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Gear You Need To Start The Decade Off

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Gear You Need To Start The Decade Off

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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!

10 New Year’s Resolutions For Skiers And Snowboarders

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10 New Year’s Resolutions For Skiers And Snowboarders

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Can you believe that 2020 is only days away? While many are writing down resolutions of eating right and exercising more, we’re using this time to day dream about all of the things we can achieve while in the mountains. And the first thing that comes to mind is more skiing and snowboarding! But we can do better than that. From getting up earlier to branching out to other ski resorts, here are 10 New Year’s resolutions for skiers and snowboarders.

Wake Up For Powder Days

If only there were endless powder days. Since there are only limited amount per season, we’re going to commit to waking up and enjoying every single one that we can!

Ski Your Bucket List

Life’s too short and so is the ski season. Make the time to get out and experience other resorts.

Get Fit For Skiing And Snowboarding

Hit the gym and train for your sport. Trust us, your legs will thank you and you’ll find it much easier to break new ground on the mountain.

Go Heli Skiing

Get a group of experienced skiers or snowboarders together and fly to untouched snow for jaw-dropping views from the sky and once in a lifetime descents.

Take An Avalanche Course

You really can never be too prepared when it comes to being in the mountains. Acquire the knowledge to go further and be safe while you’re at it by taking an avalanche course.

Try Something New

If you’re a skier, why not spend a day snowboarding and vice versa?

Buy Locally

Your equipment, gear, meals… Support the local communities that make ski resorts the places we love. Look out for independent shops and try the small restaurant round the corner that you’ve never heard of.

Improve Your Technique

Take a lesson and make this the year to boost your technique and ride the terrain you’ve always imagined.

Be More Sustainable

This year, try to change some of the small things like packing your lunch in a reusable bag or bringing your own water bottle to help protect the mountains we know and love.

Take A Snow Cat

Experience the Whistler backcountry with a guided cat-ski adventure. This adventure is generally cheaper than heli skiing but equally as amazing. With a few operations close to town, you’ll be driven by snow-cat to mountain tops for breathtaking descents.

New Year’s is a chance to start fresh and to dedicate yourself to working on some things that you’ve wanted to tackle. And really, what’s better than trying to ski and snowboard more often? To help get started, stop by McCoo’s, your one stop shop for adventure.

Buying The Perfect Gift

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Buying The Perfect Gift

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Tis’ the season for gift giving! And if you’re anything like us, you’ll want to find the perfect something for that perfect someone. You can just go ahead and ask what they want, and if you’re really lucky, they’ll tell you exactly what that is then you can go buy it, but that takes all the romance out of the event. Then there’s the easy route of grabbing a gift card, however, that is pretty impersonal. So without asking, how does one buy the perfect gift? We’ve got the ultimate gift giving guide to make both you and your special someone happy!

  1. Decide what your budget is.
  2. Think about what’s happening in the persons life. Did they just move? Are they starting a new job?
  3. Ask yourself, what does the person dislike? It’s just as important to be able to rule out lots of things that they don’t like as it is to know what they DO like.
  4. Make a list of all the things the person is interested in and things that define who they are. Now, you’ve got to make this list long—spend at least two full minutes writing down as many things as you can. Once you’re done, brainstorm something to go with every item on that list, small or big.
  5. Does the person like objects or experiences? Experiences such as a Ziptrek zip line adventure or tickets to a DJ are generally more memorable than objects. But don’t forget that some objects such as goggles, a GoPro or a Herschel backpack can also be appreciated.
  6. If you’re opting for something wearable, take some ideas from what they wear if you can – as this will tell you a lot about what they like.
  7. Give something that both of you can share in, like an adventure. This shows that you want to spend more time with the person, and also provides you with the perfect excuse to treat yourself!
  8. Write a nice card and take the time to wrap your gift. It makes it more special.
  9. Do some stalking. If all else fails, stalk. Most people have a wish list, and they’ll be pretty surprised and delighted if you somehow found just the thing they wanted without even asking.

Now remember, ultimately it’s not the gift, but the thought that counts, so think about your gift carefully and you really can’t go wrong. If you’re still struggling to find the perfect gift, stop McCoo’s, our expert staff can help you out!

The Best Gear For Early Season

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The Best Gear For Early Season

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Early season in the mountains can mean anything and that’s exactly why you should be prepared as possible. Variable temperatures, changing snow conditions, and fluctuating weather are all par for the course. Despite the knowledge of what early season entails, many riders go out expecting similar conditions to deep winter while also expecting their gear to pick up the slack where necessary. Well, we’re here to help you navigate early season and nail down the best gear for the job!

Soft Shell

The temperatures can go from cold, to colder, to even warm when you start working up a sweat. To save yourself from sweating excessively, opt for a soft shell. Soft shell jackets provide water resistance with good temperature regulation, making them prime for early season conditions.

GEAR MUST HAVE: Oakley Silver Fox Soft Shell

Gor-Tex

In addition to temperature changes, early season skiers and snowboarders might also contend with wet snow. To make sure you stay dry while on the hill, it’s best to wear outerwear made of Gor-Tex. Not only has GORE–TEX product technologies been the waterproof gold standard, they are also known for being wind proof, breathable, and light weight.

Layers

You might encounter epic winter conditions at the top of the mountain, and warm late fall conditions at the bottom. To help you regulate your temperature and stay dry, layer up! This means having a good quality base, mid, and outer layer as well as back pack to take off or put on clothing as necessary.

GEAR MUST HAVE: Rip Curl Fall Hooded Anti Series Jacket

Merino Wool

Merino Wool is one of the best materials out there for base layers. It is finer than regular wool, which means it won’t itch and will stay comfortable against your skin all day long. It can also absorb up to 30% of its own weight in water before it starts to feel wet, making it crucial for changing conditions.

GEAR MUST HAVE: Mons Royale Base Layers

Leather

Another wonder fabric is leather. It is one of the few materials used to make gloves. Leather can be waterproofed, break in nicely, provide a good level of dexterity, even in a thick, severe cold weather style glove. Leather also lasts the test of time.

We’ve been waiting for the start of the winter season since it closed for summer but that doesn’t mean we’re going to get ahead of ourselves. Being prepared for early season conditions will just lead to more enjoyment in the long run. If you want some help gearing up for early season, just come by McCoo’s.

 

Tips For Capturing The Best GoPro Footage

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Tips For Capturing The Best GoPro Footage

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In this day and age, it’s easy to capture all of life’s moments with an action cam. GoPro is one of the best and most affordable action cams on the market. And what makes it even better, is that it’s also really easy to use. Despite its simplicity, there are a few tips and tricks that can take you from just capturing moments to cultivating cinematic masterpieces. Read on for tips for capturing the best GoPro footage possible.

Use Filters For Underwater Photography And Video

Throw a red filter on for underwater photography and video. It can help distinguish the sandy ground or coral from the surrounding blue ocean.

Don’t Be Afraid To Use The App

The app can help you edit, share directly to your social channels, change settings, utilize different functions and so much more.

Use A Mount

One of the easiest ways to make a rad GoPro video, and can definitely make things more exciting, is to use a mount. Luckily, there are hundreds of different mounts available on the market. Use it for how it was intended or get creative to get some really interesting footage.

Aim For Steady Footage

The Hero7 Black features revolutionary electronic image stabilization, but as impressive as it is, using an external stabilizer still has its benefits, whether you need a static shot or a moving one. This is where a gimble comes in.

Opt For Manual Instead Of Automatic Settings

GoPro’s automatic settings are great and especially useful for those just getting acquainted with their new camera. However, manually changing your settings can help produce better quality footage. This is very true in those tricky light situations which happen all too frequently in outdoor settings. Higher-end GoPros, like the Black models, let you select all sorts of parameters, including resolution, frame rate, and exposure compensation.

Tell A Story

What story do you want to tell with your GoPro? Look for creating a beginning, middle, and an end within your videos. This will take your footage from a few random clips to something far more meaningful.

Plan Your Shots

Don’t just strap on your GoPro and giver’. Spend a little bit of time thinking about composition and how the shots will also fit together. This will also help you in telling your story.

Ready to create some incredible footage of your life in Whistler? Here at McCoo’s, we carry the latest GoPro accessories and camera. Stop by and let us help you get started.

QUIZ: How Good Is Your Winter Vocabulary?

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QUIZ: How Good Is Your Winter Vocabulary?

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With winter coming up, the usual snow related lingo is entering our current vocabulary. Stoked, pow, and freshies are already replacing schralp, roost, and gnar. The snow hasn’t even hit the valley floor and we’re now talking about camber and which wax to use for the early season conditions. But how good actually is your winter vocabulary? We’re about to put you to the test!

BETA

A) Information about a selected route.

B) Your cats name.

C) A sandwich from Portobello in Upper Village.

If you chose A, your off to a good start!

SASTRUGI

A) Salami that’s more than a few days old.

B) Parallel wave-like ridges caused by winds on the surface of hard snow, especially in polar regions.

C) Your foreign house mates favourite drink.

If you chose B, you’re right!

MASHED POTATOES

A) A side that usually accompanies turkey dinner.

B) How you feel after a night out on the town.

C) A slang term for wet and heavy snow.

If you chose C, you must be familiar with west coast snow. 

PIT ZIPS

A) Jacket zippers located under the armpits allowing the user to circulate air through jacket on warmer days.

B) A snack you grab at lunch.

C) Those weird pants that unzip at the knee and turn into shorts.

If you chose A, you’re on a roll!

BOMBING

A) What patrol does to remove avalanche hazards.

B) Going down a slope recklessly fast. An apparent danger to others.

C) When you try to smooth talk someone and fail miserably.

If you chose A or B, great work! This was a trick question, and you passed!

EAGLE

A) The Bird, duh.

B) One of the Ziptrek zip lines.

C) An aerial with arms and legs spread apart. Usually happens instinctively when someone is new to the park, and going off one of their first kickers.

If you chose B, you must know your tricks. 

CRUD

A) Mud that has hardened.

B) A nasty crash.

C) Hard, lumpy, and icy. A nightmare to ski on.

If you chose C,  you must be a seasoned skier. 

So how well did you do? Comment and let us know how good your winter vocabualry is. And if you need a brush up, come on into McCoo’s and chat, we eat, sleep, breathe Whistler!

 

5 Signs Winter Is Just Around The Corner

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5 Signs Winter Is Just Around The Corner

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We’re always looking for an excuse to get excited for winter. As soon as the days begin to shorten, there’s only one thing on our mind and that’s snow. But when is too soon to start fuelling the winter stoke fire? Is it when opening day is looming or perhaps when you start pulling out your winter gear? No, we have found evidence that getting excited for winter can happen much, much sooner. Here are 5 signs that winter is just around the corner!

Dropping Temperatures

Feeling the need for an extra jacket? Chances are the lower temperatures are responsible for that. Once you see the thermometer drop into the single digits, it’s safe to say that winter is not far away. Grab a RipCurl flannel or one of their trendy light jackets to brave against the cold.

Frost

Better start leaving time in the morning to defrost your vehicle windows and make sure to bring out the salt to salt the stairs and driveway. The first frost of the year means that it’s cold and when it’s cold, snow is sure to soon follow. If you’re waking up to frost more mornings than not, it’s time to pull out your warm Hestra gloves.

Snow Line

As the saying goes, if it’s raining in the valley, chances are, it’s snowing in the alpine. And there is nothing quite like waking up to a new snow line. Watching the snow line creep closer and closer towards the valley is probably one of the most exciting and also frustrating parts of winter arriving. Can’t it just be in the valley and opening day already?

Ski Movies

Traditionally, every fall, a number of new ski movies are released. This is meant to initiate thinking about the up coming ski and snowboard season. Attending the premieres is a sure fire sign that winter is coming and a fun way to enjoy the anticipation with friends.

The Turkey Sale

The annual Whistler Blackcomb Turkey Sale is held every Thanksgiving long weekend. During the Turkey Sale, attendees will find unbeatable deals on ski and snowboard gear. It is a great opportunity to replace old gear or upgrade. Once you’ve got what you’ve needed, there’s no reason to not get stoked for the up coming season, especially with new gear in front of you! McCoo’s is excited to also be part of the Turkey Sale. Make sure to stop by to get your hands on the best gear at the best price.

 

September Adventures

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September Adventures

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Take a look around. The leaves are starting to fall, the nighttime temperatures are cooling, and Starbuck’s has brought back their Pumpkin Spice latte. As if you needed any more clues, summer is drifting into fall. With the arrival of September 1st, many of us are leaving summer behind and if you what’s coming, you’re probably okay with that. Fall is one of the best times to adventure. Not only are the colours glorious, the conditions for many of our favourite activities are all time. To help inspire you for what’s to come, here are a few of our favourite September Adventures.

Mountain Biking

There’s a reason they call it all-time, fall-time. It’s because the dirt is tacky, the trails are begging to be ridden, and there’s still enough day light to do it all. How does it feel to know that some of the best mountain biking of the entire season is before you?

Our Fav: An epic day long adventure into the Sprout Alpine. 

Hiking

Of course the views during the pinnacle of summer are stunning. But have you ever laid eyes on endless mountains covered in red, yellow, and orange? September adventures in the mountains can lead to some beautiful displays of colour and hiking is great way to take in.

Our Fav: The Peak Chair closes operations mid-September so we are all about getting into the Whistler alpine before it is too late.

Paddling

Take in the autum scenery from on the water. It’s not too cold to partake in this September adventure. It can be common to think that now that summer is done, so are the water based activities. But that is further than the truth. Alta Lake, Green Lake, and Logger’s Lake are waiting to be explored.

Our Fav: We can’t get enough of crisp fall mornings on Alta Lake. Whether it’s in a canoe or on a paddle board. Just make sure you dress for a breeze!

Eating

Yes, eating is a fall adventure in Whistler. During this time, many of the local restuarants come out with their fall dining deals. It is a the perfect opportunity to go somewhere that you haven’t been before.

Our Fav: Araxi, Bearfoot Bistro or the RimRock, we love all anything that offers a multi-course menu option!

September adventures are full of fall magic. The weather is still great, the colors of out of this world, and the evening light is as golden as ever. To make sure that you’re properly geared up for fall activities, stop by McCoo’s.

Why Technical Underwear Is A Must Have

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Why Technical Underwear Is A Must Have

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Most of us give underwear a mere second of our time. It seems way less important than outerwear, after all, it’s not braving the elements. And it’s definitely less important than protective gear. That stuff saves lives. However, we’d like to bring to the table that moment three-quarters of the way through a mountain bike ride, when things are rather sweaty. Yes, that moment when you’d like to peel off all of your clothes, yes, all of them, and let the breeze do some cooling. We’ve all been there and that moment is precisely why your underwear deserves more attention and why technical underwear is a must have. In case you need more convincing, read on!

Material

Breathability is all the rage these days and there is a reason why. Most of our beloved activities involve sweating and consequently, having a soggy bottom just goes with the territory. With technological advances, fabrics can now assist in moisture management. Nylon, wool, and synthetic hybrids are replacing Mom’s good ol’ cotton. So let your tushy bask in super soft, warm, breathable and odour resistant knickers while staying dry.

Fit

We’ve all got our preferences-boxers, briefs, bikini cut, etc. Whilst style is personal, fit is universal. You want your underwear to fit tight enough that they’ll stay put and not sag or rub, but not so tight that they’re pinching or discouraging breathability. Also, watch for coverage. Bunching or opportunities for fabrics to ride up into unnecessary places can result from improper coverage.

Abrasion

Speaking of bunching, abrasion is something we weekend warriors and athletes alike are concientious of. No one wants to deal with chafing while trying to perform. Look for technical underwear that has minimal stitching, a waist band that stays put and fabric that moves with you, not against.

Underwear deserves more thought and hopefully after reading this, you’ll be onboard with technical underwear. With so many brands to choose from, fabrics, and fits, there’s no excuse. For all your technical unerwear needs, come by McCoo’s. We’re happy to chat about what works for you down under!

 

 

Where To Paddle Board in Whistler

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Where To Paddle Board in Whistler

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Did you know that Whistler is home to 7 lakes? And surrounding the town are even more. This factor along with others could make Whistler a paddle boarders dream location. But where to start and what to bring on your SUPing adventure? We’ve got the lowdown on where to paddle board and how to be prepared to enjoy being out on the water.

River Of Golden Dreams

If you’re feeling like a National Geographic expedition, the River Of Golden Dreams is for you. This 3 hour adventure might just includ beaver sightings, fish jumping, and all sorts of stunning flora.

MUST BRING: A Ripcurl My Bikini to soak up the rays while you paddle down the river.

Alta Lake

The second biggest lake in Whistler, there will be tons of nooks and crannies to explore. What’s more, you might even end up crashing one of the infamous barge parties.

MUST BRING: A Corcksicle tumbler for your *cough* juice.

Logger’s Lake

The warmest of all the lakes, Logger’s Lake is heated from underneath by volcanic activity. Don’t be deterred by the short hike to get to this lake, it’s well worth the trek to get to it. If you’re feeling bold, try the rope swing!

MUST BRING: Sunbum sunscreen to protect your skin while you float through the warm water. 

Green Lake

Green Lake is the coldest of all the Whistler lakes as well as the largest. You’ll be able to spend a whole day wondering around its green waters. Be sure to visit the ghost town on the East shores. It can get chilly, so bundle up!

MUST BRING: A Mons Royale base layer to stay warm against the cool breeze.

Mile One Lake

Mile One Lake is located just south of Pemberton. It’s small but has a sandy shore to take a rest on.

MUST BRING: Oakley PRIZM sunglasses so that you can enjoy views of Mount Currie without the sun in your eyes. 

Lost Lake

Located right next to Whistler Village, Lost Lake is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. The warm waters, sandy shores, and easy access are just a few of it’s desirable qualities.

MUST BRING: An Outdoor Tech portable speaker for bringing tunes along on your paddle. 

Paddle boarding and Whistler go hand in hand. If you need the right gear for this adventure, come and stop by McCoo’s, we’re here to help you gear up for good times!