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The Art Of Layering

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The Art Of Layering

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Layering isn’t particular to any part of the winter season. In fact, it’s crucial at all points, early winter, deep winter, and spring. This is because you’re dealing with temperature changes as long as your doing an activity. A basic layering system features three key pieces: a base layer, a mid layer and an outer layer. The base layer is worn closest to your skin. It should have a snug fit and be made of fabric that wicks perspiration away from your body. The next layer is the mid layer. This layer is your insulation And lastly, the outer layer protects against the elements like wind, rain and snow. With this information and what’s below, you should be able to layer like a pro!

Materials:

One of the most important components of your layers is the material that they are made of. The material is the technology behind what will keep you cool or warm, wet or dry.

Base Layer:

Merino wool has one of the best warmth ranges of any fabric. It works by trapping air in tiny pockets, which warms up fast from body heat.

Body-mapped base layers use a construction that places different weights of fabric across the garment. Heavier materials go where you require more insulation, like your torso, while lighter materials go where you sweat, like your back and underarms.

Synthetic fleece is usually made of polyester. It’s highly breathable and dries fast.

Mid-Layer:

Down comes from a bird’s body and is the fluffy stuff under the feathers. It’s incredible for warmth as it creates tons of pockets of air.

Synthetic insulation is composed of man-made threads that are spin to create pockets of air, mimicking down. It’s not down but it has its own benefits such as being warm when wet, drying quickly and comes at a fraction of the price.

Outer Layer:

Waterproof/breathable shells (like GORE-TEX) often use a three-layer model: The interior liner wicks sweat off your skin through a membrane, and the face fabric repels moisture.

Performance waterproof/breathable shells let sweat escape and repel moisture.

Exercise Type:

How you layer also depends on what kind of exercising you’re doing. If you’re riding resort and will be spending time on the chair lift, you’ll probably want a warmer mid-layer. While those that are touring might pay more attention to their base layer and the material it is made of to ensure it’s properly wicking away sweat.

Types Of Layers:

Here are a few varieties of layers to help you start planning.

Base: Mid-weight polyester long underwear top and bottom.

Mid-Layer: Down insulated jackets or polyester insulated jackets.

Outer Layer: Performance shells and waterproof shells. 

Layering is an art form and can take a few tries to get perfect. Come by McCoo’s and we’ll help you get outfitted so that you don’t have to leave anything to trial and error.

Gearing Up For Spring Riding

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Gearing Up For Spring Riding

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Spring is just around the corner and that means that spring riding too! Bring on the longer days, sunshine, and Booterville sessions. But with the change in seasons, comes the need to change up your gear. Trust us. Wearing your usual winter attire can lead to excessive sweating, improper lenses, and even sunburns. So with a little planning, you can make the most of what’s left of the remaining season and spring riding.

Backpack

Hot one minute, cold the next. With the arrival of springtime, also comes varying temperatures. Ride with a backpack and be prepared to layer up or layer down at any point of the day. Your pack can also act as place to hold your sunscreen, shades, and of course, snacks!

Sunscreen

You can burn at any point of the year but obviously, when the sun is out the risk of getting a sunburn is higher. Protect your face with some SPF before hitting the slopes. It’s recommended to use a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher for better protection and also, don’t skip out on the lip sunscreen either. Remember to reapply a couple of times during the day.

Gloves

Ditch the heavy duty gloves. There’s no need for them when the temperatures hover above zero as they will be too warm. Instead, opt for a lightweight glove that allows for dexterity and breathability. Light gloves will also provide just the right amount of protection from that sometimes sharp spring snow.

Sunglasses

Yup, we said it. Sunglasses! Throw a pair in your backpack for when you’re hanging out with buddies or getting to and from the hill. They will even come in handy during an impromptu après session or dance party at Glacier Lodge.

Action Cam

From parties on the hill to park sessions to après, you’re really going to want to capture all that can go down during a spring day on the mountain. Check out the new GoPro Hero 8 with HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization, perfect for whatever ends up happening.

Goggles

It’s time trade in your cloudy, low light lenses for something better fitted for bright sun. Not only will this allow you to see, this lens change can also protect your eyes against squinting and the extra UV rays.

All time, springtime is coming in hot and we can’t wait for this part of the season. Be prepared for those Peak Parties, longer days, and beaming sunshine by spending a little time re-organizing your riding attire. For any questions, come stop into McCoo’s. Otherwise, happy spring shredding!

Which GoPro Is For You?

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Which GoPro Is For You?

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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!

Skiing Tips for Beginners, Intermediates, and Experts

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Skiing Tips for Beginners, Intermediates, and Experts

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If you’re anything like us, you’re always looking to improve on the mountain. And since it’s the start of a new year, there’s no better time to start levelling up. After all, better technique only leads to a higher quality of shredding and more of it for that matter. Floating through untouched powder on a crisp, bluebird day is one of the greatest feelings ever. To help you make the most of your time on the hill and develop your passion, here are some skiing tips for beginners, intermediates and experts!

For everyone…

Protect your skin – from the sun, wind and cold! Snow reflects the suns rays which is great for tanning but can also lead to a nasty burn and also skin damage. Cover up and layer on sunscreen that protects against all the elements.

Dress Code – You’re going to want to regulate your body temperature as well as stay dry. It is best to check the weather forecast every morning before you get dressed to make sure you have adequate layers and pack the right goggle lens for the light that day.

For Beginners…

Moving your skis – News flash, your skis are attached to your boots which should be on your feet. So if you turn your foot to the right then your ski will also turn to the right. It may seem that simple, but it will take some practice and getting used to.

For Intermediates…

Upper Body – Move your feet to turn your skis not your shoulders. Skis are fixed to your feet not arms so swinging your shoulders won’t turn your skis any faster and can throw your balance off.

Edging – Use your edges on your skis to gain control and for easier and sharper turns! To use your edges, simply roll your ankles and knees uphill as you flex down towards the end of the turn. This should roll your skis on to edge, giving you more grip.

For Experts…

Weight Distribution – Try to keep your weight central and evenly distributed across both skis. There is more resistance in powder, so you have to steer both skis through it – putting all your weight on the downhill ski (as you should on the piste!) gives your uphill ski the chance to trip you up in powder.

What’s Next…

Outfit yourself with the latest gear from McCoo’s so that you can enjoy your time on the mountain and work on your turns, pizzas, and of course, après!

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.

 

Everything You Need To Know About Ski Socks

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Everything You Need To Know About Ski Socks

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It’s common knowledge to invest in a visit to the boot fitter to make sure that your ski boots fit perfectly. What’s not given much attention in terms of ski apparel, is socks. Wearing appropriate socks can be the difference between cold feet and toasty toes that can last the day and keep you on the slope. So what do you need to keep in mind when purchasing the layer between you and your boots? Here’s everything you need to know about ski socks.

Material

Ski socks are made from special materials that can aid in wicking away moisture while holding heat in. It’s also important that they are anti-microbial which helps to reduce bacteria that can lead to smelly feet. Materials commonly used include polyester, nylon, lycra, acrylics, or double-spun merino wool.

Fit

There’s no such thing as one size fits all when it comes to ski socks. Socks that are too big can bunch, cause blisters, and have reduced warmness. Socks that are too tight can cause a decrease in circulation which can in turn, can result in cold feet. You want your ski socks to fit snuggly, have no extra material, and allow for free movement of your toes. Some socks on the market are designed with fabric that causes the sock to stay snug and move with the foot.

Breathability

This could be one of the most important aspects of choosing sock. The key to warm and happy feet is keeping them dry. Most performance socks keep this in mind and are made with fabrics that promote breathability while not sacrificing warmth. The fabric works by pulling moisture away from the foot to the exterior of the sock so that it is not trapped between your skin and the inside of the sock. This allows sweat to easily evaporate.

Durability

Your socks are logging the same vertical as you are and with just as much force. Ensuring that your socks will last the season or more is also part of the selection process.

Technology

Length, cushioning, reinforcements, padding, and flat seams and are just a few of the modifications out there that can help with warmness, comfort and of course, performance. A thicker sock doesn’t always mean warmer. Advancements in fabric technology have improved the thickness-to-warmth ratio, enabling skiers and snowboarders alike to get thinner socks.

Have more questions on what ski sock will work the best for you? Stop by McCoo’s. We can help outfit you from head to toe.

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.