car? Hop on board Parkbus

As a parent, there’s no denying the annual daydream: a carefree vacation away from winter and the chaos of getting our kids outside. A week of relaxation at the beach is one solution to the cabin fever that sets in during the dark months of winter, but there are other options closer to home too. Why not bundle up the whole family and be active this winter? Try out skiing, skating or snowshoeing. Here are a few simple tips garnered from a decade of family adventures in the white stuff:

## Age 0: timing is everything
If changing a diaper or breastfeeding outside on a frosty day isn’t your idea of fun, make sure you start your adventure with a clean, fed and sleepy tot. Nap time can be a great time for a winter walk or snowshoe. Babies are most comfortable snuggled next to a parent, so leave behind the stroller and opt for a sling. Hold your baby in a soft, snuggly baby carrier, and zip up an [MEC Tremblant Jacket](/en/brand/mec/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/down-jackets/c/1022?text=tremblant) or a similar insulated jacket with a relaxed fit, so you and baby will be comfortably wrapped in warmth.



## Age 1: snuggled in comfort
Toddlers can be a bit hard to fit inside a baby carrier under your jacket, so a stroller on skis may be your ticket to winter exploration. Be aware that kids get cold fast, so build them a plush cocoon inside your favourite stroller or sled. A kids’ sleeping bag will allow you extra time cross-country skiing in the cold, especially if you put a few hot water bottles in the bottom.

## Ages 2–3: patience pays off
Once your toddler is off on their own adventures, be prepared to play games within sight of the ski lodge. We enjoyed a few seasons learning balance on skis and socializing in the staging area at the bottom of the lifts. Our kids lived in their bunting and [MEC Toaster Suits](/en/products/kids/c/1900?f=CFSeasonalCollections%3AMEC+toaster+collection), and kept on trying to squeeze themselves into them for sledding trips so they didn’t get snow in their pants.

Since young ones don’t have much endurance, make short forays outside and then warm up inside with a snack and hot drink before heading back out. Know that the time you put in at this age will make a huge difference teaching gross motor skills and instilling a love of winter in the years to come.



## Ages 4–5: mini-athletes
Once kids start moving on skis, skates and snowshoes, there’s no limit to the fun you can have as a family. Keep in mind that kids still need a little help at this age. We continued to use our stroller as an option for a tired child, which allowed us to go further afield and explore places beyond the range of travelling entirely under their own power. Kids that are working hard often get too warm in traditional snowsuits, so midweight insulated jackets are a good compromise for many active winter sports.



## Ages 6+: try to keep up
Kids that are six and older quickly become capable athletes. Once ours reached this age, they were off on their own, usually seeking out jumps and consistently pushing our comfort level. However, they still need to regulate their temperature to stay comfortable in the colder months. Learn [how to layer outdoor clothing](/en/explore/clothing-layers) and bring along a backpack (get tips on [how to choose kids’ backpacks](/en/explore/packs-for-kids) so they can have one that fits them properly). This way you can teach them how to remove layers as they warm up and quickly put those clothes back on when they stop. This will make it more fun for everyone.

It is never too early to get kids outside in winter – they’re up for almost any adventure, especially if it means spending some quality time with their parents. They will be happier for the time outside in the white stuff, and so will you!



## Related articles
- [How to enjoy winter activities with kids](/en/explore/how-to-enjoy-winter-activities-with-kids)
- [Science says: getting kids outdoors is a game changer](/en/article/science-says-getting-kids-outdoors-is-a-game-changer)
- [Gift ideas for adventurous kids](/en/article/gift-ideas-for-little-explorers)

*Originally published December 2016. Updated in 2019.*



From babies to active 6-year-olds, here’s how to keep them toasty outside. Get tips on winter clothing on kids so the whole family can play in the snow.

The ultimate guide to keeping your kids warm all winter

Outdoor clothing tips to keep your kids warm all winter

Forget pumpkin spice – the *real* first sign of fall is when you think, “I should’ve brought another layer.” Once you’ve made peace with the fact that summer’s come and gone, there’s nothing left to do but welcome the cooler temps, pop on a toque, and dig out the Blundstones from your shoe pile.

My favourite thing about fall? Crowds on local trails, beaches and bike routes fade away. To make the most of the season, here are our picks to keep you outside longer when there’s a bite in the air.

### 1. Colour-blocked down
This lightweight puffy squishes into its own pocket and is filled with 700 fill-power duck down. It’s awesome for day hiking and works just as well for trekking across town.

Good to know: All MEC Label down clothing meets the [Responsible Down Standard](/en/explore/animal-welfare). The jacket below also uses [bluesign® certified material](/en/explore/bluesign), which means it’s been made with reduced chemical and environmental impacts.



***Left**: [MEC Boundary Light Down Jacket (men’s)](/en/product/6015-540/boundary-light-down-jacket). **Right**: [MEC Boundary Light Down Jacket (women’s)](/en/product/5059-838/Boundary-Light-Down-Jacket), [Patagonia Pack Out Tights](/en/product/5058-646/Pack-Out-Tights), [Stance socks](/en/brand/stance/products/footwear/socks/c/1203) and [Zamberlan hiking boots](/en/brand/zamberlan/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/hiking-boots/c/1497).*



***Above**: MEC Ambassador Jessa Gilbert in the [Boundary Light Down Vest](/en/product/5059-840/Boundary-Light-Down-Vest). “It’s a great piece to have at the top of a hike, taking a break from paddling in a canoe, and around a campfire,” says Jessa. “Transitioned well from the mountains back into town afterwards too!”*

## 2. Leave the umbrella behind
What’s worse: 2°C and sideways rain or -2°C and sloppy snow? Trick question, because if you’ve got on one of these jackets, you’ll be good either way. Quality waterproof-breathable layers mean you don’t need to hassle with an umbrella, which frees your hands up to do valuable things like pet friendly dogs and hold coffee.





***Left**: MEC Stradale Jacket, [MEC Burly Camp Pants](/en/product/6009-284/burly-camp-pants?colour=Rosin), [Yeti Rambler 20 Vacuum Mag Tumbler](/en/product/5056-608/Rambler-20-Vacuum-Mag-Slider-Tumbler). **Right**: Arcteryx Codetta Coat.*



***Above**: The [MEC Outpost 25L Daypack](/en/product/5059-968/Outpost-25L-Daypack) is made of waterproof fabric to keep your laptop and other essentials dry in mean weather.*

## 3.  Wrap-around fleece
There’s something about pullovers that make them even cozier than zip-ups. Plus, the MEC Label fleece below is made of recycled polyester, which means we transform post-consumer plastic bottles into fuzzy fleece fabric to keep waste out landfills.



***Left**: [North Face Campshire Pullover Hoodie 2.0](/en/product/6009-775/campshire-pullover-hoodie-2.0?colour=Lavender+Fog+Glacier+Dye). **Right**: [MEC Rockwall Half Zip Midlayer](/en/product/6011-746/rockwall-half-zip-midlayer).*

## 4. Puffy jackets that give you options
Maximize your closet space. The MEC Label jacket below is reversible so you can wear it two ways: quilted or smooth side out. It also packs up small for weekend trips.



***Above**: MEC Transference Reversible Jacket (men’s Transference Reversible Jacket also available), [Arc’teryx Covert Cardigan](/en/product/6020-652/covert-cardigan)*

The Arc’teryx Thorium AR Hoody also gives you lots of options – it’s the most versatile insulated hoodie in their line-up. Use it around town Monday to Friday, then take it ski touring on the weekend.



***Above**: [Arc’teryx Thorium AR Hoody](/en/product/6001-122/Thorium-AR-Hoody) ([women’s Thorium AR Hoody](/en/product/6001-123/Thorium-AR-Hoody) also available)*

## 5. Dry toes
After months of Birkenstocks and Tevas, it’s easy to forget how wet socks can put a damper on fall walks. Find out how satisfying it is smash through puddles and wet leaves without drenching your feet.



***Above**: [Blundstone Original 500 Boots](/en/product/5036-062/Original-500-Boots) and [Blundstone Women’s Series 1351 Boots](/en/product/5055-087/Women%27s-Series-1351-Boots)*



***Above**: [Xtratuf Rain Boots](/en/product/5058-274/6%22-Ankle-Rain-Boots) (there are also [women’s Xtratuf boots](/en/brand/xtratuf/products/footwear/boots/rain-boots/c/1502)) and Salomon Acro Cordura Chukka WR 2 Shoes*

## 6. Toasty toques
Battle windchill and bad hair days simultaneously. Toques are worth the small amount of space they take up in your bag “just in case it gets cold later.” Tip: after September, it always gets cold later.



***Above**: MEC Maritime Merino Beanie (left) and [MEC Maritime Merino Toque](/en/product/5061-869/Maritime-Merino-Toque) (right)*

## 7. The return of plaid
As the unofficial uniform of fall, plaid comes in many forms. It can be a stretchy and quick-drying or soft and classic flannel – you choose what works for you. Bonus: both of the plaid shirts below are made in [Fair Trade Certified factories](/en/explore/fair-trade).



***Left**: [MEC Great Outdoors Flannel Shirt](/en/product/6018-156/great-outdoors-flannel-shirt?colour=Rosin+Plaid). **Right**: [MEC Great Outdoors Flannel Shirt](/en/product/6020-514/great-outdoors-flannel-shirt?colour=Aura+Pink%2FRose+Plaid).*

## 8. Comfy tights for cool nights
Move over shorts – it’s stretchy tights season. Supportive, moisture-wicking tights make cold-weather workouts comfortable. Look for reflective elements to keep you visible when the sun starts setting earlier than you’d like.



***Above**: [The North Face Flight Night Tights](/en/product/6001-988/Flight-Night-Tights), The North Face Essential H2O Jacket, The North Face GORE Gloves*



***Above**: MEC Flight Run Tight, made of bluesign-approved materials (also available in a men’s version)*

Fall is like a sneaky bonus outdoor season – all the good stuff, none of the hectic July energy. Enjoy the cooler weather and a few more weekends of playing outside before the first snow falls.



## Related articles
- [How to choose base layers](/en/explore/how-to-choose-base-layers)
- [How to bike in the rain (and other fall bike commute tips)](/en/article/what-not-to-do-when-fall-bike-commuting)
- [How to wash waterproof jackets and pants](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket)



Forget pumpkin spice, this is what fall’s all about. See top to bottom gear to keep you outside longer from Arc’teryx, The North Face, MEC Label and more.

Fall edit: top gear picks to beat the chill

In a country that spans almost 10 million square kilometres of dense rainforest, calm lakes and steep mountains, there are literally thousands of outdoor activities to keep you busy. But what are the quintessential Canadian experiences for your adventure bucket list? Get ready, explorers: here’s a distilled must-do list for adventurous Canadians:

## 1. Ride the waves in Tofino
On the far west coast, Tofino promises the best surfing in Canada. It has 35km of year-round break (yep, a [wetsuit](/en/products/watersports/watersports-clothing/wetsuits/c/1043) is a must), along with epic scenery and the relaxed atmosphere you’d expect from a laidback beach town surrounded by rainforest.

## 2. Scale a mountain in Banff
Nothing speaks to Canada’s scenic power quite like the Rockies. If you’re not an experienced mountaineer, you can still traverse the alpine with the Via Ferrata at Mt. Norquay in Banff National Park. Common in the Alps, a Via Ferrata is a network of ladders, cables and bridges that make a mountain face accessible to anyone with a bit of grit and [sturdy shoes](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/hiking-shoes/c/1492).



## 3. Canoe tripping in Algonquin
What Ontario lacks in mountains it makes up for with its impressive 250,000 lakes. Nowhere is this more evident than in Algonquin, the country’s oldest provincial park. The true beauty of Algonquin is its promise of complete solitude. [Plan a canoe trip](/en/product/6015-847/algonquin-park-on-waterproof-map) and set up camp near a calm lake that you can access from launch points farther north of Highway 60.

## 4. Hike the Bruce Trail
The Bruce Trail stretches 885km along the Niagara Escarpment from St. Catharines to Tobermory. The whole thing can take more than a month to complete, but there are several well-marked day hikes that explore this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.



## 5. Paddle the 1000 Islands
Sprawled across the St. Lawrence River, these islands are home to history and adventure; 20th-century castles and War of 1812 battle sites punctuate the active archipelago. Take a multi-day kayaking course to get to know the area, or [bring your own boat](/en/products/watersports/kayaking/kayaks/c/911) and pitch a [tent](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-tents-tarps-and-bivies/tents/c/1449) somewhere off the shores of Gananoque.

## 6. Cycle La Route Verte
This route in Quebec’s Eastern Townships was hailed as the best [cycling](/en/products/cycling/bikes/c/854) route in the world by National Geographic in 2010, three years after the trail’s inauguration. At 5,300km in total, it’s the longest cycling network in the country, weaving past farming communities, cities and riversides (you can even spend the night in a lighthouse). Grab a Quebec cycling guidebook (in French) to plan your trip.



## 7. Geocache along the Confederation Trail
Stretching along the island from east to west, the 435-km Confederation Trail is PEI’s portion of the Trans Canada Trail. The path’s gentle gradient makes it accessible for a variety of fitness levels, and there are over 1,600 caches along the route, making it prime for explorers who never travel without their [GPS](/en/products/electronics/gps-navigation/c/1139).

## 8. Climb Gros Morne Mountain
Staring down from the 806-m summit of Newfoundland’s Gros Morne is a humbling endeavor (and proof that you don’t need to travel to Scandinavia for stunning fjords). The 16-km James Callaghan Trail leads through forested paths and a bit of loose rock scrambling before you reach the top.



## 9. Camp under the midnight sun
At summer solstice, experience sunlight for a full 24 hours in northern regions like the Yukon and Northwest Territories. The extra daylight give you lots of time to explore before you set up camp in spots like Kluane National Park. If you want to go all out, visit remote Ivvavik National Park, which has guided Arctic base camp trips from Parks Canada.

Canadians are lucky. Extensive trails, mountains next to cities, and a seemingly endless network of rivers and lakes are ready for us anytime we want to take on a little adventure. It’s your move, explorers.



## Related articles
- [Travel packing checklist](/en/explore/travel-checklist)
- [The time to travel is always now](/en/article/the-time-to-travel-is-always-now)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)

*Originally published in 2016. Updated in 2019.*



Must-do trip inspiration for travelling in Canada, from biking La Route Verte to hiking the Bruce Trail. How many of these have you ticked off your list?

The bucket list for adventurous Canadians

Hiking, peak bagging, trekking, backpacking, even walking – call it what you may – we generally undertake this activity with the same basic intent: to move from point A to B. To get somewhere.

Only later do we discover it’s really about the spaces in between.

Some hike to seek escape from a noisy world, or solace. Others see a challenge. How far can I go? How fast? What gear do I need? And what can I shed in search of an ultralight pack? For some, it’s a weekend undertaking with long, lung-busting missions into the backcountry. Thru-hikers spend months ambling across ranges, even countries. Some hike at night, under headlamp, serenaded by stars. The hardy venture out in mid-winter, frosty diamonds dancing underfoot. Sturdy boots become trusted companions for many, yet a few wander barefoot, sand and dirt between toes a reminder of simpler times.

But no matter what brings us to hiking, other unexpected gifts soon emerge.



Among the first and most obvious is improved health. I won’t bore you with statistics – there is plenty of compelling research – but let’s just say the effects derived from just a 20-minute daily stroll are undeniable and unambiguous. Every aspect of our being appears to benefit from this simple act, from cholesterol levels to cardiovascular disease, psoriasis to Parkinson’s.

My own recent reacquaintance with the joys of hiking and walking was precipitated by a herniated disc. Amid all the jazzy modern treatments available to a spine patient – inversion tables, intramuscular needling, epidural injections, massage, acupuncture, physio, rehab, ice, heat – most doctors and surgeons agree that nothing is more effect at rebuilding function than simply getting up on your feet and moving forward.

“If you are only able to do one thing each day,” a physiologist with the Canadian Olympic team said to me, “then walk. Preferably at a stiff pace. With arms swinging from shoulders, not elbows.”

My first outings were small. I struggled to complete a single city block, often forced to lie on the sidewalk and rest. But little by little, strength returned. Soon I was out for an hour. Then two. Eventually the disc healed and form returned, but I never stopped the daily hikes, for I could sense some special magic at work.



Hiking just might be the perfect antidote to the modern plague of sitting, for it stretches us upwards, unfolding hip flexors and engaging gluteals while activating the vestibular system and reinforcing contralateral movement (opposite leg and arm moving in unison) which is the foundation of all performance.

Yet the benefits are not limited to the body alone.

Long hailed for its ability to boost cognitive performance, walking in nature is now recognized as a powerful intervention against depression, stress, and anxiety. Hemingway, Thoreau and Jefferson extolled the virtues, as did Plato, Aristotle, Dickens, Ruskin and Emerson. Carried to its limit, moving forward becomes a form of meditation, allowing us to tap into creativity, wisdom, even a forgotten capacity for wonderment.

> To hike through a landscape is to know it – certainly with more intimacy than any train, plane or automobile would allow. Distances become real again. And humbling.
>
Twenty years ago, my wife and I trekked across Iceland, travelling from northeast cape to southwest, a thirty-seven-day journey of one thousand kilometres. Along the way, we stumbled upon abandoned fishing villages, and the gravestones of children lost amid wind-whipped grass. We peered over sea cliffs, the noisy faces below dripping with fulmars, murres and kittiwakes. We traversed misty glaciers, warmed ourselves at volcanic steam vents, and followed ancient trade routes through lava fields, where thousands of hooves had worn prints into the stone.

There is simply no way I would know that small country similarly had I driven around the ring road, for any landscape glimpsed through the window of a car is distant, and inaccessible.



Perhaps most importantly, hiking and walking are unparalleled in their ability to raise the veil on the landscape of home. Even just travelling by foot through familiar neighbourhoods makes us become participants rather than spectators. We greet strangers, become aware of routines, notice subtle changes, and in this way, following the same route, day after day, instead of growing mundane, becomes steadily more engaging. As experiences and observations accumulate, like sediments in a lake, our understanding of the world outside our front door deepens.

In the forest behind my house, a well-worn path traverses a grove of mature lodgepole pine. It was here, ten years ago, that I disturbed a great horned owl, causing the majestic bird to take flight, gliding silently through the cathedral of trees with wings outstretched.

> I have passed by that same spot a hundred times since, and while I have never seen the owl again, I have never failed to think of it either.
>
Hiking and walking are truly democratic activities, requiring little more than a sturdy pair of shoes, open to almost everyone, rich and poor, young and old. (Admittedly, longer outings benefit from a backpack with the [hiking essentials](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping), like a jacket, water bottle and food.) But in this era of flashy, Insta-fueled exploits, the activity itself seems to have become the Rodney Dangerfield of outdoor pursuits – can’t get no respect.

As counterpoint, I’ll simply note that unlike running, biking, skiing or almost any other more vigorous activity, the slow and steady movement of walking on a trail can be absorbed in near-unlimited doses, for it builds a body up instead of breaking it down. Sure, overuse injuries may appear, but the stress placed on joints and muscles is of a different nature. Fundamentally, our bodies are designed to walk and walk and walk – forever.



But the greatest gift of hiking may not be no so much of what it is, as what it isn’t.

A phone bouncing in hand is desperately difficult to read, and messages are frustrating to type. So we are forced to acquaint (or reacquaint) ourselves with other wonders: silence, curiosity, the smell of earth on the trail, the iridescence of a dragonfly’s wing, talking freely with friends in the forest.

Of course all this has nothing to do with peak bagging or lowered cholesterol. Putting one foot in front of the other is fundamentally an expression of humanity; it’s what makes us who we are – and it’s what takes us to those spaces in between. I hope you’ll join us.

## Bruce’s hiking gear picks
Heading out to explore on trails? Here’s some of the gear Bruce trusts for hiking:



- [MEC 32 Backpack](/en/product/6016-499/tour-32-backpack): For anyone aiming to cover serious distance in a day.

- [MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Jacket](/en/brand/mec/products/clothing/c/981?text=hydrofoil+stretch): A classic waterproof-breathable layer. (If you’re interested in an even more packable option, check out the new [MEC Flash Cloud Jacket](/en/product/5059-824/flash-cloud-gore-tex-jacket).)

- [Darn Tough Mid-Weight Hiker Boot Socks](/en/product/5040-881/Midweight-Hiker-Boot-Socks): Lots of cushioning, they dry fast, and work year-round.

- [Vasque Breeze III GoreTex Boots](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/hiking-boots/c/1497?text=vasque+breeze+III): Great for day hiking, burly enough for fast and light backpacking.



## Related articles
- [How to choose hiking boots or shoes](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes)
- [The 10 essentials for hiking](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping)
- [How to clean and waterproof hiking boots and shoes](/en/explore/how-to-clean-and-waterproof-hiking-boots)



A dose of inspiration from renowned adventurer Bruce Kirkby, who got back into hiking after recovering from a challenging injury – and discovered a lot more along the way.

Why we hike

Fun fact: I’m a born-again bike commuter. I ride a lot of bikes, but I once *loathed* commuting on one – especially when the weather got bad. Why? I used to arrive looking like a sauna enthusiast, my work clothes were soaking wet, and I was ruining my road bike. Sure, part of my issues might have been deep-rooted cowardice, but for the most part, I just didn’t have a good system for biking in the rain, wind or bad weather.

I’ve come a long way since then. Here are some of things I’ve faced and how to fix them.



## Preventing Swack (sweaty + back)
Swack can happen – especially when you’re commuting with a backpack, when you’re hammering along, or when fall temps aren’t quite as brisk as you suspected.

##### Tip:
- Wear a dedicated [commuter kit](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/c/1582), and change into a fresh shirt when you arrive.
- Find a [backpack](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/panniers252c-bags-and-racks/bike-backpacks-and-messenger-bags/c/318) with a mesh back for air flow, or…
- Install a [bike rack](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/panniers252c-bags-and-racks/bike-racks/c/1374) and [pannier system](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/panniers252c-bags-and-racks/bicycle-panniers/c/1373) on your bike to ditch the pack completely.



## Finding the right bag
Sure, you’ve hauled your backpack from middle school around for the past 12 years but… is it waterproof? Will it rock back and forth and back and forth whenever you stand on the pedals like a pendulum of pain? And, most importantly… will it protect your stuff inside?

##### Tips:
- Find a [bike backpack](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/panniers252c-bags-and-racks/bike-backpacks-and-messenger-bags/c/318) that’s purpose-built for commuting (many don’t necessarily look like “bike bags”).
- [Messenger bags](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/packs-and-bags/shoulder-bags-slings-and-waist-packs/courier-messenger-bags/c/1331?b=100-1551-1370-318) do an excellent job of staying close to your back and firmly in place.
- Tip: Some folks (me included) find that a single strap can strain one side of the shoulders/neck. In that case, opt for a two-strap backpack with padded, adjustable shoulder straps, plus a sternum strap (or a rack and pannier system).



### Remember: it gets dark early
Maybe you got stuck at work, caught up with a friend, or had a class that went late. Next thing you know, it’s pitch black outside. Fall means shorter days, so prepare accordingly.

**Tips**:

- [Bike lights](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/bike-accessories-and-add-ons/bike-lights/c/1298)! They’ll keep you seen by drivers, pedestrians, and other commuters. Always keep a charged set in your bag.
- Most bike lights are rechargeable, can be insanely bright, and are often easy for you to remove when you lock up your ride.
- Many jackets and bags have reflective hits to help you seen by drivers. An easy way to add visibility if you don’t have built-in reflection is with [LED slap wraps](/en/product/5048-649/SlapLit-LED-Slap-Wrap).

### Don’t destroy your shoes
You look out the door and the morning is a universe of golden leaves and sunshine. You ride to work – not a care in the world! – in your regular shoes. But then… weather changes, rain falls, and you totally trash your nice shoes on the ride home.

**Tips**:

- Dedicated [commuting kicks](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/cycling-footwear/cycling-shoes/c/1496), or waterproof boots (like these [Blundstones](/en/products/footwear/boots/c/1189/features/waterproof?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=blundstone)) if you want to maintain a bit of style.
- If your shoes do get soaked: Stuff them full of newspaper after riding home to reduce morning swamp foot.

### Stay dry (not soaked)
Riding has the potential to get you way soggier than if you were walking with an umbrella or taking transit. The good news? You have a lot of options. Year-round commuters are a practical bunch, and there are commuter-specific jackets that are bright and waterproof. If you prefer something with a bit more street-style, there are plenty of waterproof-breathable shells that can do double-duty as bike jackets.

**Tips**:

- [Waterproof and wind-resistant clothes](/en/features/windproof+waterproof/products/clothing/c/981). (Some might not repel water quite as well as other gear, but there’s a lot to be said for clothes that work on and off the bike).
- If your commute is long, if you bike year-round, or if you maintain a good pace, opt for more technical [commuter bike apparel](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/c/1582?page=1).



### Watch for the rooster tail/mud mask combo
You gotta be prepared for a bit of spray if it’s raining. Your front tire can spit gritty water into your face on wet pavement, plus you’ll be facing an onslaught of rain. The worst problem? Rooster tail: a stunningly uniform line of mud and water that runs from your butt and up your back.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

**Tips**:

- Install [fenders](/en/products/cycling/bike-accessories-and-add-ons/fenders/c/815), front and rear. They’ll protect you and also keep those riding behind you dry (courtesy never hurts, right?). Plus, a front fender reduces spray on your shoes.
- If you can’t fit full fenders, use smaller clip-on fenders.

### Don’t ruin your bike
Wet mornings can steadily eat away at your drivetrain (re: chain and chainrings), rims and bearings. Grit and grime are inevitable in bad weather, but you can reduce the impact.

**Tips**:

- Rinse your bike often – nothing fancy, just spray with a hose to get gunk off. From there, lube your chain and do a quick once-over with a dry rag to get rid of remaining water. Get tips on [how to clean and lube your chain](/en/explore/how-to-clean-and-lube-a-bike-chain).
- Fenders (again) help protect your bike from excess spray.
- If you’re riding steadily, consider a mid-season [bike tune up](/en/explore/bike-service). It’s cheaper and safer to do preventative maintenance instead of pushing your bike to mechanical exhaustion.

### Skip the summer tires
Commuting beyond summer? You’ll come to realize that roads get covered in debris – rocks, snow, salt, broken bike parts, staples (where do they come from?), nails, screws, broken glass – literally every sharp thing you could imagine.

**Tips**:

- Invest in beefier [bike tires](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/bike-components/tires-tubes-wheels-and-hubs/bike-tires/c/850). If your frame lets you go wider, go wider – you’ll get a bit more grip.
- Your tire choice is going to depend on the make of your bike. Ask an MEC bike tech for know-how.

### Avoid frozen hands
Chances are there’ll be a ride where you’ll brave the rain or wind without gloves. Don’t do it. Halfway through, your hands will resemble frozen claws, and you’ll end up noisily blowing your hands in that 9am meeting or lecture, much to the chagrin (or, possibly, amusement) of those around you.

**Tip**:

- Bring. [Gloves](/en/ideal-for/cycle-commuting/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-clothing-accessories/cycling-gloves/c/1542).



## Bonus tips
Commuter bike safety is worthy of a future post in its entirety. Nevertheless, here are a few quick tips for boosting your safety cred:

##### Always make eye contact with drivers at intersections
It’s the best way to make sure that a driver is aware of your existence. If you haven’t made eye contact while approaching (it can be tough to do when it’s dark and you can’t see through windshields), ease up and use caution.

##### Corner carefully in rain or frost
When those first rainy or frosty mornings hit, slow down. 98% of the time things will be fine, but use caution when cornering – the road is slipperier, and a corner you’re used to cruising through might catch you by surprise.

##### Brake sooner
When your rims are exposed to dirt, grit and rain, your brakes won’t perform as admirably as they usually do. Always brake a bit sooner in wet conditions. This isn’t as much as a problem for bikes equipped with disc brakes (which makes them great for commuting).



## Related articles
- [How to choose bike bags and panniers](/en/explore/how-to-choose-bike-bags-and-panniers)
- [Get ready for winter riding](/en/explore/get-ready-for-winter-riding)
- [How to choose bike lights](/en/explore/choose-bike-lights)

*Originally published September 2016. Updated in 2019.*



Want to keep bike commuting beyond summer? Learn from someone who’s been there (and has clever solutions to common commuting mistakes).

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