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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Do you know someone who differentiates between “ready” and “ready to go”? Do they have clocks purposefully set 5 minutes *slow* because they “hate feeling rushed”? Save yourself the eye roll and data charges you’ll incur while you wait for them, and get them a time-saving gift off this list instead.

If you have a buddy or family member with a resolution to be more punctual in 2019, then these ideas can help keep them organized and get them out the door faster… even if they do push the snooze button a couple of times.

## 1. Chocolate incentives


If you can’t beat ‘em, incentivize ‘em to be on time with a [chocolate treat](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/snacks-and-energy-bars/chocolate-bars/c/1669). A sweet pick-me-up functions as fuel and motivation to get going, especially in the cold winter months.

## 2. Wrinkle-free pants


Let them skip ironing with the [MEC Trek Pants](/en/product/6018-590/trek-pants?colour=Black).

> “Just bought these and they look great, super comfy as well. The black are suitable for work but also great for the bike ride there and home. Great for casual wear too.” – from review on mec.ca
>
## 3. Grippy traction devices


Bad winter weather? Don’t let a few unshoveled sidewalks slow them down. These [Kahtoola Nanospikes](/en/product/5044-174/NANOspikes-Footwear-Traction) quickly slip over different shoe types so they can get to their destination instead of slipping around.

## 4. A “hides everything” beanie


Late because they had to wash their hair? The [MEC Relaxed Toque](/en/product/5061-864/relaxed-merino-toque) takes shampoo (but maybe not the shower) out of the equation. Pop it on to save time dealing with a hairbrush and gel on extra-busy days.

## 5. Packing cubes


Maybe they’re always late because they can’t find what they’re looking for. Easy-to-organize [packing cubes](/en/product/5054-177/Travel-Light-Packing-Cube-3-Pack-Multisize) should clear that up.

## 6. Blundstones


Save precious seconds by eliminating shoelaces with [slip-on Blundstones](/en/brand/blundstone/products/footwear/boots/casual-boots/c/1503). Other bonuses: they can walk fast without worrying about untied laces, and may not even have to change shoes when they get to work.

## 7. A techy watch


Send a confirmation text, right to their wrist. The [Garmin Forerunner 255](/en/product/6023-202/forerunner-255?colour=Slate) also has a countdown timer, but no snooze feature, means they won’t be able to delay when the clock says it’s time to go. Looking for something *way* simpler? The [Casio Water Resist Watch](/en/product/5007-038/Water-Resist-Watch) has an alarm feature and a battery that lasts for 7 years (just in case their phone dies).



Speaking of phones dying… “I’m late because my phone died,” is a no-go excuse after gifting them a portable charger ([see Goal Zero chargers here](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-electronics/chargers-and-adapters/portable-chargers-and-power-packs/c/1570?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=goal%20zero)!).

## 9. See-through pouches


Lost keys and misplaced cards are things of the past thanks to colour-coded [mesh pouches](/en/product/5057-872/Mesh-Pouch-3-Pack-Multisize). The mesh makes it easy to spot what’s inside each one.

## 10. Running socks


These [Stance socks](/en/products/c/300/brands/stance?offset=32) are supportive and breathable. Because we know they’re always running to the bus/train/parking lot.

## 11. Daypack


They’ll never forget their keys in their other bag when they have the [MEC Trail 24 Pack](/en/product/6022-187/trail-24-pack?colour=Black) that’s durable enough to use on the daily.

## 13. A go-to to-go mug


Late because they stopped for coffee? Check out our selection of [insulated travel mugs](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/travel-mugs/c/1791?filters%5Bcustom_fields.features%5D%5B0%5D=insulated) to keep coffee they brewed at home hot for hours. Some designed to be leak-resistant, which is handy for anyone who has to gather up stuff in their backpack and take off in a flash.

## 13. GPS


Made a wrong turn? Got lost? We’ve heard that one before. A GPS like the [Garmin eTrex 30X](/en/product/6005-204/etrex-22x-gps) clears those excuses right up.

## 14. Travel alarm clock


Let me guess. They set their alarm for a.m. instead of p.m.? This trusty travel alarm clock from Casio has a 24-hour format to catch chronic oversleepers.

> “Best alarm clock ever. I am a student, so waking up on time is not easy, but crucial. This alarm is plenty loud, and plenty strong to withstand my nightstand bashings (the back flipper part on which it stands seems flimsy but it just doesn’t break).” – from review on mec.ca
>
## 15. Bike tune up


A [gift card](/en/product/5027-227/MEC-E-Gift-Card) for a [bike tune-up](/en/explore/bike-service) helps them ride faster and smoother, which is especially helpful if (when) they’re running late.

## 16. Carabiner for keys


Lost keys are a thing of the past with these [carabiners and keychains](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/accessory-carabiners-and-key-holders/c/796)  – they keep keys organized and safely clipped away from couch cushions and under the bed.

And of course, the gift of more time together is the best gift of all. These options will (hopefully) give you both more of it.

*A big, well-timed thank you to MEC staffer Tiff for being the super-punctual watch wearer in our photos.*



## See more gift ideas
- [Gifts for people who really, really like coffee](/en/article/gift-ideas-for-people-who-really-really-like-coffee)
- [23 travel gift ideas for globetrotters and frequent flyers](/en/article/23-travel-gifts-for-globetrotters-and-frequent-flyers)
- [Gifts for people who love cabins and cottages](/en/article/gifts-for-people-who-love-cabins-and-cottages)





If they say “sorry I’m late” more often than they say “hello,” it might be time for a wake-up call. Literally. See tons of time-saving gift ideas for them.

Gifts for the person who’s always late | MEC Blog

Gifts for the person who’s always late

*The Suunto 9 Baro is Suunto’s newest sports watch targeted towards endurance athletes and ultra-athletes. To put it through its paces, we looked for someone who loves to run and knows numbers. MEC staffer Kathy was training for her next marathon, so the timing was perfect. If you have your eye on a watch upgrade, read this Suunto 9 review to learn about some of the watch’s cool features and a run-down of who will love this watch.*

I’m a recreational runner that enters a couple of marathons and a few half-marathons each year, so though my expectations for a sports watch may be a little less than ultra elite athletes, it’s still important that my watch does what I need in a way that’s easy to use. I had the chance to try out the Suunto 9 to see what type of features it has, including what features everyday users will appreciate.

## Setting up the Suunto 9
The Suunto 9 is super-easy to set up; just press the middle button then follow the screen prompts. I recommend checking out the [Suunto 9 support videos](https://www.suunto.com/en-ca/Support/sports-watches-support/suunto-9/) to quickly learn how to pair the device with your smartphone. The Suunto 9 syncs to the new Suunto mobile app as opposed to Suunto’s older Movescount app, which I mistakenly loaded onto my phone first. After a few extra steps to “forget” Movescount on my watch and uninstall Movescount from my phone, I was able to sync with the correct app.



## Let’s talk numbers
The Suunto 9 checks all the boxes in terms of what I look for in a sports watch, and the app provides useful analysis of all the usual running metrics including distance, cadence, pace, heart rate, laps, intensity zones, altitude and hours of sleep. In run mode, I could receive analyses of laps in 1, 2, and 5km increments, look at my 30-day activity summary, and check out my heart rate, pace and altitude during any point of my route.

This watch gives you 80 different activities to choose from – everything from yoga to cheerleading. When I was testing it out, I ran, hiked, cycled and mountain biked. To measure heart rate, it has an optical heart rate sensor; as I tried it out during different activities, I found that the optical heart rate monitor was less accurate during my runs. At times the max spiked to 200 bpm, which was almost 50 over my actual. This might have been because I was wearing the watch band too loose; I have a small 14cm wrist, and watches tend to loosen depending on my body temperature. If you’re looking for the most accurate heart rate reading with this watch – I’d recommend pairing it with a heart rate strap, or purchase the Suunto 9 Baro with the HRM strap.

Beside the activity stats, the Suunto 9 includes a count-down timer, stopwatch and notifications from your smart phone (texts, calls, emails) that pop up on the watch face. You can scroll through your notifications history right in the watch, though if you want to delete anything, you’ll need to do it from the mobile app.

## Connecting to apps
You can use Facebook to share your activities or follow other members. The watch doesn’t sync directly to Strava, but you can add the Movescount app, which does. If you use both Movescount and the Suunto mobile app, you can take advantage of some other Movescount features too. For example, you’ll need Movescount to use the watch GPS “Routes” plans.

Note: I selected the Explore function in the Suunto mobile app, which lets you map routes that will sync to the Routes function in the watch, but I got a message telling me this feature is not yet available. (Hopefully this comes soon.) Suunto recommends installing Movescount to your computer if you use both apps.

## Look and feel
The Suunto 9 is a statement; it has a large, thick face with a wide band. Being a 5’1” gal with small wrists, the watch face is about the width of my wrist. People of a similar stature may prefer a watch with a smaller profile. The strap is wide, soft and comfortable, with ample notches to fit even the smallest wrists while creating airspace to allow your wrist to breathe. The strap is also replaceable and Suunto has a selection of colours and styles to keep things fun.

Like all larger sports watches, the thickness of the watch and rubber strap means it can be tricky getting tight-sleeved shirts and jackets on and off (a minor annoyance, but something to think about if you plan to do some de-layering mid-run).

## A few highlights
The touchscreen is one of my favourite features and lets you scroll through the functions and settings quickly and easily. When you touch the screen and hold it, the shortcuts screen appears so you can access anything you need in just a few quick seconds. Just like the touchscreen on your phone, it works very well as long as your screen is dry. As I found out on a particularly rainy hike, a wet watch face is not a happy one; if it’s wet out or if you’re really sweaty, it’s best to switch to the 3 side buttons to access the watch functions.



The watch alarm has a pleasant 3-note beep and when you wake up you’re greeted with a friendly “Good morning!” message and your sleep stats. The sleep stats include hours slept, time over/under your sleep goal, average heart rate, time you fell asleep, time you woke, time awake and hours of deep sleep. You can also hit the snooze button for extra minutes of sleep, a nice feature to have on the weekend.

## Suunto 9 battery power
The highlight of this watch and a major reason it appeals to ultra-athletes (and those of us who don’t enjoy recharging our devices every day) is the 3 battery power modes:

- **Performance mode**: Rated for 25 hours in training mode with GPS. This setting uses the most battery power since it gives the best GPS accuracy and maximum brightness. I used this mode to run a marathon distance and needed to recharge the watch after about 48 hours.
- **Endurance mode**: Rated for 50 hours in training mode with 20% brightness, and “good” GPS accuracy. I use this mode the most for everyday use and weekly activities, as it gives me about 5 days on one charge averaging around 2 to 3 hours of activity per day.
- **Ultra mode**: Rated for an amazing 120 hours of battery life in training mode with GPS. The display screen operates at 10% normal brightness and “okay” GPS accuracy. The display is noticeably dimmer at this setting, so I would only recommend it for the most extreme endurance events.

With endurance and ultra modes, the GPS readings are further apart to lengthen battery life, but the accuracy of the GPS remains sound thanks to Suunto’s FusedTrack technology that uses motion sensors to fill in the gaps.

Regardless of what battery mode you select, once you hit a navigation function during your activity, the watch automatically switches to the best GPS accuracy. If the battery starts to run low during your activity, it’ll give you a warning and ask if you want to switch modes. The Suunto 9 also learns and remembers your activity days and notices if the remaining battery power may not be enough for the length of your usual activity that day. When this happens, you’ll get a message that allows you to switch to a more battery efficient mode. If the watch is running on fumes, it automatically switches to chrono to ensure it lasts to the end of your activity.

Serious athletes will appreciate FusedSpeed, which combines wrist acceleration and GPS data to more accurately measure running speed. FusedSpeed is great when you’re running trails or doing intervals, somewhere a GPS may not capture the data.



## Who will love this watch?
The Suunto 9 will appeal to serious athletes and anyone who is interested in analyzing their performances from a high level right down to the tiny details. It’s also amazing for people who don’t want the worry that their activities will outlast their watch battery. It’s built for users who place a lot of importance on accurate and reliable performance statistics and GPS data and who are out “doing their thing” over long periods of time.

For those less “ultra,” the fact that you potentially don’t need to charge this watch for long periods of time is a definite bonus.



## Related articles
- [Test run: overview of the Fenix 5X Plus Sapphire](/en/article/test-run-overview-of-the-garmin-fenix-5x-plus-sapphire)
- [What’s the best running watch for you?](/en/article/whats-the-best-running-watch-for-you)
- [How to prepare for a long trail run](/en/explore/how-to-prepare-for-a-long-trail-run)



The Suunto 9 is Suunto’s newest sports watch targeted towards endurance athletes and ultra-athletes. To put it through its paces, we asked an MEC staffer who loves to run and knows numbers.

Test run: Suunto 9 Baro Review | MEC Blog

Test run: Suunto 9 Baro watch review

Have you started poking through your closets for the extra-warm layers yet? Cold weather is on its way, so even if you’re not quite mentally prepared for it, you might as well make sure you’re physically wrapped up. Here’s the gear that’s getting us pumped for lower temps, along with the latest from GoPro (hint: it starts with HERO7).

## Salomon Sense Ride Shoes


Special-edition colours available exclusively at MEC. The purple and green trail runners have generous cushioning and give you a good feel for the ground – great for long, technical trail runs and rough surfaces. The black waterproof versions can help you breeze through wet, wild trail runs. They use Invisible Fit technology to laminate the GORE-TEX® membrane directly to the upper, adding waterproof-breathable protection with next-to-no additional weight.



The latest from GoPro is landing, just in time for ski season and winter trips to sunny destinations.

**HERO7 Black**: The best-of-the-best, offering more features and smoother, sharper, better-looking video than ever before. One of the coolest new features? HyperSmooth video stabilization uses internal sensors to predict your movements, which means the smoothest, gimbal-free on-the-move footage ever to come out of an action camera.

**HERO7 Silver**: Immersive 4K30 video is smooth and clear, letting you share the feeling of your adventures. If you’re looking to up your GoPro game (but aren’t quite ready for the HERO7 Black), this is a solid option.

**HERO7 White**: GoPro has crammed a lot of tech into the HERO7 White, the most affordable camera in the new HERO7 line. Great for people who want to share their videos and pics with friends and family.



## The North Face Reversible Perrito Jacket


The recycled face fabric is treated with a water-repellent finish to ward off big wet snowflakes, and elastic binding trim on the hood, cuffs and hem keeps out chilly winds. A thoughtful asymmetric zip with a chinguard keeps zipper hardware away from your kiddo’s tender chin, while the stashable fold-over mitts can’t be dropped (or thrown away).



## Craft Fuseknit Comfort Wrap Long Sleeve


This base layer top uses bodymapped fabric structures to keep you warm without overheating during high-output activities. Great for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and cold-weather running.



## Gore Bike Wear C5 Gore Windstopper Thermo Jacket


Extend your shredding into the cold months with this totally windproof shell designed specifically for mountain biking. GORE® WINDSTOPPER® provides time-tested water resistance, durability and breathability, and is ideal for high-output riding in cold weather. The soft fleece lining wears well next to skin and helps manage moisture, while handy ventilation ports let you dump heat on the climbs.



Lightweight, casual, waterproof boots made for long commutes and weekend wanders through the flea market. The suede upper confidently takes on sudden showers, while the wool-lined collar is cozy against your ankle. A grippy rubber outsole stands up to the daily grind.



## The North Face Shellista II Waterproof Insulated Mid Boots


Stand out in a sea of black boots with this incredibly warm, waterproof offering from TNF. Bright hues and a chunky knit collar combine with quality insulation and serious outsoles in a boot that ticks all the boxes for cold commutes and winter play.



B Yoga is now at MEC – nice! Choose from the cushy 4mm mat for everyday-use or the light and packable 2mm traveller version for carry-on travel or stashing at your office.



Keep your mat clean and protected between home and the studio. The Manduka Breathe Easy Bag is made of quick drying polyester with a mesh panel for breathability. Fits small to medium-sized yoga mats.



Less slip, more grip. Both of these traction devices provide stability and strap onto your own footwear.

- **Spike Pro Traction Devices** (left): Ideal for winter walks, hikes or even trail running. Hardy steel cleats and chain system strap onto your shoes or boots to give you grip along riverside paths and on forest paths.
- **Run Lite Traction Devices** (right): Ideal for road or trail running. Lightweight traction devices fit over your running shoes so you can put in the miles, even in the heart of winter. Replaceable tungsten cleats on the forefoot and heel add confidence to your step on ice or snow.



Imagine you’re ski touring, mountaineering, or snowshoeing in your favourite softshell pants, and you stop for a break. You reach in your pack, grab your Uplink Skirt (that’s been incognito, stashed away in your pack), and pull it on quickly over your boots. Instantly, you’re protected from post-activity chills and ready to sit at any snowy picnic spot.



Banish the shivers on chilly belays, backcountry ski transitions or winter camping trips. The RAB Electron Jacket uses premium 800-fill-power water-repellent goose down to wrap you in you toasty warmth. Small baffles reduce bulk in the shoulders, while large ones eliminate cold spots in the torso where you feel the cold most. Wear it under your shell, or let the Pertex Endurance shell fabric shed light precip and wind when you wear it on its own.



## Related articles
- [The ultimate guide to keeping your kids warm all winter](/en/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-keeping-your-kids-warm-all-winter)
- [How to start winter running: tips and gear](/en/article/how-to-start-winter-running-tips-and-gear)
- [How to start snowshoeing](/en/explore/how-to-start-snowshoeing)





Cold weather’s coming, so you might as well be ready. Here’s the gear that’s getting us pumped for lower temps, along with the latest from GoPro (hint: it starts with HERO7).

What’s new this week | MEC Blog

What’s new this week

September is the time of year when you can sneak in some serious activity without the “ahhhh-gotta-do-it-all!” wild energy of summer. Weekend trips without crowds. Training for a 10K without sweating the minute you step outside. Riding to work and enjoying the quieter bike lanes.

To help you make the most of it all, here’s this gear we’re stoked on this week, including a pack our designer says “is the coolest stuff [he’s] ever made”:



## Wahoo Fitness Kickr Climb Indoor Trainer Grade Simulator


A grade simulator unlike any other, the Wahoo Kickr Climb Simulator raises the front of your bike to match the incline or your training routes. If you want to get better at riding hills, you have to ride hills, and that means changing your posture and grip to engage different muscles and use different pedalling techniques. Real-time grade changes allow for up to 20% inclines and 10% descent simulations.



This lightweight running jacket lets you cut through a headwind on lunchtime runs, but it really shines after dark. With an all-over reflective print, it makes sure you’re visible from all angles, giving you peace of mind when your long run keeps you out past dusk. Windproof and water-resistant nylon stands up to inclement weather, and it’s lightweight enough to stuff into your running pack or pocket once the wind drops.



The designer behind the Vapour Series says “this is the coolest stuff I’ve ever made.” Which is saying a lot, because he has designed some pretty sweet gear over the years.

- This pack is impressively lightweight, especially when you factor in that it’s made from burly nylon that’s completely waterproof (with fully taped seams, to boot).
- The internal divider keeps you organized while you’re travelling, and the padded back panel and shoulder straps keep you comfortable.
- A 15-inch laptop sleeve and dimensions approved by most airlines make it just right for going carry-on only on your next trip.



Don’t damage your pocket knife by using it on oysters – use the right tool for the right job. The Opinel Oyster Knife follows a design that has remained nearly unchanged since 1955. Included instructions show you the safest and most efficient way to extract oysters.



The closest thing to climbing barefoot, but better. Offering finger-like grabbing ability and designed for maximum toe sensitivity, the Furia S is ready to grip whatever you’re sending. An Integral Power Rib adds structure for precisions and adaptability, while the microsuede fabric supports your movement but doesn’t loosen over time.



## Merrell Sugarbush Braden Waterproof Boots


These boots have a premium leather upper with a waterproof liner to wick moisture away from your foot and keep puddles on the outside. Laces sit in metallic loops shaped to help you get the perfect snug fit for weekend wanders and treks to the market. The Vibram® sole is known for its long-wearing traction, so you know you’ll be together for the long game.



## Portland Design Works Gravity+ USB Tail Light


Does your bike have a brake light? It could. The Gravity+ from Portland Design Works has an internal accelerometer that triggers a bright red light as you brake or swerve, instantly letting those around you know to pay attention. Whether you’re riding in a pack, on a busy seawall or in traffic, an easy way to let those around you know when you’re slowing down or changing direction is a game changer.

- Besides the accelerometer-driven features, it has both a steady and a flashing red light mode.
- Steady 20 lumens (12 hours) and flashing 80 lumens (30 hours). Brake light shines 100 attention-getting lumens of red light.
- Easy USB charging means you can top up your battery nearly anywhere you go.



Gravity Tail Light by Portland Design Works

A stretchy, athletic mid-layer for striking out into the mountains or down the piste. Smooth, soft fleece slides easily under a shell jacket, and the cozy hood keeps your head warm when the wind picks up. Stretchy enough to move with you on long reaches or pre-dawn warmups, it has flatlock seams to prevent chafing during long days on the trail. Dries quickly so you can wear it again after lunch, tomorrow, the next day…



## Outside Inside Freestyle mini Disk Golf


Flex your Frolf skills almost anywhere with this compact disk golf kit. Includes: collapsible target, 6 mini-discs, instructions, and a carry bag.



## Pearl Izumi Elite Pursuit Thermal Long-sleeved Jersey


Grey days and dark winter mornings call for a bright thermal jersey. The Elite Pursuit’s warm thermal fleece keeps you comfortable while you warm up, then wicks moisture as you pick up the pace. Handy pockets hold a spare tube, a snack and your phone, and reflective details keep you visible on pre-dawn training rides.



## Related articles
- [What not to do when fall bike commuting](/en/article/what-not-to-do-when-fall-bike-commuting)
- [How to choose rock climbing shoes](/en/explore/choose-your-climbing-shoes)
- [What to pack in your carry-on capsule wardrobe](/en/article/what-to-pack-in-your-carry-on-travel-capsule-wardrobe)



“This is the coolest stuff I’ve ever made,” according to the designer of the pack on this week’s list. Along with that pack, check out gear to set you up for fun in fall (even if there’s a downpour on the radar).

What's new this week | MEC Blog

Earlier sunsets and cooler mornings are slinking into our routines, which means it’s time to assess your current layering system and see if any upgrades are in order. Along with warmer layers, we’ve also got some handy reusable straws, a Suunto watch with crazy good battery life, and a whole new way to explore the water in this week’s edition of what’s new:

## MEC Mission Possible Top


Add a light layer of warmth to your winter running, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing or outdoor training. This versatile midlayer has a stripped-down design that makes it easy to pack, giving you something cozy to grab if the temperature drops earlier than you expected.



Plastic straws may be convenient, but they’re not great for our planet and its ocean life. This platinum silicone straw is flexible, durable and non-toxic, so you can feel better about your choices, one sip at a time.



With an aircraft aluminum V-ring belt buckle and burly webbing, the Last Chance light duty belt won’t let you – or your pants – down. Wide 38mm profile sits snugly in most belt loops.



Rugged denim ages gracefully, earning a broken-in look that money can’t buy. Snap front placket and cuffs mean no time wasted fussing with buttons. Good to know: Levi’s sources more than 17% of its cotton through the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). The BCI is a not-for-profit association committed to a holistic approach to sustainable cotton production.



A hint of spandex means they won’t hold you back if you feel a high kick coming on. 5-pocket layout for all your day-to-day necessities.



Whether you’re racing an ultra or trying to beat your PB, Suunto’s 9 Baro has the power to be with you every step of the way.

- Battery life is 25 – 336h (up to 120h in activity tracking or GPS tracking mode).
- One key reason that Suunto is able to achieve these runtimes is its FusedTrack system. FusedTrack™ uses data from the internal sensors to plot your route between GPS points. By combining the data, you get a track that mirrors your actual track, while only checking into GPS once or twice a minute. All of that means a greatly increased battery life. Currently only works for running and trail running, with open water swimming in the works.
- Over 80 activity modes.
- Pre-set intelligent battery profiles change modes to get specific runtimes and features out of the remaining battery.



If you’re a planning a snorkelling trip or are aiming to progress to freediving, check out the masks, fins and floats from Omer or Sporasub.



When temperatures dip and snowflakes start to fall, these warm winter jacket help kids stay out longer. Fully taped seams ensure water won’t eventually work its way in.

- Waterproof-breathable and Primaloft Black Eco insulated construction for mixed-bag conditions.
- A powder skirt keeps snow on the outside when the drifts are thigh-deep.
- Soft fleece-lined collar and chin guard is comfortable, even when the jacket’s zipped all the way up.
- A helmet-compatible hood, secure zippered pockets, and a D-ring for a lift pass for winter days on the slopes.



## Helly Hansen Vertical Insulated Bib Pants


Every toboggan crew needs the right uniform. These insulated, waterproof bib pants are adjustable to last through a growth spurt or two before it’s time to hand them down. Reinforced seat, knees and legs stand up to the demands of snow day after snow day.



A warm jacket with a lot to hide – it’s secretly also a rain coat and a light down layer. Wear them separately in between seasons and together in the deepest parts of winter. The classic style is totally waterproof-breathable with a DWR finish and sealed seams – always welcome on cold November mornings when the streetcar’s running late.



A wearable field guide. Made of soft organically grown cotton, the Forest Flora tee lets you practice your plant identification skills in between hikes. For every product sold, United By Blue removes 1 pound of trash from the world’s oceans and waterways.



Stay sure-footed this fall and winter. The waterproof leather upper and sealed seams keep rain and puddles out. An insole made of memory foam means they’re as comfortable as they are nice-looping, and the slip-resistant outsole adds extra traction to your tracks.



## Related articles
- [All about clothing layers](/en/explore/clothing-layers)
- [How to prepare for a long trail run](/en/explore/how-to-prepare-for-a-long-trail-run)
- [How to choose a wetsuit ](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-wetsuit)



Fresh picks for fall (yes, it’s coming), along with unique items for year-round activities.

*Planning some epics? We checked with MEC Ambassador [Joshua Lavigne](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nCioSAoHcM) – who has committed his life to climbing – for his picks on the gear that hasn’t let him down. Here’s Joshua’s favourite mountain gear for alpine big wall climbing and alpine climbing, and why they made the list:*

## Therm-a-rest Neoair Xtherm Sleeping Pad


It’s expensive but it’s worth it. Lots of alpinists don’t like using air mattresses, but I’ve found that if you’re careful and make sure that you keep the mattress fully inflated, then you can sleep directly on rocky surfaces and it won’t breach. You don’t want this to fail when you’re out there.

I’ve stopped bringing sleeping bags on big climbs and only use a tarp and NeoAir mattress if it’s not going to be colder then -5°C. A hot water bottle on my belly, a tarp, a good spooning partner, ear plugs and some sleeping pills usually do the trick.



A great stove for melting water and cooking quickly. It doesn’t work well for simmering, so keep an eye on your soup so it doesn’t boil over.



I’ve found the Sterling rope to be a great lightweight rope for alpine missions. It’s a little skinny for granite big wall climbing, especially if you’re planning on jugging, but it’s proven to be light, supple and durable in most conditions.



The T3 hoodie has been my go-to winter and alpine climbing base layer for years. It’s the perfect combination of lightweight, durable and breathable. I love the long zipper and the snug hood.



Highpoint Pants are durable and stretchy climbing-oriented mountain pants. They have a slim fit and are very breathable. They have a no fuss minimalist design with a nicely constructed cargo pocket, a simple drawcord at the waist and eyelets on the ankle hem to add a cord to keep them tight over your boots. I find them a little light for winter climbing, but they’re great the rest of the year.



## Scarpa Phantom Tech Mountaineering boots


An incredible alpinist boot. Lightweight, technical and durable. The zipper is a little long and needs to be maintained, but I haven’t had any issues with many seasons on my boots.



This is great down sleeping bag with 800+ fill. It has a beautiful fabric that feels like being wrapped in a silk kimono, but it’s still water-resistant and durable. The Talon hasn’t just kept me warm, it’s saved me and my partner after becoming hypothermic in an Arctic rainstorm on Mount Asgard.



If lightening your load is critical to success, then these cams are the bee’s knees. They can cut 25% off a rack of cams and still offer the range of protection as the traditional BD Camalots. I’d suggest that the grey 0.4 has a fat stem that’s a little too big in some circumstances, but the rest are featherweight and robust.



Camalot™ Ultralight

These tools have been perfected over years of development and craftsmanship. The slim yet solid design is what separates these tools from the pack, but the weight and swing really deliver the goods on steep alpine ice and rock.



## Related articles
- [Gear I love: a Canadian climbing champ’s bouldering essentials](/en/article/gear-i-love-a-canadian-climbing-champs-bouldering-essentials)
- [Gear I love: one pro climber’s summer essentials](/en)
- [How to plan an expedition](/en/article/how-to-plan-an-expedition)



Been there, climbed that, and here’s the gear that helped make it happen. For big wall missions and alpine climbing.

Gear I love: Alpinist Joshua Lavigne’s gnarly gear picks | MEC Blog

Gear I love: Alpinist Joshua Lavigne’s gnarly gear picks

Climbers, runners, campers, cyclists and travellers: we’ve got something for all of you in this week’s edition of new products landing at MEC. One of the most exciting things to arrive? It’s for kayakers – and it’s the first-ever MEC recreational kayak. Get a closer look at all this outdoor-activity potential below.

## BioLite FirePit


There are some things you could just watch forever, and one of them is a campfire. This stainless steel portable firepit gives you a 360-degree view of the blaze through X-ray mesh side panels.

- Inside the pit, there’s a rechargeable battery-powered fan with 4 different flame settings.
- The fan is Bluetooth-compatible, which means you can control the intensity of your campfire from the palm of your hand or across the campsite.
- Thanks to 51 airjets that improve burning efficiency, this pit produces less smoke than a traditional fire.



There’s hand cream, and then there’s hand cream for climbers. Apply ClimbSkin an hour or two before your climb to let it start working its magic.



## Hoka Hupana Knit Jacquard Cross Training Shoes


Road running shoes with responsive midsoles that feel cushy but springy as you rack up the kilometres. The svelte knit upper is ultra-breathable and light, so it feels like an extension of your foot.



Snap these on and be visible. These clip-on magnetic reflectors are easy to use on any piece of clothing – great for cyclists, dog walkers or runners.



Fantastic for travelling. Made from streamlined nylon, it’s light enough to carry all day but also durable enough to survive jostling under your train seat or close encounters while sightseeing. What’s more, the whole thing packs away neatly into its own pocket to make for fast storing or packing into your checked bag.



The first-ever recreational kayak from MEC! This super-stable Rover Kayak is a comfortable, easy-to-manage boat that’s great for exploring the shoreline near your cottage or getting in a little cross-training on the weekend.

- A wide, flat hull helps it hold steady as you paddle about, and a sharp bow entry line lets it track well for such a short kayak.
- Durable shell stands up to lots of launches from the beach or dock
- Watertight compartment lets you pack lunch with confidence, knowing your treats won’t wind up waterlogged.



A slim seat bag to hold a spare tube and CO2 inflator. It expands with a quick zip when you need to cram in gloves, a helmet liner or arm warmers.



Show what you’re about – wild places, mountains, road trips – with these new graphics on classic tees. As always, the shirts are made of soft, organically grown cotton, are Fair-Trade Certified, and are Bluesign®-approved fabric.



Soft and lightweight fabric to keep you comfortable when you’re running errands or exploring the next town over. Plus, pockets! Made of naturally wicking and odour-controlling Tencel sourced from responsibly forested eucalyptus trees.



## Related articles
- [All about kayaks](/en/explore/about-kayaks)
- [What to pack in your carry-on travel capsule wardrobe](/en/article/what-to-pack-in-your-carry-on-travel-capsule-wardrobe)
- [What’s new this week: last week’s edition](/en/article/whats-new-this-week-10)



A first-ever product for MEC is part of this week’s list, along with new items to make your climbing, running, camping, biking and travelling summer keep getting better.

It’s rad to hear about all the summer adventures members are getting up to, from quick-hit weekend getaways to long trips where you finally settle into a vacation groove with morning coffee on day 5.

To set you up for good times, the latest batch of new gear to land at MEC includes some excellent travel items, a headlamp that you can use as a bike light, easy to pull on kids’ Blundstones, the redesigned MEC Uplink Jacket and lots more.

## Ecco Soft 7 Sneaker


Classic lace-ups are elevated by a rich, dark leather upper to carry you through from morning commute to happy-hour tacos. A surprisingly lightweight chunky rubber sole stands up to the daily grind.



Why carry your bulky winter coat on fickle-weather days or weekend getaways? This lightweight insulated jacket packs up into its own pocket for deployable protection whenever you need it – or to become a pillow on long flights or overnight train rides.



No rope left behind. The Escaper lets you rappel a full rope length and then release the rope from the anchor, making it a solid backup in case your rap line becomes lost, stuck or damaged. Loop it through the anchor and back through itself, attach it to one end of your rope to create a strong hold, then descend normally. Once you’re at the bottom, tug it free.



## Portland Design Works Pathfinder Headlight


The Pathfinder has a custom reflector that focuses light down into your riding line where you need it most. Light above the riding line helps keep you visible, but it also wastes power and dazzles those around you.

- Custom-engineered reflector focuses up to 200 lumens down to your riding line.
- To make sure you don’t drop off anyone’s radar, 2 surface-mounted LEDs flash brightly.
- Easy USB charging means you can top up your battery nearly anywhere you go.
- Weatherproof housing means if you’re willing to ride in it, the Pathfinder will light your way.



This full-sized backpack is ready to trek through Thailand and converts to a suitcase for checking into respectable hotels when you’re tired of roughing it. Once you’ve checked in to your temporary home, grab the integrated fully featured daypack and go explore the area.

- Panel covers the shoulder straps and hipbelt to safely check it for a flight. Panel stows when not in use.
- Large zippers let you access the main compartment and an integrated spill gate keeps your gear from falling out when you unzip.
- Integrated rain cover keeps your belongings dry.



## Garmin Vector 3 Pedals Dual-Sensing Power Meter


This dual-sided power-meter provides plenty of cycling dynamics data including left/right balance, time spent in and out of the saddle, power phase analysis as well as platform offset centre, which measures where you’re applying force in relation to the centre of the pedal. With an industry-leading 1% accuracy and measurements taken at the pedals, you can confidently say that every watt it picks up was produced by you.



Sandbagged by an abrupt change in the weather? Whip this super-light technical jacket out of your pack or unclip it from your harness and slide it on. The close cut and elastic quilting underarm and back panels keep the outline lean and eliminate air spaces. Thermolilte synthetic insulation retains warmth when wet.



These pint-sized versions of the iconic Australian slip-on boot have nifty grab loops that make them easy to pull on. An extra footbed helps it fit growing feet through a growth spurt or two.



The Snap is fully dimmable, allowing you to choose how much light you need from 0–200 lumens. The modular housing lets you take the light off its strap and snap its magnetic base to nearly any metal surface for broad area lighting. Extra included mounts let you easily attach your light to your bike’s handlebars, or anywhere you would hook a carabiner.



In case you stumble across a farmers market or interesting pop-up shop, be prepared with this 13L bag. The Travel Light Tote Pack folds up into its interior pocket, making it easy to toss into your purse, pannier or suitcase. Carry it like a tote bag or deploy the hidden backpack straps for heavier loads.



The vívoactive 3 Music stores up to 500 of your favourite songs and plays them over Bluetooth so there are no cords to get in your way. Plus it has the latest-generation Elevate optical heart-rate monitor to read your pulse information straight off your wrist. Some other highlights:

- GPS and an internal accelerometer track training metrics like speed and distance information, turning your movement into data.
- Internet Live Tracking during activities (through a connected smartphone) allows you to share your location and heartrate with friends, family or coaches.
- Follow daily highs and lows by tracking stressors (monitoring your heart-rate variability). When stress levels are high, a relaxation timer walks you through steps to reduce them.
- Built-in activity modes for biking, running, walking, swimming (indoor only), strength training (with rep counter), and more.



A soft and timeless layer that keeps your neck toasty. The soft organic cotton blend has just hint of spandex for an easy stretch.



## Related articles
- [Travel checklist](/en/explore/travel-checklist)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)
- [How to choose bike lights](/en/explore/choose-bike-lights)



Have a trip coming up? Travel’s a big part of this week’s latest, along with a headlamp that you can use as a bike light, kids’ Blundstones, the redesigned MEC Uplink Jacket and more.