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Mountain Equipment Co-op
Category: Shopping Sporting Goods Sporting Goods [Edit]
1450 Government StVictoria, BC V8W 1Z2
(250) 386-2667
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
9 reviews for Mountain Equipment Co-op
9 reviews in English
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Review from Weirdie B.
Victoria, BC
8/20/2010
As much as I like to support local, small business, MEC has totally swooned me. The quality of their products, great prices, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a wicked product guarantee are all things that keep me going back.
I buy mostly cycling gear, and everything that I've purchased so far has been great: Bags, lights, tire pumps, various tools and do-dads, you name it. I also used their bike repair shop services for the first time last weekend and was thoroughly impressed.
Another thing that I find really helpful is their website and the fact that you can read product reviews from customers before you decide what to spend your hard-earned money on! I love you MEC! -
Review from Steve L.
Victoria, BC
1/12/2012 5 Check-ins Here
I went into MEC during my lunchtime in an effort to avoid the gong show the store can become on most weekends, and it was the right decision as the place was nearly empty.
I was looking for a headlamp for running and the clerk that I had helping me knew his stuff. He recommended a few different models and was quick to point out the pros and cons of each unit. I was going to buy one of the more expensive lights when he persuaded me to get a different model that was almost half the price. He assured me it was just as good of a lamp, if not a better, then the more pricey unit.
I'd have to say that I was more then impressed with the level of service, especially when the staff talks me out of a more expensive purchase. -
Review from Dustin D.
Victoria, BC
10/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Huge selection, good prices, helpful staff. I'm sure some of the smaller shops around aren't big fans, but what can you say? MEC seems to do it all right.
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Review from Dan D.
Victoria, BC
8/6/2009
I've got a love-hate relationship with MEC. Been a member for years and I agree with most of what the other reviewers say about how great the prices, equipment, and policies are.
And last time I was in there, something absolutely magical happened! A friendly, knowledgeable staff member deigned to offer me some help. And offered good advice. Yay for the kid with the dreds! DON'T LET HIM GO, MEC!!!
Because the rest of your staff in Ottawa, in Vancouver, and in Victoria think they are just too terminally cool to be arsed to talk to me. Though they don't seem to worry about invading my personal space -- by cutting in front of me, blowing me off so that they can talk to the all-too-cool-20-something-rock-climber-dude, and grabbing things off the shelf while I'm looking at them so that they can show the trinket to the buxom young thing just down the aisle.
I'm not bitter. Really, I'm not.
Yes, it turns out, I am bitter. Since discovering the place in the early 90s, it has always been the same.
I'm pretty damned easy-going most of the time. I tip well, I understand when frazzled waiters flub my order, I get asked for directions everywhere I go. Seriously, people asked me for directions in Zimbabwe (I'm white), Sweden (I'm dark and Italian-looking), Quebec City (I am stupidly Anglophone). All of which is to say, I'm ridiculously approachable. They would rather ask me than a local.
But not in *%^*! MEC, where I am a paid member.
Did I mention Egypt, Greece and L.A.? Yup, people asked me for directions in those places.
But I can assure you that if MEC Zimbabwe ever opens, I will get crappy service. Same for MEC Sweden, MEC L.A., and it irks me. -
Review from Linny H.
3/30/2009 3 photos
So by accident I've discovered the REI equivalent in Canada! Look at the photos I've posted, it's just like REI except it's cheaper (check CA to US dollar exchange rate) and it called MEC!
Just like REI, they're a co-op. In order to purchase or rent anything, you must be a member. It's $5 CAD for lifetime membership. Plus, everything you buy from MEC, 1% of the pre-tax total goes to Canadian environmental causes. Very cool! You can also purchase from their website and pick up in-store. Though if you spend more $150, it's free shipping. They have an excellent return policy if you're dissatisfied with any product purchased there!
They offer the same US brands like Patagonia and Gregory while also offering their own brand line, MEC (of course). Everything was laid out neat and easy to find. The service was very friendly and helpful.
If you're from the US like I am, MEC does ship to the states, it's $19 for up to $1000 in merchandise. Important to note:
"Orders sent to the USA are shipped by Xpresspost. Orders shipped to the USA are not charged Canadian taxes; however, all orders pass through customs and are subject to import duties, taxes, and custom processing fees. A customs invoice will arrive with your parcel or may follow in the mail. Recipients are responsible for paying these additional fees."
Check it out!Listed in: Hot spots in Victoria
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Review from Amanda K.
Calgary, AB
3/14/2011
My first experience with Mountain Equipment Coop was this weekend past in Victoria. It was a great store, with a lot of variety depending on what you are looking for... But here is what really irritates me...
I spent over half and hour looking around the store, browsing, selecting items, and finally deciding to try something on... There was a 10 minute wait for the change rooms, and no where for you to show anyone you are with what you are trying on. I decided to make a purchase, and then waited another ten minutes in line for the check out. I get to the check out, and you need a membership to buy anything!
Okay, WTF? Do they think they are Costco? It wouldn't have been so irritating if there was a sign somewhere, ANYWHERE that stated you needed a membership in order to make purchases... The membership is relatively inexpensive, and good for life, however it was quite frustrating given the amount of time spent in the store already.
Definately not impressed with that small detail, which honestly puts me off the store in general. Bottom line, unless you have a membership, they don't want your money. -
Review from A E.
Victoria, BC
1/18/2010
This is THE outdoor to go to for almost everything you need. They have stuff for the casual hiker and outdoor person and many if not all the things needed for a serious expedition. The staff is always very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. Their prices are cheap and their products are of the highest quality. Also a good place to go for simple, plain t-shirts and long Tees.
I always go to MEC first (and usually last too).
See Linn's review below for some details. -
Review from Jennifer H.
Victoria, BC
1/17/2010
So they didn't have what I was looking for today, but the service was outstanding. My wish list was expanded and on it are some great Made In Canada items. I love that! And unlike many other stores Made In Canada doesn't mean bring your Visa 'cause you'll faint at the price. Everything in MEC has affordable and quality. Whether you're a serious camper, or a downtown bike commuter there's a plethora of finds for everyone who wants to be functional, and stylish in the great outdoors.
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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. The Victoria store is a little bit smaller than others I've been to in Canada but I didn't really notice a lack of anything that I was looking for.
