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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

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/ambassadors/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/ambassadors/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.*



Real-world stories from MEC Ambassadors about why this shell rises to the top.

Gear I love: the Synergy Jacket

The MEC Toaster Suit first appeared on the pages in our winter catalogue back in the early 1990s, and toddlers, kids and parents have been loving it ever since. That means it’s been going strong for over 25 years.

What’s made the Toaster Suit a hit with kids and parents for more than two decades? Here are some of our favourite reasons, along with reviews from members.



## They’re super durable
We’ve heard so many stories of Toaster Suits getting passed down multiple times. One MEC staffer told us she’s bought three Toaster Suits over the years for her son, and they held together so well that she was able to hand them down to her daughter… and then along to her nephew.

In the last couple of years, the Toaster Suit went through a redesign based on member feedback, and it’s now waterproof and tougher than ever.

> *“We have two of these suits and they’re awesome! Washed and worn endlessly over two years and still perfect. I only wish they came in bigger sizes.” – review from Liz888*
>
## They’re easy to put on
Your kid steps in, you zip it up, and voilá! Ready to play. It’s great for daycares where kids have outside time and you need something that you know is easy to get on and will keep them warm.

> *“This is the fourth winter with the MEC one piece snowsuit and we absolutely love them! My son is now in kindergarten and he find it’s quick and easy to take on and off independently.” – review from Momofboys*
>
### Yep, they’re toasty
With 300g of insulation, this is one of the coziest snowsuits out there. Your kids can bury each other in piles of slushy, wet snow and stay dry in these suits. They’ll even be cozy when they’re tobogganing the hills by your house for hours.

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


## There are clever details
Two nice features are the foot cuff liner, which stops snow or slush from getting up inside their pant legs, and the grow hem, which lets you undo a line of stitching at the ankle to accommodate growing kids.

> *“We put our three kids through these suits. Outstanding. It was worn under Halloween costumes, in strollers, playing in the park and at daycare. One suit was worn by all three, and still solid enough to be handed down…” – review from Denis*
>
## Why talk Toaster Suits now?
While it might seem a little weird to be talking about snowsuits before there’s any hint of snow in the forecast, now’s actually the best time to start poking around for winter layers for your kids. There are still plenty of sizes left, so you won’t be left desperately searching for a size 4 when an October snowstorm hits, and you get the best pick of colours and prints too.

If you know any new parents or parents-to-be, the [Toaster Bunting Suit](/en/product/5037-265/Toaster-Bunting-Suit) also makes a great gift. The infant ones are awesome for winter when babies don’t really move around much but need to stay warm.

Whatever ways you and your kids get outside this winter, have fun out there!



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



Why has the MEC Toaster Suit been a hit for over 25 years?

The ultimate kids’ snowsuit

A kid’s backpack is more than just a thing that holds their books. It’s their snack supply station. Their sleepover bag. A space they can call their own and decide what to carry (well, within reason – half-eaten sandwiches or 30 pinecones might be a sign to see what else is in there).

To help you find the best backpack for school, follow these seven expert tips from the MEC Label design team. They know exactly what goes into making a backpack that’s built to last whatever your kid has planned.



## 1. Choose the right size
The biggest mistake we see? Choosing kids’ backpacks that are too big. We recommend getting a backpack that fits your child now, instead of buying a pack that you expect them to grow into. Adults don’t like to wear ill-fitting backpacks, and neither do kids.

A backpack is definitely too big if it hangs below their bottom. You want the top of the pack to sit about 2–5cm below the tops of your child’s shoulders. Make sure the shoulder straps don’t dig into their armpits or droop low down on their back.

If you’re shopping online, you can measure your child’s back length to get a sense of the fit:

- Measure the distance between the most prominent neck vertebrae (about the same level as the shoulders) and the top of the hipbones.
- Compare this measurement with the length listed for each backpack on mec.ca under the specs tab.
- This is also a handy way to see if an adult-sized pack will fit older kids.



*The [MEC Eyas Daypack](/en/product/5058-230/Eyas-Daypack) (above) is designed for elementary school aged children, and the smaller [MEC Cub Daypack](/en/product/5058-229/Cub-Daypack) is sized for kids who are in kindergarten or daycare.*

## 2. Find comfy straps
Make sure the shoulder straps are padded for comfort, and that they’re not thin, narrow straps. Also look for a pack with child-sized shoulder straps and a shorter back length. If you buy an adult or youth pack for a young child, the shoulder straps and back length will likely be too long.

And if possible, encourage them to two-strap it when they carry it around. Wearing *both* straps – not just one – reduces shoulder strain.

## 3. Look for a sternum strap
A sternum strap runs horizontally across the chest and keeps the shoulder straps in place so weight is evenly distributed. Find a bag that has an adjustable sternum strap that crosses over the mid-chest; most sternum straps can slide up and down to land in the correct spot.

As backpacks get bigger for high school or college students, a waist strap can also help distribute weight off the shoulders.



*Sternum straps help keep the shoulder straps in place so the weight is distributed evenly.*

## 4. Think burly
Backpacks get tossed on cement, kicked under seats and dragged across playgrounds. Choose a bag made of heavier, thicker material to stand up to serious handling. Also look at the quality of the seams; if you can easily count the number of stitches per inch, you probably want to look for a sturdier pack. Fewer seam stitches per inch means the seams will blow out faster.

Finally, check inside the bag to see if it has bound seams covered by fabric – if you can see raw edges or fraying, that bag isn’t made to last.

If your child outgrows a backpack, a well-made bag keeps stuff out of the landfill since it can still be used. Pass it along to a younger sibling, donate it to a local charity, use it as a portable emergency supply kit bag, or sell it on online marketplace sites.

## 5. Watch the weight
From lunches to laptops, kids have a lot of things to carry – but it’s important that their bag isn’t too heavy. A bag that’s too large can be tempting to overpack with tons of stuff, which just weighs them down (another reason to get the right size). Kids shouldn’t carry more than 10–12% of their body weight in their school bag.

Find out what they *actually* need to carry on a daily basis. Can it hold their lunch bag comfortably? Can they bring an empty water bottle and fill it up at school to keep their bag light when they’re on the move? Do they have to carry a big stack of books home every night, or can they bring just the ones they’ll need?

You can also teach kids to pack the heaviest items, like books, closest to their back. This packing technique helps keep them balanced when they’re running around and can reduce strain on their shoulders.



*Make sure the backpack fits what your child needs to (realistically) carry, like their lunch, a water bottle, a spare layer and school work.*

## 6. Check out the zippers
Zippers can be the first things to break on a bag, so look for top-shelf zippers. YKK branded zippers are some of the best – all MEC Label backpacks use them.

If you do have a zipper on a well-loved bag that fails, a simple [zipper repair](/en/explore/how-to-fix-a-zipper) might do the trick. All products from MEC are also covered by our [Rocksolid Guarantee](/en/explore/returns-and-guarantee).

## 7. Look for handy features
Organizer pockets are just the start. Also look for these features when you’re picking out a school bag:

- **Stretchy side pockets**: Great for water bottles, mitts or gloves.
- **Padded sleeves**: If they need to carry electronics, check the specs to make sure it fits their laptop or tablet.
- **Key clip**: So they don’t lose their house keys or need to unload everything in their bag to find their keys at the bottom.
- **Reflective bits**: For safety, since it gets dark early for a lot of school year.
- **Nametag spot**: Somewhere inside where they can label their bag to avoid mix-ups.



*Sized for high-school kids and older, the [MEC Process Bookbag](/en/product/6008-944/Process-Bookbag-2.0) has lots of organization pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve inside and a low-profile side pocket for a water bottle or umbrella.*

## Bonus tip: How to clean a backpack
If a yogurt container explodes in your child’s backpack, it might be tempting to toss the bag in your washing machine… but washing machines and backpacks don’t mix. The padding and reflective materials that make the bag comfy and visible can be damaged by the rough ride of a washing machine, and heat from a dryer can wreck water-resistant coatings.

Instead, soak the backpack in warm water and mild soap (like dish soap) in your bathtub or sink. Scrub out any ground-in dirt with a rag or sponge, then rinse it really well and hang to dry before you send it back out for another full day of action.



## Related articles
- [How to keep your kids warm all winter](/en/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-keeping-your-kids-warm-all-winter)
- [Science says: getting kids outdoors is a game changer](/en/article/science-says-getting-kids-outdoors-is-a-game-changer)
- [How to enjoy winter activities with kids](/en/explore/how-to-enjoy-winter-activities-with-kids)



Pop quiz: what’s the biggest mistake we see when picking out kids’ backpacks? Get advice from pack designer experts and learn what handy features to look for.

How to choose the best backpacks for kids

MEC’s anniversary savings event is on! **Mountain Days** is kind of a big deal. In fact, it’s **1,000+ big deals** on outdoor gear.

This year, MEC is turning 50 years old. What better way to celebrate than highlighting some of our favourite deals? Limited quantities are available, so birthday cake rules apply: if you want a slice, don’t hesitate or it’ll be gone before you know it. Select styles and colours only.



## Osprey Arcane Roll Top Pack
**Mountain Days deal: $89.94
**Original price: $129.95



A sizeable discount on this Osprey pack for school, work or weekend getaways. The big rolltop opening makes it easy to get to what’s inside, and the laptop sleeve holds a 15in. device. A few well-placed pockets bring some organization to your life.



## The North Face Thermoball Eco Jacket
**Mountain Days deal: $149.94 (save 40% off original price)
**Original price: $249.99



Oh hey – it’s the puffy jacket you’ve had your eye on, at a pretty sweet price. The ThermoBall is a super-light technical jacket you’ll reach for on camping, hiking and ski trips. It also packs into its own pocket and stays warm even if it gets wet.



## MEC Travel Pillow
**Mountain Days deal: $14.93
**Original price: $19.95



Meet your new favourite road trip companion, now 25% off (until it’s gone). The best feature is that it barely takes up any space in your bag. Just inflate with a couple of breaths, then rest your head and plan your dream trip as you doze off.



## Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug 473ml
**Mountain Days deal: $24.94
**Original price: $29.95



Returning to your work or school commute? Bring coffee from home to save some bucks. This easy-to-clean travel mug keeps hot drinks hot for 7 hours, or cold drinks cold for 10 hours. Plus the slim design fits in most car cup holders (perfect for road trips too).



## Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights
**Mountain Days deal: $129.97
**Original price: $189.95



Durable, stretchy and people love ‘em (check out the reviews). These trekking pants are built for the rigours of the trail, with reinforced patches at the knees and seat. The Dark Garnet colour is a solid choice at a solid price.



## MEC Peak Comfort AirGrid Warm 1/4 Zip Baselayer
**Mountain Days deal: $44.94
**Original price: $74.95



Save bigtime on your new favourite layer for skiing, hiking and alpine climbing. It’s our warmest synthetic MEC base layer and is excellent for cold temps and high-output activities. A quality mid-layer you’ll use over and over again.



## Garmin Vívomove Luxe
**Mountain Days deal: $407.94 (save 40% off original price)
**Original price: $679.99



If you’ve been thinking of upgrading your watch, this is the time. The Garmin’s vívomove Luxe is a smartwatch with analogue hands and lots of features, like a heartrate monitor, activity tracking, personal stress level scores, a relaxation timer and much more.



## Buff Adult Filter Mask
**Mountain Days deal: $19.93
**Original price: $39.95



Are your everyday masks looking a little worse for wear? Or maybe you need to update your emergency kit? Hop on this even deeper discount for washable masks that come with filters.



## Reef Cushion Flip Flops
**Mountain Days deal: $30.94 for women’s, $41.94 for men’s
**Original price: $44.95 (women’s), $59.95 (men’s)



Savings on both men’s and women’s styles, in case you want to snag a pair to match a bargain-hunting adventure buddy.

Reef Cushion Bounce Slim Flips (women’s): Using Reef’s cushion bounce rubber and vegan leather straps, they feel supple and supportive on your feet.

Reef Cushion Bounce Phantom Flips (men’s): “Best sandal hands down,” one reviewer on mec.ca said. The high-energy cushion footbed gives you comfort with each step.



## MEC Aquanator Long Jacket – Girls’
**Mountain Days deal: $57.93
**Original price: $84.95



A great deal on a kids’ jacket that’s just right for back to school adventures. This versatile jacket can be worn on its own to ward off fall showers, or over a favourite fleece to stops winter winds.



## MEC Aquanator Pants – Youths
**Mountain Days deal: $27.93
**Original price: $49.95



Just in time for upcoming fall showers, we sweetened the deal on these pants even more for Mountain Days. Waterproof-breathable with taped seams for full-tilt activity on wet days running around the schoolyard, park or hiking trails.



## Brooks Ghost 13 GORE-TEX Invisible Fit Road Running Shoes
**Mountain Days deal: $148.94
**Original price: $184.95



It may be sunny now, but rain clouds are guaranteed to be back. Snap up a deal from Brooks for wet-weather running adventures. These Ghost 13 shoes have a lightweight waterproof-breathable membrane and the super soft foam gives a cushioned ride.



## Metolius Chalk Bag Kit
**Mountain Days deal: $27.93
**Original price: $39.95



An awesome package for new climbers, at a solid price too. Hint: it also makes a fun birthday gift for a friend who’s been thinking about getting into climbing.



It’s our anniversary savings event – see some of our top picks.

Our favourite deals for Mountain Days

Favourite deals for Mountain Days

Mark your calendar – the most anticipated outdoor collection of the last five decades drops on July 22, 2021. We cracked open the heritage vault to bring back a limited-edition run of your favourite MEC designs.

The level of detail that went into remaking these classics was huge. Old patterns were long lost, but our Vancouver-based MEC Label team was determined to stay true to the originals that members loved so much.



To create the collection, we hunted down vintage pieces and scoured our archives, then reverse-engineered patterns, fabrics, even zipper pulls to bring them into the modern era. Our favourite part? The update to more sustainable bluesign® approved fabrics, plus recycled fleece, organic cotton and Fair Trade Certified products.

When it came time for the photoshoot, we stuck to MEC catalog tradition. All the models you see below are awesome MEC staffers and family members.

If you’ve been a part of MEC for years, thank you. We hope this collection sparks memories of hiking trips and camping weekends, canoe portages and climbing buddies, adventures and misadventures. Cheers to 50 more years of the outdoors.

## Anniversary Cornice Jacket
Never call last run, especially when it comes to gear. The Cornice was our warmest fleece in the 1990s – early versions even matched up with our one-piece skiing wind suit. This 1994 re-release has retro features (hello, pit zips) in recycled Polartec® fleece with bluesign® approved fabric for a reduced environmental footprint.



## Anniversary Polarplus Pullover
In our 1990 catalogue, we said “we just might have reached perfection with this one.” So why mess with an awesome thing? The high collar, taffeta layers and pleated chest pocket are just as functional as ever. Made with plush recycled Polartec fleece in a relaxed fit.



## Anniversary Polar Fleece Jacket for kids
The kids’ anniversary fleece comes with a big hood to fit over hats and is just as cozy as the grown up version. The soft fleece is 100% recycled content.



## Anniversary Pika Plus Pack
The Pika Pack was top of the list for “things you wish we still made” – so it’s back. Our first Pika line launched in 1987 and many are still regularly spotted outdoors. This ’95 replica is made with near-indestructible 600-denier polyester to survive years of carrying potential.



## Toque and caps
MEC catalogs of yesteryear had a huge variety of headwear (some of which was better to stay hidden in the vault). Our anniversary hats bring back fun materials and heritage logo vibes, but in more modern designs. Choose from a merino-blend toque, a fuzzy Polarplus fleece cap, or a 5-panel hat made with the same fabric as Rad Pants.



## Rad Pants
One word: legendary. Rad Pants were practically a uniform for climbers, hikers, treeplanters and outdoor ed students in the 1990s. Roomy pockets, bugproof cuffs and a rainbow of colours over the years. This year’s limited edition Rad Pants are true to their roots, with an improved fit for the women’s designs – and now available in kids’ sizes too.



## Rad Pants for kids
How’d it take 50 years to make Rad Pants in kids’ sizes? For the first time ever, mini Rad Pants are available and the family photoshoot potential is through the roof. Great for the next generation of hikers, campers and paddlers.



## Anniversary Travel Pocket
Thirty years ago, this pouch hit the scene as a state-of-the-art fanny pack. The heritage release brings it all back: mountain label, chunky zippers, and the perfect amount of pockets. Your ideal sidekick for bike rides, day hikes, road trips and around town.



## Throwback designs and prints
Fun fact: there’s a huge stack of old catalogs, photos and ad clippings in the MEC office. It’s a jumble of boxes and binders full of gems. To commemorate past designs, we dug up vintage prints for tees, pullovers and totes.



## Anniversary Polaralls
Before you ask: sorry, these don’t come in adult sizes. The original pattern for Polaralls was long gone, so designers studied the 1994 catalogue photo to recreate them. Super cozy and practical, thanks to the Velcro straps and zippered crotch for keep-them-warm changing.



## Anniversary Toaster Earflap
The anniversary version of the well-loved Toaster Earflap toque in classic colours you may have loved when you were a kid. Matches with the Polaralls and the iconic Toaster Suit.



## Anniversary Toaster Suit
A special edition of the Toaster Suit in heritage colours with the mountain logo front and centre. These suits have been a hit with parents for decades, often getting handed down multiple times. They’re hugely popular – get set now before the snow falls.



We’re looking forward to seeing these iconic pieces out in the wild again, and we can’t wait to see what you get up to out there.



## Related articles
- [Our sustainability goals for MEC Label products](/en/article/our-sustainability-goals-for-mec-label-products)
- [What the heck is Bluesign?](/en/article/what-the-heck-is-bluesign)
- [The real deal behind Fair Trade at MEC](/en/article/the-real-deal-behind-fair-trade-at-mec)



Mark your calendar – the most anticipated outdoor collection of the last five decades drops on July 22, 2021. We cracked open the heritage vault to bring back a limited-edition run of your favourite MEC designs.

Introducing the MEC Anniversary Collection

Getting active outside has never been more important to the health and mindset of Canadians. Despite very real business challenges in 2021, we’re proud that MEC is in a position to renew a legacy of member benefits, services, high-quality products and support for organizations doing critical work in the outdoors with a $1 million donation.

We have more members than ever before! To thank our millions of longtime members and welcome newcomers to the family, we’re rolling out sweet benefits. 

- [Seasonal bike and ski service promotions](/en/explore/Services) 
- [Rocksolid Guarantee](/en/explore/returns-and-guarantee)
- [30-day price match](/en/explore/price-protection) 
- [Online expert appointments](/en/explore/expert-appointments)  
- [New + exclusive products](/en/products/c/100?f=featureCollection%3Anew&sort=newest) 
- [Bonus offers throughout the year ](/en/explore/special-offers)
- Events and workshops (re-launching when the time is right)

If you’re new, you can easily join MEC with your next purchase. If you’ve ever been a member, you remain a lifetime member of MEC.



### The benefits circle back
We believe the outdoors changes lives. Being active outside challenges us, recharges us, makes us better humans. We want to help more people feel the impact of the outdoors – so we’re giving back. This year, MEC is donating 1$ million to Canadian organizations that teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces and grow the communities of people getting active outside.
[Meet our 2021 Outdoor Impact partners](/en/explore/outdoor-impact)

We strongly believe the best quality product has the smallest possible footprint, so our aim is to have at least one environmental or social responsibility feature in every MEC Label product by 2025. We’re 85% of the way there and continue to invest to reduce our ecological impact while at the same time, focusing on backcountry performance.
[See our 2021 responsible product targets](/en/article/our-sustainability-goals-for-mec-label-products)

As this year is MEC’s 50th anniversary, we’ll be celebrating with events (when it’s cool to do so), a capsule collection of legendary products and shout-outs to MEC’s adventurous spirit. We’re glad you’re here – and we’re stoked to be part of MEC’s next 50 years.



Join today for perks, discounts, services and the best-in-biz Rocksolid Guarantee.

Membership benefits at MEC

What it means to be a member

When you choose Fair Trade Factory Certified™ products, your purchase helps positively impact workers’ lives, their communities and the environment. Fair Trade certification not only aligns with MEC’s goals around responsible sourcing, but it helps us go beyond purely auditing, establishes fair wages for workers and ensures that their rights are respected.

The MEC Label Fair Trade collection started in 2014 with women’s t-shirts and a single factory. Thanks to its popularity and impact, our Fair Trade collection has grown. Today, there are four Fair Trade Certified factories making MEC Label products, and MEC has sent a total of over $300,000 to factory workers. The range of products has expanded too, and now has everything from hiking pants and merino shirts to kids’ clothes and hoodies.

We often hear that people know Fair Trade is a good thing, but that they don’t really know exactly how it works – or what it means for the people working at Fair Trade Certified factories.

Here’s a deeper look to help you understand how your choices make a difference around the world.

> Today, there are four Fair Trade Certified factories making MEC Label products, and MEC has sent a total of $300,000 to factory workers.
>


## What does the Fair Trade program at MEC look like?
In order for a product to be Fair Trade Certified, it must be made in a factory that is certified under the Fair Trade Factory standard, set by Fair Trade USA. For each garment made in the factory, MEC then gives an additional financial premium on top of the price of the product. This premium goes directly into a worker-managed bank account.

Before certification, Fair Trade USA does an assessment of the factory and other local, regional and country-specific indicators to determine the premium amount for each individual factory, ranging between 1 and 10% of Freight On Board (the price of the garment when it leaves the factory).

Workers vote on how to use the premiums to address the most important needs of their households and the community. When you purchase Fair Trade products, you support a program that creates meaningful change in the lives of people around the world.

## How has MEC’s involvement helped workers directly?
Sales of MEC’s first Fair Trade Certified clothing – women’s t-shirts in 2014 – contributed to the premium account that allowed workers at the Pratibha Syntex factory in India to purchase 2,711 rain coats for monsoon season. They would previously arrive soaked from their walk to work and spend the whole day in wet clothes, which was not only uncomfortable but posed health and safety risks, so the results were very tangible.

Since then, Fair Trade premiums from MEC Label have funded a wide range of projects that have had direct impact in people’s lives, including:

- Household items, such as a refrigerator, fan, blender or washing machine. These items cut down on the time spent doing chores, increase time with family, and improve quality of life.
- Water filters for clean, bacteria-free drinking water.
- Food preparation items (like induction ovens, pressure cookers and tiffin carriers) to help save them time preparing homemade food.
- Language classes at the factory.
- A pesticide-free vegetable garden, which also provided produce to workers during the COVID-19 crisis.
- Fitness equipment for their workplace to encourage health, wellness and camaraderie for their team. Plus a weekly fitness class with incentives like a t-shirt, running shoes and a towel for continuous participation.

By investing in Fair Trade practices, MEC ensures garment workers have safe working conditions, a voice in the workplace, higher earnings and equal treatment for women.



## How is Fair Trade helping during COVID-19?
The global crisis of a pandemic impacted industries around the world, and the garment industry was no exception. When COVID-19 required factories to shut down, Fair Trade USA took swift action to help workers. In April 2020, they increased the flexibility of use of Fair Trade premium funds, which enabled workers to use them more immediately to address their critical needs. One of the making MEC Label products elected to use the funds for emergency cash payments for their workers, and Emergency Premiums were distributed directly into the bank accounts of to provide immediate financial relief.

> When you purchase Fair Trade products, you support a program that creates meaningful change in the lives of people around the world.
>
## What is MEC’s actual role in Fair Trade factories on the ground?
The Fair Trade USA program is a collaborative partnership between Fair Trade USA staff, factory and farm partners, brands like MEC and consumers (like you).

Fair Trade USA staff work directly with our Fair Trade factory partners to assist management by providing training and compliance support. They also engage the Fair Trade Committee as the committee identifies and implements premium projects. MEC staff visit the factories as well (on pause for now due to COVID-19), and our role is supportive rather than prescriptive.

The Fair Trade USA team also conducts an annual social and environmental audit that is tied to the facility’s certification. MEC accepts the Fair Trade USA audit since the Fair Trade standards are in line with MEC’s Supplier Code of Conduct. We work collaboratively with the Fair Trade team and any other brands purchasing Fair Trade Certified products in the same facilities. This harmonized approach to auditing and communication streamlines the number of audits, communication and requirements a facility may receive – and ultimately ensures we are all assessing and discussing priorities together.



## Want to help and make a difference?
A few ways consumers can help:

- **Look for the label**. The program only works when you actually purchase the products.
- **Spread the word**. It all starts with a simple act of sharing. Tell your family and friends why you support Fair Trade.
- **Get involved**. As they say, think globally and act locally. Join or start a Fair Trade Campaign in your community to help grow awareness, availability and commitment to Fair Trade.

## A few of my favourite MEC Label Fair Trade products
Right now, since I’m spending lots of time at home, I’m loving MEC All Day Essentials shirts and [MEC Classic Joggers](/en/products/clothing/bottoms/pants/fleece-and-sweatpants/c/275?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=mec&filters%5Bcustom_fields.product%20sustainability%5D%5B0%5D=certified%20fair%20trade). They’re so comfy and soft, and are awesome value for clothing that’s both Fair Trade certified and made with bluesign®-approved fabrics.

Of course, MEC Label is just one brand with Fair Trade options. Some other Fair Trade favourites of mine? The [Patagonia Snap-T Pullover](/en/product/5063-195/Micro-D-Snap-T-Pullover) has been my trusted fleece for years, and [Cocoa Camino Dark Mint Chocolate](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/snacks-and-energy-bars/chocolate-bars/c/1669?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=cocoa%20camino) is incredibly tasty.

