Whistler Outerwear, Lifestyle Clothing & Adventure Gear

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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!

 

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!

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!

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!

 

Mccoos Staff Picks: The Best Runs on Whistler Blackcomb

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Mccoos Staff Picks: The Best Runs on Whistler Blackcomb

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You can spend days, even weeks navigating the terrain on Whistler Blackcomb in search of the perfect run. You can read blog posts, online reviews and ask friends and family for their top picks but no one will provide you better advice than a Whistler local. And not just any Whistler local. Here at Mccoos Whistler our team is on the pulse of everything ski and snowboard. We know the mountains like the back of our hand and can navigate it with our eyes closed, backwards and shin deep in fresh pow. Mccoos was founded in 1987 by Whistler ski legends. If you want advice on anything related to Whistler Blackcomb, the team at Mccoos are the people to ask.

To make sure you have the best day possible on the mountain, our team thought we’d share our top picks for the best runs on Whistler Blackcomb.

Ry – Million Dollar Ridge

Mccoos-Ry

If you’re looking for an off-piste option away from the crowds, Million Dollar Ridge is a local’s favourite. Ry loves the fresh face-shots and ultimate pow conditions. Since this one is just out-of-bounds you’ll want to make sure you’ve got a guide or are with experienced locals before exploring this back-country terrain.

Peter – The Family Zone

Peter-Mccoos

So maybe not a double black, but the Family Zone is the place to be for families learning to ski or ride. Peter recommends the Family Zone to guests of the resort on a daily basis and says there is no better place on the mountain to practice your pizzas and French fries.

Ash – Peak to Creek

Mccoos-Ash

If you’re craving some leg burning action then head to Whistler’s famous Peak to Creek run. This vertical expanses from Whistler’s peak to the Creekside Village and is 11km of pure excellence. The Peak to Creek has a variety of terrain and is a great place to race when groomed from top to bottom. The best part of the Peak to Creek according to Ash is Dusty’s Bar and Grill at the bottom, one of the best après ski spots in Whistler!

George – McConkeys

George-Mccoos

George may be a bit biased when choosing McConkeys as his favourite run, it is named after his legendary ski family but we agree, it does credit a top pick. The McConkey family are a house-hold name in Whistler, George is one of the original founders of Mccoos and his father Jim (who the run is named after), was one of Whistler’s ski pioneers responsible for firmly establishing Whistler Mountain on the international stage.

Sarah – Callaghan Valley

Sarah-Mccoos

Downhill is not the only style of skiing Whistler is famous for. The Callaghan Valley, although not a run as such, is a utopia for cross country skiing and Nordic sports and is Sarah’s number one pick. The valley, which is located just south of Whistler, has 130km of terrain to explore by ski or snowshoe. The wilderness trails and stunning mountain scenery make the Callaghan Valley a well-deserved top pick.

Before heading to the mountain make sure to stop in at Mccoos and gear-up for adventure. The team at Mccoos would be happy to give tips and suggestions for your day and will ensure you are fully equipped for the adventures that lie ahead. Mccoos is located at the base of Whistler/Blackcomb and their sister store, Mccoos Too, is on the Village stroll. The best powder days always begin at Mccoos!