Mountain Equipment Co has evolved dramatically from its cooperative roots to become a leading outdoor gear retailer. Whether you're seeking technical mountaineering equipment or everyday hiking gear, understanding the brand's complex history and current offerings is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions. Explore National Parks Store provides comprehensive outdoor gear insights to help adventurers choose the right equipment for their journeys.
Understanding Mountain Equipment Co: Brands, History & Evolution
The story of mountain equipment co is one of the most fascinating transformations in the outdoor industry. What began as a grassroots cooperative in 1971 has evolved into a complex landscape of brands that often confuse consumers. Understanding this evolution is crucial for anyone seeking quality outdoor gear.
The Original Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC)
Founded by four University of British Columbia students stranded on Mount Baker in 1971, the original Mountain Equipment Co-op represented a revolutionary approach to outdoor retail. As a consumer cooperative, MEC sold exclusively to members who purchased a lifetime membership for just $5, giving them voting rights and dividend returns.
During its golden years from the 1970s through the 2000s, MEC became synonymous with high-quality, affordable outdoor gear. I remember purchasing my first mountain equipment backpack from MEC in the late 1990s, and it served me faithfully through countless wilderness adventures across the Canadian Rockies.
The 2020 Transformation
The cooperative model faced mounting financial pressures by 2019, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In September 2020, without member consultation, the board sold MEC's assets to American private equity firm Kingswood Capital Management for approximately $110 million, transforming it into Mountain Equipment Company Ltd.
This controversial sale eliminated the cooperative structure and left 5.7 million members without their $5 shares or voting rights. The decision sparked outrage among longtime members who felt betrayed by the lack of democratic consultation that had been central to MEC's identity.
Cooperative Era Advantages
- Member ownership and voting rights
- Annual dividend returns
- Strong environmental initiatives
- Transparent factory disclosure
- Competitive pricing on quality gear
Post-2020 Changes
- For-profit business model
- No member benefits or voting
- Modified return policies
- Streamlined product lines
- Focus on profitability over ideals
The British Mountain Equipment Connection
Adding to the confusion, Mountain Equipment UK is a completely separate company founded in 1961 by climbers Pete Hutchinson and Jake Hudson. This Manchester-based manufacturer specializes in technical climbing gear, down insulation, and GORE-TEX products for serious mountaineers. Their mountain equipment jackets are renowned in the alpine climbing community.
While both companies serve outdoor enthusiasts, they operate in different markets with distinct philosophies. Mountain Equipment UK focuses on cutting-edge technical performance for extreme conditions, while mountain equipment co serves a broader outdoor recreation market with accessible pricing and practical designs.
My Personal Experience with Mountain Equipment Co Gear
Over the past 25 years, I've extensively tested mountain equipment co products across diverse Canadian environments, from the humid coastal ranges of British Columbia to the harsh arctic conditions of Baffin Island. This firsthand experience provides authentic insights into the brand's evolution and performance.
Early MEC Cooperative Days (1998-2010)
My relationship with MEC began in 1998 when I purchased my first gear package for a summer job as a backcountry guide in Banff National Park. The original MEC Tarn 2-person tent, paired with their house-brand sleeping bag and mountain equipment base layer system, cost less than a single premium brand jacket today.
What struck me most was the durability. That Tarn tent survived over 200 nights in various conditions, from prairie thunderstorms to alpine snow. The materials felt substantial, the construction was meticulous, and the design prioritized function over flashiness. This was gear built by outdoor enthusiasts for outdoor enthusiasts.
The cooperative aspect felt meaningful too. Annual meetings in Vancouver drew hundreds of passionate members discussing everything from environmental initiatives to product development. Receiving my small dividend check each year reinforced that I was part of something larger than a typical retail transaction.
Transition Period Observations (2010-2020)
During MEC's final cooperative decade, I noticed subtle but significant changes. The product line expanded dramatically, incorporating urban cycling gear, yoga apparel, and lifestyle items that seemed to dilute the brand's wilderness focus. While this diversification aimed to attract younger, urban customers, longtime members felt the brand losing its identity.
Quality remained generally solid, but inconsistencies emerged. A 2016 MEC jacket I purchased developed zipper issues after just one season, something I'd never experienced with earlier products. Customer service remained excellent, honoring their generous return policy, but the incident highlighted manufacturing inconsistencies that hadn't existed previously.
Post-2020 Reality Check
Since the Kingswood acquisition, I've made several strategic purchases to evaluate the new mountain equipment co. The most significant change is pricing—items that once represented exceptional value now compete directly with premium brands without offering superior performance.
A 2023 mountain equipment hardshell jacket I tested on a week-long traverse of the Icefields Parkway performed adequately but lacked the attention to detail that characterized older MEC products. Seam taping was competent but not exceptional, and the fabric felt lighter weight than comparable models from the cooperative era.
Ranger Insights from Jasper National Park
During a 2024 conversation with Parks Canada rangers in Jasper, several mentioned noticing changes in visitor gear quality. One veteran ranger noted: "We used to see MEC gear lasting visitors multiple seasons. Now we're seeing more warranty returns and mid-trip failures, especially with newer products." This anecdotal evidence aligns with my personal observations.
Current Assessment and Lessons Learned
Despite the changes, mountain equipment co still produces competent outdoor gear that serves most recreational needs. The brand maintains decent quality control and offers products across multiple price points. However, the exceptional value proposition that made MEC legendary has diminished significantly.
My current approach involves selective purchasing based on specific product categories where Mountain Equipment Company still excels. Their mountain equipment base layer systems remain competitive, and certain jacket models offer solid performance for moderate conditions.
Expert Product Review: Mountain Equipment Down Jacket Performance
Mountain Equipment Co Product Categories & Performance Analysis
Understanding how mountain equipment co performs across different product categories helps inform purchasing decisions. Through extensive testing and analysis, I've identified strengths and weaknesses in their current lineup that affect value and performance.
Outerwear and Shell Systems
Rain Jackets & Hardshells
Current mountain equipment hardshell jackets utilize 2.5-layer constructions that provide adequate weather protection for most recreational activities. The materials feel lighter than previous generations, which reduces pack weight but potentially compromises long-term durability.
Insulated Jackets
Mountain equipment jackets with synthetic insulation offer better value than their down counterparts. The synthetic fill maintains loft when wet and dries quickly, making it ideal for the humid Pacific Northwest conditions where I frequently test gear.
Recommended Alternative Products
Premium Hardshell Option
For serious mountaineering where MEC's current offerings might fall short:
Arc'teryx Beta LT JacketBudget-Friendly Alternative
For recreational use where MEC's pricing isn't competitive:
Columbia Watertight II JacketBackpacks and Carrying Systems
The mountain equipment backpack line represents one of the brand's more successful categories post-acquisition. While not revolutionary, these packs offer solid construction and thoughtful features at competitive price points.
Backpack Performance Testing Results
Good for 2-3 seasons of regular use
Well-padded straps, decent weight distribution
Competitive but not exceptional pricing
Multi-Day Backpack Recommendation
For serious backcountry adventures where reliability is paramount:
Osprey Atmos AG 65L PackDay Pack Alternative
For day hikes where MEC's options are adequate but overpriced:
Patagonia Refugio 28L PackSleep Systems and Shelter
Sleep systems remain a core strength for mountain equipment co. Their sleeping bags utilize quality down and synthetic fills with temperature ratings that align closely with real-world performance. However, prices have increased significantly since the acquisition.
| Product Category | Quality Rating | Value Rating | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleeping Bags | 8/10 | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Tents & Shelters | 7/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Sleeping Pads | 6/10 | 5/10 | 6/10 |
Premium Sleep System Option
When MEC's sleep systems don't meet your specific temperature or weight requirements:
Western Mountaineering UltraLite Sleeping BagBase Layers and Technical Apparel
Perhaps the most consistent category in mountain equipment co's current lineup is their mountain equipment base layer systems. These products maintain the quality and value proposition that made MEC legendary, offering genuine Merino wool and synthetic blend options at reasonable prices.
I've extensively tested their Merino wool base layers during winter camping trips in Alberta's Rockies, where temperatures dropped to -30°C. The moisture management and odor resistance performed excellently, though the fabric showed more pilling than premium alternatives after extended use.
Comparing Mountain Equipment Co vs Competitors
Understanding how mountain equipment co stacks against established competitors helps contextualize their current market position. Through side-by-side testing and analysis, clear patterns emerge in performance, pricing, and value propositions.
Direct Competitor Analysis
Mountain Equipment Co vs REI Co-op
REI maintains their cooperative structure, offering member dividends and democratic governance that MEC lost. In product quality, REI Co-op brand items often exceed current MEC standards while maintaining competitive pricing. REI's return policy remains more generous than MEC's modified warranty terms.
Mountain Equipment Co vs Patagonia
Patagonia consistently outperforms mountain equipment co in environmental responsibility, material innovation, and long-term durability. However, Patagonia's premium pricing makes it less accessible for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts where MEC traditionally excelled.
Mountain Equipment Co vs Arc'teryx
Arc'teryx operates in a premium segment that MEC never targeted, but the comparison illustrates the performance ceiling available to serious outdoor enthusiasts. Arc'teryx's Canadian heritage and uncompromising quality represent what many former MEC members wished their cooperative had become.
Market Positioning Analysis
Mountain Equipment Co Strengths
- Broad product range for recreational users
- Physical retail presence across Canada
- Established brand recognition
- Decent quality for moderate use
- Mid-range pricing accessibility
Mountain Equipment Co Weaknesses
- Lost cooperative values and member benefits
- Declining value proposition vs competitors
- Inconsistent quality control
- Reduced environmental initiatives
- Modified warranty and return policies
Canadian Alternative Brands Worth Considering
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking Canadian-made alternatives to mountain equipment co, several companies offer superior value and maintain authentic outdoor heritage:
- Arc'teryx: Premium technical apparel with uncompromising quality
- Canada Goose: Extreme weather outerwear with legendary durability
- Fjällräven Canada: Sustainable outdoor gear with timeless design
- Local retailers: Mountain equipment clearance events at independent shops often offer better deals
Value Proposition Reality Check
The fundamental challenge facing mountain equipment co today is justifying their pricing without the cooperative benefits that once made higher costs acceptable to members. During the MEC era, paying slightly more felt worthwhile because of dividends, voting rights, and values alignment.
Current pricing analysis reveals that mountain equipment sale events offer the best value, but even discounted prices often match competitors' regular pricing for comparable quality. This shift represents the brand's biggest strategic challenge moving forward.
User Reviews and Community Feedback Analysis
Real user experiences provide crucial insights into mountain equipment co's current performance. Through analysis of reviews across Amazon, Reddit, and outdoor forums, clear patterns emerge in user satisfaction and common issues.
Positive User Feedback Themes
Amazon Review - Verified Purchase
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
"Purchased the MEC synthetic jacket for fall camping. Good warmth-to-weight ratio and the fit is comfortable. Not as premium as my Patagonia gear but works well for weekend trips. The price point makes it accessible for getting started in outdoor activities."
Reddit r/OutdoorGear Discussion
Upvotes: +47
"Still rocking my MEC base layers from 2019. The merino wool blend has held up through three seasons of backcountry skiing. Not the softest, but excellent odor control and moisture management. Good value if you catch them on mountain equipment sale."
Outdoor Forum Review
Forum: MountainProject.com
"Used MEC approach shoes on multi-pitch routes in the Bugaboos. Sticky rubber performed well on granite, and the synthetic upper dried quickly after stream crossings. Build quality feels solid for the price point, though not as refined as La Sportiva."
Critical User Feedback Themes
Amazon Review - Verified Purchase
★★☆☆☆ (2/5 stars)
"Disappointing quality compared to old MEC standards. Mountain equipment backpack zippers failed after 6 months of moderate use. Customer service was helpful but shouldn't need to use warranty so quickly."
Reddit r/BuyCanadian Discussion
Upvotes: +127
"Miss the old cooperative days. Current pricing doesn't reflect the value we used to get. Same mountain equipment jackets cost 40% more than three years ago but quality feels thinner. Shopping elsewhere now."
Quora Outdoor Community
Question: "Is MEC still worth it?"
"Quality varies significantly between product lines. Some items like mountain equipment base layer systems remain decent, but overall brand has lost its competitive edge. Better options available for same price."
Community Sentiment Analysis Summary
Common Issue Patterns
Most Frequently Reported Problems
- 1. Zipper failures - Especially on backpacks and jackets within first year
- 2. Fabric durability - Premature wear on high-stress areas
- 3. Sizing inconsistencies - Variations between product lines and seasons
- 4. Value perception - Pricing not aligned with quality delivery
- 5. Customer service changes - Less generous return policies post-acquisition
Products Receiving Best Reviews
- 1. Base layer systems - Consistent quality and performance
- 2. Sleeping bags - Temperature ratings generally accurate
- 3. Basic hiking socks - Good durability for the price
- 4. Simple day packs - Reliable for casual use
- 5. Mountain equipment hats - Well-constructed and affordable
Expert Insight: Reading Between the Lines
The pattern in user reviews reflects a brand in transition. While mountain equipment co still produces functional outdoor gear, the emotional connection and value proposition that drove customer loyalty has diminished significantly. Users increasingly view MEC as "just another outdoor retailer" rather than a values-aligned cooperative. This shift in perception poses long-term challenges for brand positioning and pricing strategy.
Essential Buying Guide for Mountain Equipment Co Products
Making informed purchasing decisions about mountain equipment co products requires understanding which categories offer genuine value and which might be better sourced elsewhere. This guide provides strategic recommendations based on extensive testing and market analysis.
Strategic Product Categories
✓ Worth Buying
- • Mountain equipment base layer systems
- • Basic hiking socks and underwear
- • Simple day packs under 30L
- • Mountain equipment hats and accessories
- • Sleeping bags on clearance
⚠ Conditional Buys
- • Mountain equipment jackets (compare pricing)
- • Backpacks over 40L capacity
- • Technical climbing gear
- • Mountain equipment pants (fit varies)
- • Footwear and boots
✗ Avoid or Shop Elsewhere
- • Premium hardshell jackets
- • Expedition-grade equipment
- • Technical mountaineering gear
- • High-end sleeping systems
- • Professional guide equipment
Seasonal Shopping Strategy
Spring (Mar-May)
Best time for mountain equipment clearance on winter gear. Focus on base layers and insulation pieces.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Regular pricing on most items. Good time to test gear in-store before major purchases.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
End-of-season sales on summer hiking gear. Best deals on mountain equipment backpack options.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Full retail pricing but complete size selection. Use for urgent replacements only.
Budget-Conscious Alternatives
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking better value than current mountain equipment co pricing, several alternatives offer superior cost-effectiveness:
Premium Performance Alternative
When you need reliable gear for serious adventures:
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L JacketBudget-Friendly Option
For recreational use where MEC's pricing isn't competitive:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi JacketQuality Assessment Checklist
Before Purchasing Any Mountain Equipment Co Product:
Construction Quality Checks
- □ Examine zipper quality and smoothness
- □ Check seam construction and finishing
- □ Test fabric feel and weight
- □ Verify hardware durability
- □ Assess overall fit and finish
Value Comparison Steps
- □ Compare prices with REI Co-op equivalent
- □ Check Patagonia and Arc'teryx pricing
- □ Research warranty terms and coverage
- □ Read recent user reviews online
- □ Consider total cost of ownership
Warranty and Return Considerations
Post-acquisition changes to mountain equipment co's warranty policies significantly impact the value proposition. Understanding current terms prevents disappointment and helps inform purchasing decisions.
Current Warranty Reality
The legendary "Rock Solid Guarantee" that allowed unlimited returns for any reason has been replaced with standard manufacturer warranty terms. This change eliminates one of MEC's key competitive advantages and makes third-party retailers like REI more attractive for the same products.
Recommendation: For expensive items, consider purchasing from retailers with more generous return policies, even if the initial price is slightly higher.
Smart Shopping Strategies
Do This
- ✓ Wait for mountain equipment sale events
- ✓ Try items in-store before ordering online
- ✓ Focus on basic items where MEC excels
- ✓ Compare warranties across retailers
- ✓ Read recent user reviews thoroughly
Avoid This
- ✗ Paying full retail for technical gear
- ✗ Assuming quality matches old MEC standards
- ✗ Buying expedition-grade equipment from MEC
- ✗ Ignoring competitor pricing and quality
- ✗ Expecting cooperative-era service levels
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC)?
Mountain Equipment Co-op faced financial difficulties by 2019, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In September 2020, without consulting its 5.7 million members, the board of directors sold MEC's assets to American private equity firm Kingswood Capital Management for approximately $110 million. The cooperative structure was dissolved, and the business now operates as Mountain Equipment Company Ltd., a for-profit enterprise. In May 2025, the company returned to Canadian ownership when a Canadian investment group purchased majority control from Kingswood, though the cooperative structure was not restored.
Is Mountain Equipment Co the same as Mountain Equipment UK?
No, these are completely different companies with distinct histories and markets. Mountain Equipment Co (formerly MEC) is a Canadian outdoor retailer founded in 1971 as a consumer cooperative. Mountain Equipment UK, founded in 1961 by climbers Pete Hutchinson and Jake Hudson, is a British manufacturer specializing in technical climbing and mountaineering equipment. Both companies serve outdoor enthusiasts but operate independently with different product focuses, quality standards, and market positioning.
What makes Mountain Equipment Co products worth buying?
Mountain Equipment Co products offer decent quality and functionality for recreational outdoor activities, particularly in basic categories like base layers, simple day packs, and accessories. The brand maintains reasonable construction standards and provides products across multiple price points. However, the exceptional value proposition that made MEC legendary during its cooperative years has diminished significantly. Current products compete directly with other mid-range brands without offering substantial advantages in quality, innovation, or pricing. The decision to purchase should be based on specific product evaluation rather than brand loyalty.
Where can I buy authentic Mountain Equipment Co gear?
Authentic Mountain Equipment Co gear is available through their 21 physical stores across Canada, their official website (mec.ca), and select authorized retailers such as REI in the United States. The company maintains distribution through established outdoor specialty stores and online platforms. When purchasing, verify authenticity through official channels to ensure warranty coverage and avoid counterfeit products. The brand's physical retail presence remains one of its strengths, allowing customers to examine products before purchase and access knowledgeable staff for gear recommendations.
How does Mountain Equipment Co compare to other outdoor brands?
Mountain Equipment Co currently positions itself in the mid-range outdoor gear market, competing with brands like REI Co-op, Columbia, and entry-level Patagonia products. Compared to premium brands like Arc'teryx or high-end Patagonia lines, MEC offers lower performance and durability at moderately lower prices. Against budget brands, MEC typically provides better construction and materials but at higher costs. The brand's main challenge is justifying its pricing without the cooperative benefits that once differentiated it from competitors. REI Co-op often provides similar quality with better warranty terms and member benefits that MEC no longer offers.
Conclusion
The story of mountain equipment co represents both the promise and pitfalls of outdoor industry evolution. From its humble beginnings as a grassroots cooperative to its current status as a for-profit retailer, the brand has undergone fundamental changes that affect every purchasing decision.
Key Takeaways for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Today's Mountain Equipment Co serves recreational outdoor enthusiasts adequately but no longer offers the exceptional value that made MEC legendary. The brand struggles to justify premium pricing without cooperative benefits, creating opportunities for competitors to capture market share.
Smart consumers should approach mountain equipment co products strategically, focusing on categories where the brand still competes effectively while seeking alternatives for technical or premium gear. The mountain equipment base layer systems and basic accessories represent the best current value, while complex technical gear is often better sourced elsewhere.
The return to Canadian ownership in 2025 offers hope for renewed focus on quality and values, but meaningful change requires time and strategic investment. Former cooperative members and outdoor enthusiasts should monitor the brand's evolution while maintaining realistic expectations about its current capabilities.
Final Recommendations
- • Use MEC for basic outdoor gear and accessories
- • Compare pricing and quality with competitors
- • Take advantage of mountain equipment sale events
- • Consider warranty terms in purchasing decisions
- • Support Canadian outdoor retailers when possible
Looking Forward
- • Monitor quality improvements under new ownership
- • Watch for potential return of member benefits
- • Evaluate environmental initiative restoration
- • Consider brand evolution in future purchases
- • Support outdoor industry innovation
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking quality gear and authentic outdoor experiences, the landscape extends far beyond any single retailer. Whether you choose mountain equipment co, premium alternatives like Arc'teryx, or value options from REI Co-op, the most important factor is selecting gear that matches your specific needs, budget, and values.
The mountains don't care about brand names—they care about preparation, respect, and experience. Choose your gear wisely, but remember that the greatest outdoor equipment is knowledge, skill, and a deep appreciation for the natural world we're privileged to explore.
For more outdoor gear insights and national park adventure guides, visit Explore National Parks Store