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How To Après Like A Boss

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How To Après Like A Boss

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

Pick Your Poison

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

Eating Is Definitely Not Cheating

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

Don’t Forget To Sleep

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

Alternate Drinks With Water

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

Dress For Success

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

Heated Clothing

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Heated Clothing

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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!

An Ode To The Ski Bum

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An Ode To The Ski Bum

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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.

Summer To Fall Fashion Tips

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Summer To Fall Fashion Tips

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It’s that time of year when we bid farewell to bikinis and say hello to sweaters. For many, they can’t wait to get cozy in their fall fashions. For others, its a different story. Holding on to wearing your shorts and sandals is all fine and dandy until the temperature drops. So how can we make the seasonal shift comfortably, fashionably and still get some wear out of beloved warm weather pieces? Here are some summer to fall fashion tips!

Extend your sleeve length

Start switching up your tank tops for long sleeves to ward off the chill. Even wear one under a strappy dress for the perfect fall outfit.

Throw a jacket over it

Dresses and shorts can still be worn through cooler weather patterns, just throw a blazer or light jacket on to make the outfit autumn ready. Investing in a versatile jacket is also an easy way to keep your fall wardrobe simple yet updated.

Start wearing dark colours

Maroon, grey, brown, deep red and black. Mix these seasonal colours in with your warm weather wardrobe as the leaves start to change.

Hold on to your maxi dress

Maxi dresses are equally nice on the beach and while shopping. This comfortable favourite doesn’t have to be retired to the back of the closet until next season. Try adding a chunky-knit sweater, or even a knotted chambray shirt to carry them through until winter.

Throw on some tights

To keep wearing some of your favourite summer pieces, add opaque tights into the mix. These may hide your tan but they will keep your beloved summer dress in rotation. If you’re not into tights, try leggings.

Sweater + Dress = Awesomeness

You really can’t go wrong with a sweater over dress. In fact, layering isn’t just fashionable, its functional too! As the air gets crisper, you can regulate your temperature while still wearing some your more skin bearing clothing items. Try wearing thicker pieces over slimmer, for example, a longer shirt over tighter jeans. This rule never fails.

All about the boots

Boots are an autumn staple that can be worn right into the next season and beyond. Don’t be afraid to invest in a good pair of boots that can be paired with jeans, shorts and skirts.

You can freely wear your toque

Now that the temperature is beginning to decrease, wear your toque from morning until night without getting stared at.

Grab a scarf

We just love functional pieces and a scarf is just that. A light scarf can keep away a chill and make an outfit chic.

Keep the sunnies close by

Autumn is home to some of the sunniest and brightest days of the year so keep your sunnies close by!

Fall might be in the air but you can ward it off feeling like it is by still wearing all your bright and light summer clothes. If you are looking to upgrade a few items for autumn, stop by McCoo’s to see what we have in store!

 

 

 

8 Overlooked Canada Day Adventures

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8 Overlooked Canada Day Adventures

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July long weekend is upon us and let’s face it, there are a ton of events going on  to celebrate Canada Day that just about everyone will be attending. But what if you want to spend your Canada Day really soaking up the essence of what it means to be Canadian or maybe, just less crowds? Camping, lakes and all sorts of flannel-donning, beer-drinking activities can fill that void! We’ve got 8 overlooked Canada Day adventures that will keep you off the grid and in the heart of nature.

Camping

Grab your sleeping bag, a flannel shirt and a six pack then venture into the woods, it doesn’t get much more Canadian than that.

Must-have accessory: RipCurl Finley Shirt, this is button up plaid shirt is sure to become a summer staple. 

Sunbathing

Visit anyone of the local lakes and work on your tan. If there seems to be a bunch of people on the same program, pack up and head to One Mile, Mosquito or Lilooet Lake in Pemberton.

Must-have accessory: RipCurl MyBikini or board shorts are meant to look good while you do cool stuff. 

Canoeing

Go on a wild safari down The River Of Golden Dreams. Make sure to pack a ton of sunscreen, the forest canopy is deceiving and many have been known to get some serious sun burns!

Must-have accessory: A Slowtide Towel in case of an unexpected capsize!

Hiking

Escape the hustle and bustle of the village by heading for a hike in the mountains. With all the nice weather, many of the local hikes such as Black Tusk, the Backcomb Ascent Trail and Ancient Cedars are all clear of snow.

Must-have accessory: Keep the sun out of your eyes with a pair of Oakley polarized sunglasses. 

Biking

Hit up the Whistler Bike Park or one of the many trails surrounding the village. With everyone eating Canada Day cake or watching the parade, the bike trails are sure to be clear!

Must-have accessory: The POC Trabec helmet will protect your head whilst keeping it cool.

Golfing

Four! Or maybe your yelling one fifty in commemoration of Canada’s Birthday. What ever your choice of warning for oncoming golf balls, golfing is a great activity to do on Canada Day.

Must-have accessory: An Oakley t-shirt is fancy enough to golf in and hang out in the clubhouse afterwards. 

Fishing

The ultimate Canadian experience- just you, the river and your fishing rod. Oh, and the fish but actually catching one is an added bonus, right?

Must-have accessory: A Coal Hat will protect you against the elements. 

Horseback Riding

Take in the stunning landscape of Canada from horseback and feel your heart swell with Canadian pride.

Must-have accessory: A GoPro and a selfie stick are necessary. If there are no pictures, it didn’t actually happen right?

Get outfitted by McCoo’s for these overlooked Canada Day adventures that will keep you away from the crowds and having a good ol’ Canadian time!

Tips For Choosing The Right Swimsuit

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Tips For Choosing The Right Swimsuit

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Ladies, this post is for you.

Swimsuit season brings on a mixture of emotions: Excitement of the warmer weather and adventures in the sun as well as the age old dread brought on by everywhere you look blasting the same “PREPARE FOR BIKINI SEASON” message. Ignore that message- there are swimsuits for everyone and every body. Swimsuits that cover up and allow for movement and swimsuits that minimize tan lines if you know what we mean. With our selection, it’s all about functionality and confidence in and out of the water. So don’t prepare for the hotter months like a zombie apocalypse is coming, chill an enjoy the shopping process with our tips for choosing the right swimsuit for you.

Do you like retro?

If you do, go with high waisted bottoms. These bottoms are not only flattering for most body types, they are very functional too. This makes them a great choice for those looking to make a statement while not sacrificing that opportunity to jump off a rope swing.

Are you playing hard on the water?

If you are spending more time running, jumping, swimming or even canon balling than lounging, a full piece swimsuit is for you. Don’t expect a dowdy one that your grandma would be seen in, the one piece’s on the market nowadays are as sexy as they are functional. So go be rad and don’t worry about anything slipping out in the process.

Is your tan the most important summer accomplishment?

We get it, there is nothing like going into the winter season with golden skin that acts as reminder of all things summer. Try a triangle bikini or a bandeau to maximize skin exposure and minimize those tacky tan lines.

Did your 100 days on the mountain give you enviable glutes?

Girl, you’re a rock star. Show that toned tushy off by opting for barley there coverage. Bottoms that are called cheeky, tiny or string are sure to show off your assets.

Do you hate swimsuits, no-if-ands-or-buts?

No need to explain, sometimes finding a swimsuit that you feel comfortable in just isn’t worth the hassle. There happens to be an alternative. For all you ladies who hate swimsuits, just wear a beachy cover-up. Crochet, light fabrics and sheer dresses can all be worn in place!

Is decison making not your forte?

With so many adorable swimsuits out there, we understand how hard it is to just pick one. Luckily, current trends embrace mixing and matching tops and bottoms. So don’t settle, just buy two or three separate suits and interchange for what seems like a full wardrobe of water wear!

We at McCoo’s want to do a way with the perfect bikini body and instead help swimsuits fit bodies that are spending hours jumping off docks, swimming in lakes, paddle boarding down rivers and camping out with friends. So let’s have the best summer yet filled with adventure and zero thoughts about what your swimsuit is doing.

Buying The Perfect Hat

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Buying The Perfect Hat

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We can almost see summer from where we stand and it’s looking HOT! Many if the experts suggest covering up to reduce sun exposure and we have to agree but for a different reason. Not only are hats pretty much one of the greatest ways to protect against the weather, but they make one hell of an accessory too. You may be reading this and shaking your head,”Hats? Not my jam.” If you have designated yourself as “not a hat person” then you aren’t aware of how to buy the perfect hat. That’s where McCoo’s comes in.

Buy A Shape That Fits Your Face

Everyone’s facial structure is different but for the purpose of haircuts, make-up, and hats, four facial types have been created. There are a ton of resources out there to help you determine your face shape but a quick way is to draw the following shapes on a picture and see how the angles of your bone structure line up.

DIAMOND FACE SHAPE: A moderate to wide brim is best for you!

OBLONG FACE SHAPE: Try hats with a brim like a baseball hat, or a cap like newsboys hat.

ROUND FACE: You can rock angular hat and asymmetrical shapes.

SQUARE FACE: Look for softer designs.

Buy A Hat That’s The Right Size

For the best results, grab a tape measure and have someone else measure your head. The tape measure should be placed around the widest part of the head, just above the eyebrows and the ears. It should wrap around the widest part of the back of the head and all the way back to the front And BAM, you have your hat size, use it wisely!

Head Size (cm)

Hat Size

53

XS

54-55

S

56-57

M

58-59

L

60-61

XL

62-63

XXL

Buy A Hat That Suits Your Coloring

Neon yellow may look sweet but chances are, it won’t bring out your eyes unless you’re a cat, werewolf or vampire. There are specific colors that will though:

BEST HAT COLOUR FOR YOUR COMPLEXION:

Ruddy: Brown, Blue, Gray

Dark: Brown

Darker Olive: Brown or Green

Pale: Dark Blue, Gray

BEST HAT COLOR FOR YOUR HAIR COLOR:

Auburn, Red: Brown, Green, Blue

Blonde: Brown, Green, Gray

Brown: Gray, Green

Gray Hair: Green, Gray

Buy A Hat That Fits Your Needs

Your life could change with the right hat. Well maybe that’s a bit of an overstatement but a new hat could make your life a bit easier and more enjoyable. You see, when outdoor activities are a big part of your day to day, a hat can ward off the sun, cover up helmet hair, and act as a mosquito swatter, all in one go.

With these great tips for buying the perfect hat, you will be able to find one that changes your life or adds to it (depending on how you want to look at it). You really can’t go wrong by making a hat part of your everyday apparel. And for all your other Whistler apparel needs, visit McCoo’s!

How To Build A Whistler Wardrobe You Can Be Proud Of

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How To Build A Whistler Wardrobe You Can Be Proud Of

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Many of us find ourselves on numerous occasions (ladies, we are talking to you!) staring into our closet and feeling like we have nothing to wear. The irony is, in Whistler, you probably have too many clothes. Where are they all, you ask? Most of them are most likely activity specific and right under your nose. We aren’t saying these activity specific items of clothing are fashion faux-pas (everyone knows a toque can be worn all year long and at a fine dining restaurant in Whistler). In fact, we are here to help you build a Whistler wardrobe you can be proud of that includes your beloved toque and ski jacket!

Build a foundation

In addition to the essentials that you find yourself living in (Jacket, aforementioned toque, and your base layer), there are a few key items that you should be sure to have available. These pieces should be practical and classic. Our spring RVCA line contains many items that you will want to have around for the next 5 years.

KEY PIECE: A classic dress that you can dress up or dress down such as the RVCA Jean Dress.

Look for functionality

Ask yourself this question when you are looking to purchase a piece of clothing,”Will I look good in this camping as well as the bar?” If the answer is no, put that back where you found it! Now if the answer is yes, ring it up! Clothing that can withstand Whistler activities and be part of your everyday fashion choices are precisely what you should be filling your closet up with!

KEY PIECE: RVCA Bomber Jacket. This piece will keep you warm, cozy both around the fire and before you heat up on the dance floor!

Aim for versatility

One of the problems with living in Whistler and having a wardrobe that can take you from the slopes to work and then to the bar is just that- the need for your clothing to withstand a whole day of activities. Aim for pieces that can be either casual or dressy and that can be paired with other items in your closet.

KEY PIECE: A RipCurl Flannel. Button this bad boy up for a more conservative look or wear it around the waist as a quick fix for a chill on a cool spring afternoon.

Quality over quantity

Purchase clothing that meets all of the above criteria and you won’t spend a minute more than you should, searching through a multitude of clothing in your closet. Think less is more.

KEY PIECE: MyPakage Underwear are durable and breathable so as long as you have a few pairs to not need to do laundry every day…you’re good!

Come by McCoo’s for one of our staff members to help you pick out a Whistler wardrobe you would be proud of!

 

 

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.

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!