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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

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.

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