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When you’re shopping for outdoor gear, most of us look at cool features you can see – taped seams, cleverly placed pockets, reflective materials. But what about the stuff you *don’t* see? The vats of swirling dyes or the person mixing chemicals to make your gear waterproof?

That’s where Bluesign comes in.

Bluesign is kind of like a team of science detectives with a serious interest in safety. They’re experts that investigate the chemistry that goes into manufacturing fabrics, from the molecular level (seriously) all the way to the stuff flowing out of the pipes at a fabric mill.

It’s nerdy, it’s complicated, and we love it. If you’re the type of person who cares about how your clothes and gear are made, we think you’ll dig it too.



## Wait – why are there chemicals in outdoor gear?
If you’re looking to only wear products that aren’t made with chemicals, you’ll likely be naked. Fact is, even the most natural fabrics require chemistry. Dyes, water repellents, stain release agents – it’s all chemistry. Most of us don’t think about it since we don’t see it.

What’s extra surprising that only a tiny portion of chemistry used to make a material – about 10% – ends up in the final material. The majority is used in processes along the way, like anti-foaming agents to help make sure dyes aren’t patchy. It can end up harming the environment (emissions, waste materials or waste water) or hurting people who are working with it (carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, harsh reproductive toxins) if it’s not managed responsibly.

## How does Bluesign help?
When you choose products made with bluesign® approved fabrics, you can feel confident that they were made in the safest possible way for the planet, workers and you. MEC Label has been working with Bluesign since 2005, and we were the first Canadian retailer to become a bluesign® system partner.



## Okay, but what does Bluesign *actually* do?
Bluesign helps stop problems before they start. They work with brands (like MEC Label), fabric mills and chemical suppliers in the supply chain. The goal is to create and use the safest and most sustainable materials possible.

Good chemistry means that:

- Toxins aren’t released into air, water or on land
- People aren’t harmed by chemicals they’re handling
- There’s a lower environmental impact, since less water, energy and actual chemicals need to be used

You want to know the products you buy are free from toxic substances, and bluesign approved materials are indeed safe. But many people are surprised to learn that some of Bluesign’s biggest impacts aren’t about consumers – they’re about workers and the environment. The potential exposure to really bad stuff is so much greater to people who handle the fabrics and where they live than anything the average Canadian consumer would ever experience.

Properly managed chemistry in the supply chain protects places and people everywhere.

## Why is it so hard to keep bad stuff out?
Short answer: supply chains are complicated:



This diagram is what keeps social and environmental responsibility teams up at night. When you’re a brand trying to make a t-shirt or backpack, it’s often impossible to understand all the players involved in making your finished product.

MEC works with Bluesign to help us make more responsible choices when we’re sourcing fabrics. If a factory we want to work with isn’t part of the bluesign system, we make the introduction so Bluesign can jump into science investigation mode. They dig into what chemistry is used, how chemical mixtures are formulated, and how it’s all being handled.

The reality is that most brands don’t know what’s in their supply chain. MEC has a goal of using 100% bluesign approved materials, and 88% of the materials we use for apparel and sleeping bags are already bluesign approved. We’re also working at understanding more of the players in our own supply chain. We currently know tier one factories and subcontractors (e.g., creating finished products), and tier two material partners (e.g., turning raw materials into fabric), and [share our supplier list publicly](/en/explore/factories).



## Who are these science experts?
The people at Bluesign are a technical bunch. Many are chemical engineers or have PhDs in chemistry to deeply know chemicals and be able to audit chemical facilities. One group even specializes in something called homologation, which is a fancy way of saying chemical assessments and ratings. Bluesign Technologies AG is based in St. Gallen, Switzerland, and has team members all over the world.

## What can MEC members do about all this?
Good news: your choices have an impact. We recognize that no individual, organization or brand is perfect (including MEC – we’re on a sustainability journey where the end goal is always evolving), but individual actions are a great place to start. Some ideas from our sustainability team:

- **Buy less**: Purchase fewer things, go secondhand, rent, borrow, and use what you have more.
- **Look for quality**: When you do buy new, look for well-made stuff that’s built to last.
- **Be curious**: Who made your gear? If a brand is claiming something, who’s verifying those claims, and what numbers back it up?
- **Think brands over items**: Look for brands that have a solid track record in sustainability (like being involved with Bluesign, Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Fair Trade and more) instead of a shiny new “green” product that was created without other aspects in mind.



## Related articles
- [How-to articles and videos for gear repair](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance)
- [Tent vs. tee: the carbon footprint at MEC](/en/article/tent-vs-tee-the-carbon-footprint-of-outdoor-gear)
- [Fair Trade Certified at MEC](/en/explore/fair-trade)



It’s nerdy, it’s complicated, and we love it. If you’re the type of person who cares about how your clothes and gear are made, we think you’ll dig it too.

What the heck is Bluesign?

Whether you’re new to climbing, a 20-year veteran or somewhere in between, it’s important to develop an internal dialogue that helps motivate you to reach your full potential. Just like you can train your muscles, you can train your brain.

I’ve been working on reframing thoughts and I’ve noticed how it changes the way I approach climbing. Here are some thoughts I’ve found myself repeating, and some tips to flip the script.

## Comparing yourself to others
**If you think**: “Wow, that person’s really strong. They just sent that problem so easily. How’d they do that? I’ll never be that strong.”

Essentially, this thought comes down to walking into the gym and feeling like everyone around you seems to know what they’re doing – except for you. But the reality is that everyone around you was once a beginner or new to a tough climbing problem too. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do (now), think about how much work and practice that person put in to get to where they are, and challenge yourself to do the same.

**New way of thinking:** “Wow, that person’s really strong! They just flashed that problem. I want to get better too, so I’m going to keep on trying and training.”



## Feeling stuck (and alone)
**If you think**: “I’ve tried this problem a million times and I’m not getting *anywhere*. This is so hard – I can’t figure it out. What am I doing wrong? I want to send this before that other person does.”

While it’s human to feel competitive and can motivate you to push yourself, there are times when those feelings can actually work against you and cause you to miss out on real benefits of collaboration with your climbing peers. When you open yourself up to work with other climbers who are at your level (or even a little stronger), you’re able to access their skills and strengths that you might not have yet.

**New way of thinking:** “I’ve tried this problem a million times and I’m not getting anywhere. That person is doing nice work on that cross move. I’m going to ask them how.” … “Hey – how did you bring your left hand up? I’m going try that, thanks!”



## Feeling stuck (and maybe a little jealous)
**If you think**: “Ugh, they flashed that problem. I’ve been working on it all night and they just flashed it.”

Yes, it’s hard to spend an hour trying the same problem and not make any progress, only to have someone walk up and do it without breaking a sweat. It can almost feel like they’re shoving it in your face. However, a good climber who wants to improve will set those feelings aside to carefully watch what that person is doing and pay close attention to how they move between the holds. Then, take all that beta and try to apply what you’ve observed into your own climbing.

**New way of thinking:** “Wow, they flashed that problem. They turned their right hip in and dropped their left foot to get to that right hand hold. I’m going to rest for 10 minutes and give that a shot.”



## Putting yourself down
**If you think**: “This is so hard. I suck.”

While thoughts like this may seem inconsequential in the moment, they can keep you from getting better at climbing if they become a habit. It’s normal to feel frustrated, especially when your brain knows what it wants to do but your body has other ideas. It’s important to take a break from the problem or route when it gets to the point where you’re putting yourself down. Goof around with friends, listen to music or try another climb. Get out of your own head, and if you come back to the route, you’ll feel less weighed down by your own expectations.

**New way of thinking**: “This feels so hard. Let’s get some music going and go for a walk. When my brain feels less weighed down, I’m going to give it another go and whatever happens, happens.”



## Zeroing in on bad holds
**If you think**: “Okay, redpoint time. I’m cruising through these moves. Ugh – I hate this hold. I should readjust. No, no good, my left hand is getting tired. Where are my feet? I’m screwing this up, why is this hold so bad? I’m pumped, I’m off!”

If you’re ready to redpoint your project, you should have a good understanding of the holds you’ll be grabbing and the moves you’ll be making off them. I find it helpful to envision myself climbing the entire route from start to finish. I picture getting to that bad hold, already knowing that it’s not going to feel as good as I like, accepting that and committing to holding it and moving on. I prepare myself to not spend too much time readjusting, since I know that will only tire me out and there’s nothing more to be had from it.

**New way of thinking**: “Okay, redpoint time. I feel good, I’m cruising through these moves. Left hand hold, right foot out, catch that right hold! Yeow, that felt good!”



Climbing is a strength *and* skill based sport. While it’s easy to get caught up in the latest party tricks posted on Instagram, putting work into observing your thoughts and working on changing your mental game for the better will help bring your climbing to the next level. Which may be just as satisfying as doing a one arm pull-up. Maybe.



## Related articles
- [What it’s like to be a pro comp climber in Canada](/en/article/what-its-like-to-be-a-pro-comp-climber-in-canada)
- [Crag etiquette: 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)



Whether you're new to climbing, a 20-year veteran or somewhere in between, it's important to develop an internal dialogue that helps motivate you to reach your full potential.

Mental strategies to improve your climbing

“When I first heard about Recco’s new helicopter-mounted detector in Europe, I got excited about its possibilities,” says Mark Knight, part of the MEC Label design team. “Our local search and rescue team had over 130 calls that year, and this new technology seemed to offer huge potential for helping volunteer SAR teams find missing or lost people in the backcountry.

“If we could champion this cause, we could help get a detector here to support local search and rescue teams.”

Fast-forward a few years to today, and helicopter-mounted Recco technology is finally in Canada – along with [Recco-equipped backpacks](/en/features/recco-system/products/camping-and-hiking/packs-and-bags/c/1564) that make you searchable. These backpacks range from compact day hiking bags to fully loaded backpacking options.

See the story behind it all, and how this new technology can be used:



RECCO x MEC

## Where is Recco being used?
Search and rescue teams in a few Canadian regions – Vancouver’s Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, southeast BC and Alberta – are currently able to request access to use the helicopter-mounted Recco detector system (it’s also in some parts of Europe and the United States). The helicopter-mounted detector allows searchers to cover a square kilometre in about six minutes by air, even over thick trees or mountainous terrain.

If Recco sounds familiar, it’s because this technology also shows up in winter backcountry ski gear to help organized rescue and ski patrol in avalanche burial situations. Avalanche rescue detectors are smaller handheld devices (note: they are *not* a substitute for [avalanche safety gear and training](/en/explore/avalanche-safety-gear-and-training)).

The evolution to a larger helicopter-mounted detector means you can search much farther and faster, and also opens it up to all-season wilderness searches.

## How does Recco work?
Recco is a two-part system: detector and reflector. The detector emits a radar signal that bounces back when it hits a reflector (kind of like shining a flashlight onto a mirror). Reflectors are small, lightweight, don’t need batteries to work or be activated, and they can be embedded into gear. When a person wears clothes or a backpack with a Recco reflector, they become searchable by the detector.

## How to stay safe when you’re hiking
Search and rescue is a last resort. Before you hit the trail, it’s incredibly important to:

- **Prepare before you go**: Start with these [day hiking tips for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners). Research your route and choose a trail that works with your fitness and outdoor skill level.
- **Gain outdoor skills**: Check out [free or low-cost hiking clinics](/en/explore/hiking-and-camping-events) at MEC. We cover lots of topics, from how to use a GPS to packing for an overnight hiking trip. Local hiking groups are also a good way to learn from more experienced hikers.
- **Bring proper gear**: The [10 essentials](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping) are a must, even if it’s just a short hike. Good hiking footwear and layers. First-aid kit.
- **Leave a trip plan with a trusted friend**: [AdventureSmart](https://www.adventuresmart.ca/tripplan.htm) has a trip plan template and app to get you started. Make a note on your trip plan if you’re bringing Recco-equipped gear.



## Related articles
- [The 10 essentials for hiking and camping](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping)
- [Day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners)
- [Backpacking basics: how to plan an overnight hiking trip](/en/explore/planning-for-overnight-hikes)



Finally in Canada: Recco detection via helicopter. Find out how it works, where it is, and how this could be a game-changer in the backcountry.

These backpacks can help search and rescue find lost hikers

Vancouver is where MEC started. Over the last few decades, we’ve had a few homes in this city – a VW van, room 14C in the Student Union Building at UBC, the Dominion Building, Kitsilano, Cambie, Broadway. Now it’s time to take the next step in the place where it all began.

It’s time to say hello to your new **MEC Vancouver flagship store at 111 East 2nd Avenue** (at Quebec Street) in Olympic Village… and to bid a fond farewell to the Broadway store that served us for 25 years.

We’re proud to be able to share this new space with you because it takes what we care about as an outdoor retailer and brings it to life. We’re strong believers in sustainability, and the new store is packed with green building features. We have a goal to connect people with the outdoors, and there are community and local shout-outs throughout. We’re huge into gear and advice, and this space gives us a chance to share all that in a new way.

Thank you for decades of support – here’s what to look forward to in your new MEC Vancouver flagship store:

## 1. Climbing is bigger than ever
MEC wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for climbing – it was the reason we started in 1971. So we knew that incorporating climbing into a flagship store was an absolute must. Solution? Build a bouldering wall.

The wall was designed by Impact Climbing, and the custom design was inspired by one of our favourite hangouts: the Stawamus Chief in Squamish. Use the wall to try out climbing shoes or bring your own pair to do some crushing. The first batch of problems were set by MEC Ambassador Tosh Sherkat and staffers.

***Heads up, members**: We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, so we’re pausing use of our bouldering wall for the moment. It’s super hard for us to keep climbing holds germ-free and we take your health seriously. Thanks for your understanding.*



MEC Vancouver store climbing wall

> “Having any place that brings people together to do something is community building in its essence. I’ve been gym climbing since I was 10 years old, and I love it because of the community.” – Tosh
>
Problems range from beginner-friendly V0 to a “very compy” Ambassador challenge.

## 2. There’s a sweet community space
Helping people learn new skills or getting folks inspired to get outside is something we’ve been doing for years. When we were dreaming up floor plans for Vancouver, we wanted to create a community space that didn’t feel like an afterthought stuffed in a corner.

Swing by Basecamp to see what we created – it’s our open-concept community hub where you can join a learn-to experience, chat with folks flipping through hiking guides, make connections with interesting people at community events, and spark ideas for your next outdoor trip.



## 3. It’s green on the inside
We’ve been “greening” buildings for more than a decade, and sustainability is a major part of the new Vancouver store. The mass timber superstructure is what most people notice first, and this renewable building material comes with added benefits of storing carbon and being easy to reuse at the end of its life. But there are more green building features you don’t see. A few highlights:

- **Putting rain to work**: The roof captures rainwater that funnels into an underground cistern to provide up to 80% of the water used for flushing toilets.
- **A renewable day in the neighbourhood**: We’re connected to the innovative [Neighbourhood Energy Utility](https://vancouver.ca/docs/planning/renewable-energy-neighbourhood-utility-factsheet.pdf) system, which recovers heat from untreated urban wastewater (a sanitized way of saying sewage). It’s renewable and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.
- **Less is more**: This space is designed to use almost one-third less energy than the standards set out by the national energy code for buildings. Some of the largest savings come from high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.



## 4. … and it’s green on the outside
It wouldn’t be MEC without a hefty dose of green. In the back alley, we’ve put in bird-friendly and Salmon-Safe landscaping with native and naturalized species, some of which are fruit-bearing to give foraging birds a place to snack. Plus, there are a couple of tiny nesting boxes. Up top, there’s an extensive green roof.

## 5. Mountains are front and centre
Mountains: we love them. We want people to start thinking about their next alpine adventure before they even step inside, so there’s metal mountain artwork front and centre. Anyone who loves peaks as much as we do will want to know where they’re from – it’s the Freshfield Icefield in the Rockies, north of Golden, by Vancouver-based outdoor photographer Jordan Manley.



## 6. We’re recognizing where we live
Once you step inside, you’ll see a permanent land acknowledgement to recognize the Indigenous lands we work and play on – something we also did at our MEC Toronto flagship store. As you make your way through the store, you’ll also find a profile of local outdoor leader Myia Antone of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and the legend of the Two Sisters.



## 7. You’ve got options
Transportation-minded members, take note: our new location is just as easy to get to as our old Broadway store. If you’re taking transit, the new MEC Vancouver is just a 7-minute walk from Main Street-Science World Station, and lots of buses (3, 8, 19, 84) drop you almost at the front door. If you’re biking, you can roll in via separated bike lanes on Quebec Street. If you’re coming by car, there are three levels of parking, including 16 electric vehicle charging spots.



## 8. There are secret murals
Even if you don’t drive to the store, you’ll want to peek in the parkade. We asked Vancouver-based artist Jessa Gilbert to create two massive murals – one is a view from Kits, the other is the North Shore’s rich green rainforest. “These murals are a way to celebrate Vancouver,” she says.

> “When I moved here, I was completely awe-struck by the mountains, the scale of the terrain, and the density and the textures of the forest here. I hope when people see the piece, it feels playful and can inspire them to get outside.”
>
Along with being a muralist, Jessa is an MEC Ambassador, backcountry guide and a freshly certified scissor lift operator in order to reach the top of those enormous walls. “Painting a mural is a lot more of a physical and logistical challenge than people might realize.”



MEC Vancouver murals by Jessa Gilbert

## 9. We rolled in some history
We’ve done a lot since 1971, so it felt right to recognize how far we’ve come in the new store. As you wander through the new space, keep an eye out for a few historic highlights from the last few decades, and get the scoop on why a VW van is parked inside the store (hint: it’s got an old-school store connection).

Getting the van *into* the store is a whole other story, which involved removing the rear fender and roof rack, folding in the sideview mirrors, and squeezing through the front doors with about an inch to spare on either side. Phew.



MEC Vancouver Relocation

## 10. There’s a better bike and ski shop space
Part of loving your gear is maintaining your gear, so we wanted to build out our new bike and ski shop. It’s now a large, welcoming space that allows for smooth drop-offs, pick-ups and payment of your bike tune-up or ski waxing. You’ll see mechanics and ski techs in action from the floor, and there’s an even bigger bike and ski shop behind the scenes as well.

We can’t wait to see you there – this space is awesome.



Check out 10 of our favourite things (and some behind-the-scenes stories) from the new MEC Vancouver store in Olympic Village.

Sneak peek of the new MEC Vancouver flagship store

*There’s a new bike brand in our riding family – Cannondale bikes are now at MEC. To give you the scoop of what’s in the 2020 line-up, we’ve put together a mini guide to all things Cannondale with our MEC bike experts.*

#### First things first: why Cannondale?
Like MEC, Cannondale is all about getting people active outside and having fun. One thing that’s great is that they have a full range of bikes – road, gravel, mountain, commuter, e-bikes, kids – that can work for members from Victoria to Halifax. People in Canada also know Cannondale, so it’s a name many members recognize and trust. They’ve been making bikes for more than three decades.

#### What makes Cannondale stand out?
They’ve always been an innovative brand and never shy away from trying new stuff, which gets other people in the bike industry thinking about what’s possible. They pioneered high-end aluminum technology, and were early adopters of full suspension for mountain bikes and carbon fibre for road bikes. If it weren’t for companies like Cannondale pushing technology, leading the way and testing things outs, we’d be riding pretty boring bikes.



#### What bikes will you see?
Everything from gravel and e-bikes to carbon and kids’ bikes, and the whole range of riding in between.

**Cannondale commuter and urban bikes at MEC:**

- Three e-bike models: [Canvas Neo and Remixte](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/electric-bikes/c/1780?text=Canvas), and the [Quick Neo SL and SL Remixte](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/electric-bikes/c/1780?text=Quick), and the [Tesoro NEO and Remixte](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/electric-bikes/c/1780?text=Tesoro)
- [Quick bikes](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/urban-commuter-bikes/c/1529?text=Quick), perfect for getting from point A to B in the city
- [Quick CX](/en/product/6006-067/2020-Quick-CX-2-Bicycle) and [Althea](/en/product/6006-069/2020-Quick-Althea-3-Bicycle) models, with front suspension for riding a mix of bike paths and backroads
- [Bad Boy](/en/product/6006-081/2020-Bad-Boy-3-Bicycle), a good-looking commuter bike that handles responsively

> The [Quick Neo SL](/en/product/6006-104/2020-Quick-Neo-2-SL-E-Bicycle) is an e-bike that uses a hub motor, which is simpler, more compact and way lighter. It puts out 250 watts – nice for a little boost on the way to work or the coffee shop.
>


**Cannondale gravel bikes at MEC:**

- [Topstone](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/c/854?text=Topstone) carbon and aluminum models for adventure, gravel riding and everything in between
- [CAADX 105 Bike](/en/product/6006-012/2020-CAADX-105-Bicycle), which makes an excellent first cyclocross bike

> If you’re a dirt-loving roadie, check out the [Topstone Carbon Ultegra](/en/product/6005-994/2020-Topstone-Carbon-Ultegra-RX-2-Bicycle) to get off the beaten path.
>


**Cannondale mountain bikes at MEC****:**

- [Habit](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/c/854?text=Habit) carbon and aluminum bikes for trail riding
- A selection of [Trail](/en/brand/cannondale/gender/men%27s/ideal-for/cross_._country-riding/products/cycling/bikes/mountain-bikes/c/1527?text=Trail) and [Tango](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/mountain-bikes/c/1527?text=Tango) aluminum hardtail trail options (Trail is unisex, Tango is women’s)
- [F-Si carbon bike](/en/product/6006-034/2020-F-Si-Carbon-3-Bicycle) for the XC race crowd
- [Cujo](/en/product/6006-036/2020-Cujo-2-Bicycle), a plus bike with 27+ tires

> Our guess? [Habit aluminum bikes](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/c/854?text=Habit) are going to be popular. They give you the technology you’d see on higher-end carbon bikes, but at a price that’s more accessible.
>


**Cannondale road bikes at MEC****:**

- [Synapse](/en/brand/cannondale/products/cycling/bikes/c/854?text=Synapse) carbon and aluminum models – a great value performance road bike
- [SuperSix EVO](/en/product/6005-985/2020-SuperSix-EVO-Carbon-Ultegra-Bicycle) for high-performance road and racing



**Kids’ bikes are also on the way:**

- [Trail Balance Bike](/en/product/6006-102/2020-Kids-Trail-Balance-Bicycle) for kids that are just starting out
- [Trail](/en/products/cycling/bikes/kids-bikes/c/1559?text=Cannondale+kids+trail) (12in., 20in., 24in.) with disc brakes and front suspension for hitting up the trail
- [Trail Single Speed 16in.](/en/product/6006-097/2020-Kids-Trail-Single-Speed-16%22-Bicycle) to keep things simple for new riders – it has one gear and coaster brakes
- [Cujo (20in., 24in.)](/en/products/cycling/bikes/kids-bikes/c/1559?text=Cujo), which gives them plus-sized tires in a young rider sized frame



#### Every bike brand has their own lingo. What are some things to know for Cannondale?
**Neo**: If you see Neo in the name, it’s an e-bike.

**All the numbers**: A number after a bike name tells you the level of componentry. Lower numbers, higher-end components. For example, we’re bringing in the Quick 2, 4 and 6 – and the 2 has the highest end components. The exception are kids’ bikes, where the numbers tell you how many inches the wheels are.

**Remixte**: Cannondale’s name for bikes with a step-through frame.

**Lefty**: Cannondale’s (in)famous left-hand only fork. The only bike we’re carrying with it is the Bad Boy 3 with a rigid Lefty. Oh – and a tiny version called the Little Lefty is on the kids’ balance bikes too.

**CAAD**: Cannondale has always been a leader in aluminum frame technology, and CAAD stands for Cannondale Advanced Aluminum Design.



## Related articles
- [Tips for buying a bike](/en/explore/how-to-buy-a-bike)
- [Best ways to lock up your bike](/en/explore/locking-your-bike)
- [Biking with kids](/en/explore/biking-with-kids)



To give you the scoop of what’s in the 2020 line-up, we’ve put together a mini guide to all things Cannondale with our MEC bike experts.

Roll out: Cannondale bike line-up at MEC

Hiking has been a game changer in the way I live my life. Somehow, just putting one foot in front of another for hours has taught me so much: how to be present, how to think more clearly, how to connect deeper with the people around me. By making time to get on the trail, I’ve noticed exponential changes too, like sleeping better, feeling my body get stronger, and seeing anxiety and stress levels decrease.

I’m not the only one who feels this way. We reached out to people across the MEC family to see how hiking has helped them become the people they are today. Check out their stories and snapshots to see how time on the trail has helped them grow, learn and uncover things about themselves they wouldn’t have realized – and how it could change you, too.

## Kayla Kay


I recently moved to Invermere, BC, and my spark for hiking ignited when I arrived in this amazing Kootenay valley. I was a single mom on a mission to make friends and explore as much of the mountains as I could, so I started a local group called Women Who Wander.

Being on the trail and surrounded by nature was the cornerstone of my healing process from a very hard divorce and adapting to life as a single mom in a new town. Hiking is now a cherished hobby, a fierce passion and connected me to my recent career change with [The Lady Alliance](https://theladyalliance.com/). Last summer, I coordinated over 15 hikes and had about 100 people join forces with me on the trail.

Hiking makes me feel grounded, balanced and present. It’s my happy place.

*MEC is proud to work with The Lady Alliance as one of our*[*community partners*](/en/explore/partnerships)*, and supports their camps, retreats and outdoor course programs. See Kayla’s adventures [@kootenay_kayla](https://www.instagram.com/kootenay_kayla/).*

## Jasmyn Ellis


Being active is my number one thing for mental health. I have ADHD, and finding ways to move has done wonders for me. When I’m in the city, I stay super active with spin classes, but there’s something different about getting out into nature on a hike. You hold onto that smell, how the air feels on your face, the windburn. You hear the crunch under your feet. It’s quiet and still and you can hear yourself breathe. I don’t think we hear ourselves breathe enough in a city – I’m guilty of this too.

I always try to do so much in my mind all the time. It’s easy to get trapped in the hustle and bustle, and being outside is a way I find some calm and silence.

Hiking makes me feel liberated, light, powerful.

## Magdalena Garcia


When I was a girl, I used to go with my grandfather to the mountains. He’d take just a loaf of bread and a tomato for the whole day. Those experiences were significant in my life – I’ve become someone who loves walking and exploring. To continue the tradition, I now go trekking or walking with my two sons. A hike you do in a few hours can be an experience that lasts for days, months or even years in yourself.

I’ve learned that if someone is sad, tense or anxious, walking on a trail is a kind of therapy that brings out the best in us. It’s also a nice way to visit new places. All that is why I decided I make trails a part of my life and part of my research.

Hiking makes me feel connected with myself.

*Magdalena is a participant of [Intercultural Outdoor Recreation](https://www.pleinairinterculturel.com/en/), one of MEC’s community partners. She studies the world of parks and trails with her research on conservation and visitor experiences.*

## Charlie Easton, MEC Ambassador


The best conversations I have with my wild three-year-old daughter are when she’s in the backpack and we’re exploring a trail in the middle of nowhere. Hiking makes me closer to the people I’m with by sharing an adventure, and having time for more meaningful conversations.

It also gets me closer to my subject matter in my paintings – if you paint from a photograph, you only get the visual aspect of a scene. If you hike to a location to paint, you have a complete picture of the sounds, the smells, the changeability, the quality of the light – and this undoubtedly makes the finished painting so much more authentic.

Hiking makes me feel more alive. My wife always says I’m like a Labrador puppy, bouncing from rock to rock, wagging my tail.

*See Charlie’s work*[*@charlieeaston*](https://www.instagram.com/charlieeaston/)

## Azzah Ahmad


Where do I even start? My journey into the outdoors started in my late thirties, and I can honestly say discovering the outdoors is when I truly discovered myself. It’s not about the highest peak or the hardest hike. It’s about being immersed in nature and seeing the value in the peacefulness of it all. Through hiking, you can learn to love your own strength and that you’ll persevere through anything.

Hiking makes me feel invigorated in the best way.

*See more of Azzah’s story in*Facing Sunrise*, and follow along [@lifeaziknowit_101](https://www.instagram.com/lifeaziknowit_101/)*



Facing Sunrise

Spending time in nature to slow down and disconnect has become a fundamental part of my life. I like being disconnected from my phone, screens, push notifications and just focus on the absolute basic needs of being a human: walking and eating. In the city, we can rush through our days with blinders on, not paying attention, lost in our own world. I feel cranky when I haven’t had some outdoor time, even if that just means a walk around my neighbourhood park in the city.

Nature has so many lessons to teach us. Each time I go for a hike, I’m reminded of how small I am compared to this earth.

Hiking makes me feel happier… in fact, it’s the thing that makes me feel happiest.

*Follow Taryn*[*@happiestoutdoors*](https://www.instagram.com/happiestoutdoors/)* for tips on hiking and Leave No Trace.*

## Declan White


One thing I’ve realized is that I have a stronger connection with the friends I go hiking with. It feels like we talk about things you don’t always talk about in the city, or you don’t think about because you’re in such a headspace thinking about other things. On a hike, you can just let go and open up more. Being able to spend a full day on the trail with someone strengthens our relationship – I get to know them deeper.

Hiking makes me feel adventurous. In the city, I’m more serious and focussed on getting things done – when I’m in nature, I’m more into cracking jokes and having a good time.

*Want to see what hiking can do for you? Check out our [day hiking guide to beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners), and learn how to get a jump start on the season with [Taryn’s tips for spring hiking](/en/article/hit-the-trails-early-with-these-spring-hiking-tips).*



## Related articles
- [How to choose hiking boots or shoes](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes)
- [Why we hike](/en/article/why-we-hike)
- [How to choose and fit a backpack](/en/explore/choose-and-fit-a-backpack)



Stories about how time on the trail has helped people grow, learn and uncover things about themselves they wouldn’t have realized.

How hiking has changed my life

*You don’t have to wait until summer to go hiking. Spring is a great season to explore the trails, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Check out some handy tips from hiking expert Taryn to have fun and stay safe on the trails this spring.*

## Embrace “liquid sunshine”
If you’ve never tried it, you might be surprised to hear that hiking in the rain can be a beautiful sensory experience. The plants look greener. The sound of falling rain is calming. The forest smells amazing. Fog moving through the trees makes for gorgeous photo ops. And without rain we wouldn’t have one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena: rainbows!

## Dress for the weather
Spring in Canada can be rainy, windy, brutally cold, snowy, sunny, and blisteringly hot… all in the same day! Check the weather forecast before your hike, and dress accordingly. A good [rain jacket](/en/brand/mec/gender/women%27s+men%27s/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking) and [waterproof pants](/en/brand/mec/gender/women%27s+men%27s/products/clothing/bottoms/pants/rain-pants/c/1012?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking) are absolutely key. Use a [layered approach](/en/explore/clothing-layers) underneath to make sure you stay warm but don’t overheat, no matter the weather. And keep your gear dry with a [rain cover](/en/products/packs-and-bags/pack-accessories/rain-covers-and-pack-liners/c/1344?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking) for your backpack or some [dry bags](/en/products/watersports/dry-bags-waterproof-cases-and-portage-bags/dry-bags/c/1358) inside.



## Bring the ten essentials
No matter what time of year you’re hiking, pack the “[ten essentials](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping)” to help you stay safe. They include navigation gear, food, water, sun protection, warm clothing, flashlight, first aid kit, fire starter, repair kit, emergency shelter, and a communication device. In spring’s fickle weather, I like to add in a little luxury, like an [insulated vacuum bottle](/en/features/insulated/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/vacuum-bottles-and-flasks/c/1232) of hot chocolate or soup.

## Splash right through puddles
Mud and puddles are a fact of life in the spring. But don’t let that deter you. Lace-up some [waterproof hiking boots](/en/features/waterproof/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/hiking-boots/c/1497), layer a pair of [gaiters](/en/products/footwear/accessories/gaiters/c/1191) over top, and splash right on through. Leave No Trace tip: by walking through mud and puddles, rather than going around, you don’t erode the trail or damage fragile vegetation. If the trails are a true quagmire, consider hiking somewhere else to protect the trail. Deep mud needs time to dry out.

## Be safe on snow and ice
Winter may be officially over, but snow and ice can stick around, especially in the mountains. Bring a pair of [traction devices](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/footwear-accessories/traction-devices/c/1204?text_redirected=Traction+devices%2C+spikes%2C+cleats%2C+ice+walkers%2C+and+micro-crampons&org_text=traction) for your boots so you don’t slip. I also use [trekking poles](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-lighting-and-accessories/trekking-poles-and-accessories/c/1510) to help keep my balance and to probe for hollows under the snow or melting snow bridges. And if you’re heading to the mountains, be sure to check the [avalanche forecast](https://www.avalanche.ca/) and pack [avalanche safety gear](/en/products/snow/avalanche-safety-gear/c/2081). Spring is prime time for avalanches as the snow melts and destabilizes the snowpack.



## Slow it down a bit
Spring is a time of new growth in nature. Slow down and observe carefully on your hike and you’ll see some beautiful things. Watch for new leaves budding on the trees, wildflowers blooming, and fiddleheads on ferns unfurling.

## Check trail conditions before you go
Know what to expect before you hit the trail. Find out if there are any hazards you need to know about like flooding, lingering snow, downed trees or washouts. I like to check park websites, local hiking clubs, or hiking Facebook groups. Each spring, our trails need some TLC to get them back into shape. Consider volunteering with a local trail club to help with trail maintenance.

## Go chasin’ waterfalls
A hike to see a waterfall is absolutely worth the chase and spring is a great time to do it. The snowmelt and extra rainfall ensure that they’ll be gushing! But be extra careful around the water. Avoid fording creeks as they can be especially dangerous in the spring when they run high and fast.



## Pick a mellow trail
In spring, slippery conditions and changeable weather can make hikes on slippery rocks or along an exposed ridgeline dangerous. Don’t give into the temptation of summit-fever; instead, pick a more mellow trail to a lake or waterfall, or a stroll through the forest. Be prepared to turn around if the conditions aren’t safe. In the spring, I like to hike interconnected trail networks. That way I can choose my own route and make a longer loop if conditions are right, or turn back easily if they aren’t.

## Watch for wildlife
There are tons of wildlife watching opportunities in spring. Migrating birds return and start building nests. Many animals have new babies. And bears wake up from their winter hibernation. If you spot wildlife, give them lots of space. Spring is an important time for them to raise young and start to fatten up again after the long winter. I bring [binoculars](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-lighting-and-accessories/binoculars/c/900) or a camera with a zoom lens to help me get a closer look without stressing out the animals.

*Want to learn more? Check out our guide to [day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners), and learn how to keep the wilderness wild by following the [seven principles of Leave No Trace](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly).*



## Related articles
- [How to choose hiking boots or shoes](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes)
- [How to clean and waterproof hiking boots](/en/explore/how-to-clean-and-waterproof-hiking-boots)
- [How to wash waterproof jackets and pants](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket)

*Top photo: Vancouver Institute of Media Arts*



You don’t have to wait until summer to go hiking. Spring is a great season to explore the trails, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Hit the trails early with these spring hiking tips

*Heads up: this post is****not****a substitute for actual avalanche skills training; please be safe out there. Sign up for an avalanche safety course in your area via [Avalanche Canada](https://www.avalanche.ca/training/courses) or [Avalanche Quebec](https://avalanchequebec.ca/). MEC has been a proud [partner](/en/explore/partnerships) of Avalanche Canada for more than 25 years.*

I’ve been skiing my entire life, from competing in moguls at a young age to representing Canada twice at the Olympics in slopestyle. Now I’m ready for a new challenge: becoming a backcountry-focused skier.

I know that I need to learn new skills and gain more knowledge about the backcountry – not just for my own benefit, but also to keep my ski partners safe. When the opportunity to join a four-day Avalanche Canada AST 2 (avalanche skills training) course at Whitecap Alpine came up, I jumped on board. I came away from the course learning everything that I’d hoped for and more.

Wondering what happens in an AST 2 course? This photo essay gives you an inside look:



First up: a classroom session – an AST 2 class involves at least 9.5 hours of classroom instruction. We got into snowpack layering, avalanche problems, avalanche types, avalanche terrain, pre-trip planning, reducing risk and rescue skills. After the first four hours in front of a projector, I remember thinking, “How am I ever going to remember all of this?”



On our first day in the field, we grouped together in a flat snowfield to do a refresher on a companion rescue skills. As we headed up the run, we went over our route plan, which included discussing ATES (avalanche terrain exposure scale), key decision points, safe route options, terrain cautions and travel techniques. I became more comfortable identifying, practicing and giving input on these things as the course went on.



Filling out my [decision-making in avalanche terrain field book](/en/product/5024-747/Decision-Making-in-Avalanche-Terrain-Field-Bo) was one of the ways we started each morning. Going through the parts of the field book helped us learn to use the avalanche forecast to carry out the necessary research for the day. I found it a great tool to ensure I didn’t miss out on any critical information from the forecast. It only took about 10–15 minutes and helped me make better decisions in the field.



Our instructor Peter showed us how to build a snow profile and take a better look at the current snowpack. We were able to locate the persistent weak layer and test the snow’s reactivity and propagation propensity, which can help you predict the avalanche probability in that area. We found that not every CT/ECT (compression test/extended column test) had the same results, and learned it was important to do a few tests in your pit and other locations as the snow varies place to place.



The multi-burial search exercise was key. Working through this group exercise really helped me understand how stressful a search situation can become, and how important it is to work efficiently as a team.



Along with the big picture, we got up close and [analyzed snow crystals](/en/products/snow/avalanche-safety-gear/snow-analysis/c/2087) in more detail.



We did manage to get some skiing in, along with lots of conversations about safe route finding. At one point, we split into two groups and all took turns leading our crew up through the terrain above the cabin, and then found a safe line to ski back down.

I was definitely nervous on the leading portion, but our instructor was patient and answered any questions I had. One thing I’ve found is that the backcountry can be a place where people get intimidated by asking questions or addressing concerns – but this shouldn’t be the case. Instead, it should be a place where people can speak up, especially if they feel uncomfortable with a situation.



About 40cm of snow fell during our course, so the avalanche danger was “high” in the alpine, tree line and below tree line. My group set off two remote avalanches, one while ski touring up a slope (size 1) and the other while skiing along a ridgeline (size 2.5, shown in the photo above). This really put into perspective how unpredictable avalanches can be and how you can set them off from a considerable distance (i.e. a remote trigger). We were safe from the avalanches, as we’d selected terrain that was appropriate for the dangerous conditions, but it was a reminder of how important it is to have the knowledge to make those good choices.

It was one thing to sit in the classroom and discuss avalanche risk and danger, but to see the power of masses of moving snow in person was a real eye-opener and definitely made me take a step back to think about every decision twice.



And all that classroom info I was worried about forgetting? Once we got into the field, we constantly revisited the topics we learned in class and saw how they related to real life circumstances. The good news: after four days of applying all this new knowledge in the mountain environment, everything I learned in the classroom seemed to stick.

With backcountry skiing and riding becoming more popular, I highly recommend that anyone looking to further their backcountry knowledge and skills should take courses through Avalanche Canada or other accredited organizations. The learning for me doesn’t stop here – now it’s time to put these skills to use and find someone I feel confident and comfortable with to mentor me.

*If you’ve taken an Avalanche Canada AST 1, have a decent amount of experience in the backcountry, and want to spend more days in the wild, then an Avalanche Canada AST 2 is the next step.**[Find an AST 2 course](https://www.avalanche.ca/training/courses)** on the Avalanche Canada site.*



## Related articles
- [Backcountry ski touring checklist](/en/article/ski-touring-checklist)
- [About avalanche safety gear and training](/en/explore/avalanche-safety-gear-and-training)
- [My first time backcountry skiing](/en/article/my-first-time-backcountry-skiing)



Wondering what happens in an AST 2 course? This photo essay with Olympian and MEC Ski Ambassador Yuki Tsubota gives you an inside look at advanced avalanche safety training.

Ready for the next step in avalanche safety training?

Ready for the long weekend? Maybe some deals will help

Free store pickup and returns. Find out more

Phone: (902) 421-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






Bike shop

Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:

### Local events
Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you see what’s happening in store, learn new outdoor skills from friendly staff instructors, and spark ideas for your next outdoor trip.

### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email hal_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



Community

If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Halifax for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC arrived in the Atlantic region in 2001 with our Halifax store. We moved into an existing building and used as many of the on-site structural elements as possible. While this store wasn’t built from the ground up, we still found ways to make small changes that add up to energy savings over time. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor and ceiling coverings.
- We’re replacing some of the conventional lighting with energy saving LED fixtures.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Green building features

For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Repairs and recycling

Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

Buy two of the big three – board/skis, bindings, boots – from MEC and we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of snowboard and ski equipment sold at MEC. If you’re shopping online, take advantage of this deal by calling your store to arrange an appointment to mount your bindings before you visit. Our ski techs get busy, and we don’t want to let you down.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement| $15/unit|



Ski services

Store Pickup

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.



**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Safety measures
- Number of people inside stores is limited and controlled at all entrances.  
- Social distancing guidelines are posted outside and inside stores.
- Lineup areas have two-meter markers on the floor.
- Staff are required to wear personal protective equipment, including masks.
- Hand sanitizer stations are set up for members and staff to use.  
- Staff practice and promote everyday preventive behaviours including frequent hand washing and social distancing.  
- Common areas including doors, staircases, cash desks, and bike fitting areas are regularly disinfected.  
- Cleaning processes are enhanced for the entire store. 
- Restrictions on the type of clothing and gear members are permitted to try on.  
- Plexiglass shields are installed at cashier stations. 

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Welcome

Phone: (613) 729-2700

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:



### Local events
Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you to see what’s happening in store, make connections with interesting people and get active outdoors. Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings.



### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Ottawa for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Ottawa opened in 2000. Before we started construction, there was a 40-year-old building on the site. We carefully dismantled it and then reused as much material as possible for our store. In the end, about 75% of the existing building (by weight) was incorporated into our store. To add to that accomplishment, this was the first retail building in Canada to comply with Canada’s C2000 Green Building Standard. Here are some of the green features:

- 80% of all the material travelled less than 500km to the site, which cuts down on transportation emissions. For example, rock excavated from the site was used in cladding.
- The floor is made from timber reclaimed from the St. Lawrence River and the previous building.
- During construction, we used panelized material and screwed connections, so the building can be taken apart, reused and recycled more easily when it’s reached the end of its life.
- One of the walls on the upper floor is infilled with bailed straw, a natural, renewable resource. (Check it out in the viewing portal.)
- Rock Wool insulation in other walls have 50% recycled content.
- The heating system uses a 94%-efficient natural gas hydronic boiler system to heat water.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- A skylight and roof monitor means we don’t need as much artificial lighting.
- To keep landscaping looking good, the irrigation system uses non-potable rainwater that gets gravity-fed to plants.
- Electric vehicle charging stations have reserved parking spots.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Recycling and repairs

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (604) 872-7858

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).





#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $


More than just a place to get gear – this store is a hub for your outdoor community. As a flagship, it’s home to a couple of cool extras, like a bouldering wall and a special space for events.

*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all community events for the moment. We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings.*

### Local events
Basecamp is our open-concept community space.  Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you

### Outdoor impact
This year, we’re  donating $1 million to Canadian outdoor organizations to teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces and grow the communities of people getting active outside. Funding  supports groups across Canada with avalanche safety training, outdoor programs for youth, conserving wilderness and more. [Learn more about community partnerships](/en/explore/outdoor-impact)

### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email van_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Vancouver for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC was born in Vancouver in 1971. Over the decades, we’ve moved through a number of spaces, and our current flagship store in Olympic Village was designed with sustainability from the ground up.

Here are some of the green features:

- **Wood is good**. In fact, when it’s a mass timber superstructure like this flagship store, wood is great. The timber is a composite, which means it doesn’t use old-growth sources. It’s also a renewable building material, stores carbon, and can easily be reused at the end of its life.
- **Drip, drip, drip**: It rains 150+ days a year here, so we make the most of it. The roof captures rainwater that funnels into an underground cistern to provide up to 80% of the water used for flushing toilets.
- **Less is more**: 30% less s’mores around the campfire? Not so good. 30% less energy used by a building? Brilliant. This space is designed to use almost one-third less energy than the standards set out by the national energy code for buildings.
- **A renewable day in the neighbourhood**: We’re connected to an innovative energy system that recovers heat from untreated urban wastewater (a sanitized way of saying sewage). It’s renewable and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.
- **Behind the scenes**: Some of the biggest energy savings come from things you can’t see: heating and cooling systems. The building envelope has more insulation than most and the HVAC units are high-efficiency.
- **Carbon neutral**: Like all MEC buildings, this space is operationally carbon neutral. We buy renewable energy certificates (wind and low-impact hydro) to match the electricity we use in this location.
- **Safe for salmon**: It’s official: this building is certified as Salmon-Safe, thanks to its progressive water management practices. It’s only the second Salmon-Safe urban site in BC – [MEC Head Office](/en/explore/head-office) was the first.

MEC aims to minimize environmental impacts and make our buildings healthy, inviting spaces. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Household batteries (no broken or corroded ones please)
- Bicycle tires and tubes
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Canada Day

Labour Day

Thanksgiving

Remembrance Day

Christmas Day

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.


Phone: (250) 448-7637

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Kelowna for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Located in the heart of the city, MEC Kelowna is a prime location for Okanagan residents and visitors. The store opened in 2016 after doing extensive renovations to an existing building, which included updates to make the space more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- Significant updates to the roof insulation, since that’s a major spot to cut down on heat loss (just like people, buildings can lose a lot of heat through their highest point).
- Rooftop solar system pre-heats the hot water for the building to cut down on energy required.
- Upgraded to a high-efficiency HVAC to reduce energy use, and a heat recovery ventilator reduces the amount of energy required to heat the building.
- Furniture is certified by Level, a third-party sustainability certification program that looks at environmental and social impacts.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor coverings.
- To reduce energy consumption, we use predominately high-efficiency LED lighting controlled by auto dimmers and occupancy sensors in some areas, and on automated schedules elsewhere.
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations, and doesn’t need irrigation except for in drought conditions.
- Low-flow fixtures such as toilets, urinals and shower heads reduce overall water consumption.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Alpine| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (514) 788-5878

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email mon_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly. *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Montreal for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Montreal opened in 2003, and was our first store in Quebec. It was also the first retail building in Quebec to meet the national C2000 Green Building Standard, and the amount of energy it consumes is nearly 70% less than was required by the Model National Energy Code at the time of construction. Here are some of the green features:

- The wood deck inside the curved roof was salvaged from the Seagram’s distillery in Ville Lasalle. Salvaged wood is also used in the entrance canopy and railings.
- To reduce material waste, the concrete slabs contain 27% blast furnace slag (a by-product of steel manufacturing).
- 50% of the materials used in the building are made of recycled content, by weight.
- Walls are insulated with cellulose fibre from recycled newsprint to cut down on energy consumption (they provide about twice as much thermal insulation as conventional retail buildings from the same era).
- Captured precipitation (stormwater run-off) from the roof is stored in a 45,000L underground cistern, and is used for landscaping and toilet water – this cuts our potable water use in half.
- To keep energy usage down, the concrete floor acts as a thermal reservoir that’s warmed or cooled by fluid pumped through embedded piping. Twelve geothermal wells pump extracted heat in winter and disperse heat in summer.
- There’s mostly natural ventilation with fresh air coming in through underground tunnels. In summer, warm air rises and escapes through roof vents and motorized window openings.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- Lots of daylight reduces the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have shut off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Easter Monday

Phone: Call(905) 333-8559

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email bur_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Burlington for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Burlington opened in 2008, and was designed to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification. Compared to conventional retail buildings from the same period, it was made to be 70% more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- A photovoltaic system generates energy that’s fed into the power grid.
- The structure and envelope are designed to be disassembled and repurposed when the building reaches the end of its useful life.
- There are separate systems for heating, cooling and ventilation to maximize energy efficiency. For heating, there are high-efficiency gas boilers with radiant in-floor heating. For cooling, there’s an ice storage system that uses off-electricity. And for ventilation, there’s a fan-assisted displacement system with heat recovery.
- Many high clerestory windows at roofline reduce the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have turn down or off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).
- The combo of low-flow fixtures and grey water usage cuts potable water requirements by half.
- Captured precipitation (stormwater) provides water for all non-potable uses, like toilets and garden watering. Stormwater gets retained and infiltrated on site and won’t discharge water to municipal storm drains (except under extraordinary circumstances, like an enormous storm).
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance)

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Empty CO2 cartridges used for bike tires and avalanche safety.
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement – per rivet| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement – per strap| $15/unit|



Phone: 450.688.2712

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email lav_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email lav_aa@mec.ca at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits up to 35
- Equipment: wall-mounted TV with HDMI, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Laval for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with extensive use of wood on both the inside and outside of the building. Green building features will include a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Laval will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The Laval store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Laval.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

When you buy 2 or more of the big 3 items (skis, boots or bindings), we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of ski equipment sold at MEC, and proof of purchase is required. If you’re shopping online, you can take advantage of this deal by placing your order via phone at 1.888.847.0770 or 604.876.6221.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|



Phone: (416) 340-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $20 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *





If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Toronto for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|



| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Friday

Sunday

Thursday

Christmas Eve

Boxing Day

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

New Years Eve

New Years Day

**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Phone: 519.896.4972

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike Fitting services are temporarily paused.

## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits 15–20, large windows, natural light
- Equipment: Wall-mounted TV with HDMI, projector with HDMI input, mobile projector display, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



MEC Kitchener is a new purpose-built store that has been constructed to our specifications. The store will join the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Kitchener will be no different. Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store will be operationally carbon neutral.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Green building features will include:

- A high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system
- A high R-value thermal barrier, allowing for superior insulation and energy savings.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow fixtures throughout the store.

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Kitchener. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



(418) 522.8884

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Welcome back! MEC in Quebec is open with limits to the number of people inside, plus reduced hours and services. We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

Note, we are not yet accepting returns in person. For the safety of MEC staff, we are accepting returns by mail only.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Québec City for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC’s new Quebec City store will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The new Quebec City store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC’s Quebec City store.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires and tubes – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|
| Base cleaning| $10|
| Base binder application| $10|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: 519.668.6657

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC London for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we have taken over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The completely refurbished building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Our new architectural design is featured in the building and improvements include a new roof with R40 thermal protection and a high-performance heating, cooling and ventilation system.

As part of MEC’s extensive green building program, the store operates on renewable energy.



Phone: (416) 221-0030

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Bike services

Every purchase at MEC supports your community. From helping people get to Rouge National Urban Park, to leading nature walks and teaching families how to plan their first camping trip, these local organizations and programs make getting outside just a little bit easier. MEC works with many groups in the North York community, including:



Never camped before? Don’t know where to start, or just want a refresher before your next trip? With support from MEC, [Parks Canada’s Learn to Camp program](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc) introduces you and your family to the basics of camping in Canada’s beautiful natural settings. Through overnight experiences and daytime workshops, you’ll learn camping skills like how to set up a tent, plan a camping menu and cook outdoors.



MEC and the Canadian Wilderness Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) are working together to create community support for conservation in Rouge National Urban Park and around the GTA. As a chapter of CPAWS, [Wildlands League](https://wildlandsleague.org/)’s mission is to protect the natural world that supports us with a connected network of wild lands and protected natural areas, and to promote recreation and resource use in ways that are sustainable for nature, communities and the economy.



MEC partners with [Parkbus](https://parkbus.ca/index) to help thousands of Canadians visit national and provincial parks from major cities across Canada – including a free shuttle from Toronto to Rouge National Urban Park. From day trips and family camping weekends to wilderness expeditions, Parkbus offers accessible transportation options to help city dwellers connect with nature.



[Healing in Nature: Bereavement Network](http://bereavementnetwork.ca/) (HNBN) is a non-for-profit project that provides grief support for youth and young adults through nature walks. They host walking groups on local trails for youth and young adults who are grieving, including newcomers to the community and refugees.



### Grants and donations
Our grant program has given tens of millions of dollars to conservation and the outdoor community in Canada – everything from product donations and advocacy projects to activity funding and land acquisitions. Find out if your community project is eligible and learn [how to apply for support](/en/explore/apply-grant-support).



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC North York for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Events

MEC North York is part of the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings. All MEC facilities are designed to meet these performance standards as part of our internal green building program.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Like all MEC buildings, MEC North York is operationally carbon neutral. The store is designed to be almost 50% more energy efficient than a comparable commercial building, based on Model National Energy Code for Buildings [MNECB] 1997.

Green building features includes a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system, as well as extensive LED lighting. In addition:

- The high-performance building envelope includes structural insulated panels (SIPs), which allow for superior insulation and energy savings.
- The HVAC system features a heat recovery ventilator with underfloor air distribution, and energy-efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting is installed in 80% of the retail areas.

MEC North York is spread over two floors, with a feature stairwell connecting the two levels. The space is marked by a saw-tooth roof lined with clerestory windows that flood the retail floor with natural light.

MEC North York meets the Tier 1 level of the Toronto Green Standard (TGS).

We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in all our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|



Phone: (403) 269-2420

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $120
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $160
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $240
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Calgary for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Blog