Whistler Outerwear, Lifestyle Clothing & Adventure Gear

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Your Packing List For Spring Break

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Your Packing List For Spring Break

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Spring Break in Whistler is a funny time. The sun is shining but there is still some of the best powder of the season to be had. Do you see the dilemma? How are you supposed to pack with such weather extremes going down? Well, we have made it easy for you by providing a packing list for spring break in Whistler so you can focus on what really matters, après duh!

MyBikini or RipCurl Board Shorts

There is nothing quite like skiing till you can’t feel your legs then recovering in the hot tub afterward. MyBikini and Rip Curl boardies look good, feel good and are right on trend. As an added bonus, this swimwear is built for surfers so don’t worry about it falling down or coming up when your cannon-balling into the pool.

HitCase

Your phone will your lifeline while in Whistler. Think about it, it’s how you’ll take pictures to create lasting memories, Tinder, or find your friends that ditched you for a pint instead of another run down Dave Murray Down Hill. Better protect it before you wreck it! Strap a HitCase on and forget about water or dropping it- this case makes it bomb proof!

Nixon Watch

Like you will need to tell time while on spring break but it’s a well-known fact that a watch, especially a classy, metal and functional Nixon watch, provides a great pick up line: “Have you got the time? [Gives the time] Cool, so you have a watch, me too, I’ll be here at 8, don’t be late.”

Smith Helmet

Trust us, when you get on to the mountain you will think you are Candide Thovex. It’s just the laws of being in the snow, the mountains and on skis. So also trust us and wear a helmet. Smith Helmets are the world’s best helmets and they are designed to take some pretty big impacts but that doesn’t mean the rest of you can!

Armada Base Layer

Don’t let the sun deceive you when you’re on the top of the mountain, it’s going to be cold! Armada Base Layers are fast drying as well as wicking so you can work up a sweat and then cool down without catching a chill.

Oakley Sunglasses

After a night out on the town, you’ll need a pair of sunnies to protect you from the light and that person you danced with for like, all night. Performace and lifestyle meet in a pair of Oakley Sunglasses. Some styles are now featuring the new PRIZM technology too!

Spring break should be all about having fun! If you missed packing anything or find yourself in a rare (but possible) March blizzard, come stop by the shop, we’ll sort you out.

The Karma Stabilizer For GoPro

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The Karma Stabilizer For GoPro

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McCoo’s is very excited to announce that we will be carrying the Karma Stabilizer for GoPro in store. GoPro has only released a small amount of this product to retail stores in Canada and we can’t wait to get our hands on it! But what exactly is a stabilizer and why is this such a desired and sought after piece of equipment? We’ve got the lowdown on why the Karma Stabilizer for GoPro is a must have!

What is a stabilizer?

A stabilizer is a thing used to keep something steady or stable. For video footage, it is a device designed to hold the camera in a manner that prevents or compensates for unwanted movement such as shake. This is generally achieved with very small motors tilting to accommodate for changes on an axis.

Why use a stabilizer?

Generally speaking, if you are using a GoPro handheld or even on a mount, you will find that your footage is shaky. This can severely affect the overall quality of the footage and make watching it a challenge, to say the least. The electronic image stabilization in the new Hero5 camera can help reduce shakiness and there is the possibility of removing some of the unwanted movement in your editing program, but neither will be enough to make that smooth, shake-free and easy to watch video that you will want to post online. So, to get the high quality and consistent footage you need to make a killer snowboarding or skiing edit, a stabilizer is needed.

What Makes The Karma Stabilizer for GoPro so good?

There are many stabilizers on the market designed to carry a GoPro but if there is one thing they have it common, it’s that they don’t last. The Karma was made to hold your GoPro so you won’t have to struggle with it staying securely in place. What’s more, it works as a single unit meaning you can offload footage without unplugging and charge both devices at the same time. It is also handheld and wearable to maximize it’s capacity and your creativity when capturing incredibly smooth video.

Tech Specs for the nerds out there:

Karma Stabilizer:

Dimensions Length: 6in (149mm)
Width: 4.3in (109mm)
Height: 3.3in (83mm)
Weight: 8.5oz (242g)

Karma Grip:

Dimensions Length: 8in (205mm)
Width: 1.7in (43mm)
Height: 1.7in (43mm)
Weight: 8.62oz (244.6g)
Battery Life 1 hour 45 minutes
Voltage 5-15V, 3A
Charging Time Supercharger 1 hour 50 minutes
Charging Time Standard 1A Charger: 6 hours

The Karma Stabilizer for GoPro will help you create smooth and shake-free video footage like the pros do that can be made into an edit or integrated into other footage from another camera. To find our more about theKarma Stabilizer for GoPro or to speak directly to one of our staff members about purchasing one, contact McCoo’s today!

How to Solve Cold Hands

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How to Solve Cold Hands

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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!

 

McCoo’s Best Moments of 2016

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McCoo’s Best Moments of 2016

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Together with Trump, global warming, and the loss of a concerning amount of celebrities, the end 2016 couldn’t have come sooner. For many, it’s been marked as one of the toughest. However, for the mountain enthusiast, it was a year for the books! Each year the bar continually gets set higher but the talent in action sports keeps pushing and the results are anything but ordinary. Lines that looked unskiable, terrain that seemed inaccessible and bike trails that showcase unfathomable skill, have all been made part of this year’s legacy. We have gathered up the best moments of 2016, from skiing to biking and a little bit of what Whistler is made of right in between.

This line won Powder Magazine’s Line Of The Year and you will soon see why. We dare you to watch it and not yell out profanities!

A Whistler local, Sean Petit shreds hard. You’ll probably watch this episode of the series and then every other episode after that. Take us with you on next adventure Sean!

How many times have you driven by these looming beauties that sit on the other side of the Sea to Sky Highway and wondered if it’s possible to lay ski tracks down on their slopes? Well, it is and their glaciated gaze reminds us that we are in Mother Nature’s territory.

Celebrating 50 years made Whistler Blackcomb examine what the next 50 years would look like and with that, came some serious questions. This documentary has started the conversation surrounding our environment and the impact of action sports.

If you’re a follower of action sports, chances are you have heard of Blake Jorgenson. This iconic action sports photographer is the man behind the lens, capturing those moments that help fuel your own passion for being outside.

Whistler Bike Park being shredded by Brendan Howey. Enough said.

https://youtu.be/vrOvTALa3-g

Not only is this a cinematic masterpiece, in true Semenuk fashion, it’s the progression of mountain biking. Can you recognize where certain parts of the filming process took place?

Thanks to the local talent, the insatiable need to go further and push harder, we have seen action sports progress to beyond what our wildest dreams could have imagined and a lot of it is happening right in our very own backyard. We at McCoo’s would like to wish you an awesome 2017- may all of your tricks be perfected, your thirst for adventure quenched and your landings stuck on the first try!

Taking Care of Your Gear

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Taking Care of Your Gear

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The mountains take no prisoners and your gear isn’t an exception, especially if you are skiing 5-7 days a week. Day after day of exposing your gear to the elements can take its toll. By taking proper care of your equipment, you can make it last through the whole season and prevent unwanted problems that can be a downer on even the best pow day. Take note, these tips will keep your gear going strong all season long!

Skis or Board

You may be tired at the end of the day but don’t be lazy! Place your tips on a bench and let the tails rest on the floor. Give the edges a quick wipe to prevent rust. This position is optimal for letting your bindings drip dry. You will thank us later when you’re carving smoothly into an icy slope!

Ski Boots

For boots that fit every time, remove your liners and let them air dry. Similarly, wipe the outside and inside of your boots down. Not only does this practice help maintain them but your future self will thank you when you’re puting your feet into warm and dry liners. Don’t forget to limit how much walking you are doing as it can break down the toes and heels.

Jacket and Pants

Make sure to let your coat and pants properly hang dry after each use. This will ensure it’s good to go for the next day but it will also prevent stinky mold from making your gear it’s new home. A few times a season, treat your outerwear to a wash in cool water on the gentle cycle with a powdered detergent. It is suggested to put it through two wash cycles to ensure no detergent residue is left on the garment. NIKWAX is a great addition that can maintain waterproofing.

Goggles

Shake off any extra snow or moisture and let your goggles air dry. Once they are dry, give them a thorough wipe on the OUTSIDE of the lens with a microfiber cloth. Refrain from wiping the INSIDE of the lens as many companies spray an anti-fog agent on this side. Do not leave the goggles by a heater or on your car’s rear-view mirror, this also compromises their anti-fog capabilities.

Gloves

Contrary to popular belief, turning your gloves inside out is a bad idea as is throwing them in the dryer. If your gloves have a liner, make sure to take them out and allow them to air dry. If not, rest them in a well-ventilated area and occasionally flip them over.

Base Layer

You’re not just gross if you’re letting your base layer go a few washes. This habit can also reduce its effectiveness. It’s recommended to wash them after every use and to let them dry naturally to maintain protective layers. Generally, base layers are made out of special fabric, be sure to read the care instructions or just pass them off to Mom to wash!

Your gear can make or break a day on the mountain. Make sure it’s not the limiting factor in how rad your day is by religiously using these simple steps. Have you been naughty and not taken care of your equipment? McCoo’s won’t judge, come stop by for a replacement!

 

Opening Day Checklist

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Opening Day Checklist

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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!

Fall Adventure Gear Guide

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Fall Adventure Gear Guide

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Fall in Whistler is considered a transitional season, meaning that we are sad summer is gone and can’t wait for winter get here. It may seem like a season that is forever spent anticipating what’s next but it is actually a great time to be outdoors. Hiking, biking, and adventuring are still possible but do require a bit more preparation with the variable conditions that accompanies the change in seasons. With autumn comes cooler days, rain and variable weather conditions that are sure to test your gear’s performance. We gathered up the best fall adventure gear so you can get out, have fun and get your mind off of waiting for snow!

Jacket

The consistency of summer has been left behind and in its place, fall with its unpredictable weather patterns has moved in. Don’t get caught in a rain storm or unseasonable cold winds- an Orage, Rip Curl or Oakley jacket will protect you from the elements and ensure that your adventure continues despite the weather!

Toque

Did you know most of the heat is lost through your head? Who are we kidding, we can’t confirm that fact but what we do know, is that it’s better and not wetter when your head is warm and dry! McCoo’s has got all the toques, in all the styles that are an easy transition from one season to the next. Did we mention toque season is the best season?

Socks

Wet feet can be the difference between a good time and a bad time. Stance socks not only look great but they are built for performance as well. Hook yourself up with a pair designed for snow and have warm tootsies until next year when your feet emerge from hibernation and are back in sandals again.

Action Cam

Summer is a bit more predictable- nice weather, bikinis, lake days, etc. But fall, who knows what fall is going to throw at you. Monsoons, wild winds, early snow… Okay, maybe we are exaggerating its wildness but whatever is going to happen, you’re going to want to catch it on camera. Get an action cam- either a GoPro, Contour or Ion camera and make everyone jealous of what a rad fall your having!

Tools

Always be prepared for the unexpected. Throw in an RC or a Bakoda tool in your backpack for leveling up on being prepared.

Base Layer

We haven’t decided if we love it or hate it yet, but it’s gotten cold. This may just be the ultimate limiting factor when getting outside and getting among all the autumn adventures. The best solution is to dress for the weather and a proper base later from Smart Wool or Kombi will help regulate your temperature.

Don’t make autumn a waiting game. With McCoo’s fall gear advice, there should be nothing stopping you from getting outside and enjoying all the adventures that you can before the snow arrives. If you pick your gear right, you’ll be getting ready for winter without even knowing it!

Apparel Must Haves for Autumn in Whistler

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Apparel Must Haves for Autumn in Whistler

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Some may dread this time of year, the ending of summer and beginning of fall but we look at it as a time to revamp your wardrobe! New backpacks, sweaters, footwear and arm candy- fall is a time to bring out all the coveted pieces you have had stored away throughout the summer months and purchase a few new additions. So embrace the cooling weather and change of the seasons; we’ve got exactly what you need to brighten your wardrobe and make it functional for Autumn in Whistler.

Herschel Backpack

Your backpack carries your life in it and could just be one of your most important belongings. Herschel backpacks come in classic shapes and various sizes (full size, mid-volume, compact, women and youth) so you can fit in the things you find on your adventures or your loads of school books. The new fall colours are perfect for maintaining style in the mountains.

RipCurl Sweater

Made for layering and the warm days that turn into cool evenings, a RipCurl sweater will take your outfit to the next level and doesn’t mind retiring to your backpack when your adventure calls for it. Soft sweaters made in all the right fall colours and prints, your fall look needs one!

People Shoes

“Ultra–light, extremely cushy and perfect for doing whatever it is you love to do,” is the People shoes motto. These bad boys will take you all over the village, into the mountains, on that perfect fall hike and maybe for one last camping trip before the weather changes. Did we mention they look good, like really good?

Stance Socks

These socks have so much style, your going to want to find a way to wear them so the world can seem them! Stance socks are made for expression so grab a few pairs and don’t sweat it if you never match them again. There are also made in various styles for functional wear during sport. Have you noticed a few of them in the Bike Park?

Oakley Active Wear

The change in temperature makes fall one of the best times to exercise. Of course, we wouldn’t do it any other way than in style. The Oakley Active line is perfect for wearing while your running around the village and then when your actually running. So sleek and made from the latest active wear technology.

Nixon Watch

Managing school and multiple jobs to get ready for all the pow slaying that’s going to be done in the winter is going to require you to keep a tight schedule. Nixon watched rock clean lines and a water rating that will allow you to leave your worries behind in the variable Whistler weather.

So don’t fret about putting your short shorts, board shorts and bikini’s away in storage. Fall allows you to layer up and is a nice change of scenery from summer outfits. Make sure your fall look is as hot as your summer one was by adding a few essentials from McCoo’s. We’ve got you covered.

 

 

Whistler Tinder Dates

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Whistler Tinder Dates

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Whistler, being the small bubble that it is, invites relationships like bees to honey. Regardless of the small town and inevitably of bumping into to your crush, hot barista or sexy bartender, it can be a challenge to strike up conversation on the spot. Enter Tinder. Tinder is a great way to date, meet people and hook up. Here in Whistler, it’s with fair certainty that you can judge a book by its cover and know exactly who you’re going on a date with just by their flip flop brand. We’ve broken down the tinder dates you’re going to go on in Whistler by outfits so you can swipe left on the dude with the obvious shared room and swipe right on the babe with more bikinis than jeans.

Beach Babe

Spending her days soaking in the sun at one of Whistler’s many lakes, this girl’s go-to outfit is a RipCurl My Bikini. You may have trouble keeping track of how many swim suits she actually has as you swipe though her photos. Her Tinder profile pic is the token show a little skin bikini bottom that she has selected from the My Bikini line. Get ready to be her pool boy and designated tanning oil applier.

Ski Bum

The giveaway is picture on picture of bro’s hitting rails and being on snow in July. Rocking the latest Oakley sunnies and a mean goggle tan (also, brought to you by Oakley), this guy is shredding the glacier hard. You’ll find Skull Candy ear buds always on him and he’s got the latest Armada get up. Don’t be fooled by his new gear and style, he is here to ski and sharing a room with his homie is helping to make that happen.

Party Guy/Girl

Living for the nights is just one other thing to do in Whistler. Expect lots of party pics, taken directly off of Moe Joes Facebook page. Decked out in the latest RVCA, Rip Curl and Element attire, these party people are dressed to the nines. If you’re looking for a good time and not a long time, swipe right and get amongst the Whistler night life.

Bike Park Rat

You might not be able to get a good idea of what this person looks like by their profile picture since the helmet leaves something to the imagination, but you will be able to see their buff arms created by countless, maybe even obsessive hours in the Whistler Bike Park. The sheer intensity of the laps these park rats pump out means they need gear that holds up. Expect current Oakley PRIZM technology goggles further preventing you from seeing into the eyes of your potential date and POC gear covering every other inch (Minus the buff arms of course). These people are tireless until the park closes when you may be able to join them for beer with their buddies.

Its up to you who you want to swipe right and left for but hopefully these helpful hints will give you a better idea of whom you may be spending your time with. It’s fairly clear that most of these potential dates are doing there shopping at McCoo’s and you should to! Happy Tindering!

 

Choosing The Raddest Sunglasses

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Choosing The Raddest Sunglasses

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Sunglasses in Whistler can be a year round thing- Protecting your eyes from the glare of the snow or the elements as you hike your way up a line or the sun as you climb up a trail on your bike. We also know how important it is for your sunnies to make a statement and keep you adventuring in style. Choosing the right pair can be time consuming and frustrating. So we’ve assembled some things to take into account so you can get back playing in the mountains and performing your best!

Face Shape

Round, square, heart, oblong, oval and diamond make up the general face shapes. Determining what your face shape is can help you better select a style and frame shape that accentuates your best and diminishes those not so favourite features!

Style

Aviator, butterfly, rectangle, shield, semi-rimless all refer to a frame and lens combination. Each style suiting a certain face shape and features. Your best bet is to ask the knowledgeable employee helping you at McCoo’s to recommend styles for specific face types. Style can also determine functionality and be related to performance.

UV Protection

UV or Ultra Violet light comes from sun and can damage your eyes as well as influence optical clarity. Chances are if you’re adventuring, you’re going to want sunnies that block out all UV rays, in other words, 100% protection- Go big or go home!

Technology

Technology can range from the materials used to create the frame to lens material, tint and colouring. The technology you choose can have an impact on the sport you are performing so make sure you understand what your needs are from a pair of sunnies.

Sunglasses can make or brake your fun in the wild and can also protect you from harmful environmental factors. Its best do some research before investing in a pair for performance. Don’t be afraid to spend some time at McCoo’s, trying on various styles and utilizing the knowledgable staff! Let’s make it your one stop shop for sunnies!