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5 Gear Upgrades You Need To Do This Winter

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5 Gear Upgrades You Need To Do This Winter

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We know how much a beloved piece of gear makes you feel. It’s trustworthy, reliable, and worked in. That stinky old base layer that you’ve been holding onto since you first moved to Whistler. That shirt has kept you warm through countless pow days and après. You know the one we’re talking about. Its lifespan has been reached, possibly even exceeded. Do yourself a favor and upgrade it to newer technology for the best ski season yet. While you’re at it, here are 5 more gear upgrades you definitely need to do this winter.

Gloves

Your gloves see a ton of action. Through all the strapping in, and doing up ski boots, they can lose some of their durability. Retire last seasons gloves to the status of ‘back-up’ and grab a new pair of Hestra Gloves. The design and material choice of Hestra gloves will even see you into next season and beyond.

Socks

Socks are one of the most washed parts of your winter gear. This means that over time, the fabric weakens and their adaptability to changing temperature conditions can be altered. Invest in a decent pair and it can make a huge difference to your experience on the mountain.

Goggles

Goggle technology is always improving. There’s no need to suffer through fogging and light distortion issues associated with many of the older models.  Ditch what you’ve got and check out the Oakley PRIZM Snow Goggles. The lenses enhance contrast and visibility over a wide range of light conditions.

Action Cam

GoPro has recently released the GoPro Hero 7 and a Hero 5 just won’t do the trick anymore after you hear about the new features. On the Hero 7, you’ll find improved audio, live-streaming to sites like Facebook, and a new time-lapse mode. All necessities when it comes to making edits of your latest mountain antics an getting them on social ASAP.

Beanie

If you’re anything like the average Whistler local, you’re most likely wearing your beanie day in and day out. At work, the bar, and of course on the hill, it’s just part of your mountain wardrobe. Freshen up your look with this year’s colors and styles by snagging one of the latest COAL headwear toques, found at both of our locations.

We at McCoo’s know how important it is it to have gear that you love. Why not make the gear you love, also the latest technology by upgrading some of the essentials this winter?

GEAR FEATURE: Hestra Gloves

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GEAR FEATURE: Hestra Gloves

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It’s that time of the year when you start to think about your winter gear. What shape is it in and what’s missing are often the most common questions that begin to pop up. One of the more frequent new purchases is gloves. Keeping a set together is always a challenge and since your hands are required to do up boots and manipulate gear, gloves take their fair share of wear and tear. Hestra offers high-quality gloves in over 400 styles. While McCoo’s focuses primarily on the Hestra gloves required for sports, it’s no secret across all their lines why we continue to stay dedicated to their brand.

History

Hestra Gloves was started by two brothers, Claes and Svante Magnusson in Sweden in 1936. They begin developing gloves for everyone from mountaineers all the way to lumberjacks. Warmth, protection, and finger tip sensitivity were important in many of these fields and so the associated technology began to appear in the Hestra designs. The company is still run currently by third and fourth generation family members.

Technology

Glove making is considered a craft by Hestra. Having mastered the art of glove cutting, which is a skill possessed only by a few hundred in the world, Hestra starts with durable leather and then finishes the gloves by hand sewing them together. They continue to choose leather as it has both insulating and protecting properties, ideal for keeping hands warm as well as helping them maintain dexterity. Elk from either Sweden or Finland is a popular source of the leather used. Polyester is also introduced into the gloves for its wind proof nature.

Design

According to Hestra, the biggest source of their inspiration is nature. Simple and clean lines lend a classic look to many of their gloves. The timeless nature of their designs continue to keep them relevant year after year. Well placed inseams and additional features are found on all their gloves, making them well equip for whatever task they are meant to tackle.

Gloves are an essential part of your winter gear. Cold hands can turn the best day into the worst very quickly. For keeping out the conditions, maintaining use of your hands, and reliability, Hestra is a brand we at McCoo’s have grown to trust and be proud to offer. If you have any questions about what style of glove is best for your sport, come stop by the store where our knowledgable staff will help you choose the gloves right for you.

Everything You Need For A Lit Day In The Park

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Everything You Need For A Lit Day In The Park

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Jump, berm, drop, repeat! Bike park season is going strong and chances are, you’re making the most of it. While it may seem like there’s endless riding, all good things do come to an end and winter is just around the corner. Don’t waste one minute shredding the gnar in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. To make the most of each and every day, go in kitted out in the best gear for the job. We’ve got everything you need for a lit day in the park!

POC Helmet

Your noggin needs protecting. Aside from the obvious, you can’t actually ride in the Bike Park without a helmet. We recommend a breathable POC helmet. State of the art technology combined with progressive design has resulted in one of the most breathable and safe helmets on the market.

Mons Royal Tee

Speaking of breathability, you’re going to want this feature in you’re cycling clothing. Sweat is no stranger but with Mons Royal, it can become more of an acquaintance. Using the latest German knitting and spinning equipment, the apparel helps to regulate your temperature, dries quickly and doesn’t stink. You’ll still probably want to change before hitting the GLC patio.

Stance Socks

Sure, black socks might seem like the go-to option for biking. With Stance socks, what’s covering your feet becomes a fashion statement. Get a few pairs and let what peeks out of your shoe do the talking each day. And just a heads up, when you’re sending the Canadian Open step-down under the chair, you can totally see your socks.

Oakley PRIZM Goggles

Years and years of research led to Oakley PRIZM technology. These goggles control light transmission resulting in colours so tuned, they maximize contrast and enhance visibility. No more glare or light distortions, you’ll see everything. Well, maybe not that bear hiding in the woods, but everything on the trail!

GoPro

Get the best POV with a GoPro HERO 6. You can make edits, post your big hits on social, or just relive the crash moments over and over again.

Much to our dismay, Whistler Mountain Bike Park season doesn’t last forever. Enjoy the hero dirt while you can and be comfortable in the latest and best gear from McCoo’s.

Everything You Need For A Lit Crankworx

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Everything You Need For A Lit Crankworx

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Crankworx is coming to Whistler and to maximize your fun, you’re going to want to be prepared. No, we’re not talking scheduling in what events you need to catch and what after parties you can’t miss- we’re talking about all the nitty gritty stuff, like your bike park kit, water bottle, and of course, beach gear. Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don’t worry, we’ve got everything you need right here for lit Crankworx.

Bike Park Kit

Crankworx is the time to be seen. There are riders from all over the world showing off their skills but they don’t know about the double on Samari Pizza Cat or the sneaky lines on Dirt Merchant. Stand out in a Loose Riders Whistler Chapter kit. Colorful, functional, and oh so snazzy, you’re sure to get WHOOPS and YEAH BOSS’ while riding Family Cross.

Socks

Okay, so socks might not seem like a priority but trust us, they are. Reping some Stance socks in the bike park is just as important as having the newest Santa Cruz Nomad.

Water Bottle

Hello, #HEATWAVE2018. It’s almost as ridiculous to walk around without a water bottle as it is to be wearing pants in this weather. Grab a S’well Water Bottle that matches your look and keeps your beverage cool for up to 24 hours. The perks don’t stop there. These water bottles are eco-friendly.

Action Cam

Imagine this: A first-time trick gets thrown down at Redbull Joy Ride and you can’t believe your eyes. Was it a triple or a quadruple? Don’t settle for waiting for the rerun, watch it instantaneously on your GoPro. Then, let the cheering commence!

Beach Gear

Everyone knows that the place to go to cool down after watching Speed and Style or Fox Air DH is the lake. Show up with all the right gear. Hat, check, RipCurl My Bikini, check, Smith sunnies, check! Who knows, maybe you’ll chat your way into a wrist band or two for just one of the killer Crankworx parties.

Portable Battery Pack

Effectively hopping from after party to after party requires a tremendous amount of battery power. Make sure you aren’t caught with a dead phone by having an Outdoor Technology portable battery pack. Capable of multiple charges, you can graciously lend it to a buddy…if you please.

Crankworx is the festival of the summer season. Make sure you’re prepared to maximize fun for the most lit event of the season yet. Pop into McCoo’s and let us outfit you in everything you’ll need for the gravity-fed action!

 

 

5 Ways Music Makes A Summer

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5 Ways Music Makes A Summer

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Summer is about the sun, long days, even longer nights, and music! While the latter might not seem like an important part, we can assure you that without it, summer just wouldn’t be the same. Listening to beats while on an adventure or while lazily hanging around the lake can set the perfect tone. It’s also an integral part of some of your warm-weather events. Here are 5 ways music makes a summer!

Festivals

Attending a music festival is a definite highlight of summer. Listening to the sweet melodies of music you’ve never heard before and making golden memories you can keep with you for the rest of your life will connect you with everyone in the crowd.

Must-Have Music Accessory: Outdoor Tech Tags 2.0 Wireless Earbuds so you don’t miss any phone calls and can re-live some of your favorite songs right after they play live.

A Song For Summer

When the snow is falling and you’re struggling to adjust to the sub-zero temperatures, just put on a song that reminds you of summer. You’ll instantly be whisked right back into warmer days.

Must-Have Music Accessory: Skull Candy Crusher Wireless Headphones to block out the bleak winter and bask in your sunny summer nostalgia.

Background Music For Your Perfect Adventure

Sure, the sound of sweet nature is important to take note of but sometimes, you just need a little more to set the mood. Having music playing while you’re griding through a hike or enjoying a drink with friends by the water will make the experience all that much better.

Must-Have Music Accessory: Outdoor Tech Turtle Shell 3.0 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker to carry with you as you hike to Black Tusk or chill hard at Lakeside Park.

Shred Music

No matter what the season, biking, skiing, snowboarding- they all demand a playlist to shred too!

Must-Have Music Accessory: Skull Candy Method Sport Headphones will keep the tunes flowing while you shred the gnar. 

Tunes For Chillin’ On The Patio And BBQing

Summer is undoubtedly patio season. Whole days can be spent outside on a balcony or at your local spot on the patio, relishing in the summer sun. We also can’t forget the countless BBQ’s that come with the season. They just wouldn’t be the same without tunes!

Must-Have Music Accessory: Skull Candy Barricade XL BT Speaker for your backyard BBQ.

We at McCoo’s are die-hard music fans and can help connect you to your own must- have music accessory to make your summer one to remember.

GEAR FEATURE: POC Cycling Helmets And Apparel

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GEAR FEATURE: POC Cycling Helmets And Apparel

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Here at McCoo’s, we look to offer the best gear for all your Whistler adventures. What makes it the best is extensive research into what is needed to perform and play at all levels. We look for gear that lasts, performs in all conditions and of course, is safe. With all things considered, POC cycling helmets and apparel fit what we look to offer to our customers.

POC is a Swedish company on a mission to produce helmets and apparel that save lives and can reduce the consequences of accidents for gravity sports athletes and cyclists. The company was founded in 2005 and initially, they broke into the ski racing market. POC’s new ideas and solutions to improve alpine safety, by reducing the force transmitted to the brain and body in case of a crash, gained a lot of attention. The need for such products quickly transferred into another industry: cycling. This led to the evolution and development of protection for different categories with each sport including freeskiing, snowboarding and mountain bike disciplines. Consequently, POC has become a highly desired brand by athletes and enthusiasts alike of both sports.

The concepts, technologies, and materials used and implemented by POC for the helmets and body armor are highly researched in the state of the art POC Lab. Throughout the research process and during testing, the equipment is scrutinized by POC’s scientific forum that consists of some of the world’s foremost sports medicine experts, brain scientists, and specialists in spinal cord injuries. As result, the products created by POC are scientifically proved to help reduce the severity of injuries in action sports.

In addition to protecting the user and decreasing the undesired results of crashing, POC has set themselves apart with their designs. Eye-catching colors and progressive structures have made their products distinguishable from competitors. What’s more, the aesthetics are an addition to a high-level of comfort. Vents and padding have been put in the perfect places so that users can focus on the task at hand and not their gear.

We hope you enjoyed this gear feature. As always, if you have more questions regarding the best gear for you and your sport, stop by McCoo’s. We’d be stoked to lend our expertise. Stay tuned for more gear features!

4 Epic Spring Camp Spots

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4 Epic Spring Camp Spots

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It’s adventure season! And with that comes hiking, biking, road trips, and of course, camping. While it can be a little chilly during the springtime, it’s nothing that a blazing campfire can’t solve. Choosing where to get your camp on for the first time this year can depend on a number of factors; The snow line and campground opening dates are just to name a few. Luckily, we’ve got the intel on epic spring camp spots located right outside Whistler.

Cal-Cheak

This recreation site lies just south of town. Due to its location, it’s one of the first areas to be free of snow. The campground officially opens on May 1st, or when it’s snow-free. Campsites are on a first come, first served basis, no reservation system exists. It’s heavily treed which means it can get cold, so pack layers! Firewood is for sale from the Site Operator when a campfire ban is not in place.

Fun Activity To Do While There: Hike

Wedge Mountain

Situated north of Whistler, right past Green Lake, there is another recreation site. At the base of Wedge Mountain, lining the river lies some informal campsites. The river is stunning and it’s rushing waters give the illusion that you’re deep in the forest. Be careful not to park your tent to close, the waters can change with the weather.

Fun Activity To Do While There: Bike

Lillooet Lake

A short drive from Whistler lies Lillooet Lake. It’s often free of snow early in the year. This is a popular recreation area as noted by the several inexpensive campgrounds that line the shore. The sandy beaches that are found at the Twin Lakes and Strawberry Point sites are a big hit with many of the locals. But don’t be fooled by the inviting clear blue waters- it’s actually really cold!

Fun Activity To Do While There: Fish

Callaghan Lake

This campground is often one of the last to be free of snow but if the temperatures are warm, you can expect for it to be open much earlier than normal. The area to camp hugs the stunning and picturesque Callaghan Lake. It’s dark surroundings, free from light pollution make this spot prime for when a solar storm is occurring and the Northern Lights are visible.

Fun Activity To Do While There: Stargaze

Grab your portable stereo, action cam, and something to bundle up in for when the sun goes down and get camping!

How To Spring Clean Your Gear

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How To Spring Clean Your Gear

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Spring is in the air. With the warmer weather comes an increase in activity and that means more sweat, more dirt, and more frequent cleanings. The frequent cleaning should be in place to keep germs, mildew, and other gross stuff under control. Not mention, prevent your gear smelling like a locker room. What’s more, not cleaning your equiptment regularly can actually decrease its performance.  Even if you’re regularly cleaning your gear, and you should be doing that, here’s a quick guide to making sure you’re keeping your equipment clean the right way.

Head Phones/ Ear Buds

Dip a Q-tip in rubbing alcohol and wipe it across the speakers of your earbuds. This works best for in-earbud that can gather wax as they nestle in your ear canal. The rubbing alcohol should take the wax right out, making your music instantly sound more clear. You only need to do this if you notice gunk buildup, or if the audio is noticeably quieter in one bud.

Backpack

Backpacks collect so much more than what you put inside them. First vacuum out dirt and debris. Then, add a delicate detergent to warm water and use a sponge or cloth to wipe the pack down. Some pack manufacturers also recommending avoiding hot water or spot removers, as these can damage the fabric. As you clean your pack, examine the zippers, which can fail if they’re jammed with dirt and debris. You can vacuum out the dirt, or scrub zippers with a soft nylon brush (like a toothbrush) and cold water. After you wash the bag, don’t put it in the dryer. A good way to dry your pack is to stuff it with newspapers and hang it in the shade.

Water Bottle

Hopefully, you’re not waiting until spring to clean your water bottle but just in case…pick your cleaning solution and get it ready. White vinegar is probably best for the job because it’s an excellent stain remover. Dilute 1-2 tablespoons of the vinegar with a cup of water. Pour the solution into your water bottle and let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse. Voila!

Sunglasses

Forget using your breath to remove streaks and residue. Rinse your sunglasses under warm water- not too hot, not too cold. Use a mild dishwashing soap to wash all over your frames, working it in with your fingers. If necessary, use a microfiber cloth to dislodge heavier grime. Concentrate on areas that are heavily exposed to your skin – the nose bridge and the ends of your stems. A soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for cracks and crannies, especially the groove where the lens sits, as build-up is prone to occur there. Rinse off all the soap, dirt, and dust. Watch it swish satisfactorily down the drain. Dry your sunglasses thoroughly using a microfiber or lint-free cloth. If you use a towel, you may end up with lenses covered in towel fuzz.

Clean your gear to prolong its lifespan and also to stay fresh while adventuring. If you have any questions about how to clean any of your other gear, don’t ask Mom, ask McCoo’s.

How To Après Like A Boss

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How To Après Like A Boss

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Après goes hand in hand with ski season but there really is something special about enjoying a pint in the spring sun after a day on the hill.  Connecting with your buds and reliving the best moments of your ski day are all part of the mountain experience. And so is ending up dancing in your ski boots at 2am. So get ready to laugh, let loose a little and après like a boss with these tips!

Pick Your Poison

Pick what you’re drinking and stick with it.  Drinking from the early afternoon into wee hours of the following morning leave a lot of room for options but those options might make you miss a day of skiing. Also, stay away from the shot ski…no one ever regrets that the next day!

Eating Is Definitely Not Cheating

Fun fact: Skiing is hard work and burns a ton of calories. Replacing those calories is crucial in order for you to hit the slopes hard again the next day. And, it also enables you to party well into the evening. Grab a quick bite to eat on your way to the bar or even order a round of world-famous nachos while hanging on the patio.

Don’t Forget To Sleep

If there’s snow in the forecast, it warrants skipping the night out to get a good sleep so you’re ready for the first chair. Après is an awesome tradition, but fresh tracks and face shots will always take priority. Even if there’s no new snow, starting to après right after a day on the hill means it’s okay to call the night early. That’s the secret to being able to do it day in and day out.

Alternate Drinks With Water

Beer, water, beer, water. If you want to feel good the next day and make it back on to the hill, hydrate like you’ve never hydrated before. Sure, you might be hitting the washroom more often but when everyone else is complaining of a hangover and you’re not…it will be worth those few extra trips.

Dress For Success

Nail the après-ski style. And no, that doesn’t mean wheeling out your best cashmere, cat-eye sunglasses and colourful faux fur. It means being able to comfortably transition from being on the mountain to being in a bar. Try layering peices like a plaid shirt and a tee. Also, don’t forget a hat to cover up that helmet hair. To gain more insight into the world of après-ski style, stop by McCoo’s for some real advice.

Navigating The Terrain Park

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Navigating The Terrain Park

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Since skiing powder becomes a bit harder as spring progresses, it’s a great time to work on your steeze in the terrain park. But if you’ve neglected this part of the mountain all season long, it can be intimidating and downright dangerous to just drop in. The terrain park is an outdoor recreation area containing terrain that allows skiers and snowboarders to progress at performing tricks. The keyword is “progress”. Here are a few tips on navigating the terrain park that will have you pulling tricks out of the bag that you didn’t know you had.

Start In The Beginner Terrain Park

Most mountains have multiple terrain parks, each with different features geared to different ability levels. Depending on your current skillset, it can be either terrifying or tempting to hit the largest jumps you see. To begin with, it’s useful to identify if it is a beginner or expert park, how big the jumps are, and how big the other people in the park are going. This is both for your safety and the safety of others around you. What’s more, starting small lets you develop the basics you’ll need to advance.

Check Everything Out

Real talk: If you’re reading this blog, chances are you shouldn’t be sending features blind. Take the time to do a ride through lap and familiarize yourself with the features you will be attempting.

Learn Park Etiquette

There are a few pretty simple rules you should generally follow with regards to other riders in the park.

Don’t get in the way of park features

This means don’t sit or stand in the run-in, take-off, or landing of any park feature. Always try to keep these areas clear and when you hit any park feature you should try to avoid stopping in any of these areas. If you need to stop, always do it away from park features where you won’t get in the way of other riders.

Don’t follow too close to other riders

You aren’t a mind reader. Give space to the rider ahead of you in the park.

Don’t cut people off, but also don’t hold up line ups

Wait your turn but be aware when it is your time to drop in.

Try not to brake on the landings

Bails and crashes happen, that’s fine. However, try to avoid braking while still in the landing area of any park feature. It damages the features.

Grab A Lesson

It can be challenging learning tricks on your own. For expert instruction, Whistler Blackcomb run park-specific lessons.

Remember, everyone has to start somewhere, so don’t feel intimidated by better riders in the terrain park. It can help to look the part. Come stop by McCoo’s for all the latest gear trends.