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Mountain Equipment Co-op
Categories: Shopping Sporting Goods Outdoor Gear Shopping Sporting Goods Bikes Outdoor Gear, Bikes [Edit]
366 Richmond RdOttawa, ON K2A 0E8
(613) 729-2700
- Hours:
Mon-Wed 10 am - 7 pm
Thu-Fri 10 am - 9 pm
Sat 9 am - 6 pm
Sun 11 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
8 reviews for Mountain Equipment Co-op
8 reviews in English
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Review from Darren M.
Ottawa, ON
12/17/2010
Getting the MEC catalogue for outdoors lovers is sort of like getting the Wish Book for your kids or the Ikea catalogue for bachelors.
Ottawa's MEC is quite large and filled with pretty much anything you need if you're heading up to Gatineau Park, Algonquin or anywhere where you need to be prepared for the elements.
I've been in the MEC in Calgary and dealt quite a bit with the MEC staff there who seem to know everything and anything about climbing and hiking so my expectations for these Ottawa folks was high. Although I've only shopped for a pair of boots I found the staff in the Ottawa MEC to be helpful and friendly.
I left the Westboro store with boots which have lasted me quite some time and I don't regret shopping at this place.
The people of Westboro may frown upon "big box stores" but I think this store is a great fit. By the way, there are three other large competitors within a few blocks so if you want to compare -- go right ahead. -
Review from Hintonburg R.
Ottawa, ON
7/30/2011
From its insufferable "bag-free" philosophy, to its unco-operative prices, to the fact that they don't refund parking, going to Mountain Equipment is an experience in being nickle and dimed, this after you wait and wait for service. Want to be bag-free? Go to http://LLBean.com
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Review from Barry Z.
Ottawa, ON
11/21/2008
Mountain Equipment CO-OP (MEC) is a true cooperative.
A lifetime membership is a mere five dollars, but is a must on your first purchase. The floor staff at the location are extremely nice and very well informed. MEC gear is usually very good, is "inspired" by popular and tested designs from the major outdoor gear/clothing companies, and in most cases is MUCH MUCH less than a comparable item.
ex: A stretchy softshell jacket from North Face is $400, MEC's comparable item is $200.
Great selection across most outdoor pursuits, well informed *professional* staff who have no incentive to sell you stuff you don't need *and* low-to-compeitive prices?
Why would you shop elsewhere?
^^Ok for outdoor clothes I can understand. But for camping/hiking gear
like stoves and packs? NO WAY. MEC is the only way. -
Review from Paul L.
11/6/2008
I've been a member of MEC for years and have shopped their Ottawa, Toronto, and Vancouver stores repeatedly. For me, outdoor equipment stores, including REI and Eastern Mountain Sports, don't compare to this true Canadian original. While MEC does carry a lot of items that are available in the States, they have a wider selection of higher-quality goods that make this store a must. I bought a winter parka here a few years ago that kept me toasty warm on a minus-20 degree Fahrenheit day.
This store location has special meaning for me because my grandfather used to own a small business just a few doors down the way in the 1950s/1960s. The area has changed a lot, but I'm glad MEC is here because it always gives me a reason to stop in the neighborhood when I'm in Ottawa. I love this place. -
Review from Michael J.
Ottawa, ON
4/5/2011
Love this place!! Really nice selection of climbing gear. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Good prices, especially on the MEC-branded stuff (which is surprisingly good quality too).
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Review from Carol W.
Ottawa, ON
8/30/2010
We have been to MEC now for the three years we have lived in Ottawa many times. It is not much different than going to REI in the states. Tons of things to buy and sometimes great sales. the sales people are great and very helpful.
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Review from Tyler S.
Ottawa, ON
6/14/2009
Pretty much the best outdoor store chain in Canada if not the world. MEC brand stuff is a great way to get something that is high quality, ethically sourced (or even made in Canada a lot of the time), and most importantly cheap. The employees are very knowledgeable, they don't just work there, they live the lifestyle and practise what they preach. Sure you have to be a member ($5 for a lifetime membership) but it is well worth it just to have access to this fantastic chain in most majour Canadian cities and online.
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Review from Devon B.
Calgary, AB
10/25/2008
The name says it all, MEC sells sporting goods for the hikers, climbers and adventurers out there. The Ottawa location is a massive building in Westboro. It's new, fancy and impressive. Walk in and you'll be in awe of all the products they carry. Although a lot of people shop here, the store is directed toward those who really know what they are talking about. The only downside to MEC is you have to sign up for a membership in order to shop there. That isn't a big deal really, but it is an extra step that isn't needed at a store like Trailhead, a store that competes in the same genre. The staff are all incredibly informed and will answer any questions you might have, no matter how small, silly or out there. You pay a bit more at MEC sometimes, but it can be worth it. They have quality products just like the have quality staff. There isn't much else to say, other than climbers and hikers should make this a stop next time they are in Westboro and see for themselves.
