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Mountain Equipment Co-op
Category: Shopping Sporting Goods Sporting Goods [Edit]
130 Broadway WVancouver, BC V5Y 1P3
Neighbourhood: Mount Pleasant
(604) 872-7858
- 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:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
52 reviews for Mountain Equipment Co-op
Review Highlights
"MEC is THE place for camping, hiking and outdoor gear."
(in 6 reviews)
"For everything outdoors related at great prices with a huge..."
(in 4 reviews)
"The man in the bike section was very helpful."
(in 3 reviews)
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52 reviews in English
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Review from Melissa E.
Vancouver, BC
1/28/2012
I am relocating up north and need gear. Lots o gear. Cold and wet weather gear. I heard there were tons of sales everywhere including Atmosphere and all those stores around MEC who's names i can't remember.
So, checked all of those out first and was pretty disappointed at the lack of selection for puffy down and rain jackets. Even with sales, still super expensive and not a big variety (how can they not carry a puffy jacket WITH hood!?!). So i had given up and assumed the same would happen in MEC. But NO! Huge selection relative to other stores and all significantly less expensive, both on sale and not. Quality-wise i don't think it's any worst than other brands like Mountain Hardwear or Patagonia and if it is, with MEC's amazing return policy it really doesn't matter. I thought the clearance/sale items wouldn't have the same policy but they did!! I bought a great goretex jacket and puffy down 575 fill for under $400!!!
With those kinds of savings i felt more than comfortable splurging at Brewery Creek liquor! Who can ask for more! -
Review from Jennifer C.
Sechelt, BC
1/15/2012
When I moved from California to British Columbia, I didn't know about MEC. I only knew REI and how much I loved it.
MEC has consistently proven to be a worthy outdoor store. I can find nearly everything I need and their return policy is flawless. One thing to remember when shopping there is to bring your own shopping bags for your purchases. MEC does not dole out plastic or paper bags for your items. They do, however, have a handy stash of mostly useful pieces of plastic that can be used to tote your purchases home.
I love shopping their website because I can use Interac as I am one of those people who does not have a credit card. -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
12/18/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Ever wondered where all of Vancouver's outdoor type boys be on a Saturday afternoon, when they're not on the top of a mountain? They're here. All of them. Consider that a present to all of my single lady friends ;p
The staff smile here. They want to help you out. Why? Because they truly care about the great outdoors. High pressure sales is substituted for true knowledge and passion here. I've been a MEC member for years, dating back to my old Euro trekking days. I think I can safely say I have bought something from each of their departments: skiing, snowshoeing, shoes, camping, backpacks, clothing of every layered variety, heck I've even bought webbing from their climbing section. As far as a one stop shop for everything outdoors goes, well MEC has it covered.
And yes, it's a bummer that they aren't reimbursing the $1.50 for rooftop parking. But have you ever stood on the roof and looked at Vancouver from there? On a partly cloudy day, the afternoon sun can hit the glass buildings in such a way that it's mesmerizing. I suggest you pay your 1.50 and then enjoy the view!Listed in: The Great Vancouver Outdoors, Oh Canada!
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Review from Brian S.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 1/14/2012
I bought a MEC brand Cycling Jacket . I had for about 3.5 years. The YKK zipper which is the "HONDA" of zippers teeth jumped the rail and wouldn't "heal". MEC Agent's checked my member history decided to provide me a store credit for the full amount. I thinking of getting a Showers Past jacket this time. Thanks MEC
Listed in: Bike Shops that treat you…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/23/2011
I been to 2 of MECs bike maintenance workshops. At one workshop I watched two new couples telling… Read more »
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Review from Karen M.
12/29/2011
Canada's original outdoor equipment shop. It is the equivalent of REI in the States. Whatever one could possibly want or need that is hiking/biking/kayaking/outdoors! related can be found here. The MEC house brand features good quality items at a (more) reasonable pricepoint than the spendy brands (like Prana, Mountain Hardware, etc.). Staff are happy to be there, which makes you happy to be there!
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Review from Amanda H.
Vancouver, BC
12/20/2011
I really enjoy shopping on the MEC website. I have spent so much money there! It is funny how I never buy anything when I am in the store, though. My most recent purchase was for a pair of Vibram fivefinger shoes. Now I know what most people are thinking...you should try shoes on at the store! Well, I was confident in their returns policy, it just didn't seem like a big deal. Luckily, the shoes were great. We also bought a bike stand for our apartment and I was happy with the item. My only complaint is that on some of their items the prices seem a little steep and we have a hard time finding the cycle gear we want. Other than that we enjoy MEC. I wish they would open one in Richmond.
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Review from Catherine W.
New Westminster, BC
10/5/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I really like MEC on the whole but sometimes their prices don't really match the quality of the item. For example, I was on a rain jacket mission. Something that will breathe and was long as I hate when my jacket rides up in the back. It's just a pain.
The selection for this was limited. I did find one item but the zipper quality was horrible. I would have had to have my husband zip me in every time I wanted to wear it as it wasn't user friendly. Then the material wasn't breathable and for 85$ I want something that breathes as well. I don't want to be sticky after walking my dogs for half an hour.
In other areas they are really good and I like their selection. I will be back but only if it's something I can't find anywhere else. -
Review from Chris H.
Vancouver, BC
1/21/2012
I have shopped there a number of times. They have a warrantee that covers both the product and the advice. I would highly recommend them.
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Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
6/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
There was a time in my life where I loved MEC. Now I find it actually quite frustrating. I've been consistently unimpressed with their decisions to move more corporate and was really offended when, after they said no bikes, they brought bikes in.
Today I went in to buy some handlebar tape and it didn't come with instructions. When I went to their website to try to find how to put it on (it wasn't just the tape there were all sorts of other parts that I didn't understand) there was nothing that resembled help. I ended up calling and asking what the three extra little bits were and they explained what I was to do. All in all a pretty lack luster experience.
They are a co-op, their prices are competitive and their staff are knowledgeable but they need to start acting like a co-op and respecting the community a bit more. -
Review from John D.
10/22/2011
Fav outdoor store. Great jackets for wet weather. Bought my first gore-tex jacket there 18 years ago.
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Review from Kristin H.
Vancouver, BC
12/4/2010 1 Check-in Here
Even though I'm not an outdoorsy person, I just really like going to MEC. I feel a little more fit just walking through the doors and trying on some space-age GoreTex fabrics. I've always had good experiences shopping here, but their bicycle service is what prompted this review.
I don't know much about bikes other than I wanted a decent bike to get me from point A to point B. I went in to two other bike stores on Broadway, and received terribly rude service. I guess because I didn't want to spend $2000 and because biking is not my raison d'etre, I wasn't worth their time or money.
I went in to MEC and started just looking at their bikes, poking around, being sort of clueless as to the difference between the $400 model and the $800 model. A sales associate actually approaches and asks me if I have any questions about the bikes. In a friendly manner, not with veiled sarcasm! Yes, yes I do. He answers them, and takes his time showing me the different parts of the bike, what I should be looking for, asks me what I plan to be doing with the bike, and suggests that the cheaper model would be just fine for me. He spent at least 10 minutes with me, no pressure at all, and seemed to genuinely want to help me find the right bike.
I know there are some politics going on between the local bike stores and MEC's new bike section, and I do like buying local, but I'm going to go where I get the best service and am treated with respect, and not disdain as a customer just because I'm a biking newbie. MEC gets my biking dollars, hands down. -
Review from Gelsey B.
1/27/2011
I think I go to the MEC at least once every two weeks. It is a great place to get outdoor equipment. I've bought rain jacket & pants, trekking poles, permaloft jacket, dehydrated food, shirts, gaiters, etc. The MEC brand products are good quality and the right price. Their rentals are good too... affordable and good equipment. The staff is always super friendly and helpful. I love this place.
One time I was there and all the registers broke down (some issue with the software). The lines kept getting longer and longer as the check-out staff tried to figure what was wrong. The staff was very helpful about putting stuff on hold for those with credit or debits cards who could not pay and about figuring who could pay cash and continue with their purchases. The way the staff handled this problem (imagine this -- 50 people trying to check out and not understanding what was going on) showed the professionalism and good attitude of the MEC staff.
The only issue I have is that the MEC has a private parking lot and they charge for it. I wish they would validate parking in their own parking lot instead. All those loonies and toonies should be spent inside the store on gear instead! -
Review from Peter S.
8/19/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I have been a loyal fan since wayyyyy before they were cool!
Back in the 80's MEC was THEE place to buy hardy tree huggin outdoor gear. And it still is today, only now it is way cooler to do so.
The colours back then were appropriately 1980's. I can vividly recall walking home from school touting my purple backpack with a few sneers and jeers from the "cool kids". But I knew that if push came to shove my backpack would hold up in the biggest after school brawl. I don't think my bright teal "rad pants" helped my situation either.
I suspect that whomever is the person in charge of buying/deciding on the colours today is related to the original person. Just take a look at the clearance racks. Snot green shirts, pukey orange shorts, and everything else in between and inappropriate. "What were you thinking?"
But, thankfully they have gradually improved their style over the years while still charging the same $5 lifetime membership. My Dad still has his 1970's paper MEC membership in his wallet. It is funny to hear people whine and bitch at the checkouts when they realize they need a membership. They'll happily pay $50 a year for Costco access, but a $5 lifetime membership to MEC is just crossing the line damn it.
MEC has always been five stars for me. Whenever I need a little travel/outdoor/adventure inspiration or a last minute present for a loved one, I go and wander for an hour. I always leave with a smile and an armful of goodies.
MEC is the original WooHoo! gear store in Vancouver. And if I ever win the lottery, I am going on a day long shopping spree. "I'll take one of everything!"Listed in: Outdoor gear
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Review from Kat S.
5/28/2010
If you are familiar with REI in the US, this is a very similar company. However, you don't get money back for your membership fee (still only $5 at MEC, but price has gone up at REI) like you do at REI. I would prefer the REI system, actually, because you get rewarded for shopping there. If REI was in Canada I would give REI 5 stars and MEC 4, but since they are not I will be kind and give a 5 to MEC. ....Anyhow.... on to my review of MEC.
Several years ago I would have rated MEC lower, but my recent experiences have actually impressed me. Here's why!
1. Staff. Wow have their staff changed. I used to despise going to MEC if I didn't already know what I wanted. You could never find anyone to help you and if you did they were too busy telling each other about their latest rock climbing adventure to bother helping the customer. Lately I have had excellent service, and staff have actually asked if they can help me find something. I am often the customer everyone loves to ignore for some unknown reason.
2. Warranty. Holy crap! You're going to replace my sunglasses I stepped on? Really? No way! Yeah, that pretty much sums up how awesome their warranty is.
3. Space. The store is pretty big. Therefore tents have their own area where they are set up and you can crawl in them and check them out from the inside instead of just staring at photos of the pretty tents. Also, sleeping bags can all be brought down to the ground and you can try them out with the different sleeping pads. Cool! Now if someone would just bring me some S'mores and hot chocolate, I might not ever leave.
4. Organic and Ethical. MEC works hard to ensure all their products are made ethically. And they offer a lot of cotton clothing that is organic. They have a clothing recycling program, too! Turn your old duds into new ones and save the planet. Yay!
5. Gear Swap. The MEC Gear Swap is legendary. Get some awesome deals on new and used goods. There's also an online swap.
6. Website. Their website helps me figure out what I want to buy before I go to the store. I can read reviews from other people who have purchased the items and can compare prices.
7. All the little extras. This place is dangerous for buying more than you wanted to buy. But it's a great place to stock up on all the little things that will make your trip that much better. I can roam this section for an hour. You can get Canadian flag patches for your overseas trip, locks for your luggage, passport holders, camera cases, bear bells (aka dinner bells), first aid kits (I am the safety queen), waterproof matches, sporks, dehydrated meals, Toblerone bars (mmm), and a huge assortment of containers for whatever it is you need to pack.
8. New Bike Section. I doubt I would buy a bike from here, but it's a good place to stock up on the little things, like cheap lights, racks, panniers, etc. I'll leave my major purchases to the little guys.
9. Canadian Company.Listed in: Get Outside! But first you…
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Review from Michael H.
Calgary, AB
8/20/2010
This where I do the majority of my shopping, from casual wear to hiking and climbing gear to footwear.
I've been a member since the mid 80s (5 digit membership number, yo, on the original paper membership card) at the Calgary location.
Good prices and great quality products. Have never been disappointed with any purchase.Listed in: Top of the Heap - Other
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Review from Ernie B.
Burnaby, BC
7/3/2010
In theory, MEC is great. I love them. What they stand for, what they do, and of course: awesome prices.
Where it fails is that they are almost always out of "normal" sized stuff. There's always tons of XXL and XS hanging out, but what about small, mediums, and large?
I'm talking about staples like socks and underwear! Jackets too, but in general, so much is out of stock.
Luckily, I ordered online last time and got everything in 2 days.
Please MEC buyers... order more stuff for average people, and less for tiny people and giants. I assure you, it will work out in the long run. -
Review from Kreag S.
Vancouver, BC
12/17/2008
Did you know you need a membership to shop here?? I didn't..and so when on the quest for the perfect bike helmet I was told to try MEC...I was glad that they actually had a great selection of helmets..and some that weren't lame! The man in the bike section was very helpful...told me how the helmet should fit and gave me advise on what looked good...10 mins and the quest for a helmet was over...
I went to pay and they asked for my membership...which I didn't have...and was annoyed that there are no "membership only" signs anywhere...thankfully it was only a like $5 fee and I just had to fill out some paper work...which did irritate me a bit but meh..I finally had the perfect helmet! -
Review from Janel Y.
10/4/2008
MEC is the REI version up in Canada...or is it REI is the MEC version down in the states? Hhmmm....
Since being a member of REI, the last time I was in Vancouver, I had to compare the two. Both are very similar in terms of variety of outdoorsy clothes and equipment. Sale items were a steal...of course this was back in the day when the dollar was strong. I purchased my sleeping bag here and it's still in great condition, following me on camping/hiking weekend trips to as far away from home as Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
I found the store more spacious than some of the REIs back in CA and the employees not so helpful. I don't know if they have the same perks as REI does for their customers such as 100% satisfaction guarantee, used gear sales or coupons for 20% regular priced items. It's a good store, but I'm biased and due to location, I think I'll just stick with the closer REI stores. -
Review from David L.
Updated - 1/17/2011
It's still the same old MEC, but they don't reimburse the $1.50 parking fee anymore.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/24/2009
MEC sells some of the best quality products with the best customer service. MEC apparel and packs… Read more »
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Review from Mark W.
Vancouver, BC
8/25/2009
MEC is THE place for camping, hiking and outdoor gear. The backpacks last forever. I have 3 or 4 of them in different sizes. I got my first one when I was 8. It's still in great condition.
If you travel as much as I do, stocking up at MEC is a must. I've been to similar stores like REI in the States, but nothiing beats MEC. It's worth getting a membership (which is a lifetime membership, btw). -
Review from Jenni B.
4/19/2009
Reasons to fall in love with MEC:
1. If you are a traveller, you will love their vast selection of packs at much better prices than you will find elsewhere in this city. They also offer a lot of travel gadgets which you will find useful for a sustained backpacking trip.
2. The fact that no matter what your out door rugged sport you will find everything you need and more; with staff knowledge and friendly to offer advise to the novice and the expert.
3. Clothing - why spend double somewhere else for half the functionality? Their vast inventory of active clothing to suit a wide array of sports will leave you comfy, stylish, and well prepared without breaking you bank account. -
Review from Geoff B.
12/4/2009
What more could you want from an outdoor store? If you're not a hunter or fisherman this is your one stop shop for gear. The prices are practically bargain basement and although you won't find much from big name brands (they do carry Patagonia and Cloudveil clothes), MEC's own line of clothing is as good or better than any other brand I've ever worn in most cases.
For the performance level of their packs and clothes, the prices at MEC are usually comparable to those of some of the big online retailers. It's really full service, too. No matter what you're into (hunting and fishing aside) you can find the gear to help you do it here. Where else can you find a folding titanium spork in real life? -
Review from Brian G.
Surrey, BC
8/23/2009
An outdoors person dream. This shop has the ultimate selection in outdoor gear and at very reasonable prices. Have been shopping here for almost 20 years and still have a backpack that I used for 5 yrs through high school and it still looks in almost new condition.
Definitely go here if you need any outdoor equipment. -
Review from Anita T.
Toronto, ON
9/22/2008
Going traveling?
THIS is your first stop before you board the plane.
From sleep sheets and backpacks, to insulated socks and trekking gear - you name it, and you'll find it at MEC. This place is massive and you could truly spend hours in it defending all the things you want to buy (everyone needs 6 pairs of super insulated socks when going to Vienna, no?)...
In addition to all the millions of things that they carry - the staff is actually going to know about the millions of things available! Seriously. Now, how often do you see that?!
And if it couldn't get any better, it just might. MEC is a coop (but you already knew that, didn't you?). They're passionate about outdoor adventures and really want to install sustainability issues in all travelers and customers alike. They have a good message, so you better listen to it! -
Review from Cameron M.
Toronto, ON
1/10/2009
I don't know why I always end up getting stuck here when someone else is shopping. I'm not much of an outdoors man so most of their 'gear' kind of flies over my head. That said, I love giant stores filled with interesting things and MEC definitely fits the bill.
My favorite section is the camping tools section. They've got every kind of dehydrated food and bone saw and elastic tie you can think of. In fact, even though I rarely buy stuff here I often get some goofy little thing as a gift for a friend from this section. Nothing like building a hilarious emergency kit for someone heading out on a big trip.
What I have bought here has been really good. I bought a shoulder bag about 5 years ago and it's still as good as new today. Their products can often seem a bit pricey but you are paying for the quality and durability associated with their name.
And yes, there's the co-op membership thing. I just tend to go with a friend who already has one though it's a pretty cheap and painless process to get your own. -
Review from Lee N.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 1/14/2010
I buy Bike stuff here, I ride my bike to buy bike stuff here.
Not a big fan of them getting to selling bikes, so they lose a star.
But that's not like I'm not going back to buy stuff and they have alott of stuff.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/6/2009
I'm seeing more 20 somethings in MEC these days than 30 somethings, I think a generation has been… Read more »
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Review from Lynn H.
Vancouver, BC
8/7/2010
If I could pack up a ruck-sack and move into MEC I probably would. Although I occasionally balk at the prices, MEC is easily the most varied, well thought out collection of hiking, climbing, cycling, paddling and skiing gear you can find in Vancouver. My family has had a membership in some form or the other since my parents first moved to Vancouver way back in the day. We have an awesome fleece shirt that my mom used to take with her on school trips (she was the teacher) to Strathcona.
I agree that they can occasionally be a bit short on "normal people" sizes but the awesome thing for me is that the Men's clothing fills all the gaps left in the women's clothing. i.e. sizes for people who are longer than they are wide. I truly do not understand the impulse in womens clothing to make things much much wider without making them any longer. The men's clothing is PERFECT for tall rangy females like myself.
My concluding point... I am currently in Malawi and pleased as punch with the gear I bought at MEC right before I left. Probably one of the greatest things about this store is that they pre-select things so anything you buy will be pretty much perfect right out of the bag. YAY MEC! -
Review from Pete S.
Vancouver, BC
6/16/2010
MEC vancouver is a sprawling outdoor gear nirvana. from skiing to hiking, biking, climbing, camping, and even paddling, they can kit you out fully for your adventures outdoors.
MEC is the best. their staff are (for the most part) really knowledgeable, experienced and enthusiastic, their house brand clothing and gear all works really well in all but the most demanding of outdoor activities, and their prices are very reasonable.
their new bike shop is sweet. they offer great service at a pretty reasonable price, and with a reasonable turn-around time. they could do with a few more components in stock, but you can't be a specialist at everything. -
Review from Ying W.
Vancouver, BC
8/22/2010
I have been a member since 2000 and it's one of my favorite place to shop for sporting clothes and items. I find they have great selection, reasonable prices, good quality items and helpful staff.
Items that I have bought there varies from hiking clothes, bike gear, yoga sports wear, travel items like travel mug or flashlight, snorkel gear, to rock climbing gear and waterproof jackets.
I really appreciate their staffs' knowledge and they have helped me from buying a sleeping bag to hiking trail shoes. The store does get alot more busy on weekends so may be better to shop there on weeknights if you need to pick a staff brain on some sports gear.
Overall, I have never been disappointed with any purchases and if something really doesn't work out, I think the store has a good refund policy. -
Review from Alex R.
Vancouver, BC
10/15/2009
Holy crow!
I've been to the Ottawa and Winnipeg stores, so it's no surprise to find the home-store bulked like the Hulk (I know.. I know). This is definitely the place where you can find everything you need for extreme camping, definitely the 'go-to' place for Burners.
This store stands out for having plentiful and helpful staff, despite such a sprawling store that I went to on a summer weekend day (go on a weekday!). -
Review from JC M.
Vancouver, BC
5/12/2011
I love MEC. What's not to love about the comprehensive selection, great prices, and knowledgeable staff? I can never go in there and come out empty-handed.
MEC sells both brand-name outdoor gear and it's own brand. For the budget-conscious outdoorsperson, the MEC brand stuff is awesome, great quality. I also really like that there is usually a range of price points for everything, with the lower price points being very affordable.
The kids' stuff is fantastic too. I've actually bought some kids' clothes because I'm a small person. When I have little ones, I'll definitely be getting comfy, warm, weather-appropriate clothes for them from MEC. -
Review from Barry M.
10/26/2010 3 Check-ins Here
Friendly, helpful, non-pressuring sales staff are available in every area when I've gone looking for something but been indecisive or overwhelmed at what options there were.
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Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
8/28/2009
my favourite sporting/outdoors goods store.
MEC started in Vancouver and is a co-operative, which means you have to be a member to buy there.
for a small one time fee you get access to the BEST gear and ethical shopping to boot.
brainchild of two kids out at UBC that just wanted to make cool stuff.
everything is quality made and manufactuaing standards of goods have to go through the process of member vote. that means if YOU, yes you, are unhappy with the way MEC is doing anything, YOU can complain and put it to a member vote.
I love MEC. support quality and support home-grown stores -
Review from Daniel L.
I am a big big fan of MEC, if you want value and selection MEC is it... Plus they have a no hassle return or replace policy...
They come through all the time if you don't need a logo or name brand they have it. Ya some of the clothing is boring but they sell much more than that. The staff are plenty easy to find and always friendly (an cute).
This store is huge with everything outdoor.. After i searched the city of my needs MEC came through with price and quality. They have a great website as well. Heck it only cost $5. bucks for a lifetime membership. -
Review from Sachi M.
I was here a long time ago to buy camping stuff. They still have that, but a good portion of the store is dedicated to bikes. I don't remember that from before.
My husband and his biking buddy say this store has much more selection AND better prices on bike parts/related equipment.
I was with them today, and was surprised to find lots of clothing. I mean Normal Looking clothing you could wear on the street, besides their selection of obviously sporting wear. They even had casual summer dresses ( http://www.patagonia.c... ).
They even had infant wear! (onesies, buntings, pants) I didn't check if they are extra earth-friendly or what (I mean... baby clothes at MEC?), but the whales and camping-like colours attracted me. I'll keep this in mind next time there's a baby shower for outdoor-loving parents. -
Review from Crazy P.
Vancouver, BC
6/2/2010
I am not a hardcore cyclist, hiker, kayaker or anything like that. I participate in these activities and consider myself like any other casual Joe.
That said, I find the staff extremely helpful, the selection surpasses my needs, and I am glad to be a member of such a responsible organization. -
Review from Tim L.
8/14/2008
Being a co-op is what makes MEC so wonderful. There's no swindling since every one in here is for the love of their sport.
For everything outdoors related at great prices with a huge selection and very knowledgeable staff, I can never find a better place.
Without fail, ALL the staff know their stuff about their particular sport. It's exactly what is needed when embarking on a new adventure. -
Review from Sheila W.
BC
12/9/2008 2 photos
All outdoorsy types should be (or quickly become) familiar with MEC. It's a MEC-ca (yes, admittedly lame pun) for climbers, hikers, campers, winter sports enthusiasts, backpackers and other people in need of quality gear.
I've personally been backpacking with a MEC rig since 2001. It's in need of a thorough wash, but he bag has held up through years of flights, hostels, trains, busses, ferries and other adventures.
There's always staff around who are in-the-know about what you need to safely do any given activity. They have ideas for you about the gear and how and where to use it.
Since it's a cooperative, shoppers are "members" and as such must purchase a membership card in order to make a purchase. When I got mine it cost $5 and was totally worth the quality goods and advice I've been able to acquire there. -
Review from Chloë E.
Vancouver, BC
12/31/2008
MEC is a summer and winter wonderland of equipment and information. I've always found what I'm looking for here and the staff members are always available.
I've bought a few items of clothing here, which I'm not crazy about. I don't like the cut of the clothing, find it pretty boxy, and have overall had problems with the comfort of the stitching. I like the products sold by other manufacturers there, so usually head for those items rather than the MEC-made places.
MEC is also commendable for its community work. They support lots environmental projects and it's nice to know your purchase adds a little to charity pile rather than the mountain of corporate greed. -
Review from Allen W.
Vancouver, BC
11/15/2009
If you need any outdoor gear or clothing, MEC is the place to begin your hunt.
I've bought some of the most comfortable hiking shoes from this store and have fallen in love with a raincoat I couldn't justify buying (let's just say, MEC isn't cheap).
Store offers a wide selection of goods and super helpful staff. And once, when I couldn't locate the item I needed in the their store the staff Google'd the product to help me find it elsewhere.
There is a paid parking lot behind the store. Since the paid parking is good for an hour, you'll often find kind customers handing off their parking pass to the next person pulling into the lot.
Viva la MEC!
