Whistler Outerwear, Lifestyle Clothing & Adventure Gear

McCoo's Whistler Logo
0

Where To Paddle Board in Whistler

/

Where To Paddle Board in Whistler

/

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

River Of Golden Dreams

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

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

Alta Lake

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

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

Logger’s Lake

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

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

Green Lake

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

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

Mile One Lake

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

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

Lost Lake

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

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

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

 

How To Spring Clean Your Gear

/

How To Spring Clean Your Gear

/

Spring is in the air. With the warmer weather comes an increase in activity and that means more sweat, more dirt, and more frequent cleanings. The frequent cleaning should be in place to keep germs, mildew, and other gross stuff under control. Not mention, prevent your gear smelling like a locker room. What’s more, not cleaning your equiptment regularly can actually decrease its performance.  Even if you’re regularly cleaning your gear, and you should be doing that, here’s a quick guide to making sure you’re keeping your equipment clean the right way.

Head Phones/ Ear Buds

Dip a Q-tip in rubbing alcohol and wipe it across the speakers of your earbuds. This works best for in-earbud that can gather wax as they nestle in your ear canal. The rubbing alcohol should take the wax right out, making your music instantly sound more clear. You only need to do this if you notice gunk buildup, or if the audio is noticeably quieter in one bud.

Backpack

Backpacks collect so much more than what you put inside them. First vacuum out dirt and debris. Then, add a delicate detergent to warm water and use a sponge or cloth to wipe the pack down. Some pack manufacturers also recommending avoiding hot water or spot removers, as these can damage the fabric. As you clean your pack, examine the zippers, which can fail if they’re jammed with dirt and debris. You can vacuum out the dirt, or scrub zippers with a soft nylon brush (like a toothbrush) and cold water. After you wash the bag, don’t put it in the dryer. A good way to dry your pack is to stuff it with newspapers and hang it in the shade.

Water Bottle

Hopefully, you’re not waiting until spring to clean your water bottle but just in case…pick your cleaning solution and get it ready. White vinegar is probably best for the job because it’s an excellent stain remover. Dilute 1-2 tablespoons of the vinegar with a cup of water. Pour the solution into your water bottle and let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse. Voila!

Sunglasses

Forget using your breath to remove streaks and residue. Rinse your sunglasses under warm water- not too hot, not too cold. Use a mild dishwashing soap to wash all over your frames, working it in with your fingers. If necessary, use a microfiber cloth to dislodge heavier grime. Concentrate on areas that are heavily exposed to your skin – the nose bridge and the ends of your stems. A soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for cracks and crannies, especially the groove where the lens sits, as build-up is prone to occur there. Rinse off all the soap, dirt, and dust. Watch it swish satisfactorily down the drain. Dry your sunglasses thoroughly using a microfiber or lint-free cloth. If you use a towel, you may end up with lenses covered in towel fuzz.

Clean your gear to prolong its lifespan and also to stay fresh while adventuring. If you have any questions about how to clean any of your other gear, don’t ask Mom, ask McCoo’s.

Summer To Fall Fashion Tips

/

Summer To Fall Fashion Tips

/

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!

 

 

 

How To Build A Whistler Wardrobe You Can Be Proud Of

/

How To Build A Whistler Wardrobe You Can Be Proud Of

/

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

/

Your Packing List For Spring Break

/

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.

Golfing Necessities

/

Golfing Necessities

/

While we can’t improve your golf score, we can help improve your over all golfing experience. McCoo’s might not be your traditional golf store, but we’ve got the golfing necessities you need for your next game. Here are a few things we think you should bring along to your next game of golf for an extra good time.

First things first, the outfit. Our current line up of Oakley clothing doubles as street wear and golf wear. A shirt can that look the part and can perform for multiple activities is a shirt worth investing in. We’ve got plenty of shorts that you can rock on the fairway or in the bike park. So for the folks that like to do it all, get your Oakley get up here and wear it all day long.

The golf hat is a key accessory that any golfer will attest to. The Silicon Oakley Cap 2.0 in white will keep your head cooler by reflecting the sun and let it breath through the extremely breathable material.

The right eyewear is crucial to your comfort while golfing. Be sure to pack your sunnies or stop in to try on the new Oakley Prizm line up. The Prizm line offers a full line of sport specific sunglasses for busy bodies and serious athletes. For golf specific shades try on the Prizm Golf Flak 2.0 XL. Want more info on choosing the right shades for you? Check out our recent post: 4 Tips for Finding the Perfect Pair of Sunglasses.

The Suncloud Eye Retainer is a little accessory that will make you wonder what you ever did with out one! Pick up an eye retainer to keep those fancy new shades around your neck when they aren’t working hard to protect your eyes. It’s a game changer for the notorious sunglass “miss-placer”, “scratch-er” or “dropper”.

We would be silly to not mention sunscreen. Don’t head to the course with out some Sunbum sunscreen with an SPF protection rating of your choice.

What golfing necessity is the most fun? Your GoPro of course! GoPro’s all you to get up close and personal with your swing shots or nice and wide with your mountain view images. Our arsenal of GoPros, accessories and mounts can help you get the perfect shot.

Last but not least, don’t forget your beer cozy! We aren’t encouraging grabbing a beer for the cart, but if you do, you can have the most stylish one with one of our cozies!

We really do hope you score well, but at the very least we hope you’re comfortable in your stylish get up and gear from McCoo’s! Stop in to see what we are talking about and get ready for your next round in Whistler.

Local’s Only Hint: If you dig a casual approach to golf with a laid back vibe we recommend stopping by The Meadows at Pemberton for a round or two! We think our style and yours will be on par with their atmosphere.

Essentials for Your Whistler Beach Bag

/

Essentials for Your Whistler Beach Bag

/

With beaches-galore and the long summer days already here, it’s time to get the essentials for your Whistler beach bag in order. You’ll want to be ready for those last minute invites to the beach with your bases covered. Here’s what we think you’ll need in your kit this summer:

Sun Screen

Playing in the sun is fun, but be smart about it friends! One in five is sadly diagnosed with skin cancer, so product the flesh and lather up with Beach Bum Sunscreen SPF 15, 30 or 50. Water magnifies the suns UV rays, so reapply a few times so you can do it all over again tomorrow, sans sunburn.

Camera

If you aren’t already a proud owner of a GoPro camera, we can change that. We know you are going to make the most of your summer, so be sure to share it!

Sandals

You can’t go wrong with a classic Reef sandal. There is a reason these guys are the standard in the surf industry for footwear and are still making a name. It’s because their Eco-friendly, fashion forward – yet low profile design, and durable sandal just can’t be beat.

Sunnies

We just wrote an awesome post with tips on how to pick out your perfect pair of shades, so give it a read here and don’t forget to pack them!

Towel

Our favorite towel is the RVCA Balance Box Towel. This beach towel may inspire you to wear it as a toga with its soft feel and rad camo print, and we won’t judge you for that. But seriously, if you’re going to the beach you need a towel.

Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is so important when enjoying the outdoors. A water bottle is usually just a water bottle, but the Oakley Water Tank 20oz is something else. This BPA free bottle has a separate twist off bottom that can hold ice to keep your beverage cool when inverted. Its tough stainless steel construction and eye pleasing design is a practical statement piece – yes we just said statement piece about a water bottle, you clearly need to check it out.

Tunes

Whether you are looking for a portable speaker or low profile headphones Skull Candy has you covered.

Hat

Nothing says summer living like a floral hat. One of our favorites is the RFLF Co Summer Vacation Hat. RFLF Co. is a brand that got its roots right here in Whistler. They have an array of lifestyle clothing and accessories including, you guessed it, lots of awesome hats!

Bag

The kit holder. Choosing the right beach bag can be tricky, but we know this awesome Vancouver based company that makes killer backpacks and totes. Herschel Supply Company has a big selection of packs that will hold all your beach necessities and more. Come see what we’ve got in stock to get you to the beach!

Now that you’ve got the bases covered, chuck them in your beach bag and head to the beach already! Or maybe swing by and visit us at Mcoo’s first to piece together your summer kit!

4 Tips for Finding the Perfect Pair of Sunglasses

/

4 Tips for Finding the Perfect Pair of Sunglasses

/

Sunglasses just might be the most important part of your summer kit.

Hear us out: sunnies play three key roles in your summertime activities. One, they can protect your eyes against UV rays that can cause harm—a helmet for your eyes, if you will. Two, they help you see better. Whether you’re golfing, hiking, or biking, being able to see better is definitely a good thing. Three, they’re part of your look. Sure, it’s a little superficial, but your sunglasses say as much about your personal style as any other accessory or piece of clothing.

You don’t want to pick out new sunglasses without putting a little thought into your purchase, and we don’t blame you. Here at McCoo’s, we encourage you to do your research, ask lots of questions, and try on as many pairs as you need. Here are 4 questions that you should ask yourself on your quest for the perfect shades.

McCoos Sun Glasses

UV, or Not UV?

UV, or not UV—that is the question. Not all sunglasses come with UV protection—and of those that do, not all protect against both UVA and UVB rays. How important is the UV protection to you? Are you willing to spring a few extra bucks to keep your eyes in good shape, or are you counting on a hat or something else to keep the rays at bay?

What’s the Purpose?

Sunglasses are like shoes. You probably have a go-to pair that you wear for your everyday activities, but you also have a few pairs that are reserved for certain sports, plus a pair that you pull out for fancier events.

Like shoes, it’s okay to own more than one pair of sunglasses. When you’re picking up a pair, ask yourself whether you’re looking for cheap shades to stash in your beach bag, serious performers that will keep up with you while you ride, or a casual pair to sport on a patio. Ultimately, the purpose will help you determine what attributes you need and what price point you’re willing to look at.

Do They Feel Good?

Here’s where buying in a bona fide bricks and mortar shop trumps buying online. Your shades might check all your must-have boxes, but if they don’t fit your head, they’re useless. If you’ve ever had a pair pinch the spot behind your ears or slide off the bridge of your nose, you know what we’re talking about.

Try on a few pairs. Make sure that the eye size matches where your eyes are on your head, that the bridge fits just right against your nose without squishing or slipping, and that the temple length is neither too big nor too small for your noggin. Keep trying on pairs until you find your proverbial glass slipper.

How Does the World Look?

From lens tints to lens technology, lenses matter. Some materials will help you see more clearly, while others are more resistant to scratching and ultimate destruction. As with snow goggles, different tints will quite literally change the way you see the world. Contrast, brightness, and depth perception will vary, depending on the tint. Finally, technology like polarized lenses can take your lenses to the next level. The trick is finding the combination that works just right for you.

 

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be; we’re here to help you unite with your perfect pair of sunglasses. Stop by the shop and ask for a hand, and we’ll make sure you find what you’re looking for.