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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Remember summer? When you rode your bike in the sun and watched sunsets from your campsite at 9pm? Keep that dream going by adapting your outdoor activities and staying stoked for the outdoors all year long.

Here’s our advice on getting outside in fall and winter:

## 1. Sort your stuff out early
If there’s cold-weather gear you’ve been thinking about – [snowshoes](/en/products/snow/snowshoeing/snowshoes/c/2118), [bike lights](/en/products/cycling/bike-accessories-and-add-ons/bike-lights/c/1298), a really good [rain jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025) – pick it up *now*. In summer 2020, the Great Bike Boom left late bike shoppers scrambling across North America. Now’s the best time to find the size, colour and models you need for any fall or winter gear.

## 2. Stay fit on the trails
Need room to run? Trail running gets your heart pumping with a healthy dose of nature. Yes, there might be puddles. Yes, there’s a high likelihood of mud. Yes, treating yourself to a coffee and donut after soaking-wet run will be the highlight of your weekend. Pick up some grippy shoes and dark-coloured socks, and [learn beginner trail running tips](/en/explore/trail-running-beginners-guide) to dive in.



## 3. Assess your layering system
It’s time to break out the fuzzy fleece, base layers and shells. Learn [how to create a good layering system](/en/explore/clothing-layers), especially when you’re heating up from activity, then cooling down when you stop. If you have a jacket you love, give it some TLC; learn [how to re-waterproof your jacket](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket). Don’t forget the kids – it’s [Toaster Suit](/en/products/kids/c/1900?f=CFSeasonalCollections%3AMEC+toaster+collection) season.



## 4. Don’t forget about your feet
For everyone who hates cold, wet feet – which we’re assuming is everyone – dig through your closet to see if last year’s winter boots are still good or if it’s time to upgrade. Another hot tip: traction devices are awesome to keep moving, even when trails and sidewalks are sheets of ice.



## 5. Become an all-weather rider
Don’t let twilight, rain or frost slow your roll. With fenders, bike lights, wet-weather cycling clothes, and a good pair of gloves (trust us), you can keep biking well past summer. The truly dedicated even use studded tires for icy, snowy routes. Of course, indoor bike trainers are totally an option to rack up kilometres in your own Tour de Living Room.



## 6. Go nuts for fall leaves and spring flowers
Pop on a toque and prepare to snap a hundred photos. Bursts of fall colour are motivation to hike to golden larches, orange sugar maples, and bright red oaks. Ontario Parks even has a whole [fall colours peak viewing map](https://www.ontarioparks.com/fallcolour), so if one spot seems busy, there are lots more to choose from. In spring, a bike ride that takes in your local blossom trees is a guaranteed mood lifter.

## 7. Be a beacon of brightness
Stay safe and laugh in the face of 4pm sunsets. A headlamp makes you visible to traffic on snowy neighbourhood walks, lights the way on trails at dusk, and keeps your hands free to hold an umbrella and your dog’s leash at the same time.



## 8. Three…two… one… dropping
COVID-19 has changed the way ski hills operate. Don’t be caught off-guard when you head to the slopes. Research what reservations systems are in place, and sign up for avalanche training courses if you’re planning to escape lift lines for the backcountry.

Also essential: ski flicks. Tons of trailers are now out, and this year’s [Banff Mountain Film Fest](https://www.banffcentre.ca/online-festival) is completely online and guaranteed to build outdoor stoke.

## 9. Is snowshoeing the new biking?
Many Canadians re-discovered cycling, camping and hiking over the summer. So what’s hot this winter? Snowshoeing. It’s family-friendly, a great way to get fresh air, and opens up new scenery. Read our [beginner’s guide to snowshoeing](/en/explore/how-to-start-snowshoeing) to get started, and look into local snowshoe areas to see if there are any special COVID-19 guidelines to know about.



## 10. Set the mood for the season
Find tracks to play on the way to or from the trailhead. Download a Spotify playlist: the [Fall Trail playlist](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5hEuoE6yhqa2sHJ3R8InPn?si=oTUXIxVWRN6fY-H-A4G7iQ) or [Soulful tracks to put on after a day playing in the snow.](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5A8JTtS9er86sJXSimRVZX?si=67NmFblqSJOicmEa53m-sg) Follow MEC to be the first to hear about the next round of playlists dropping throughout the season.

Keep warm, stay safe, and we’ll see you out there.



## Related articles
- [How to choose a headlamp](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-headlamp)
- [How to choose base layers](/en/explore/how-to-choose-base-layers)
- [How to clean and waterproof hiking boots](/en/explore/how-to-clean-and-waterproof-hiking-boots)





New seasons, fresh challenges. Advice on getting outside in fall and winter for 2020.

10 tips to stay active outside, even when it’s cold and wetide, even when it’s cold and wet

10 tips to stay active outside, even when it’s cold and wet

*MEC Ambassador Sabrina Chapman is one of a handful of Black women in the world who are attempting elite grades. “The path has not been easy,” says MEC Ambassador Sabrina Chapman. “The reward is the possibility of inspiring other women of colour. If they can see something in me that they relate to, then that is enough.”*

*Titan is the project, and this is her story.*



Climber Sabrina Chapman and the 5.14a Titan Project

## How did this project begin?
**Sabrina**: In March 2019, Danielle Williams (founder of Melanin Base Camp) and Aman Anderson (CEO of Beast Fingers Climbing) reached out to ask if I’d be interested in working on a film about how I got into climbing. I’m not sure how they got my name, but after some hesitation I said yes. A month later, I mentioned that I was going to Kentucky for a week, and suddenly Shane Smith, the filmmaker, contacted me to meet up so he could start shooting.

The Titan project is a means of telling my story as a daughter of immigrants whose path to climbing and pushing difficult grades is not shown in mainstream media. It’s an acknowledgement that there’s an audience for stories of BIPOC in the outdoors who are driven, determined and creating a world in their own image.

## Why did you choose Titan?
Titan is located on Saugeen Ojibway Nation land. It’s about 36m (120ft) of limestone, and has two distinct cruxes. The first crux is to gain the headwall after roughly 15m (50ft) of long moves on small crimps with minimal rests on slightly overhanging rock. The second is about 21m (70ft) higher, and involves a shallow two finger pocket, a pinch and small footholds on a vertical face.

I love how long I get to be on the wall surrounded by rock and sky, and the moves are exactly what I enjoy in climbing – good body tension, strong fingers and mental focus.

## How have the past few months impacted your training?
I injured my finger in 2019 and wasn’t able to put in attempts on Titan. In the first couple of months of quarantine in 2020, I was still focused on my goal of starting the season in top shape. I’m lucky to have a really good training set up at home, but when the protests began in the US and Canada, my motivations changed. A lot of repressed racial trauma resurfaced and I didn’t have the energy to stick to a training schedule.

Working out is part of who I am and how I manage my mental health, so I just listened to what my body needed day-to-day – moving around my wall, getting on the hangboard or swinging some kettlebells. Right now, my goal is to regain my equilibrium, and to relish being outside and on the rock without any expectations. That said, a while back I’d had a burn on Titan where I fell just below the lip; I pulled back on right away and went straight to the chains. What stands out about that attempt was how quiet my mind was. I pulled on the holds and stretched up through my legs with just the right balance of strength and grace. I’ve been holding onto the promise that I’ll climb that way again, which is why I know the 2020 season won’t end for me until I get back on and give myself that chance.



## What barriers and goals have you been working through recently?
I have found it difficult to be at the base of Titan waiting for my turn while two to three other guys are working the route. The dynamics of trying to stay focused and calm within that energy made some days more exhausting than others.

One new goal I’ve created for myself is to move at a faster pace when I climb. So far it’s been really fun to learn a new way of moving across the rock while staying in sync with my body and I’m excited to keep working on that.

## What’s your advice to women and BIPOC who want to start climbing?
For women and BIPOC who want to get into and push themselves in climbing: know that everyone is intimidated when they first start out, I know I was! A lot of gyms have intro classes you can take so you don’t feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t know what they’re doing. Search out other BIPOC on social media who are psyched to climb – we’re everywhere! Some accounts that I follow are [MelaninBaseCamp](https://www.instagram.com/melaninbasecamp/), [BrownGirlsClimb](https://www.instagram.com/BrownGirlsClimb/), [IndigenousWomenClimb](https://www.instagram.com/IndigenousWomenClimb/), [ClimbersofColor](https://www.instagram.com/ClimbersofColor/), [BrownGirlsDocMafia](https://www.instagram.com/BrownGirlsDocMafia/), and [HeyFlashFoxy](https://www.instagram.com/HeyFlashFoxy/).

## What’s some of your favourite climbing gear?
There are a few pieces I go to again and again:

- I love the [**MEC Gateway Lead Tights**](/en/product/6003-806/Gateway-Lead-Tights) for climbing. There’s enough give and range of movement for high stepping and stemming and they look great when grabbing a bite to eat on the way home from the crag.

- I wear the **MEC Rockwall Half Zip** during shoulder season to keep me warm on the hike in and out of the crag. The half zip is handy mid-route when my body starts heating up and I need to cool off. [(Check out the Rockwall Midlayer here!)](/en/product/6011-749/rockwall-midlayer)

- The **MEC Cragalot Backpack** is the perfect crag bag. It has two different access points to the main compartment, enough space for your rope, draws, shoes and chalk bag, and a smaller zippered pocket on the outside for your keys and wallet. The padding on the shoulder straps and back also make it super comfortable to wear on long approaches. [(See similar backpacks here!)](/en/products/packs-and-bags/backpacking-packs/overnight-packs-35-55l/c/1340?filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=rock%20climbing)

- When bouldering, it’s nice to have a chalk bag that can hold your tape, locker key and phone in addition to chalk. The [**MEC Chalkalot Bouldering Bucket**](/en/product/5050-926/Chalkalot-Bouldering-Bucket) does all of this, and I love its magnetic closure to prevent spills.



## Related articles
- [Mental strategies to improve your climbing](/en/article/mental-strategies-to-improve-your-climbing)
- [Tips to exercise outdoor safely while social distancing](/en/article/tips-to-exercise-outdoors-safely-while-social-distancing)
- [How to choose climbing shoes](/en/explore/choose-your-climbing-shoes)



An inspiring film that shares a path to climbing not shown in mainstream media.

Think back to your favourite outdoor achievement. Maybe it was camping on a summit, or sending a 5.12a, or going on your first bike ride as a family. Whatever it was, there’s a good chance you had someone with you to help make it happen. Which is why today, we’d like to share an MEC moment with you – because you helped make this achievement happen.

MEC was just named **Canada’s Most Trusted Brand**… again. We also held the top spot in 2019, 2017 and 2016 but we haven’t really made a big fuss over it publicly before. Add on the fact that we were also named one of **Canada’s Greenest Employers** for the tenth year running, and number one in the 2020 **Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada**, and it seemed time to step up and tip our (waterproof-breathable) hat to say thanks to everyone who holds MEC to a high standard in all we do.

**To members**: We love hearing your plans and dreams, your questions and feedback. We want to match you with just the right gear for your hike, climb, ski, bike, paddle – you name it. We know you have more choices than ever before, and we’re stoked every time you choose MEC.

**To staffers**: Every day, you inspire people to be active outside. You’re often the first step in someone reaching their next outdoor goal or trying something totally new. Your advice, knowledge and stories are a huge part of the reason people keep coming back, over and over again.

**To everyone who’s been part of MEC’s 49-year journey**: Thank you for choosing us, for trusting us with your outdoor gear, for being members for life.

## Want to know more about the awards?
Glad you asked (it wouldn’t be a trusted brand award without transparency). MEC placed first in the National Top Most Trusted Brands in the sixth annual Gustavson Brand Trust Index (GBTI) presented by the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria.

The results are based on a survey of 7,800 Canadians and, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a follow-up survey of 1,050 Canadians. The survey measures brand trust, and three different trust areas: values-based trust, relationship trust and functional trust. For more details, see the [full report](https://www.uvic.ca/gustavson/brandtrust/assets/docs/final--gbti-2020-main-report.pdf).

Canada’s Greenest Employers is an editorial competition that recognizes employers that create a culture of environmental awareness. Winning employers are evaluated on four main criteria: unique environmental initiatives or programs; reducing their environmental footprint; involving employees these programs; and whether their environmental initiatives have become linked to the employer’s identity. For more info on the award, see the [reasons for selection](https://www.canadastop100.com/environmental/).

The 2020 Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada awards are selected by [Corporate Knights Inc](https://www.corporateknights.com/reports/2020-best-50/). The top corporate citizens on the list are evaluated on up to 21 key indicators covering resource, employee, financial management, clean revenue and supplier performance. Data is sourced from publicly available information, and the organizations on the list set the standard for sustainability leadership in Canada.

Want to see some of the things MEC is working on? Check out [MEC Label products](/en/p/mec-label) and our overall [sustainability and social responsibility programs](/en/explore/sustainability-innovation).



You helped make this achievement happen for MEC.

Thank you: MEC is Canada’s most trusted brand

E-bikes are game changers. They give you all the benefits of cycling, but with a bit of boost to tackle pesky things like hills on leisurely weekend rides or sweat-free trips around town.

Plus, owning an e-bike has the planet-friendly side effect of increasing the likelihood that you’ll reach for your helmet over your car keys. In a North American study of 1,800 new e-bike owners, 55% said they rode daily or weekly prior to owning an e-bike, but once they got an e-bike that number jumped to 91%1.



## What are e-bikes used for?
New technology has allowed e-bikes to become lighter, faster and more efficient than ever before – here are some popular reasons you might choose an e-bike:

### For commuting
You get to enjoy riding to and from work, without worrying about arriving a sweaty mess, even if your route is full of climbs. Commuting via e-bike gives you a lower carbon footprint, and gives you a dose of fresh air and exercise every day. One survey found that 28% of North American e-bike buyers bought them as an alternative to a car and not as a bike upgrade2.

### For carrying kids or cargo
Cargo e-bikes make getting heavy loads from A-to-B totally doable. With their extra cargo space, these e-bikes are great to take care of your weekly grocery shop, transport kids around town, or load up for the ultimate family day in the park.

“We bought our e-bike mainly to transport our toddler who was at daycare a 20-minute drive away… worse in rush hour,” says MEC staffer Brock. “We were tied to driving, since whoever dropped him off had to pick him up. Now, with an e-bike, we have way more freedom. Our son sits on the back and loves seeing trains and ships, all the things he couldn’t see in a car.”



### For mountain biking
E-mountain bikes make the ride up easier and faster, keeping your legs fresh and maximizing your time on the trail. They’re also handy to help you get to the trails faster (and maybe even without loading your bike in a car). Plus, if you plan to go riding after a long commute, an e-mountain bike can give tired legs the help they need to get some laps in.

### For accessibility or balancing out a group
E-bikes are an excellent way to get multiple generations or different fitness levels out on a ride together. Cyclists who may be working on their fitness can enjoy the freedom of cycling with a little electronic boost. E-bikes also allow riders to extend their pedaling years; with the right e-bike, the kids will be trying to catch up to grandma, and not the other way around.

### For riders recovering from injury
E-bikes are a helpful tool to get back on two wheels after an injury. With the electronic drive unit’s smooth torque delivery, riders can maintain an even cadence, which puts less pressure on joints. And with an e-assist, riders can keep their heart rate lower. Always make sure to talk to your doctor to find out what’s right for you in terms of recovery and exercise.

### For fun
Yep, it’s that plain and simple. With a few pedal strokes, e-bikes take you from a standstill to the rolling freedom that make you feel like a kid again. Almost everyone who hops on an e-bike for the first time gets a grin on their face when they feel what they’re all about.



## What are the different types of e-bikes at MEC?
MEC carries three types of e-bikes. All our models of e-bikes are pedal-assist, which means the electronic drive unit only kicks in when you’re actually pedaling (no pedaling = no electric assistance).

**Urban, hybrid e-bikes**: Perfect if you bike mostly on roads. If you plan to bike commute, ride around town with steep hills, or want to do urban adventures without getting sweaty, these e-bikes are for you.



**Cargo e-bike**: A two-wheeled pack horse ready to take over car duty and carry heavy loads wherever you’re heading: park, school, groceries, home improvement store, you name it.

**E-mountain bike**: Most mountain bikers will agree: the best part of riding is going down. E-mountain bikes can get up you up the mountain so you have enough steam to go down, over and over again.



## Common questions when buying an e-bike
Check out answers to a few of the top questions we hear about e-bikes:

### How far can I go on an e-bike?
Range is one of the biggest questions around e-bikes. It’s important to be aware that a lot of factors can affect your e-bike’s potential range and how long your battery will last. Hills, turning on power assist, headwinds, rough roads, and how much weight you’re carrying all impact your e-bike’s potential range. That said, a good rule of thumb uses watt hours (Wh) of your e-bike’s battery: every 20Wh will provide about 1.5km of range on even terrain at around 30kph with gentle pedaling. Some e-bike drive manufacturers have tools to estimate how far you’ll be able to go with their e-bike (like the [Bosch range assistant](https://www.bosch-ebike.com/ca/service/range-assistant/)).

There is one thing that you can do that will greatly increase any e-bike’s range… pedal! The more effort you put into the ride, the less work your e-bike must do and the farther you can go.



### What kind of regulations are there around e-bikes?
Each province looks at e-bikes a little differently, though you will see some commonalities, such as:

- Power limited to a maximum of 500W.
- Power assisted max speed of which means the e-assist helps only up to 32km/h. Any faster and it’s all you.
- Working pedals, which means the drive unit only applies torque when you are pedaling.

At MEC we only carry e-bikes that meet the features mentioned above. Be sure to know your local rules and regulations, as some provinces are stricter than others; for instance, e-bike riders in PEI require a driver’s license. Also, if you are looking at an e-mountain bike, research what your local trails allow. Most trails allow e-mountain bikes with the features outlined above, but it’s important to understand what’s permitted on trail networks before you go.

### How do I charge an e-bike?
Charging an e-bike is about as easy as charging a phone. If your e-bike has an integrated battery, simply insert the included plug into your bike’s port after you’re done your ride. If your e-bike has a removable battery, pop the battery off and bring it in with you after your ride, then simply plug it into the included charger.

### How heavy is an e-bike?
E-bikes can weigh a fair bit more than regular bikes. We include the weight of each e-bike as part of the tech specs on mec.ca. If your cycling life involves lifting a bike on and off a rack or carrying it up the stairs at the office or in your apartment building, it’s a good idea to think about weight and how you’ll get it from your house to the road.

## Bike bonuses
Buy a new bike, get free adjustments and minor maintenance for a year at any MEC bike shop. When you buy a regularly priced Cannondale bike over $2000, you get even more post-purchase perks: free bike service in-store for two full years. [See details and conditions](/en/explore/special-offers)



## Related articles
- [How to choose a bike helmet](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-cycling-helmet)
- [How to choose bike lights](/en/explore/choose-bike-lights)

*Source for*[*1*](https://www.calbike.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/A-North-American-Survey-of-Electric-Bicycle-Owners.pdf)*,*[*2*](https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/technology/technology-media-and-telecom-predictions/2020/bike-technology-transformation.html)



Find out what you can use them for, along with useful things to know.

A helpful guide to e-bikes

Let’s face it: there are few other MEC products as iconic as the Rad Pants. Over MEC’s 49-year history, Rad Pants have become pretty legendary and have a bit of an infamous backstory.

They first hit the MEC catalogue in 1989, and we never expected to be carrying them for decades. We ended up discontinuing the Rad Pants in 2001, only to bring them back a season later because so many members were asking for them. Eventually, they dropped out of our assortment and seemed destined to become part of MEC folklore or relegated to a lucky thrift-store find.

Until now. Because Rad Pants are back – again.



MEC Rad Pants

## Wait – they’re really back again?


Yes. Last year, we opened the design vault to unleash a special limited run of Rad Pants, and were blown away by the response. Members scooped up nearly the entire run of MEC Rad Pants in about a day and a half.

With a response that huge, we decided to give you another chance to own a slice of history. It’s another limited run, and we’re mixing things up with a new heritage colour option: Desert Red.



## Committed to real Rads
For decades, Rad Pants have helped Canadians climb, hike, paddle, travel, bike and bask in the glory of bellowed thigh pockets. When they were discontinued, they caused tearful outpourings of love and broken hearts at Annual General Meetings, spawned online obituaries and poetry, and caused heated debates over the merits and failings of different (non-Rad) reincarnations.

When we decided to bring back Rad Pants, the MEC Label design team was committed to recreating them in their true shape, material and even with the original MEC woven label. This year’s limited run of Rad Pants is just as true to form.



There’ve been so many iterations of Rad Pants over the years that they had to dig deep into our archives to revive them. “We looked up the original pattern specs of the last incarnation of the Rad Pants in our system,” said James Brittain, MEC Design Manager, “and sent them over to the factory – without a single change to the pattern – to create our limited runs of Rad.”

After the patterns were locked down, the next challenge was to faithfully recreate the fabric. The only issue? “No one who owned old Rad Pants would let us cut up their heritage pair to send a physical sample to the fabric mill for them to recreate the raw material,” said James.



Problem-solving mode engaged, MEC designers turned to our friends at @vintage_mec. They were able to find us a pair of old MEC Rad Pants that we could chop up to give fabric samples to the mill. The new Rad Pants have the exact same fabric spec as the original versions, and the material is [bluesign® approved](/en/article/what-the-heck-is-bluesign) for a reduced environmental footprint.

> The design hasn’t changed at all from the Rad Pants you remember – even down to the old MEC logo. Plus the fabric is now bluesign-approved®.
>
Finally, as a finishing touch for these Rad Pants, the original MEC logo is back. To make sure we stayed true to the heritage label design, we tracked down the retired couple who used to own the now-closed factory that manufactured our woven labels. It turns out they had dusty boxes of original MEC woven labels tucked in the corner of their attic, which our new factory could use to recreate the design for the pants they were destined for.



## Bottom line about these bottoms
They’re back (again), but it’s a limited run (again). If you retired your old pair of Rad Pants decades ago, if you want to own a piece of MEC history, or if you’ve always wondered what all the Rad Pants hype is about, you’ve got another chance to snap up a pair.

We’d say that these new Rad Pants are radder than ever… but really, they’re just as rad as they’ve always been.



## Bonus facts for true Rad Pant connoisseurs
Aching for more nostalgic radness? We’ve scoured the archives for bonus Rad Pants facts and all the cheesy 90s catalogue poses you could possibly imagine.



## The pocket was perfect for 1989 tech
One of the main features of the original Rad Pants were the roomy thigh pockets. These were prime spots to keep a topo map, energy bars… or a 1980s music player. It’s true, the original pockets were sized so they’d fit a Sony Discman.

Only downside? The low pockets were near the knee, which sent your Discman ricocheting with each step (and electronic anti-skip technology wasn’t invented until 1995).

## They came in no less than 27 colours
Basic black? Sure. But Rad Pants also came in a knock-out colour palette over the years, including:

Atlantic Blue, Cinnamon Red Curry, Crimson, Black, Blue, BlueSpruce/Bluespruce, Deep Blue, Desert Red, Driftwood, Eggplant, Electric Blue, Green, Honey Beige, Jade, Marine Blue, Midnight Purple, Navy, Plum, Purple, Red, Royal, Royal Blue, Sage, Sea Green, Taupe, Teal and Turquoise.



## There was a whole “Rad program”
Rad Pants were just the beginning. There were also:

**Rad Shorts**, which hit the catalogue as **“**A short built for radical action!”

**Rad Shirts** with features like, “a long front zip eases pulling over head gear and fuzz… and a lower kanga pocket for your roo.”



**Cotton Rad Pants** with a “double bum, knit cuff, slash side pockets and wallet pocket all add up to a great, robust summer pants.” Note: we are still hazy on the benefits of a “double bum” feature.

**Radfans I, II and III fanny packs.**“These fannies are state-of-the-art,” was the cheeky catalogue caption. The Radfan III had a whopping 10.5L capacity (for context, that’s 3.5L larger than our current [MEC 8-hr Sling](/en/product/5058-233/8-Hr-Sling)).



## They have many nicknames
They were originally launched as “the ultimate movement pant,” and have been called many things over the years – some by us, some by other people. A few stand-outs:

- Baggier than a Shar-Pei puppy
- Indestructible and relentlessly unisex
- The Canadian national uniform ([source](https://rwalker.exblog.jp/4781511/))
- High fashion in the Rockies
- The trousers of my heart ([source](http://ourfamilylines.ca/ode-rad-pants/))
- MEC legend

## #radpants is a thing
Rad Pants hit the scene 30 years ago and have transcended time. Browse the [#radpants hashtag](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/radpants/) and there are some gems.

They’re true to their roots



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… and will be with you for a long time.



Thanks for the memories, Rad Pant fans. We’re looking forward to many more.



## Related articles
- [Mountain magic: 48 years of good times outside](https://www.mec.ca/en)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)
- [How to repair a torn waterproof jacket or pants](/en/explore/how-to-repair-a-torn-waterproof-jacket-or-pants)



There are few other MEC products as iconic as Rad Pants. They seemed destined to become part of MEC folklore or relegated to a lucky thrift-store find... until now.

The legend of MEC Rad Pants

Calling everyone who loves camping! Between May 11–18, join us for The Big Camp In: a chance to transform your living rooms, balconies and backyards into the ultimate camp set-ups from coast to coast. Break out your tents, unroll your sleeping bags and enter our Big Camp In Contest for a chance to win a full set of camping gear from MEC.

To get you jazzed on camping season (even if it looks a little different at the moment), we’ve put together inspiration and ideas to recreate all our favourite parts of camping at home, from the campfire and bird songs to camp coffee and connecting with nature. Happy camp-in!



## Get a campfire going
The crackling sound of a campfire is an essential part of any night outside. Most of us don’t have access to a firepit at home, so we want to help you set the scene for a cozy night in your tent – string up some twinkle lights to substitute for a starry sky, and just press play:



Fire by the lake

## Brew up camp coffee
A camp morning is incomplete without a cup of joe – there’s something special about the ritual of it all. Whether you’re an [Aeropress](/en/brand/aeropress/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/coffee-makers-and-kettles/espresso-makers/c/1781) master or prefer a French press mix-up, there are lots of ways you can get a dose of caffeine:



Who knew coffee + hot water could be so complex? Check out our blog post about [a coffee addict’s guide to camp coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee) for a full spectrum of brewing potential, whether you’re camping in your backyard or living room. Sip and soak in the moment.

## Tune into a camping soundtrack
One of the first things we notice when we get into nature is just how quiet it is. No horns honking or trucks beeping – just the wind in the trees and the people you’re with.

An informal poll of our virtual MEC staffers revealed a split in camp soundtracks. Some loved sitting around the campfire singing songs and others rather playing games and listening to their favourite playlists. Others just wanted to tune into mother nature to hear rivers flowing and crickets humming.

Whatever music mood you’re in – nature sounds or campfire tunes – we’ve got the playlist for you on the [MEC Spotify account](https://open.spotify.com/user/d1wktmvdtzsnx9kdkzg1er88t).



## Create an epic camp meal
A backyard or at-home campout means you get to go deluxe with camp meals. Forget the instant noodles – this is your chance to bust out a delectable veggie curry with toasted naan bread (or whatever recipe you dream up). If you’re indoors for a living room campout, break out your cast iron pan to use in the oven. If you’re outdoors in the backyard, dig out your Jetboil or camp stove (heads up: camp stoves are outdoor products only, so don’t fire them up inside).

To get you inspired, check out our blog post on [camping meal ideas with a twist](/en/article/camping-meal-ideas-with-a-twist), browse a [camping cookbook](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/cookbooks/c/925), or try this unique camp recipe by Vancouver chef [Shaun Maclean](https://www.instagram.com/macleanshaun/):



### Camp veggie shabu-shabu hotpot recipe
Simple yet delicious. This Japanese style hotpot would traditionally use dashi broth, but we’ve simplified it to be camp friendly. Serves two. Enjoy!

**Ingredients**

*F**lavouring mix*

- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 pack miso soup mix

*Broth and veggies*

- 1L mushroom broth
- Shiitake mushrooms, destemmed and cut in half
- Carrots, thinly sliced rounds
- Sweet potato, thinly sliced
- Radishes, cut in half
- Napa cabbage, cut into eight
- Yau choy (or other similar green veggie), cut in half lengthwise
- Green onions, cut in 2in. lengths, and split the bottom white portion down the middle
- Tofu, cut in 1in. cubes (spicy marinated tofu is Shaun’s personal favourite)
- Cilantro leaves
- Rice noodles, pre-cooked, cooled and tossed in a bit of oil to prevent sticking

**Instructions**

1. Set up your camp stove on a safe, stable surface you can sit around. Make sure to use a stove that’s sturdy and won’t tip over – a flat [car camping stove](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/camp-stoves-and-ovens/car-camping-stoves/c/1281) is a good option.
1. Turn your stove on medium, place a large pot with broth on top. Allow broth to come to a simmer, then turn down to medium low to keep broth at a low simmer.
1. Add flavouring mix. Once its dissolved, get your veggies and tofu ready, but don’t toss them all in.
1. With hotpot, you eat the vegetables as you cook them – sort of like a soup fondue. Vegetables will cook at different speeds, so add the hearty ones first (sweet potato, carrots, radishes) and cook for 4–5 minutes. Add the delicate greens later, since they’ll only take a minute or two. Cook in waves as you eat – it means nothing gets overcooked.
1. Once all the veggies are cooked and eaten, add the rice noodles to the leftover broth, heat fully, and split as a final course.

**Recipe extras**

For a meat-based version, use beef broth and add thinly sliced meat or dumplings. Asian supermarkets often have frozen pre-sliced meats that only need about a minute of cook time in the broth. Dumplings usually only take 4–5 minutes to cook.

Play around with different types of vegetables. Root vegetables do particularly well, as they soak up flavours of the broth. Try taro or lotus root, yams, squash, leeks, broccoli to see what you like.

Like spice? Add chili paste or diced chilies – especially nice in cold weather.



## Find ways to connect with nature
One of the best parts of camping is waking up in the morning, opening your tent and taking a minute to appreciate the epic view… which is bit tougher to do when you’re camping next to your couch or back door. An at-home campout presents an interesting opportunity to notice the nature is around you – birds outside your window, moss on the trees, bugs in the grass.

MEC Ambassador and artist Charlie Easton ([@charlieeaston](https://www.instagram.com/charlieeaston/?hl=en)) believes the small things in nature tell the most memorable stories, and ultimately inspires his art. A challenge from Charlie? “Slow down and notice,” he says. “Notice the reflection in a puddle or the way a cloud dances from your window. No matter where you are, if you take time to notice you’ll have a more profound memory of that moment and feel more connected to nature.”

**Charlie Easton’s nature connection challenge:**

- Look out your window or go to your backyard.
- Pick something big like a tree, the garden or the sky.
- Notice the small things – focus in on something you didn’t originally see. Maybe it’s a shadow or the leaves of your favourite flower. Notice the things you find beautiful and inspiring.
- Jot it down, draw it, appreciate it.



The Big Camp In - Charlie Easton, Connecting to Nature

## Play some camp games
Have some fun! Card games, nature scavenger hunts and tossing a frisbee are all classics. Check out our [camp games collection](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/games/c/1225) for more ideas for your camp in. Some of your usual games might not be easy to do when you’re camping in your backyard or living room, so now’s the time to try something new. Here’s an idea for a no-supplies-needed game to get you, your family, and everyone in your Zoom camp chat moving:

### How to play Action Syllables
A simple, fun game to get everyone up and moving:

- Ask each camper to choose an action/move for every syllable of their name. For example, Sarah has two syllables in her name, so she pats her head for one syllable and spins around for the second syllable.
- After the second camper does their name, the whole group repeats and does Sarah’s moves again.
- The actions keep building as you take turns, and next thing you know, you and your fellow campers have a new dance routine!



## Create camp memories, even if you’re apart
Even if your favourite camping crew is far away, you can still spend quality time and make memories during a camp-in. Some ideas to connect with friends and family during your camp-in:

- **Video slide show**: Video call a camping buddy to re-hash favourite outdoor memories together. If you’ve got photos, you can even do a little video slide show from your living room tent.
- **Plan for real life trips**: Call or Zoom a friend from the comfort of your backyard tent to map out a future trip. All you need are guidebooks, maps and an open mind.
- **Unplug**: Ditch technology for a night (there’s no wifi when you’re camping, remember?) and be in the moment. If you’re solo, journal, draw or read. If you’re with your family, partner or roommate, play games, invent camping s’more recipes or scope out the stars.

Whether you’re in your living room or backyard, grab your hut booties, set up your tent and get ready the most outdoorsy night in yet.



*Joining The Big Camp in from BC? The BCCDC Foundation for Public Health (a charitable partner to the BC Centre for Disease Control) is hosting a BC Stay -t-Home Campout on May 16 with a $5 “camping fee” donation to the fund. If you’re interested, check out their [stay-at-home campout site](https://bccdcfoundation.org/bc-stay-at-home-campout/).*



Join us for The Big Camp In with these tips to set the camp scene in your living room or backyard.

How to create the ultimate campout at home

We’re here because we all lead active outdoor lives. Now’s the time to work together to learn new ways of being outside when and where we can.

While [Health Canada](https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks.html) is telling Canadians to stay at home as much as possible, they also say you can “go outside to exercise but stay close to home.” So how do you move outdoors in a safe way? We connected with Dr. George Farjou, Infectious Disease Specialist in Ontario, for tips on how get outside safely during COVID-19.

“Exercise supports both your mental and physical health,” says Dr. George Farjou. “We could be on physical distancing measures for many weeks, perhaps months, before they’re relaxed, so we cannot wait until we get back to our ‘normal’ everyday lives to do the activities that keep us healthy in body and soul.”

***Important note****: Always listen to the most recent advice of your local health authority, as things are changing fast. These outdoor tips apply if you: don’t have symptoms of COVID-19, have not been diagnosed with COVID-19, have not travelled outside of Canada in the past 14 days, or are not in a high-risk group (*[*see Health Canada for details*](https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks.html#p)*).*

## Keep your distance
When you’re outside, you should be practicing [physical distancing](https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/social-distancing.html) (a.k.a. social distancing). Keep a distance of at least 2 metres away from others when you’re in public). “Exercising in crowded areas is not a safe way to be active right now,” says Dr. Farjou. Some outdoorsy ways to visualize approximately 2 metres:

- 3 full-sized bike tires apart, or
- 1 adult grizzly bear apart, or
- Holding an adult ski pole out with your outstretched arm (if you could poke someone with it, they’re too close)

Heading outside solo (or with people you live with) is all good. Embrace a chance to be active with these household exercise buddies. Get your kids to bike alongside you as you run, grab your dog for a walk, or invite your roomie out for a relaxed bike ride. On tight paths or sidewalks, respect other people’s space – remember that 2m distance – instead of buzzing closely past.

Things you should not be doing? Activities that involve groups of people, like group rides, group runs, or even driving to a spot with someone from outside your household.



## Stay connected in other ways
While physical separation is a must, it doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected in other ways. If you’re a runner, pop in a single earbud to chat with your run buddies who are also running (but in other places). Many races, group rides and run crews are also creating virtual versions via Strava or Zwift.

## Keep it clean
Before you head outside for a walk, run or ride, wash your hands by following the [Health Canada guidelines](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/phac-aspc/documents/services/publications/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/covid-19-handwashing/covid-19-handwashing-eng.pdf). “Bring hand sanitizer with you,” says Dr. Farjou, “and avoid touching your face in public. Also set a time limit for your activities instead of loitering around for prolonged periods.” Some other tips:

- Direct any surprise sneezes into your elbow (don’t spray them out into the world haphazardly).
- No snot rockets, no spitting.
- “Remember to stay hydrated,” says Dr. Farjou. Bring your own water bottle to avoid using shared water fountains.
- If you need to push elevator buttons or crosswalk buttons, use your elbow, not your fingers.

When you return home, do the hand-washing routine all over again, this time with a dose of feel-good endorphins in your system.

## Adapt your daily routine
City folks: we feel you. If you live in a dense neighbourhood, you might need to adjust your regular running paths or routes. “If you see a lot of people at the location you’ve chosen – don’t go there. Choose somewhere else,” says Dr. Farjou.

Time to adapt and overcome. “I’d usually run on the seawall in Vancouver,” one MEC staffer told us, “but I’ve totally adjusted my routes for now. Quiet side streets near my house make it way easier to physically distance from other people, plus I can just hop aside if I see someone else coming.”

Adapting your routine can also mean shifting the time you head outside. Early mornings or later evenings could be less busy in your area. Remember to stay visible with [reflective straps](/en/products/run-and-fitness/training-running-and-fitness-electronics/armbands/c/1111) or a [headlamp](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-lighting-and-accessories/headlamps-and-lighting/headlamps/c/1306), and stay aware of your surroundings ([Aftershokz headphones](/en/brand/aftershokz/products/camping-and-hiking/electronics/audio-and-video-electronics/earphones/c/1138) allow you to hear the world around you).



## Dial down the intensity
“It’s important to adapt your exercise to this ‘new normal’ period of physical distancing,” says Dr. Farjou. “We must adjust our expectations to stay active, but also to prevent harm on a public health level.”

The North Shore Mountain Bike Association (one of the community groups that MEC supports) shared thoughts that apply to mountain biking and any other activity. “Being out on the trails is a great way to try and relax; it can also be a path to the emergency room, hospital, or clinic if you take a tumble,” says their president Cooper Quinn in a [Facebook statement](https://www.facebook.com/nsmba/posts/10157229892780036). “We just can’t risk recreational injuries right now.”

To ease the burden on Canadian healthcare workers and keep yourself safe, practice low-risk activity, dial down the intensity, ease up on the speed.

> “Avoid very intense exercise that exacerbates underlying conditions like asthma or could cause an injury. We want to prevent trips to the hospital right now where many COVID-19 patients are being seen.” – Dr. Farjou
>
## Know before you go
One of the [Leave No Trace principles](https://www.leavenotrace.ca/principle-plan-ahead-prepare) is to plan ahead and prepare, and that’s definitely the case now. Before you head out, Dr. Farjou recommends you “look up ahead of time to see if the trail or park you are going to is open right now – many of them are closed currently.”

Our community partners at CPAWS BC, shared that “in alignment with our health authorities, we are also asking that you and your families follow your provincial and territorial guidelines and don’t go to the parks.” [Parks Canada](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/securite-safety/covid-19-info), along with provincial parks in [British Columbia](http://bcparks.ca/covid-19/), [Alberta](https://www.albertaparks.ca/albertaparksca/news-events/alberta-environment-and-parks-response-to-covid-19/), [Saskatchewan](https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/places-to-go/provincial-parks/Announcements), [Ontario](https://news.ontario.ca/ene/en/2020/03/ontario-update-on-ontario-parks-operations-in-response-to-covid-19.html), [Quebec](https://www.sepaq.com/covid-19/), [Nova Scotia](https://novascotia.com/coronavirus), [New Brunswick](https://www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/Groups/ProvincialParks/), and [PEI](https://www.tourismpei.com/pei-provincial-parks) have all issued statements around types of closures.

Just think: when we finally get through this, the parks, trails, campgrounds and outdoor places we care about are going to seem so much sweeter.

## Love your local zone
As [Health Canada](https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks.html) is recommending, keep your activity close to home. All Canadian public avalanche forecasters have [discontinued service](https://www.avalanche.ca/news/all-forecasting-agencies-united-in-covid-19-response) in response to COVID-19, and search and rescue organizations are also highlighting the need for people to be [extra cautious outside](https://www.bcsara.com/2020/03/search-and-rescue-during-covid-19-pandemic-2/).

That said, close to home can still mean close to nature. Get to know the trees in your neighbourhood, the paths in your nearby park, and the signs of spring unfurling around you. One idea? MEC Leave No Trace Ambassador Taryn Eyton (who would usually be exploring backcountry routes) is instead taking this time to appreciate nature near home with her #naturephotoeveryday challenge on [@happiestoutdoors](https://www.instagram.com/happiestoutdoors/).

“Many local parks and outdoor spaces are receiving less maintenance right now,” says Taryn, “and some facilities aren’t available. Remember to bring a bag and pack out all your trash, and check out [Leave No Trace’s post](https://lnt.org/the-leave-no-trace-recommendations-for-getting-outside-amidst-covid-19/) for their advice.”

Oh – and if you’re tempted to take off to your cabin, or a small mountain or coastal town, please don’t. “An influx of visitors threatens not only to spread COVID-19,” says CPAWS BC, “but it can also overwhelm the capacity of smaller, rural hospitals. Remember, you may not show any signs of infection but still be spreading the virus.”



## Active body, healthy future
Some things are outside your sphere of control, but within it, you know what to do. Moving your body, eating right and resting are ways you can look after yourself. Plus, [ParticipACTION](https://www.participaction.com/en-ca/everything-better/heal-better) shares that exercise “reduces the time we spend dwelling on negative thoughts” – something many of us could use right now.

“I’d recommend you figure out a way to scale back, but still elevate your heart rate for 15–20 minutes, three to four times a week,” says Dr. Farjou. “My goals at this time aren’t to make drastic changes in my activity or fitness level but to at least maintain my cardiovascular health and keep my major muscle groups engaged.”

Use these tips to be outside safely. Walk your dog in a local park. Run around your neighbourhood. Cycle a new loop in your town. Do some stretching outside. Above all, take care of yourself and each other.

We’ll ride this out together.

## Related articles
- [How to stay connected to the outdoors while you’re at home](/en/article/how-to-stay-connected-to-the-outdoors-while-youre-at-home)
- [Fun indoor activities for outdoorsy kids](/en/article/fun-indoor-activities-for-outdoorsy-kids)
- [Tips to train for rock climbing at home](/en/article/how-to-train-for-rock-climbing-from-home)



How to keep moving during COVID-19, with physical distancing in mind. Now’s the time to work together to learn new ways of being outside when and where we can.

Tips to exercise outdoors safely while social distancing

Looking for things to do with your kids? We checked in with a crew of parents from MEC to see how they’ve been spending time and keeping things interesting close to home.

## Make a time capsule
Dig out a glass jar or box from your recycling bin and get your kids to fill it with cool things to discover years down the road. Maybe it’s a drawing of their pet, a list of things all the outdoor activities they want to try over the next 10 years, or a story about their favourite outdoor memory. Break out the construction paper, glue and markers to decorate it all up, too.

## Have a home campout
Set up camp in your living room or backyard. “We set up the tent in the backyard for our four-year-old both days last weekend,” says MEC staffer Brock. “We pulled in sleeping bags and mattresses and had a sleepover with Pooh Bear, stuffed rabbit, owl and monster. We weathered out some imaginary storms, had imaginary tea, and then the animals wrestled for what was probably 15 minutes but seemed like an hour.”

## Learn the stars
A clear night is perfect to learn constellations from your backyard. You can go the traditional route with a [star dial](/en/product/4008-584/Night-Sky-Star-Dial) (great for future camping trips). Or you can download a free astronomy app like SkyView Lite. “What I like about this app,” says MEC member Mike, “is that it connects the dots of constellations and shows an animation with the name to make visualizing the constellation easier. You can also use it to see where the moon and sun are below the horizon.”

## Pack a picnic
Pack up a cooler of goodies, lay out a blanket in your living room, patio or backyard, and dig in for a household picnic. If there’s snow on the ground, bring out [sleeping bags](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-and-pads/sleeping-bags/c/1410) and toques for a winter version outdoors (highly recommend [hot chocolate](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/drinks/coffee-and-hot-chocolate/c/1581) in this case). [Camping cutlery](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/camp-dinnerware/eating-utensils-and-cutlery-sets/c/1275) gives any picnic an outdoorsy vibe.



## Plan an outdoor movie night
If the weather is warm enough, set up your laptop or tablet to stream movies in a backyard tent or on your patio. If it’s too chilly or outdoor space isn’t possible (or your wifi cuts out when you step outside), create an “outdoor movie night” inside. Kids can help set up a tent, rearrange couch cushions to make a fort, or even create a drive-in movie theatre vibe by raiding the recycling bin to make a cardboard box car to sit in.

## Build birdhouses
“Last weekend, we built some birdhouses,” said MEC staffer Jason, dad to two boys. “Robin nesting season is just around the corner, so it was a well-timed project for the backyard.” If you’re in in an apartment, or don’t have the tools or wood to make a real birdhouse handy, kids could construct cardboard birdhouses – it’s all about creativity and keeping busy, so sometimes the end project is just as fun when it’s craft-focused.

## Go on an animal safari
A clever way to make old toys seem new for toddlers? Present them in fresh ways. “My 21-month-year-old knows a lot of animal names,” says MEC staffer Carolyn. “When he’s not in the room, we spread out all his animal toys (on tables, shelves, window sills), so we can spot them together. I ask him ‘Where’s your bear?’ and he scans the room until he finds it. It’s pretty adorable.”

## Give little ones a daily discovery
“Toddlers have an incredibly short attention span, and they’re curious about anything they haven’t seen or touched before.” says Carolyn. “So every few days, I leave out a random new object in a place we can watch him discover it, like on the coffee table. It’s been a hit! Highly successful daily deliveries so far have included a cardboard box, a hiking backpack, and a muffin tray with reusable silicone muffin cups.”



## Have an activity treasure hunt
Sketch out a map of your house – better yet, ask the kids to do it – and set up age-appropriate activities for them to find, then mark their locations on the map. The activities don’t need to be fancy, since hunting for them adds to the adventure. Some ideas for “activity treasure” are below – be prepared to spend some time playing along, depending on the activity:

- Nature-based colouring book pages ([download some free ones here](https://www.coloringnature.org/))
- An old hiking sock with spare buttons and fabric to make it into a sock puppet
- Trail mix challenge: what ingredients can they combine for their own special mix?
- House-friendly [camp games](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/games-and-gifts/games/c/1225), like [indoor bocce](/en/product/5037-788/backpack-bocce)
- Collage art station with old magazines
- Daily bingo page of things for them do see or spot

*Stay tuned to @mec social channels for skills sessions, #goodtimesinside activity tips and stories to keep you connected to the outdoors.*



Looking for things to do with your kids? We checked in with a crew of parents from MEC to see how they’ve been spending time and keeping things interesting close to home.