MEC says ‘Hello, Old Friend’ with capsule that adds a modern twist to iconic catalogue gear
August 9, 2022 – Fueling Canadian adventures for over 50 years, outdoor retailer Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is bringing back some of its most coveted pieces from decades past in its latest drop, launching on August 12. With previous reissues of throwback styles, like the iconic Rad Pant, selling out in days, the new MEC Classics Collection is a highly anticipated limited-edition line of long-loved classics pulled straight from the MEC archives.
MEC Label designers scoured past catalogues, asking staffers and members what designs, fabrics and colours inspired them and brought back the best memories. The result is a curated assortment of classic pieces updated to be durable, built to last, and versatile enough for hiking, camping, climbing and paddle trips. Some familiar friends are back with a new colour scheme inspired by the bright colours and monogram prints of the 1970s, including the Rad Pant and the Hip Pack – both sought after items in last year’s limited release. For the first time ever, a few long-loved legends like the Rad Shorts have been reimagined after massive demand from MEC staffers and members.
When it comes to fabrics and materials, a lot has been improved since the 1980s. That includes more sustainable and low-impact materials available than ever before. Bluesign® approved fabrics feature widely alongside recycled content, organically grown cotton and Fair Trade Certified products.
Each piece also features a label stitched inside with the phrase ‘Hello, old friend’ and sporting the classic green mountain peaks of MEC’s logo. A nod to the brand’s rich heritage, this label is uniquely reserved for classic drops, making each item even more collectible.
“The MEC Classics Collection is about celebrating the gear that’s been with us for decades – the gear that's become our trusted companion and is full of memories,” said J.P. Roy, Senior Director, MEC Label. “After we shortlisted these timeless designs, we looked for the details that made them legendary, and found ways to use more sustainable fabrics. With this collection, we are bringing back the beloved pieces that our community grew up with, while also introducing those iconic styles to a new generation of adventure-seekers.”
Standouts from the collection include:
Rad Pant
“The ultimate movement pant” is what MEC called the Rad Pant when it launched in 1989. And that holds up. With over 30 years of legit outdoor cred, Rad Pants still have it all: cuffs, integrated belt, that pocket. For 2022, bluesign®-approved fabrics mean the tear-resistant material is made in the safest possible way for the planet, workers and you.
Rad Shorts
According to MEC’s 1996 catalogue, these were “built for radical action.” And after testing out some prototypes, MEC Label designers can confirm that remains 100% true. Out of circulation since the late 1990s, Rad Shorts have been in big demand from MEC staffers and members since Rad Pants made a comeback a few years ago. Imagine everything that rules about Rad Pants, just shorter.
Klettersack
The earliest mention anyone can find of the Klettersack is in MEC’s 1979 catalogue. By 1989, they were already calling it “a tradition for rock climbing.” And with good cause. Simple, versatile, so tough – there are original Klettersacks still hauling ropes and racks to this day. For 2022, the team introduced 600-denier bluesign®-approved materials.
Hip Pack
The little pack that went from cool, to uncool, back to cool again. First hitting MEC catalogues over thirty years ago, MEC spruced up this travel staple a bit. But just a bit. Chunky zippers, multiple pockets, throwback colours – all still there. But these days it’s made with lower-impact bluesign®-approved materials.
Berber Fleece Full Zip
Ask any MEC staffer or member, and they’ve probably got a fleece they remember. Warm, fuzzy, durable as heck. This year, MEC riffed on its ultra-classic Cornice Jacket – their warmest fleece of the 1990s – and gave it an upgrade with fuzzy Polartec® Thermal Pro® shearling fleece made from recycled content. Classic pit zips and elbow patches are alive and well. RRP
Recycled Duffle
Time-tested over decades of gear closet and long-haul duty – tough zippers, heavy-duty stitching, and burly 1680-denier ballistic polyester. Plus, the recycled fabric is also bluesign®-approved, so it’s more responsible than ever.
The MEC Classics Collection isn’t just for grown-ups, with a bold Two Tone Fleece and Youth Rad Pant just for kids. A repeating motif of the famed twin peaks is highlighted on many pieces, including an All Over Print Tee, Rad 6 Panel Hat and 1L Nalgene water bottle. The MEC Classics Collection will be available at https://www.mec.ca/en and in MEC stores nationwide from August 12. Prices range from $12.95 to $109.95 CAD.
ABOUT MEC
Established in 1971, MEC is Canada’s go-to place for technical outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration. Combining high-quality apparel and equipment with expert advice and firsthand experience, MEC supports a wide range of activities including camping, snowsports, watersports, cycling, climbing, hiking, trail running and travel. For decades, MEC has been a strong backer of sustainability and community initiatives, and has invested $48 million (and counting) into non-profit organizations that support outdoor recreation and conservation. For more information, visit https://www.mec.ca/en, follow @mec, or visit one of our stores nationwide.
