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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

We were pretty dang excited to welcome Tommy Caldwell and the [Edelrid](/en/products/climbing/c/301?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=edelrid) crew to BC for a jam-packed few days of activities. Judging by the massive line-up outside our Vancouver store, the MEC community was pumped too.

So what do you get up to when a climbing legend comes to town? You *CUDDLE*, talk climbing gear and hit Electric Avenue. A massive thank you to Tommy and Edelrid for a fun time with MEC members and staffers – check out the highlights below.

## Day 1: sold-out event
A full house! The evening talk with Tommy sold out in a record-breaking 16 hours. It was great to welcome the climbing community to our store, and all event proceeds went to the [Climbers’ Access Society of British Columbia](https://www.access-society.ca/) – **$4,136 in total**. 


## *CUDDLE* film screening
Attendees got to see Tommy Caldwell’s latest film *CUDDLE*, which covered his latest adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park with Alex Honnold and Adam Stack. 

Tommy told us that it was the first time on film that he’s “truly getting his ass kicked”. Somehow, they managed laughs between a missed resupply, a serious lack of pants, climbing exposed terrain by phone flashlight overnight, and plenty of gut-wrenching hours. 

Here's the preview to give you a sense (the full film is currently available on [Reel Rock](https://reelrocktour.com/products/reel-rock-unlimited)):

During the Q&A session, Tommy weighed in all kinds of topics: weather in the Rockies, environmental advocacy, testing the heck out of products, a 6mm simul-climbing system (for the record, not tested, not approved, not recommended), bringing kids on adventures, risk assessment, and most importantly, the snacks Adam Stack rescued them with during the CDUL (answer: enormous burritos).

Huge thanks to local groups that joined us: [Vancouver Climbers Association](https://www.vanclimbers.com/), [BelayAll](https://www.belayall.com/), [Protect Our Winters Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada) (POW Canada) and the [Climbers’ Access Society of BC](https://www.access-society.ca/). 

Tommy shared how he likes to support at least three non-profits at a time, including the POW Climb athlete alliance. “They’re doing great work on policy to make a real difference for climate change.” We highly recommend checking out POW Canada or your local climbing group – protecting access and the environment keeps crags, cliffs and climbing areas going.


There was plenty of time to say hi, snap a pic, and get gear or books signed. An enormous stack of raffle prizes from Edelrid’s Climb Green collection rounded out the night, and the grand prize was a morning climbing session with Tommy the next day. Nice!

## Day 2: rise and climb
Bright and early the next day, raffle winners joined Tommy and folks from Edelrid, MEC Label, The Hive, POW Canada and the Vancouver Climbers’ Association at the store. 

Morning Climb with Tommy Caldwell

Edelrid and their team from Germany chatted about developing their Climb Green collection and the future of more sustainable climbing gear. They’re a leader in this space and are proof that sustainability doesn’t mean compromising safety or performance. Recycled rope, PFC-free dry-treated ropes, and bluesign®-approved harnesses are just a few of the wins. Plus, they hinted at a major announcement for 2023.

Coffee, carbs and crushing to start the day. Yep, MEC Vancouver has a bouldering wall – stay tuned for future invites to join us.

## Day 3: Squamish climb session
To round out the visit, Edelrid, Tommy and MEC staffers went to Squamish for an experiential product knowledge session. We were lucky to have three people from Edelrid Germany – the CEO and owner, head of product, and global sales manager.


Product knowledge sessions (a.k.a. PKs) are one of the ways staffers get experience with gear. “Everyone was very excited to get an informal PK where you get to try and use the products in the field, and learn directly from the Edelrid team,” said Graham, MEC staffer and climbing product expert. 

“One of the things that Edelrid developer spoke about is how they focus on the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) when creating products,” Graham shared. “He emphasized how important reduce and reuse are, and that recycle is a last resort because the product is already made and therefore energy intensive.”

“We spent the whole day at the Electric Avenue crag, and safety was a top priority with a hired guide and the experienced Edelrid crew giving everyone the attention and support they needed,” said Graham. 

“There was a wide range of climbers and some big moments – we even had a staffer climb their first route ever (ever ever) belayed by Tommy Caldwell… not many people can say that.”

“Another staffer was coming back to climbing after a two-year hiatus, and found confidence and support from everyone,” Graham shared. “Someone else had a goal of leading a 5.10 and ended up leading (and sending) and least two of them. It was honestly just a great day to get people from stores and the office out together with a common interest.”

“Folks from the Vancouver MEC store were so happy to be there, and really sent the psyche and positivity levels through the roof.”

Thank you to Tommy, Edelrid, MEC staffers and members of the climbing community who came out to make these three days a blast. Let’s do it all again soon. For more photos from the event, check out our [full Facebook album](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10158454346291610&type=3).

*Like the sounds of being an MEC staffer? If you’re passionate about the outdoors – [we’re hiring](/en/explore/careers).*

We were pretty dang excited to welcome Tommy Caldwell and the Edelrid crew to BC for a jam-packed few days of activities.

We spent 3 days with Tommy Caldwell (yes, it was awesome)

To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, we’re sharing the stories of inspiring women who have found their place outdoors – and who want to inspire others to do the same. Get to know **Anita Naidu**,** Sandy Ward**and** Yuki Tsubota** and their thoughts on everything from goals to gear. Find out what power they tap into, their biggest breakthrough moments, advice on getting outside and more.

To cap it all off, learn about the MEC-funded women’s expedition grant from The Royal Canadian Geographical Society to spark future adventures.

## Anita Naidu
*MEC Ambassador and mountain biking coach who’s also an electrical engineer, award-winning humanitarian and aspiring astronaut.*[*@abrownpanther*](https://www.instagram.com/abrownpanther/?hl=en)



Becoming the first professional mountain biker of my ethnicity was by far my biggest breakthrough in the outdoors. Because I never saw anyone of my race (particularly a female!) choose this path, the absence of role models meant there was no prescribed ritual for what I wanted to do. There were many instances when I questioned if it was even possible. But more importantly, becoming the first pro of my ethnicity has allowed me to offer up my skills in service and my hard-earned insider privilege to help others be more included.

The greatest power that women can tap into in the outdoors is a defiant refusal to be less than who we are. So much of what’s established isn’t organically empowering for women and girls – it’s vital that we build systems of empowerment in the outdoors and beyond. Whenever doubt creeps up, which is natural in mountain sports, I tap into my own ideological coordinates of what’s possible, which helps bend the sharp edges of fear and hesitancy.

> The greatest power that women can tap into in the outdoors is a defiant refusal to be less than who we are.
>
### How do you approach goals?
So much about goals – whether they’re personal, career, adventuring or athletic – isn’t just about fulfilling them, but knowing which goals are worth setting. What’s served as a guiding light has been to ask myself if what I’m doing is helping me become the person I want to be in five, ten years? Because our most valuable currency is attention and energy. Do not waste either on anything that does not bring you closer to living your highest ideals. Some goals are worth pursuing even if you don’t attain them… if they bring you closer to the best version of yourself.



### When are you happiest outside?
I’m joyous in the outdoors when I’m a part of someone else’s best day. Personally, thriving comes from experiencing the unknown, whether it’s endless airtime, the sound of my edges slashing untracked powder, or placing the final piece of gear on a new climb. In all these cases, you don’t know how it’s going to turn out until it’s over, so it forces you to be comfortable with ambiguity. That joy is only surpassed by the happiness of guiding others through their challenges with uncertainty and helping them reach their outdoor goals.

> Some goals are worth pursuing even if you don’t attain them… if they are goals that bring you closer to the best version of yourself.
>
### Anita’s gear recommendations
- [**MEC Trailboost Merino Crew Socks**](/en/product/5060-556/Trailboost-Merino-Crew-Socks)**:**Incredible after a cold surf or with a layer of wool socks for skiing or snowboarding.
- **[MEC Merino long sleeve](/en/product/6000-365/Peak-Comfort-Merino-Warm-Long-Sleeve-Baselaye):**Great under a bike jersey for cooler fall biking and bouldering days.
- **[Fleece leggings](/en/ideal-for/running%2C-fitness-and-training/products/clothing/bottoms/pants/fleece-and-sweatpants/c/275)**: Must-haves for trail running, cross-country skiing or under mountain bike shorts on winter rides.

## Sandy Ward
*Snowboarder, photographer, climber, mountain biker and backcountry mentorship team co-lead for Indigenous Women Outdoors. [@sutik.maqa7](https://www.instagram.com/sutik.maqa7/)*



The biggest breakthrough I’ve had recently was being put in the spotlight as an Indigenous female splitboarder. That may seem small, but by showcasing Indigenous athletes we are giving Indigenous youth role models to look up to – hopefully that will inspire them to go for it and achieve goals that may have seemed impossible. I’ve been very lucky to have some amazing snowboarders and skiers help me out along the way, including Marie-France Roy, Leah Evans and Claire Smallwood.

Surrounding myself with other strong like-minded women has enabled me to achieve so many things. A great example is meeting Myia Antone and starting up [Indigenous Women Outdoors](https://www.indigenouswomenoutdoors.ca/), which has been an amazing experience. We empower more Indigenous women to get involved in winter sports by breaking down the barriers around accessing knowledge and gear. We all raise each other up, and in doing so, we can achieve amazing things. Showcasing real people just out having a good time makes the outdoors seem more achievable.

> Surrounding myself with other strong like-minded women has enabled me to achieve so many things.
>
### What advice do you have for women who want to get outside more?
Just get out and go for it! Find one or two friends and learn together. Hiring a guide is a great way to learn – they have so much knowledge to share, from simple tricks with gear to how to read terrain. It doesn’t matter what activity it is, hiring an experienced guide for a day or two will give you so much more confidence to go out on your own eventually.

Also, be kind to each other and lift each other up. The outdoors can be a challenging and scary place, and we can all learn from each other’s lived experiences.



### What’s your favourite place outdoors?
The peak of a mountain on my traditional territory. Up the Duffey, I can see all the mountains around me where my ancestors travelled in all seasons. The traditional names have stories behind them that we can still learn from. I love to learn these stories, as they make me feel more connected to the land.

> Be kind to each other and lift each other up. The outdoors can be a challenging and scary place, and we can all learn from each other’s lived experiences.
>
### Sandy’s gear recommendations
- [**Base layers**](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/base-layers-and-underwear/c/273): A base layer can make or break your day. Something warm, and breathable is important, like [MEC AirGrid base layers](/en/brand/mec/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/base-layers-and-underwear/c/273).
- [**Lightweight puffy**](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/down-jackets/c/1022?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ASnowsports): I never leave home without it. Something like the [MEC Boundary Light Down Jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/down-jackets/c/1022?text=Boundary) – super packable, lightweight and warm for mountain top snack sessions.
- [**Insulated bottle**](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/vacuum-bottles-and-flasks/c/1232)** with hot tea**: A great treat for a bit of energy, and makes your friends envious as you bust out a hot beverage on a cold day in the mountains.

## Yuki Tsubota
*MEC Ambassador, skier and two-time Olympian. When she’s not on the slopes, she’s biking, camping or SUPing.*[*@yuki_tsubota*](https://www.instagram.com/yuki_tsubota/)



As women, we are all connected. I’ve never met a woman who I didn’t share something with; shared experiences or emotions can turn a stranger into a friend. I love listening to women, hearing their stories, adventures, obstacles they’ve had to overcome, and finding a bit of myself in her.

I find when I get out with a group of women, there is such powerful energy. When I used to be in the competition scene, the days I learned the most were the ones when I skied for fun with a bunch of girls. We all hyped each other up and fed off one another.

> I find when I get out with a group of women, there is such powerful energy.
>
### Who is someone that’s inspired you?
I will always and forever look up to Sarah Burke. She was a big reason why I chased my dreams to become a professional skier. She always encouraged young girls to follow their dreams and believe in their skiing ability, and I believe that will continue for generations to come.



### What advice do you have for women who want to get outside more?
Don’t be intimidated! I know it’s a lot easier said than done, but we all started out new to the outdoors at some point and it’s never too late to begin. I hope I can encourage more women to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Being outside and doing physical activities is so good for your mind and body that everyone should be doing it.

I think if we can grow mentorship programs, that’s the best, safest and most encouraging way to get someone out. There is such a great women’s outdoor community that’s growing every day, and it’s something I plan to continue to be a part of. I’ve found the majority of groups to be welcoming and encouraging, you just have to get out and meet them. Reach out! Don’t be shy.

> We all started out new to the outdoors at some point and it’s never too late to begin.
>
### Yuki’s gear recommendations
- [**MEC Synergy Jacket**](/en/product/6000-459/Synergy-HD-Gore-Tex-Jacket): I’ve been wearing it for the past couple of seasons and it hasn’t let me down once. A good shell is crucial for the backcountry, especially in wet coastal weather.
- [**A multi-use tool**](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-lighting-and-accessories/knives-and-tools/multi-tools/c/1291): I never leave home without one – it’s saved the day numerous times.

## Women’s Expedition Grant
MEC is proud to partner with The Royal Canadian Geographical Society as the exclusive gear outfitter for the [**Women’s Expedition Grant**](https://rcgs.org/programs/expeditions/apply-for-funding/). If you know a woman with big expedition goals (maybe even you?), this is an awesome opportunity. This grant encourages leadership and participation by women on expeditions in Canada, and provides funding for expeditions where all participants are women.

Grant funding applications are due at the beginning of each calendar year. Since expeditions require plenty of planning, now is the perfect time to start poring over maps, building a team, and pulling together an ambitious expedition proposal to [apply for funding](https://rcgs.org/programs/expeditions/apply-for-funding/) by the January 7, 2022 deadline.

Need some inspiration? The most recent RCGS Women’s Expedition Grant recipient supported by MEC was Melanie Vogel. She set out to hike 18,000km alone across Canada – from the Atlantic to the Arctic to the Pacific oceans – on the Great Trail, the longest recreational trail in the world.



To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, we’re sharing the stories of inspiring women who have found their place outdoors – and who want to inspire others to do the same.

The power of women in the outdoors

If you’re lucky enough to meet Coree at a future trail race, you’ll likely see him rocking his signature Speedo and a friendly smile. As a member of The North Face athlete team, Coree usually spends plenty of time gearing up for start lines – so what happens when most races are cancelled, as was the case in 2020?

For Coree, it meant creating his own start line: a fastest known time (FKT) attempt on the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin. This route is a whopping 1,846 kilometres – more than twice as long as Ontario’s epic Bruce Trail – and it got even tougher with a mid-run injury.

Watch Coree in action and read more about his post-midnight running fuel, people he hopes to inspire, and his advice for runners facing the uncertainties of 2021.



PERSPECTIVES: Coree Woltering | The North Face

### MEC: How did you get into ultrarunning?
**Coree:** I was first introduced to trail/ultrarunning when I moved to Boulder, Colorado, to try and become a professional triathlete. I started hanging out with some trail runners, and one suggested that I crew and pace him at the Leadville 100 Mile. I had no idea where Leadville was, or what it meant to crew or pace, but I agreed to it. The experience at Leadville was so awesome that I decided to quit triathlon and focus on running.

### What challenges did you face to get to where you’re today?
It definitely hasn’t been easy. In college, I thought a marathon was “too long” and always said I’d never run one. I absolutely loved my first 50K, and signed up for my first 50-mile the week of Silver Rush 50M. I missed the podium at Silver Rush by 52 seconds, and I think that was what got the fire burning for trails and ultras. I wanted to become a sponsored athlete, but I didn’t really know anybody in the industry, what races to focus on, and had no idea how to move forward. Learning the process was probably the biggest challenge.

### Who do you want to inspire?
One of my big goals is to inspire more people of colour, the LGBTQ+ community, and women to join in the outdoors. As a kid, and even as a young adult, I had no idea that trail racing was a sport. I had watched a few seasons of Eco-Challenge and never imagined that would be something I would do. I want everybody to feel like they have a place in the outdoors.

### The North Face has a new line of trail running and hiking shoes, Vectiv – were you involved with product testing?
I’ve been running in the Vectiv shoes since May 2020. They’ve been used on everything from the Ice Age Trail, to the Presidential Traverse, to Flagstaff, Arizona, and now the trails of Las Vegas. I’m impressed with the Vectiv, but my favourite is actually the Vectiv Enduris — I love the cushioning in them, as most of the stuff I have been doing has been longer efforts. The Flight Vectiv is a pretty wild ride with the carbon plate. Personally, I’ve noticed the most impact on uphill running and the flats.

*Stay tuned: the [Vectiv line](/en/brand/the-north-face/products/footwear/shoes/running-and-training-shoes/c/294?text=vectiv) is coming soon to mec.ca, including Coree’s favourite: Vectiv Enduris trail runners.*



### What’s your must-have gear for running?
The one piece of gear I have with me 90% of the time is The North Face Flight Futurelight Jacket *(editor’s note:*[*Futurelight*](/en/products/c/100?f=CFSeasonalCollections%3AFuturelight+collection)* is The North Face’s most advanced waterproof-breathable fabric)*. It’s a rain jacket, but also great in wind. Illinois fall/winter/spring weather is so unpredictable that I use this a lot on cool, windy mornings, and then stuff it in my pack as the day warms up. It’s also great when unexpected rain or snow showers roll in.

### It’s after midnight and you’ve been on the trail for hours… what’s your go-to trail fuel?
Hahaha – the first thing I’m reaching for is some Red Bull with ginger ale. That’s always my go-to late in a 100-mile race. If I was on the trail alone, I’d probably get out a beer stashed in my pack, a UCAN energy bar, and a Snickers. During my Ice Age Trail FKT, after midnight was mostly crispy chicken sandwiches and cheeseburgers from gas stations.

### What are your favourite ways to recover from a race, FKT challenge or major event?
My favorite recovery foods are a nice cold beer, a milkshake, and a burger or tacos. Then I’ll take a few days off running and either bike, hike, or maybe just watch Netflix. I don’t have a set recovery protocol, as I feel different after each effort. The main thing is to get some calories in, get my feet up as soon as possible, and then focus on sleep.

### What tips would you give to runners who want to move up in their sport?
To the athlete trying to level-up or get sponsored, I’d say stay the course. In COVID-times, races aren’t happening often, so it’s a bit harder to get noticed for a standout performance. But you can still go after fastest known times or other personal projects. Sure, fast times and solid results are important, but so are the stories behind them.

### What running goals and plans do you have 2021?
I’ll be attempting to set an FKT on the Arizona Trail and racing Expedition Oregon. So I guess my running goals are to continue to become a better runner, but also expand my outdoor skillset.

### Any final advice for runners during the uncertainties of 2021?
Training doesn’t need to be epic. If you feel like running, go for a run. If you don’t feel like running, that’s okay too. You won’t completely lose fitness by taking some time off, and you can always get it back. Just be patient and kind with yourself.

*Well said. Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Coree, and best of luck with all your 2021 goals.*



Watch Coree's fastest known time (FKT) attempt on the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin. This route is a whopping 1,846 kilometres – more than twice as long as Ontario’s epic Bruce Trail – and it got even tougher with a mid-run injury.

Meet Coree Woltering – and his 1,846km trail run challenge

*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 womxn and BIPOC who want to start climbing?
For womxn 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/), [IndigenousWomxnClimb](https://www.instagram.com/IndigenousWomxnClimb/), [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**](/en/product/5060-012/Rockwall-Half-Zip-Midlayer) 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.

- The [**MEC Cragalot Backpack**](/en/product/5042-098/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.

- 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.

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 ([source](http://highlineonline.ca/yellowstone-to-yukon-20-years-on-the-trail/))
- 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](/en/article/mountain-magic-48-years-of-good-times-outside)
- [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

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

That’s where Bluesign comes in.

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

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



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

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

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



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

Good chemistry means that:

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

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

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

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



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

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

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



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

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

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



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



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

What the heck is Bluesign?

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

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

## Kayla Kay


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

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

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

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

## Jasmyn Ellis


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

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

Hiking makes me feel liberated, light, powerful.

## Magdalena Garcia


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

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

Hiking makes me feel connected with myself.

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

## Charlie Easton, MEC Ambassador


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

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

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

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

## Azzah Ahmad


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

Hiking makes me feel invigorated in the best way.

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



Facing Sunrise

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

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

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

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

## Declan White


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

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

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



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



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

How hiking has changed my life

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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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



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

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



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

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

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



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



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

MEC Blog