Mountain Equipment Co-op

Outdoorsy gear in downtown Toronto

Mountain Equipment Co-op was born out of the 1970's need of a climbing gear store like REI in Seattle.

A group of 4 avid mountain climbers, part of their UBC climbing club, decided to start up their own shop when border guards caught wind of how much climbing gear was making it across the border undeclared.

Now MEC is a national phenomenon with stores across Canada.

My first experience with MEC Canada were the backpacks everyone was carrying in the late 1990's.  It seemed like every high schooler and University student I knew had an understated but long lasting MEC pack.

Of course there is alot more to the MEC Toronto store. Kayaks, tents, wet suits and rain gear. It is basically a one stop shop for all things outdoorsy.
 


In fact wandering around the King West shop is like going on an adventure itself. First of all it is huge! And there is gear everywhere.

It is obvious too that the company's heritage resides in mountain climbing as a climbing wall takes center stage in the store.

But the reason I finally bought my $5 MEC co-op membership was because I needed rain gear for my toddler and MEC had the best selection, prices  and quality. Most other retailers either didn't carry sizes small enough or they carried rain gear for a limited time only in the early spring (some would say winter!).


MEC Canada is all about having the right gear to perform your best outside, whether it be hiking, biking or camping. Keep in mind they are not a sporting goods store but when you are at a loss for where to find great outdoorsy clothing and gear MEC is a must visit.

Keep in mind that the co-op has keep a feeling of community and has free gear swaps, fests for everything bike and paddle.

The Toronto store is found at 400 King St. West. There is also a store in Burlington and Barrie.

Open
Monday - Wednesday 10am-7pm
Thursday - Friday 10 am - 9pm
Saturday 9am - 6pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm

Summer hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 9pm

 You might also like:

If you want to read more store profiles like this one of  Mountain Equipment Co-op then click here to sign up for our newsletter!

Return HOME or Continue shopping Toronto Neighbourhoods