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The Different Types Of Fun

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The Different Types Of Fun

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Fun. It’s universal. We all love it, search it out, and aim to have more of it. But even though we spend much of our lives seeking out experiences that provide good times, fun can come in many different forms; Some of which could be perceived as crazy, painful, and possibly, not even enjoyable at all. So if your hiking straight up a mountain, wondering what you were thinking when you embarked on this challenging adventure, then perhaps, you needed to be reminded of the different types of fun.

Type 1 Fun

Type 1 is the most obvious kind of enjoyment. It’s laughing, being present, and feeling pleasure. Skiing powder, biking your favorite trail or lounging at the lake. All of these activities are so obviously entertaining, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to tell you that you’re probably having a good time.

Gear necessary for Type 1 Fun: An Outdoor Technology Bluetooth Speaker to keep the party going or a RipCurl Bikini to get the party started. 

Type 2 Fun

Type 2 is the kind of fun that exists after the task, activity, or adventure is complete. Looking back at our hiking analogy, hating every step while you’re in the moment somehow seems like it was a good time when you look back on it. We would like to venture that Type 2 is the most common type of entertainment in Whistler. Think sub-zero temperatures, massive climbs, hikes for days, and earning your pow turns.

Gear necessary for Type 2 Fun: For activities involving Type 2 Fun, you should always have an action cam on hand. This way, you’ll be able to reflect on how much fun it actually was even though it might not have seemed like it at the time. 

Type 3 Fun

We don’t really understand this type of merriment but believe it or not, it exists. To sum it up, the word “sufferfest” comes to mind. You see, Type 3 is the variety that doesn’t become more enjoyable at any point. Even afterward, the situation doesn’t look any better, and quite possibly, even grimmer. Yet, for some reason, some of us chase this type as demonstrated by marathons, failed expeditions, and any other physically exhausting pursuit.

Gear necessary for Type 3 Fun: Oakley or Smith Sunglasses to hide your tears. 

It’s very possible in Whistler to find all of these types of fun. We’re guessing that’s probably one of the reasons you’re even here. So to make sure you can keep chasing activities that you love and enjoy, come to McCoo’s, your one-stop shop for all your adventures needs.

GEAR FEATURE: POC Cycling Helmets And Apparel

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GEAR FEATURE: POC Cycling Helmets And Apparel

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Here at McCoo’s, we look to offer the best gear for all your Whistler adventures. What makes it the best is extensive research into what is needed to perform and play at all levels. We look for gear that lasts, performs in all conditions and of course, is safe. With all things considered, POC cycling helmets and apparel fit what we look to offer to our customers.

POC is a Swedish company on a mission to produce helmets and apparel that save lives and can reduce the consequences of accidents for gravity sports athletes and cyclists. The company was founded in 2005 and initially, they broke into the ski racing market. POC’s new ideas and solutions to improve alpine safety, by reducing the force transmitted to the brain and body in case of a crash, gained a lot of attention. The need for such products quickly transferred into another industry: cycling. This led to the evolution and development of protection for different categories with each sport including freeskiing, snowboarding and mountain bike disciplines. Consequently, POC has become a highly desired brand by athletes and enthusiasts alike of both sports.

The concepts, technologies, and materials used and implemented by POC for the helmets and body armor are highly researched in the state of the art POC Lab. Throughout the research process and during testing, the equipment is scrutinized by POC’s scientific forum that consists of some of the world’s foremost sports medicine experts, brain scientists, and specialists in spinal cord injuries. As result, the products created by POC are scientifically proved to help reduce the severity of injuries in action sports.

In addition to protecting the user and decreasing the undesired results of crashing, POC has set themselves apart with their designs. Eye-catching colors and progressive structures have made their products distinguishable from competitors. What’s more, the aesthetics are an addition to a high-level of comfort. Vents and padding have been put in the perfect places so that users can focus on the task at hand and not their gear.

We hope you enjoyed this gear feature. As always, if you have more questions regarding the best gear for you and your sport, stop by McCoo’s. We’d be stoked to lend our expertise. Stay tuned for more gear features!

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.

Navigating The Terrain Park

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Navigating The Terrain Park

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Since skiing powder becomes a bit harder as spring progresses, it’s a great time to work on your steeze in the terrain park. But if you’ve neglected this part of the mountain all season long, it can be intimidating and downright dangerous to just drop in. The terrain park is an outdoor recreation area containing terrain that allows skiers and snowboarders to progress at performing tricks. The keyword is “progress”. Here are a few tips on navigating the terrain park that will have you pulling tricks out of the bag that you didn’t know you had.

Start In The Beginner Terrain Park

Most mountains have multiple terrain parks, each with different features geared to different ability levels. Depending on your current skillset, it can be either terrifying or tempting to hit the largest jumps you see. To begin with, it’s useful to identify if it is a beginner or expert park, how big the jumps are, and how big the other people in the park are going. This is both for your safety and the safety of others around you. What’s more, starting small lets you develop the basics you’ll need to advance.

Check Everything Out

Real talk: If you’re reading this blog, chances are you shouldn’t be sending features blind. Take the time to do a ride through lap and familiarize yourself with the features you will be attempting.

Learn Park Etiquette

There are a few pretty simple rules you should generally follow with regards to other riders in the park.

Don’t get in the way of park features

This means don’t sit or stand in the run-in, take-off, or landing of any park feature. Always try to keep these areas clear and when you hit any park feature you should try to avoid stopping in any of these areas. If you need to stop, always do it away from park features where you won’t get in the way of other riders.

Don’t follow too close to other riders

You aren’t a mind reader. Give space to the rider ahead of you in the park.

Don’t cut people off, but also don’t hold up line ups

Wait your turn but be aware when it is your time to drop in.

Try not to brake on the landings

Bails and crashes happen, that’s fine. However, try to avoid braking while still in the landing area of any park feature. It damages the features.

Grab A Lesson

It can be challenging learning tricks on your own. For expert instruction, Whistler Blackcomb run park-specific lessons.

Remember, everyone has to start somewhere, so don’t feel intimidated by better riders in the terrain park. It can help to look the part. Come stop by McCoo’s for all the latest gear trends.

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!

Is There Such Thing As Too Much Powder?

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Is There Such Thing As Too Much Powder?

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Whistler has received 191cms in the past 7 days.

Yes, you did read that right. That’s a lot of powder and for many, it spells ideal snow conditions. We’re talking waist deep, light, and fluffy pow pow just waiting for tracks to be laid into it. Now, as each day passes and the centimeters keep accumulating, you might be thinking, “I need a rest day!” So is there such thing as too much powder? As the ski legend, Doug Coombs would say, “there is never such thing as too much snow.” But in case you’re starting to feel the effects of being a full-time powder-hound, here are some tips to get through the heaviest of storms.

Eat Right

Snow sports require a lot of physical exertion and when you add in pushing through a meter of fresh snow, you’ve just increased your work load even further. To keep up with the demands placed on your body and recover afterward, nutrition is key. First step: A proper breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks that include all the food groups

Sleep Well

This is a hard concept to take in but here we go…Pow > après. You see, après will be there all time during the season but the elusive powder, it can come and go. So get it while it’s hot and get a good night sleep to be in optimal condition for shredding the duration that the mountain is open.

Hydrate

You can feel like a million bucks until a dehydration headaches set in. If you’re having difficulty staying hydrated while you’re riding, load up a backpack and drink on the lifts or make sure to drink a lot after a day on the hill.  Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Stretch

If this is your third day in a row, your legs are going to be screaming as soon as you make a few turns. Combat the lactic acid and decrease your recovery time by performing a thorough stretch both before riding and after. Not only does stretching help you recover faster, but it can also help you decrease the risk of injuries.

Take Care Of Your Gear

Not only is your body taking a beating when you are riding every. single. day, but your gear is also maxing out its capabilities. No matter how tired you are, take the time to properly dry out your equipment. When you’re getting all the goods, your future self will be thanking your past self’s actions!

Powder days are the gold of skiing and you have to get out there while the getting’s good. Take care of yourself and your gear to make the most out of the best days of the season.

10 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Skiing

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10 New Year’s Resolutions To Improve Your Skiing

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January 1st marks the first day of the year, and that’s a natural reason for committing to new beginnings. Rather than the usual attempt to save money or cut back on drinking, why not use this time to really make some self-improvements. From stretching after a day on the hill to eating properly – our suggested resolutions are ideal for anyone looking to improve their skiing or snowboarding.

Stretch

It’s simple, yoga can decrease your chances of injury. Even a short stretch routine can aid in prevention. So find a class or search for a video online, there’s really no excuses.

Improve Your Gear

At one point, your gear is going to be the limiting factor. Don’t fall victim to having to leave the mountain because you’re wet or goggles are fogged. Get gear that works and works for you all day long.

Take A Lesson

Yeah, yeah, we get it. Lessons aren’t really where you want to spend your free time. But if you are serious about improving your ski game, then taking a lesson is a sure fire way to get tips that will have you moving in a forward direction (literally). Bottom line, there’s no substitute for the impartial advice of someone who knows what they’re talking about.

Wake Up Early

After a night out, this is the last thing you probably want to hear. Waking up early will allow you to ride longer, get in more laps and get the best snow. No brainer right?

Eat Your Greens

A steady diet of Kraft Dinner isn’t going to provide enough (or any) nutrition for you to ride day in and day out. Think about adding some broccoli or spinach to that pasta dish.

Challenge Yourself

Now, we don’t mean go out and take risks but do go out and ride with better riders and on more challenging terrain.

Have Friends On A Pow Day

Keep your friends close and your ski buddies closer. Having a good friend that is always down to ride, even if it’s just groomers will help you log more hours and more days than if you are always flying solo.

Get Your Hike On

Not only can you access some incredible terrain but hiking or touring is a great way to get in shape. The better shape you’re in, the better your overall riding will be.

Tune Your Equipment

The last thing you want is to deal with a broken binding or rough edges on a powder day. Schedule in those regular tunes and perform regular maintenance!

Educate Yourself

Every one of us can learn more and should focus on learning something new every day. Take another avalanche course, learn how to tune your own skis, or get certified in first aid.

The Best Gift Ideas For The Last Minute Shopper

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The Best Gift Ideas For The Last Minute Shopper

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December always seems to fly by, expecially when the ski season has just kicked off. When the days are filled with chasing pow and lift lines, there’s little room for anything else. But before you know it, it’s that holiday time of year. The lights are up, trees are being decorated, and carols are being sung. If you’re like us, this means the usual panic associated with last minute shopping for gifts. Let us guess, you probably just want to get it over with and get back on the slopes or into the eggnog. So to lighten your load and maximize efficiency, we’ve made a list of the best gift ideas for the last minute shopper, AKA you, me and every ski bum in Whistler!

For Mom

A S’WELL WATERBOTTLE

S’Well Water Bottles aren’t just any old water bottle, they are a hydration accessory. What’s more, by purchasing a bottle, you are helping support S’wells mission to rid the world of plastic water bottles. Mom would just love that!

For Dad

A NIXON WATCH

Sleek, stylish and timeless, a Nixon Watch is a mixture of luxury and functionality. Dear dad will love to remind you how late you are for a holiday dinner or picking up Grandma but then you can just remind him who bought the watch!

For The Significant Other

THE LATEST OUTERWEAR

Buying for your partner can be tough but not at McCoo’s. Opt for the latest technology in outerwear and you can’t go wrong. Then, the next time you’re on the slopes together, you can avoid going in early to warm up or dry off. Actually, might be better to get yourself a new jacket and pants too while you’re at it!

For Siblings

GOPRO

You really can’t go wrong with the latest action-cam technology. And besides, you can always swipe it or ‘borrow’ from your brother or sister.

For The Grandparents

A GOGGLESOC

Grandparents are all about practicality and the Gogglesoc is just that.  A gogglesoc is a protective cover for your goggles so that they don’t get scratched when you aren’t wearing them. Hands down, your grandparents will praise your responsible present choice!

Secret Santa

STANCE SOCKS

Stance Socks are all about individuality so grab a pair that best suits your colleague. Yes, there is everything from Yoda to cats so everyone can be accommodated, even Janice from accounting.

Finding that perfect gift doesn’t have to be overwhelming with our list for the last minute shopper. And, if you’re just starting your Christmas shopping, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Breathe, go forth, and shop. You got this. And once it’s all done, enjoy the holidays as you should. Merry Christmas from McCoo’s!

Top Cliffs To Drop In Whistler

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Top Cliffs To Drop In Whistler

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That feeling that you get when you’re weightless, it’s part of our love of powder…and our love of sending it. For many, that’s the very soul of their addiction to skiing or snowboarding. Once they’ve embraced gravity and put their own mortality into the back of their mind, it’s only on to bigger drops and gnarlier sends. And there is no shortage of those on Whistler Blackcomb. With over 4,757 acres to shred, there’s bound to be a few (or more) cliffs to get sendy on. Here are the top ones to drop in Whistler!

1. Tower 47

As the name eludes, this drop of next to Tower 47 of the Whistler Gondola- like right next to it. In fact, you not only have to deal with the usual cliff dropping factors but also that there are moving objects within proximity. Thankfully, you won’t be able to get closer than closer than ten meters to the cabins but it can still be enough to make an impact on your focus. This drop is not very easy to find and there isn’t as much opportunity for show but it’s all about the high fives anyway, isn’t it?

2. Air Jordan Cliff Drop

The infamous Air Jordan. It features a 15ft step down on to a lily pad and then right into the grand finale of oh, say, around 60 feet. Two for the price of one. What’s more, this cliff is located to the right of the Peak Chair, directly in front of the peanut gallery. Once someone even looks like they are considering it, the heckeling begins.

3. Cafe Cliffs

These cliffs are a great way to get warmed up since they offer a wide variety of options ranging from 2-6m high. It’s also a crowd pleaser since all the action can be seen from the Jersey Cream charilift. Located right off of Blackcomb’s intermediate groomed run, the entrance can be unassuming but when done right, can put on a show for all to see!

4. The Lone Pine AKA The Curl

Loacted in the not so secret, Secret Bowl, the entrance of this drop might be worse than the actual drop itself. This makes it a very techincal line as a side slip above a cliff band is required to get to the launch pad.  Once there, you can choose a few drop heights but most go big or go home and do the full 9m.

If you’re hell bent on hitting some of these this winter, be sure to stay safe and to ride well within your ability. Remember skiing off cliffs can be dangerous and these ones are no different. Start small, warm up and develop your ability before you send the big Kahunas. And don’t forget your helmet and your GoPro, beacuse if no one saw it, it didn’t happen!

The Importance Of Sun Protection Year Round

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The Importance Of Sun Protection Year Round

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Chances are, you’ve heard about the damage that the sun can do. If you haven’t, you must have been living under a rock and in that case, you need not worry about sun damage! Despite all the warnings we are subjected to on a regular basis, many think that utilizing sun protection is only for those hot and sunny days. This is wrong and can lead to serious skin problems later on. In fact, the sun rays on a winter day and on a cloudy day still possess a threat. Now, we don’t want to sound like Mom and scold anyone for not lathering in sunscreen but we can provide some more information on the importance of sun protection year round.

Fall/Winter

We hate to break it to you, but you’re not just trying to protect yourself from one set of UV rays but two: UVA and UVB. First the good news: You only have to worry about UVA in the winter months and not UVB. You see, UVA is around as long as there is sunlight and is at the same level all year round. When the earth rotates and tilts away from the sun, we experience winter, and the UVB is less intense as some of it barely reaches the surface. UVB is responsible for that golden tan we all love in the summer months and since it’s lacking in the winter, you can’t really get a suntan. Now the bad news: UVA rays have a longer wavelength and are able to penetrate deeper into the skin, thus causing more damage.

Options:

  • SunBum Suncare. These guys know their stuff and create a bunch of products that fit with your lifestyle.
  • Airhole Facemask. What’s covered up doesn’t get touched by the sun!

Spring/Summer

It’s really no surprise that the summer sun can hurt your skin and since the sun is at its closest point to the earth,  both those pesky UVB and UVA rays are hitting home. You may be able to get a nice tan but you’re also subject to more damage. What’s more, the rays of the summer sun, high in the sky, arrive at a steep angle and heat the land (and your skin!) much more than those of the winter sun, which hit at a shallow angle. All the more reason to play it safe.

Options:

  • Use the whole range of SunBum Suncare products. Their lines are formulated to protect against both types of UV rays, not just one.
  • Throw on a hat. The RipCurl sunhats are a great option or a Herschel SnapBack.

Don’t be afraid of the sun, just be wise. When heading out on your next adventure, make sure to pack the appropriate sun protection. Still not sure what gear you can use to minimize the impact of the suns rays? Ask one of our staff at McCoo’s!