- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Coffee & Tea |
- All
Mountain Equipment Co-Op
Categories: Shopping Fashion Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Outdoor Gear Sports Wear, Outdoor Gear [Edit]
400 King St WToronto, ON M5V 1K2
Neighbourhoods: Entertainment District, Downtown Core
(416) 340-2667
- 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:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
68 reviews for Mountain Equipment Co-Op
Review Highlights
"The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful as well."
(in 4 reviews)
"I recently went to MEC to have my bike tuned."
(in 13 reviews)
"You'll find cheap stuff at Europe bound, but you won't get..."
(in 3 reviews)
Loading...
68 reviews in English
-
Review from Michael Y.
Toronto, ON
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
I've been a member at MEC as far as I can remember. I come here to buy all my outdoor activity equipment. Even if I see a bargain sale elsewhere from bags to rock climbing gear, I will still go and buy it at MEC.
I was there to return a defective collapsable water bottle. The member's service were very help and gave options for an exchange or return. Ended up getting a store credit because I threw away the receipt. You can get it done at the member's service as well as at the cash.
I love the rock climbing wall so I can try out the equipment before purchasing. Sometimes it's difficult to find help but they are helpful when find help. Busy store means popular and great store. Sometimes I think, I don't know what I would do without MEC. I think I'm just being silly now. -
Review from Coy W.
12/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
I just realized I've been a MEC member for over 15 years and honestly it's one of the best investments you can make if you like the outdoors or have an active lifestyle. How is a membership here an investment? You get to purchase MECs fantastic equipment that is comparable to other high end brands for a fraction of the price!
This store is large and my favourite MEC in Ontario or Quebec. It might even be my favourite outdoors shop in those 2 provinces as well.
All the outdoor equipment on the bottom floor with staff that is knowledgeable and willing to help out and an upstairs section with gear and books. -
Review from Brandon D.
Toronto, ON
12/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
First off, let me say I really like mec as a company. The service here can be a bit hit and miss. The 2 times I've had problems here were both related to the people working.
The most recent of times I was asking about a mid-layer to someone who was working in the area. A simple question about the product to see if there was other versions of the mid-layer that didn't have a fleece outside part to it. Needless to say I was greeted with less than human response in which I turned and walked away.
Good products, but be wary of the grumps. -
Review from Patrick M.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 10/25/2011
I can't believe nobody has mentioned the most awesome of awesomeness...
MEC GEAR SWAP!!!
Twice yearly, MEC does a "gear swap", really a sell-off of used equipment, rentals, employee gear, etc... it's poorly organized, chaotic, somewhat clandestine, and totally, utterly awesome!
Yes, I've used the word "awesome" thrice (ok, four times - fwice?).
The next one is in April of 2012, so don't say I never did nothin' for ya. If you love the outdoors, BE THERE.
At the last one -- Oct 23rd, 2011 -- we scored about $1000 worth of equipment for just over $200. Yes, it's used, but... ha, still entirely useful. I'd rather spend $65 on my 70+25L Lowe expedition pack than $400, when the only thing wrong with it is some dirt and the fact it's probably been to, like, an actual mountain.
The best score, though, goes to Heather. See, a few weeks ago we went to MEC looking for a lady-specific pack for her. She settled on a "Gregory" Deva. She bought one. But it was expensive, $300+ after tax...
Enter the gear swap. What does she find? A Deva. Sure, the one she bought was a 70L and this was a 60L, but they were both fitted for her torso length. (Note: buy packs by torso length, not height or weight or wtf. TORSO LENGTH. Got it?)
Our price? $35. It's kinda dirty, doesn't look that pretty soft blue anymore, but it's still great... savings? Oh, only close to $300. AWESOME (that's 5).
As an FYI if you're interested, they've got boats, bikes, bags, sleeping bags, tents, climbing kits (tons of crampons), shoes, boots, tarps, books... look, as said, if you like the outdoors and you haven't been, GO. You'd be foolish not to.
Here's how it works: Show up well before 9am (I recommend 8am). Get a ticket. Don't fuss. If it's within the first 50, you get in first. Check your bags beforehand. RUN to get the best of the best of the best gear. Don't hurt anyone or you'll get tossed out. Be nice, but run. If you show up at 9am (their official "get a ticket time", you'll be in the third group to get in, which isn't as sweet). So show up early early early. But damnit, *** get a ticket ***.
Once you've scoured everything, hang around for awhile. Wait for the crazies to leave. Then go over all the stuff that gets returned because people second guessed themselves. We scored an awesome extra pack for a mere $2 doing this.
So yes. MEC Gear Swap. Total Win.Listed in: 30 in 30? Quantity & Quality!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
7/20/2011
I've been a MEC devotee for over a decade, and while they're not always the best price on the block… Read more »
-
-
Review from Kat T.
10/22/2011
I'm such a city-girl. I always forget that MEC is so close and has so much stuff! I'm all for hiking, as long as I can take a shower and relax in a temperature-controlled room with a bed afterwards.
Things I've found at MEC tend to be for my international travel adventures (Bali, Thailand, Japan, etc...) :
Adapters for plugs
Bug spray with DEET
Stay-dry bags
Money belt
Super warm gloves for cross country skiing
Rock-climbing gear- for my indoor adventures
Patches/repair kit for my indoor-only aerobed. -
Review from Eric L.
5/23/2011
The best place in town for all of your outdoors gadgets and supplies.
The only knock I have against them is with their online store stock information. I chose a certain bike lock and bike computer, their website said the store had stock. However upon arriving 30 minutes later, both items were not available.
5 stars once they fix their crappy website. -
Review from Mama t.
Toronto, ON
9/16/2011
I've been a 'member' of this store since 'membership' actually counted for something (a discount). I've been disappointed since then, that we don't even get our 5% off discount anymore.
Having said that, I was so excited to see the other week that MEC carries Luna bars (as well as other vegan fruit/nut bars) for such a great price! I mean the least expensive price I've seen (even cheaper than Essence of Life). Add to that, if you buy 10 bars (same.variety), you get a 10% discount. A vegan mom's fantasy for those busy days that you can't get in a good breakfast and toast doesn't really cut it.. -
Review from Alex K.
Toronto, ON
6/4/2011
[BIKE REPAIR ONLY]
Unlike Raj B. I hate the chaotic vibe and eccentric personalities of the bike shops, especially around Queen West where I live. Only Duke's stood out as a place where you felt like professionals were taking care of you. MEC approaches bike repair in much the same way that it approaches everything else - with a focus on customer satisfaction and longevity of product. Even when crazy backed-up they had my bike totally fixed (I blew out five spokes on my front wheel) within a few hours. Moreover, instead of just tossing on some new spokes, they retrued the wheel to make sure that everything would run smoothly. Friendly quick help - what more can you ask for?? -
Review from Coconut C.
Toronto, ON
12/18/2011
I love shopping at MEC, the staff are helpful and knowledgeable and the prices of all the MEC brand gear is affordable. Plus it's a Canadian company!
-
Review from Janet S.
Toronto, ON
6/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I made the mistake of going into this store alone for the first time on a Saturday afternoon. Oh dear, was it ever bewildering.
Firstly, the store is so vast that you are lost as soon as you step in. Secondly, there were not enough staff to help me. It's not like there were a bunch of unmotivated people just standing around, they were all busy. I'm completely lost when it comes to gear, so I really needed help too.
When I finally managed to get some help, people were friendly and helpful without being pushy. They tried to find out my needs and eventually I got exactly what I needed.
The cash process was very quick, and I really appreciated the guy taking surveys at the exit about my experience. I hope they get some more staff for the weekends based on my response! -
Review from Raj B.
Toronto, ON
2/26/2011
[NOTE: This review is for their BIKE REPAIR department only. There's more than enough reviews here about the overpriced awesomeness of the rest of the store!]
I have a long history of visiting Toronto's indie bike shops for repairs. I love the chaotic vibe and the eccentric personalities. What I don't love so much is the sometimes spotty service and arbitrary pricing that seems to have been set by a medieval guild. So it was with mixed feelings that I decided to try out MEC`s bike repair shop... but I'm glad I did!
I went there for a simple tire replacement, but I was ready to pay the exorbitant prices for parts and labour that I'd grown accustomed to, and waiting a day or two to get my bike back. What a nice surprise to find out that MEC was only going to charge $10 in labour, and the tire was just $7.50. Bonus: it would be ready in 20 minutes (and this was on a busy Saturday afternoon).
20 minutes later, the new wheel was on, along with a free new lock-nut to replace a stripped one, and some advice for future work (but no pressure to do it). Congratulation MEC, you just won a convert.
But can MEC handle more complex bike repairs? I don't know yet, but I know that the godfather of bike repair in Toronto (Nani Reddy, who has been teaching the bike repair course at TDSB forever) works with their repair department, which is a good sign. More reviews to come in the springtime!
Also, FYI, I'm told that a basic tune-up here is $45; $85 with a wheel truing. -
Review from Christine C.
Toronto, ON
11/7/2011
This is my favourite store for their selection, quality of merchandise, good store return policies, staff who know their products who will help you when you need help without puttng pressure on you to buy, fair pricing, catalogue, nice retail space. I think their only weak point is the occasional rude cashier, but I like this store so much that I am willing to overlook that and give them 5 stars. I am a huge fan of MEC!
-
Review from Alison B.
2/2/2011
I have always had great experiences at MEC. The staff always seems to know what they are talking about and they definitely aren't trying to sell you on the most expensive item. I have a sleeping bag from MEC that is 10 years old and it is still as good as new. My hiking bag is about 5 years old, has been through hell and high water and when i throw it in the wash - it looks as good as new.
Seriously, the stuff you buy from here will last forever. And the prices are really good, like wayyyy better than north face and all that jazz.
Although I am not quite as adventurous as I once was, MEC still has useful items. The most recent purchase? These insane little nalgene type containers that are small enough to be in a liquids carry on bag. Leak proof and break proof with a wide mouth. They are perfect. I sense a collection coming on!Listed in: For the shopaholic
-
Review from Imran N.
3/27/2011
I want everything in the store.
It's a great place for all the outdoor enthusiasts.
Everything is good quality and you walk into the store wanting everything. And i mean that.
if anyone gave me a birthday gift or stocking stuffer from mec, i would love them.
They have occasional sales which makes it a little better.
The reality is, it is a little on the pricey side despite being a co-op. You have to be smart about it and think about the ROI you will get. For example, you can buy sleeping pad for $100 - $200 at Mec. You can go accross the street to Europe bound and find one for $60 - $150. It's just the MEC product will last you much longer - so think about what you want out of the product.
Also going to MEC versus Europe bound is like going to Loblaws versus No Frills. You'll find cheap stuff at Europe bound, but you won't get the full range of products to choose from. At MEC you will.
I've shopped at both and have made my decisions based on the estimated usefull life of the product i am buying.
I also support MEC more now because of how environmentally conscious they are and how much they support local charities. I never see this kind of genuine dedication in businessess anymore. They are legitimate and not just green washing. Good on them.
Also helps that the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. -
Review from Roma M.
11/9/2010
So everyone knows that MEC is Canada's answer to REI, right?
That said, I feel like a bit of a traitor when I say that REI is much better than MEC. They have the same system, membership cards, pretty much the same available products, and they also have their store line, however MEC doesn't have the service that REI does, and their membership doesn't offer dividends.
MEC offers high quality products for the right price, but I just wish I'd get the same customer service I've come to expect from REI. They wouldn't make me wait around 5 minutes before being acknowledged.
I never get to say this, but I think the US have one-upped us... Even if it is in the outdoor/leisure sporting goods market.
3.5 Stars. -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
1/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Mountain Equipment Co-Op for sure a great place to browse around.
Great selections of everything outdoorish... even for an indoor urban person like myself I have fun browsing and look at everything it offers. Though some of the merchandise they carries for sure are high ends with a matching price tag, that can get quite intimidating!
There are for sure seasonal sale as the down jackets are on sale for more than 50% off the day I visit.
Mountain Equipment Co-Op for sure is the store to go if I am shopping for my outdoor active friends!! -
Review from Jordan T.
Toronto, ON
12/1/2010
I recently went to MEC to have my bike tuned. I have a nice bike but it's by virtue of getting it as a hand me down from a mountain bike enthusiast. I don't know half what you would expect me to know given the quality of my bike, basically I am the perfect person to take advantage of when it comes to this sort of thing.
The technician that helped me took the time to ask me about how I thought the bike was riding and did a spot check while I was there. He explained what had to be replaced, what could be replaced and what didn't need to be replaced. But more importantly he was honest about when it was worthwhile to pony up for the better (i.e., more expensive parts) and when I could get away with the cheaper ones. I checked all this advice out with an expert on all things bike and he completely agreed with everything the tech had told me.
When I went to pick it up it turned out that the tech had the price of one of the parts wrong when he told me how much it would be so they charged me the price I was quoted.
Based on this experience I would never go anywhere for bike advice/repair again. Plus you get that inclusive feeling because you're a "member".Listed in: Places to Visit Again and…, Dog Spots
-
Review from Amanda L.
Toronto, ON
Updated - 9/5/2011
Still a huge fan....too bad you can't bring your dog inside anymore though....I feel like I've been here constantly over the past few weeks. I bought some great stuff sacks made from recycled plastic and two dri-fit shirts. I never seem to walk out empty handed.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
12/27/2010
This is such a fantastic place. I feel like embarking on a travel adventure for just walking in the… Read more »
-
-
Review from Janna S.
11/10/2010
I'm more of an urban than outdoor enthusiast but don't write this place off, even if you're never planning to set foot outside city limits. If you bike, take transit, or walk moderate distances, you'll find a lot of useful items here. The sportswear is excellent for outdoor activities - no mountains needed!
For a business located in the heart of trendy Toronto, this place has the upper hand on customer service and reasonable pricing. Everything I've purchased here has served me well thus far and I'm impressed by the range of stock. Membership is ridiculously cheap and lasts a lifetime - more than worth it.
I love checking out the website before shopping at the store - you get a good sense of what's in stock and pricing comparisons. But I think I'll always prefer shopping at the store itself - too many cool gadgets to miss! -
Review from Fabio N.
Toronto, ON
12/30/2010 7 Check-ins Here
There's not much to say that hasn't been said before in other reviews: MEC is THE place to buy sports gear - especially winter gear - in Toronto.
The only area that's not 100% good is their bike shop: their prices are completely out of touch with reality (hence the four stars). Aside from that, you really can't go wrong. -
Review from Alexander L.
Toronto, ON
9/13/2010
It's hard not to like MEC. The range and quality is pretty good, the staff are generally nice and helpful. And yeah it's a co-op - how awesome is that ladee dah bru hah hah aren't I cool I shop at MEC... and it's this aspect that makes me feel a bit of a tool when I shop here - the snobbish sense of superiority and the silver cloud of morale elitism (that often comes from quite a narrow viewpoint (something that I notice is prevalent in Toronto)) that certain staff and customers exude. Now, I'm quite a snob at the best of times, but really, I don't think it's quite right for staff members to be joking about a customer from abroad who needed help getting kitted out for an Algonquin trip in full earshot of other customers. Not Cool.
Also, it is a bit on the pricey side - do you really need a $85 lifejacket for regular canoe trips? No - so go over the road to Europe Bound at get one for $30.
So yes. MEC is great. I'm a member and I shop here... with a weird sense of guilt that i'm contributing to some higher form of granola bar eating snobbishness. And I also check out the prices at Europe Bound - like every good shopper should. -
Review from Jennifer L.
Toronto, ON
10/28/2010
I'm an avid cyclist in Toronto, but one who is unfamiliar with bike repair and bike repair shops in the city. I have to admit, I've been hasty with where I've dropped my bike off for a tune up. And I'm pretty certain that I've been ripped off royally.
MEC's Bike Repair is honest and I felt taken care of by their knowledgeable and friendly staff. And I was given a really reasonable price for repair, compared to previous tune-ups elsewhere. I was also given the complete rundown of what they were going to do to my precious set of wheels, instead of saying "see you later, pay up bitch."
The best part of the service was when I asked whether or not I should get a new bike, the dude told me that I should stay true to what I have and my bike will last me forever as long as I give it some TLC. -
Review from Cameron O.
Toronto, ON
11/10/2010 6 Check-ins Here
Quality of gear and an amazing selection for whatever outdoor activity you choose. They don't charge an arm and a leg either as well as trying to source equitably made, quality stuff.
I have a backpack from this store that I bought in 1986! It's still in decent shape. It's no longer completely waterproof, the padding is a little collapsed and the elastic on the chest-strap is shot. I had the zipper replaced a few years ago and it still works like a charm.
I bought one of their famous cycling jackets that I'm sure you will recognize if you cycle more than around your block. It cost a lot at the time, and it's seen it's fair share of sliding across the tarmac after a lousy decision by me, or a forced encounter with a taxi or cell-phone-wielding rage-a-holic-cage-dweller-on-wheels. Yes you know who you are Mr/Mrs SUV douch! I hope you get your come-uppns without killing anybody in the process! Anyway, I digress! As a result of my lovely slides across the pavement, I have burned numerous holes in my lovely red MEC cycling jacket. All which were very economically repaired at the service desk. I'm up to about 5 patches... I'm sure it will have more before it's replacement material.
The only reason I can't give them 5-stars: the staff isn't always very knowledgeable. Mind you they have a tremendous range of product now from hiking, treking, camping, running, climbing, kayaking, skiing, cycling and more. So it would be highly unlikely you could get people who know it all for a competitive retail wage. For example, if you're trying to get into kayaking for the first time and wonder if your skills would outgrow the $900 boat and you should have just splurged on the $2100 boat... Or if you are trying to get back into x-country skiing, but your equipment is all 70s vintage and don't know beans about the new bindings and stare at them all in a bewildered amazement... The staff may or may not be able to set you right in stuff that you will want to use on a regular basis.
If you know what gear you want though, this is the place to get it! (Or get it repaired) -
Review from Kelly O.
10/29/2010 1 Check-in Here
I do love this store.
I think its so amazing how everyone that works here seems to have a lot of personal tips from trips they have taken themselves, and they are always up for helping you choose the right products for your specific needs. Some things you can get cheaper at other places (eg. batteries, portable toilet paper), but for the most part their pricing is great.
I try to come during the week, because often it is just waaaayyy too busy on the weekends. -
Review from Aaron B.
1/10/2011
MEC disappoints me so. I know it's the Canadian version of REI, and since REI is also a consistent disappointment I should have expected disappointment, but alas I guess I'm just a hopeful and optimistic person.
I went in ready to blow a huge wad getting my gear-fetish satisfied. But of course they only had a few of the many things I was looking for. And only one of these few things did they have available in my size. And the pompous ass in charge of that section convinced me not to buy anything.
It's probably a decent place if you don't have high standards, a niche request, an unusual size (like Men's Small), or a desire to talk to nice and knowledgeable staff. Of my list of ten things I walk out with zero. ZERO. They didn't even have the right boot laces!
This isn't the first time I've gone here and left empty handed, but now I've learned to give up trying. I'll just order whatever I need online and wait rather than waste the time and deal with attitude just to not find it here. -
Review from aleiza a.
Toronto, ON
10/3/2010
MEC is THE place to go when you need to get anything camping/hiking/backpacking (and any other outdoorsy active thing)-related. I gave a 5 because the customer service at MEC is my benchmark service at any type of large store.
Customer service is top-notch. There is always someone there that's willing to help and answer any questions. I was buying a backpack for travelling and the retail associate answered all my questions, offered many options, stayed within my budget and even filled my backpack with weights and let me walk around the store with it (to make sure it was comfortable for me). This is just one of the many positive experiences I've had at MEC.
I think that the key to getting this superior customer service is to go when everyone else IS NOT. This will include Saturdays, lunch hours and immediately after work. The hours here are pretty reasonable, so it shouldn't be hard to go outside of the above times.
GO HERE if you need any camping/outdoors-related supplies - even if you're not sure what you need, there will be someone that will be around to help. -
Review from Robin D.
9/7/2010
Mountain Equipment Co-op has a exceptionally large inventory of difficult to find outdoor sport goods. You can find some outdoor goods at Canadian Tire for great prices, but for selection and everything else, Mountain Equipment Co-op is the way to go. I came here to buy my bouldering shoes.
I believe the pricing here is good. And you will need to buy a membership to buy anything here, but membership is cheap and lifetime. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Toronto, ON
9/7/2010
I am a huge fan of MEC. Huge. I am going to try to offer some points that have not been mentioned in the other reviews.
1- sales. When they have seasonal clearance on activewear, its usually heavily discounted if you can make it at the right time. The MEC brand activewear is awesome, especially the shorts, perfect for hot yoga.
2 - backpacks. I have the ubiquitous MEC daypack. Its the best. I have brought it all over the world, have it strapped to my back on a daily basis while cycling through the city, have rammed it full of all sorts of things and beat it up quite badly. Still in perfect condition. It has buckles so I can buckle a yoga mat or sweater to it, and lots of little pockets for change, ipod etc.
3 - Bike parts. Some of these are ridiculously cheap compared to other shops. Check here first. Bike lights and gloves are noticeably cheaper. Tires, tubes etc are also well priced. I bought a helmet here as well and am still really happy with it.
4 - tent rentals. I had no clue until recently, but MEC rents 3 season tents by the day for anyone with limited storage or unfrequent camping excursions. Reasonable rates.
5 - knowledgeable staff that don't act like know-it-alls. Very helpful and friendly
6 - No more plastic bags! where MEC offered biodegradable plastic bags for years, they now offer none. Totally plastic bag free at MEC now, so bring your daypack.
7 - 24/7 monitored bicycle parking out front and plenty of it. Safe shopping. -
Review from Jonathan E.
11/13/2010
If you want a canoe, compass or climbing rope, this place is the bomb.
If looking for a sporty winter coat, I would suggest shopping around. The place across the street had a lot more variety in terms of coat types/styles. MEC has some nice gear, but not a huge variety. There's a decent selection, but mostly within a certain style of coats (same price, different colors). And I felt that their own branded lines were kinda pricey.
But it's a pretty great place for all other outdoor/sporty stuff. -
Review from Vikas I.
Pickering, ON
9/15/2010
I love this store.
Mountain Equipment Co-Op has to be the best outdoors store in the world.
They use ethical sourcing for their products, and a lot of products are made right here in Canada. Try finding a store where shirts are made in Canada, I doubt you'll find very many, MEC happens to be one of them.
They have recently added bikes to their massive list of outdoor equipment, my g/f and I purchased two Hold Steady bikes from here and we love it, they offer bike tune up services and they will rent out almost anything in the store if you need it at very reasonable rates.
MEC also gives back 1% of what you spend for the planet.
Staff is very knowledgeable and are outdoor fanatics, they are very helpful and not pushy.
What are you waiting for? Go check it out! -
Review from Renata R.
7/20/2010 4 Check-ins Here
The MECca (ha-ha me so funny) for equipment. Period. I went there to buy something very inexpensive for my bike (a bell), now I want to go there every single day to buy... whatever. Because you totally want everything.
They have bags. Bike accessories. Climbing stuff. Food. Towels. Tools. Whatever. I already have a mini-tool, helmet, towels, bike light, and I'm seriously planning to buy a backpack. THEY WILL SUCK ALL YOUR MONEY.
I'm not exactly a shopping freak (I usually tend to spend my money on food) but this place... OMG GEAR. Even their bikes are so incredible you start thinking about buying a new one.
Staff is knowledgeable and totally not pushing - the way it should be. Yeah, you must pay $5 to become a member, but it's totally worth it. I want to buy a tent and live there. They certainly have enough supplies for in-store living. -
Review from Mel L.
York, ON
7/15/2011
Best store out there ever!!! MEC is all about value for money. Meaning, for the price point that their goods & services are priced at, you will be getting the best quality or the best service for that price. You may find something cheaper somewhere else, but it will be of worse quality or have less features. And if you're comparing prices for the exact same object then MEC will be cheaper. They also have a large selection and a good range of price points, from something cheap for the beginners to something expensive but loaded with features for the experts. I also really like their website, and find it useful for researching before I go into the store. Their equipment rental policies are also pretty flexible, if you ever want to try before you buy.
-
Review from Vivek S.
4/19/2009 2 Check-ins Here
Everything I buy from this store lasts me a lifetime. (No, I can't prove this, but I know quality when I see it.) Yes, MEC is expensive but generally worth it. The have such a wide array of products, you'll want to spend some time in this expansive store. The staff is always knowledgeable and friendly. The store is apparently made of 80% reclaimed materials and features a rock climbing wall for people who like showing off while they shop. I prefer to use the stairs.
Obligatory Title Pun: A MECca for the outdoor enthusiast.
Menu Readability: n/a
Need to mention: To buy anything you need to become a member. Don't panic: it's only $5 and like their products, lasts a lifetime.
What this place teaches me about myself: I don't own enough backpacks.Listed in: Chained Melody, I like to ride my bicycle, Around the World
-
Review from A W.
Toronto, ON
7/20/2011
Small space crammed with too much to look at, parking @ $5.00 plus the overpriced items AND a membership fee? Maybe I should have got to MEC before I went to BASS PRO in Vaughn Mills. Free parking, no membership and alot more selection. Maybe MEC needs to step it up a bit. I would compare the 2 between home hardware as MEC and Home Depot as BASS PRO. MEC won't go out of business due to its downtown core and TTC riders clients.
But for those who drive like myself BASS PRO is the answer -
Review from Chris P.
8/28/2009
The best part of this store is the quality. I've never had to replace something I've bought from here unless I've lost it. I have duffel bags and backpacks from MEC that after 10 years still look like new.
I'm always amazed when I go in and I can find that odd-ball thing I need because I didn't even think the product existed.
Their prices are fair and their staff is always knowledgeable and friendly. -
Review from Andrew T.
Toronto, ON
7/9/2010
MEC walks their talk. They are a co-op (one-time membership is $5) that feels like it's run by people who actually use the items they sell in their massive, clean, well-lit and fully stocked store.
If you've ever wondered where all the Torontonians get their skiing and winter gear (that jacket that everyone seems to have in red, blue or black) this is the place.
I'm a huge fan of a great retail experience (love the Apple store), and MEC has it just nailed.
All of the products are good quality, and the staff are very knowledgeable about what they are selling. As a co-op, the pricing is very reasonable and, sometimes it's surprising what you get for the money. The on-line store has some great end of season sales...
Parking is a bit of an issue in this downtown location, so if you can hop on the TTC, bike or horse to get down here, you'd be doing yourself a big favour. -
Review from lindsay s.
Toronto, ON
3/15/2010 1 Check-in Here
When it doubt, go to MEC!
You'll find everything for your outdoor and clothing needs here.
You also won't need to question quality, as they stand behind everything they carry. I find there website great, too, as it's jammed packed with customer feedback, which is always valuable info.
I find the staff helpful and friendly, and always willing to answer any questions you have.
May I mention, this place is dog friendly. Take your k9 friend in for a stroll around, and plenty of attention & head rubs.
**TIP - The guys at the customer service/rental desk have cookies for your dog! :) -
Review from Rod G.
Toronto, ON
5/4/2011
MEC is among my favourite stores. I own too many MEC packs, winter wear, some cycling and camping gear. It's all of great quality, practical and generally well priced in my opinion. Their packs and shoulder bags in particular look great, seem indestructible and are very competitively priced. This is the place for outdoor enthusiasts and commuters alike. If this sounds like your kind of store I would suggest *not* working in the neighbourhood as I find it leads to compulsive browsing and shopping.
-
Review from Matthew S.
Toronto, ON
1/15/2010
Best. Store. Ever.
Whether you're looking to gear-up for an outdoor adventure or just want to grab a new knapsack for school MEC is the only place to go in Toronto. The staff are friendly, cool, knowledgeable, and never pushy. The selection and quality of products are very high. Prices may seem high at first glance but are generally better than any other outdoor store and are especially reasonable considering the high quality. Customer service and return policy are second to none. The space is beautifully lit, open, and well organized. And, if you care about this sort of thing, MEC is a members cooperative with a commitment to social and environmental issues.
There was a time when I'd spend a few hours a week at MEC browsing and buying gear that I probably didn't need. These days I'm a less frequent visitor, primarily because I've bought almost everything they sell, but I still enjoy stopping by occasionally.
My only complaint about MEC is that I'm not particularly found of their clothing and outerwear selection these days. And, unlike other departments in the store, the clothing department has very little selection other than the MEC branded merchandise. On the few occasions I've had to visit MEC's American equivalent, REI, I found them to be much better in this respect. -
Review from Melissa M.
Toronto, ON
Probably my favorite store for anything related to the outdoors. I've been a member for 22 years since my hard core rock climbing and PADI scuba diving instruction days in Vancouver. I buy all my outdoor equipment and apparel here. Great selection, good quality brands but staff could be more easily accessible. Prices and return policy are very good. However, the long line up system for the cash out registers are discouraging especially if you only have one or two items to buy. Cool garage consignment sales (bi annual) set up for members to sell their stuff, even a car! Look for it on their website.
