Whistler Outerwear, Lifestyle Clothing & Adventure Gear

McCoo's Whistler Logo
0

Which GoPro Is For You?

/

Which GoPro Is For You?

/

We get it, you’re busy. Between work and shredding, who has time to research gear and technology? And with constant upgrades and advancements, when it comes time to making a purchase, it can be challenging to know what product is best for you. So, that brings us to the main point: what’s the deal with all the GoPro models? With so many new features and even old features, how does one navigate which one to get? We’ve made it simple and put all the required info in one place. So here is how you can find out which GoPro is best for you!

HERO7

  • 12MP + SuperPhoto With HDR
  • HyperSmooth Video Stabilizing
  • TimeWarp
  • Superview, Wide, Linear digital lenses
  • 720p Live streaming

HERO8

  • 12MP + SuperPhoto With Improved HDR
    • SuperPhoto applies HDR, local tone mapping or noise reduction. The Hero8 has an improved version of this.
  • Live Burst
    • Record the moments 1.5 seconds before and after your shot, so you can choose the best single frame for the perfect photo or a shareable video!
  • Frameless mounting with folding fingers
  • HyperSmooth 2.0 Video Stabilizing
  • Horizon Levelling with the GoPro App
    • Horizon levelling that provides a cinematic look.
  • 2.7K / 4K Bitrate
  • TimeWarp 2.0
    • Capture super stabilized time lapse videos while you move through an activity. TimeWarp adjusts speed based on motion, scene detection and lighting (automatically for HERO8 Black and in HERO Mode for MAX).
  • SuperView, Wide, Linear, Narrow digital lenses
  • Custom presets
  • Onscreen shortcuts
    • Customize your screen with the quickest way to find the features you use most.
  • Night lapse video
  • 1080p Live streaming

Both

  • 4K60 Video
  • Removable Battery
  • Waterproof up to 33ft (10m)
  • Touch screen
  • Voice control
    • Go hands-free with voice commands like “GoPro, take a photo.
  • Time lapse video
  • Wake-on voice
    • Use voice commands to turn on your GoPro or start recording (lasts 1 hour after powering off).
  • 8x Slow motion
  • Variety of compatible housing
  • GPS
    • GPS captures your location, altitude and speed.
  • Protune
    • Manually control colour, white balance, shutter speed and more.
  • Automatic cloud back-up
  • Advanced Metadata
    • Knows when you face the camera, smile and more. The GoPro app uses those details to handpick your best shots and create amazing videos.
  • Advanced wind reduction
  • Wifi + Bluetooth connectivity
  • GP1 Chip
    • GoPro-designed chip made to deliver next-level image quality and stabilization.

Still unsure of which GoPro model to get? Our staff at McCoo’s happen to be well-versed in action cams. Come in and let them help you make the final decison!

Gear You Need To Start The Decade Off

/

Gear You Need To Start The Decade Off

/

So no pressure, but it’s the start of a new decade and that means a clean slate, fresh start, tabula rasa, whatever you want to call it. As with all new beginnings, it’s a chance to embark on creating the best version of yourself. And if you’re a Whistler local, somewhere in there is usually increasing your time on the hill and your snowboarding or skiing abilities. Well, that’s something that requires time. If you’re inpatient like us, just grab something from our gear you need to start the decade off on the right ski list and getting cracking!

GoPro Hero 8

Forget writing this new chapter, film it with a GoPro Hero 8 and relive the chapter over and over. Equipped with a 12MP CMOS image sensor and 4K video capability, this action camera delivers stunning imagery you’ll want to be part of your new decade. What’s more, the long list of mounts will allow you to be creative with angles and how you’re getting your insane footy.

Oakley PRIZM Goggles and Sunglasses

PRIZM technology is the way of the future. The lenses allow you to see contrast as well as enhance colours. This leads to a increased ability to navigate through terrain. Hello, no more flat landings or blow outs! 2020, new year, new you, no new knee!

Mons Royale Anything

Merino wool is the way of the future. Merino wool is traceable and 100% biodegradable. It is also breathable and antimicrobial which means it can help keep you dry while you’re braving the elements and also, keep you smelling fresh.

Corcksicle Canteen

These colourful, completely reusable and trendy canteens, tumblers, stemless wine cups, mugs, and tumbler straws will help you drink more water in the new year. What’re more, they’re sustainable. So you don’t forfeit style while reducing your impact on the planet.

Hestra Gloves

Purchase a pair of Hestra Gloves and you might not need new ones for another decade. Yes, you read that right.  Made from Elk leather, these gloves are designed to stand the test of time.

2020 is your chance at starting the best decade yet. Set off on the right ski and with the right gear found at McCoo’s. With the correct gear to get you on the mountain for longer, you’ll be well on your way to logging hours towards being the best rider you can be. From all of us at McCoo’s, Happy New Year!

Choosing The Right Ski Goggles For You

/

Choosing The Right Ski Goggles For You

/

Goggles are arguably one of the most important pieces of gear you could have. They can easily make or break a day on the hill and can cause dire consequences if malfunctioning. If they are so important, how come so many of us sacrifice for the ones that look the best or have the best price tag? This is often because the time when you need goggles usually means you’re about to go up the hill. Consequently, you’re in a rush. Take it from the staff at McCoo’s, shopping for goggles can be fun and pay off in the long run when you have the visibility you need, in varied conditions. To help you on your journey, here are some tips for choosing the right ski goggles.

Ask Questions

There are so many different products and features out there that it can be hard to choose on your own. Ask our staff as many questions as you need so that you know what goggles have the technology that you’re looking for.

Choose The Lenses That Work For You

Before going into the store, think about where you usually ski or ride: Are you hitting the park? Touring? Lapping groomers or shredding moguls? Also, consider what time of day you usually ride and if you are interested in switching lenses depending on the light.

Asking yourself these questions will help you determine what tint will provide a good combination of colour definition, contrast, depth perception and eye fatigue protection, all with the right visible light transmission (VLT) for your specific needs.

Learn About The Technology

Ah, good ol’ science. It’s helping many brands develop styles and technology that help to maintain visibility in even the most terrible conditions. Before you come to the store, nerd out a bit on what features brands are currently offering. Or, be prepared to get your very own science lesson when you come in. Upgrades in scratch-resistant coating, anti-fogging, colour contrast and even built-in GPS are just a few of the developments being seen in models on the market.

Try Them On

Goggles are like a pair of shoes: they might look good but they might not fit how you want them to. Don’t be shy, try on every pair. Bring your helmet and take the time to adjust the strap. Make sure that the goggles fit snuggly on your cheek bones and don’t inhibit your peripheral vision.

If you have any questions, which, we’re sure you do, come on down and let our staff help you find the best goggle for you.

GEAR FEATURE: POC Cycling Helmets And Apparel

/

GEAR FEATURE: POC Cycling Helmets And Apparel

/

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!

Heated Clothing

/

Heated Clothing

/

The cold. Most of our winter gear is designed to combat its effects. Gortex, layers, breathability. These terms might sound familiar and don’t get us wrong, they do work. Despite the technologies improving drastically, there still stands a chance of the sub-arctic temps winning and leaving you out in the cold…no pun intended. Presently, there are a number of brands that have lead the way in creating clothing that keeps you warm no matter what conditions are on the outside. They rely on generating heat from an external source, most of them powered. We’ve got the low down on some of the current heated clothing technologies now available at McCoo’s.

Flexwarm Jackets

Flexwarm has spent over the last five years researching and developing patented new technologies that have enabled them to create a completely unique, flexible heating element that is so thin (0.5mm) it can be printed directly onto fabric. Because Flexwarm can be printed, it can then be layered directly onto fabric which enables 8K Heated Apparel to be ultra-lightweight, durable and washable (without the need for adding additional heavy and bulky insulation materials). You can expect upwards of 13 hours of heat from your jacket and when it’s out, just recharge the battery. To adjust the temperature, connect your phone to your jacket via Bluetooth and input your desired level of toastiness! And finally, topping it all off, these jackets are splash resistant, so you don’t have to worry if mother nature decides to change her mind from snow to rain.

Therm-ic Socks

Therm-ic have designed high-end socks that can offer up to 29 hours of heat. The heat is generated from an easily rechargeable battery that sits at top of the sock. The technology allows for even distribution of heat, easy attachment of batteries to the sock, and optimized integration of the heating elements for a guaranteed long life. What’s more, Therm-ic products connect to your smartphone! With the batteries’ Bluetooth function and the Thermic mobile app, you can adjust the heat setting for your sock at the touch of a screen. Now, that’s going to come in handy for turning it up a notch while on the chair lift.

Staying warm while on the hill no longer has to be a battle. With heated clothing technologies advancing, it can be easy to set a temperature and stay there, no matter what the weather is doing. If you have any questions regarding the heated gear currently on the market, come stop by McCoo’s– guarenteed a few of our staff members are probably wearing them right then and there!

10 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Skiing

/

10 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Skiing

/

January 1st marks the first day of the year, and that’s a natural reason for committing to new beginnings. Rather than the usual attempt to save money or cut back on drinking, why not use this time to really make some self-improvements. From stretching after a day on the hill to eating properly – our suggested resolutions are ideal for anyone looking to improve their skiing or snowboarding.

Stretch

It’s simple, yoga can decrease your chances of injury. Even a short stretch routine can aid in prevention. So find a class or search for a video online, there’s really no excuses.

Improve Your Gear

At one point, your gear is going to be the limiting factor. Don’t fall victim to having to leave the mountain because you’re wet or goggles are fogged. Get gear that works and works for you all day long.

Take A Lesson

Yeah, yeah, we get it. Lessons aren’t really where you want to spend your free time. But if you are serious about improving your ski game, then taking a lesson is a sure fire way to get tips that will have you moving in a forward direction (literally). Bottom line, there’s no substitute for the impartial advice of someone who knows what they’re talking about.

Wake Up Early

After a night out, this is the last thing you probably want to hear. Waking up early will allow you to ride longer, get in more laps and get the best snow. No brainer right?

Eat Your Greens

A steady diet of Kraft Dinner isn’t going to provide enough (or any) nutrition for you to ride day in and day out. Think about adding some broccoli or spinach to that pasta dish.

Challenge Yourself

Now, we don’t mean go out and take risks but do go out and ride with better riders and on more challenging terrain.

Have Friends On A Pow Day

Keep your friends close and your ski buddies closer. Having a good friend that is always down to ride, even if it’s just groomers will help you log more hours and more days than if you are always flying solo.

Get Your Hike On

Not only can you access some incredible terrain but hiking or touring is a great way to get in shape. The better shape you’re in, the better your overall riding will be.

Tune Your Equipment

The last thing you want is to deal with a broken binding or rough edges on a powder day. Schedule in those regular tunes and perform regular maintenance!

Educate Yourself

Every one of us can learn more and should focus on learning something new every day. Take another avalanche course, learn how to tune your own skis, or get certified in first aid.

An Ode To The Ski Bum

/

An Ode To The Ski Bum

/

The ski bum is not dead! You’ve adapted to the modern ways and are currently still shredding the pow, maybe even getting in over 100 days on the hill this winter, in-between the multiple jobs of course. We’ve seen you and we’re paying homage to your awesome ways. Without you, mountain culture wouldn’t exist. It’s time to glorify your contributions and so, McCoo’s would like to present, “An ode to the ski bum.”

You’ll live anywhere

Whether it’s in a bus, with 5 to 20 friends or maybe some foreigners… it’s doesn’t matter as long as you have a roof over you head and place to store your most prized possession- your gear.

Your headwear is the most crucial part your getup

Toques, beanies, hats- You may have one or two and they magically go with every outfit. We love your dedication to the shred and your rational that showering isn’t necessary since you’re just going to be back on the hill again tomorrow.

You live in the moment

We love that you are present. Well, as present as you can be when you’re checking the forecast every few hours, trying to get the day off work and estimating how to navigate the lift lines to maximize your pow riding.

You can live off KD and Mr. Noodles

Fuel. That’s what food is and food groups are for sissys. You just need something to keep you going and make those endless laps possible.

You care about the mountains

Whatever happens, these mountains, they are your home. You respect them and all that they stand for. And that alpine code of conduct, you can recite it word for word. You recycle and avoid plastic. Whatever it takes to make sure winter is here to stay.

You’re local and local matters

You pride yourself on being a local and with that comes supporting local companies. The shared passion of the outdoors and Whistler itself binds you all together.

Which brings us to your priorities…

Shredding as often and as hard as possible is your number one priority. This is where McCoo’s comes in. With our outerwear, gear, and accessories, you can hit the slopes functionally and in style. We want you to be king of the mountain, know where the goods are on a powder day, hit Air Jordan and live to tell about it. So you keep doing you and we’ll be right here behind you, gearing you up for adventure.

How to Solve Cold Hands

/

How to Solve Cold Hands

/

We’ve all been there. It’s clear blue sky after a dumping of fresh snow and the temperature is well into the negative. You get on the chair and by the time you reach the top, your hands are so cold that they hurt. It’s an unfortunate reality of being on the hill but that doesn’t mean you have to let cold hands put a damper on your day.

When your body gets cold, it reduces blood to the extremities in an effort to keep vital organs warm and functioning. It’s a natural response and generally isn’t cause for concern but it can cut your day short or even cause damage if the temperatures are cold enough. Luckily, there are a number of things to do that can solve having cold hands on the mountain!

Stop It Before It Starts

Let’s get this straight- Once your hands are cold, there is no going back. Even the most expensive gloves can’t warm already cold hands. In order to prevent them from getting to that point, you have to nip heat loss in the butt! Hands lose heat fast because they have blood vessels close to the surface. Wearing a thin liner underneath your gloves will keep them toasty but be very careful with this option as it can compromise breathability- then your back at square one!

Protect Your Core

As mentioned, if your body gets cold then your hands are going to be the first victim. By preventing your core from feeling the freeze, you can reduce your chances of suffering from cold hands. A proper base layer and mid layer are crucial- heck, just layer and the insulation will do it’s job. Also, don’t forget the power of snacks. A fed body will have the fuel to fight the cold and the very act of digestion can give off energy.

Gloves

Gloves are the most obvious solution to keep the cool temperatures out and choosing the right ones for your needs can take it one step further. Here are a few things to take into consideration when purchasing protection for your frigid fingers:

  • Mittens are warmer than gloves but you sacrifice dexterity.
  • Down is the best insulator and is known for being light and breathable. However, synthetic insulation dries a lot faster and can be more cost effective.
  • One word: Gore-Tex. This is the Grade A of fabrics since it is both breathable and water proof!

No one likes cold hands and there are many options that can drastically improve your chances of making it through even the coldest of temperatures. Still not sure how to personally solve the age old problem of cold hands on the ski hill? Come in and speak to our staff, your digits will thank you!

 

Opening Day Checklist

/

Opening Day Checklist

/

Drumroll please…

The countdown has officially began to Whistler Blackcomb’s 2016/2017 opening day weekend!

Yes, we know it is very exciting, in fact, we can hardly contain ourselves but first thing is first: the nearing of opening day means that it’s time to assess your current winter gear. A beginning of the season assessment can prevent many annoying or even disastrous issues that may kill your good vibe on November 24th when the mountain opens. While you twiddle your thumbs in anticipation, take a peak at our opening day checklist to make sure your gear is ready for another season of fun.

Goggles

Everyone knows that not being able to see can instantly ruin your day. Have a peak at your current eye wear and make sure there are no scratches obstructing your vision and that they still have anti-fogging capabilities. Older goggles tend to not have the current technologies that help fight fog and light changes. Not sure if your’s pass the test? Include a back up pair in your pack on opening day.

McCoo’s Tip: Having problems with your goggle always fogging up? Keep moving!

Base Layer

Baby, it can get cold outside! Like real cold! Don’t cut your day short because you can’t brave the current weather conditions. Make sure that your current base layer is in good condition, free of tears and provides the necessary coverage to keep you warm and dry.  If you find a tear, patch it up, or just pop in to McCoo’s for the latest base and mid-layer technology.

McCoo’s Tip: The term “base layer” also includes your underwear (don’t worry, we got you covered).

Outerwear

Outerwear isn’t just for looking good. It’s your primary defence against mother nature. Thoroughly examine last year’s jacket and pants for zippers that aren’t working, tears and excessive wear in high movement areas such as the elbows and the bottom. If needed, apply a waterproof wash and don’t forget to empty the pockets. Reaching in and finding that sandwich from 2015 is great way to stop the ski stoke with an emergency hand wash.

McCoo’s Tip: Ask any of our staff members to help you determine what you may need in outwear, there is often more variables than you may think.

Gloves

Mittens and gloves may seem like they are easy to assess but in fact, the obvious holes that can lead to heat escaping are just the beginning. One of the biggest concerns is waterproofing. You can jump the gun and wear them out in the rain but this isn’t very practical. Bring them out on the first day and have a back up pair ready just in case they get soaked through on the first run.

McCoo’s Tip: Mittens are warmer than gloves but you sacrifice dexterity as a result.

Boots

After spending the summer season on the shelf, your ski boots might not feel like they once did on your seasoned winter feet. Stick those bad boys on and step into your bindings. Then take a peak at the current condition, are they in good shape? Are the buckles and soles in tacked? If you notice any loose pieces, damage or change in fit, take them to your local boot repair shop to get them tuned and ready to go.

McCoo’s Tip: Looking for a little assistance on ski boot fit? Bring them into our shop. Our seasoned staff members can help guide you to finding a solution.

Although it may seem like certain pieces of your set up are more crucial than others, there is no most important item of gear, they all play an essential role in keeping you on the hill and out of the lodge. Have some gear that didn’t make it through our opening day checklist? Stop by the shop, we can help you get ski season ready!

The Mccoos Hot List- Must Have Gear for Winter 2015/16

/

The Mccoos Hot List- Must Have Gear for Winter 2015/16

/

Skis and boards waxed- check. Lift pass purchased- check. Snow falling- check. With the exciting opening of Whistler Mountain last week it is time to make sure all your gear and accessories are sorted for the upcoming season. Gearing up for adventure is all a part of the fun and here at Mccoos Whistler, we have been helping mountain enthusiasts look and play the part since 1987. The ski and snowboard industry is seeing great innovations in gear and technology. To keep you in the loop we have compiled a list of the hottest items to get your hands on this winter season.

A new generation of Goggles

Goggles-Mccoos

The world has just entered a new generation of goggles where condensation and flat, low contrast vision is a thing of the past. No longer are your goggles just an outerwear accessory they are now a device to help you record, film and monitor your speed and performance. This season look for goggles with Prizm technology- a new lens technology that allows you to see the snow and surroundings with precise and crisp detail. Also look for goggles that have Bluetooth and GPS integration enabling you to measure your speed, jump analytics, vertical, navigation and more. Mccoos has Whistler’s largest selection of goggles as well as the resort’s leading goggle repair shop. Upgrade your goggles this year and step into the future.

Go Pro built for Whistler

GoPro-Mccoos

If you don’t have an action camera yet what are you waiting for? The action camera market has been on the rise for several years now and the latest technology, design and functionality of cameras is state of the art. Our favorite action camera is the Go Pro Hero4 Sessions. This is a camera that was built for Whistler conditions. It is small, light-weight and completely waterproof without a case. There are plenty of additional accessories you can purchase like mounts, straps, wind-savers and more. Capturing your adventures on film is all a part of the fun. Make sure you add an action camera to your accessory list this year.

Boot liners with Intuition

Epic days on the mountain start with quality gear. Making sure your feet are comfortable, dry and supported is paramount for top performance. Intuition boot liners are the newest technology in ski and snowboard boots. The revolutionary liner heat molds to your feet giving you a customized fit for optimal power, control and performance. Mccoos has been the go-to place for boot-fitting ever since its inception nearly 30 years ago. Legendary George Mckonkey, who is recognized world-wide for his boot-fitting expertise, works at Mccoos (he was actually one of the original owners of the shop back in the 1980’s). Your feet are in expert hands at Mccoos- why go anywhere else?

The Year of the Helmet

Helmets have always been kind of a lame outerwear accessory. Don’t get us wrong. They are extremely important for obvious safety reasons, but practicality has been the only thing going-on for helmets for a long time. Well, not anymore. This year your choice of helmets is bigger than ever! At Mccoos we have a huge stock of helmets ranging in colour, design and functionality. Find a helmet that suits your taste and style this year. Finally helmets that express your style!

Whistler’s Home of Herschel

Herschel-Backpacks

If you haven’t heard of Hershel you must be living under a rock. Based in Vancouver, BC Hershcel is an International brand that has exploded in popularity over the last few years. With a huge selection of thoughtfully created bags and accessories all artistically designed, Herschel bags draw on inspiration from all corners of the world. At Mccoos we have Whistler’s largest collection of Herschel bags with loads of colours, patterns and designs to choose from. Herschel’s make a great bag for on the mountain or any type of travelling and adventuring you have in mind. Come by and check out our collection of Herschel and get your hands on this season’s hottest accessory.

So there you have it- Mccoos Hot List for the 2015/16 season. Make sure to stop in and see us before the mountain opens this year and get sorted with your gear and accessories. You can find us as the base of Whistler Mountain in Mountain Square and on the Village Stroll (our Ripcurl location). Wishing everyone an excellent winter season ahead! See you in the shop or on the slopes!