A nice compact two floor MEC in the heart of downtown Halifax. Typical MEC store layout. Most of the clothing is on the second floor - accessible by elevator or stairs. All the staff at this location are super friendly and helpful. Doesn't quite have the variety of larger MECs such as in Toronto which is to be expected. Will need to order in less common items. read more

Bought boots at MEC, a well known and trusted brand. 8 months into wearing them they began to develop a rip in the leather. I talked to the manufacturer, the afore mentioned, "trusted brand", they declined to address the rip. So I went back to MEC to check on there guarantee. They agreed that it was a defect, and with zero hassle replaced the boots. Thanks to the staff who were chill and used common sense to determine it was a defect. -Bless up it's 2024 baby! read more

Great service, great selection - surprisingly affordable. They had exactly the gear that I was looking for with a price far lower than the specialty bike stores, and probably competitive with Walmart. Now some specialty items may be premium priced, but still... read more

Bought a pair of pants online and returned them due to poor quality and they wouldn't give a refund. Only a gift card. Pretty poor customer service and policy for a business that boasts a "Rock Solid" guarantee. Not sure what their version of that is, but they are the only retailer I know of that gives gift cards instead of refunds. Would give Zero Sta4s if possible. That's my last time doing business there after 25 yea4s of loyalty. read more

MEC Halifax - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

This place scares the living bejesus out of me. Multiple floors packed to the brim with products each with their own horror story of outdoor activity and survival? Not. My. Jam. Am I glad to know that canteens exist to keep one hydrated over the course of several days hiking in mountain ranges? Absolutely. Do I need them in my life? HELLS NO. Still, this mammoth store in downtown Halifax does serve a purpose in my life. Sort of. On the off chance that I need to pick up a gift for that outdoorsy type who has against all odds for his or herself within my social circle, I would go here. If you've got the budget to blow on a premium product, the bravery to plunge into a world of physical activity, and the patience to figure out what all the different things are, then you will no doubt leave successful. My favourite part? They just painted the entire exterior green and it looks all kinds of awesome. read more

MEC Halifax - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

Not impressed. Ordered a couple of items online, to be picked up in the store. About 12 hours later I receive an email from MEC saying an item was not in the store so I couldn't pick it up and they don't know when the item will arrive. I called to cancel that item and get a refund and they said no refund; not until the item eventually arrives in the store will they issue a refund. Don't buy from this company - not honest. Better to go to the Trail Shop or elsewhere in Canada. read more

I'm not particularly "sporty," but, like most Haligonians, I learned early on that fleece is an invaluable fashion accessory in this town. MEC is a good place to find all things fleece. And all things Smartwool. And all things that use the word "wick" to describe what they do with your perspiration. An indispensable shop, really, for the outdoorsy crowd, and we all know there are a lot of you here on the east coast. Things are perhaps a little pricey, but everything in the store is of the highest quality, and honestly, who feels like skimping when it comes to keeping your dangly bits warm? read more

MEC Halifax - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

MEC is my jam. I love shopping their sales for inexpensive, but high quality clothing. One day I swear my entire sock collection will be the lifetime warranty socks they carry. MEC is a collective, so you will need to buy a one-time membership, though it's only $5. I'm not even a sporty person, but I go here regularly. I trust MEC. They're going to sell me quality stuff. I buy pretty much all my outer wear from here, but it summer, fall or winter. They do bike repairs/tune ups, rentals for gear and host marathons. They're pretty much your one-stop shop for outdoor/active gear. Oh, and they're bagless, so make sure you bring one of your own. read more

Mountain Equipment Co-op is a the store to go to for the outdoor enthusiasts. A co-worker was going away and wanted to take a gift for her host. She thought of a back pac from MEC, since they were going to being seeing the Ruins. I have to say, I have never seen a larger selection of bags ever. This is my downfall, I love all different bags. You really do need a variety of them. We found the one for about $60.00. It will be perfect for the day trips they will be taking. Excellent quality here an prices were reasonable. I like what the Mountain Co-op has done , being a member for $5.00, and the fact that they donate 1% off all sales to support Canadian Environmental Causes. read more

MEC Halifax - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Halifax, Nova Scotia

Mountain Equipment Co-op is a trekker's dream come true. The backpacks, the sleeping bags, the tents - there are so many swoon-worthy items that maintaining composure becomes an unattainable ideal. With a large voyage on the horizon, I'm thinking that it will be permissible for me to go into MEC with the intention of spending a little money. Not a lot, just a little. My last MEC foray included the joint purchase of a fantastic light-weight tent for two, along with an amazing Black Diamond pack, in addition to some other traveling goodies. The staff can be of serious assistance to you because they are outdoor fiends to the max. They know about the products and all seem to be working in departments that suit their specific experiences to a T. I found having someone knowledgeable there to give me pointers when choosing a bag to be most beneficial. My current pack is my favorite ever by a landslide. If you're looking for a wicked trekking carry all, I'm a huge proponent of the single compartment Black Diamond packs - they're lightweight, sturdy and comfortable. Don't forget that you need a membership to shop at this outdoor accessory heaven. I think it only costs about $5 and it's good for a lifetime. MEC stand by their products and are very flexible when it comes to helping out their patrons. If you haven't already, I implore you to become a MEC shopper. They're an environmentally conscious company with a community-centric approach. I proclaim that you should fuel your zest for nature with some MEC purchases ASAP. PS - They often hold gear swapping events, which is a great way to get rid of your old stuff and pick up some pre-loved goodies for yourself. Check with the store for details on dates. read more

MEC is still somewhat intimidating to me. For Tara on the other hand it's a special kind of heaven. I imagine the day when our budget is a little less strict Tara will happily go shopping crazy in here. Its her running and camping and outdoor athlete dreams come true. All of my experiences with MEC staff have been nothing short of remarkable. The crew on staff know their stuff and will happily help you navigate the myriad of options they have available and even make a recommendation for something elsewhere if they can't cover it. I really love that MEC makes an effort to get to know their community of shoppers and offers clinics and classes in running, natural running, bike and bike repair. And recently they've offered a MEC run series in the Halifax area that is gaining popularity at an affordable registration price. Extra bonus - your MEC race registration gets you a 10% coupon at the co-op. As a side note, you do have to be a member to shop and partake in the classes at MEC. And because I can never add yet another card to my wallet, I'm glad MEC makes it easy on me and can look my number up by my telephone number now. Easy-peasy. Bottom line if you are into the outdoor activity stuff then MEC is heaven. And you'll be sure to find what you're hunting for. And if its not your thing, it's the perfect place to go gift shopping for the people in your life who are. read more

Everything you need! This store literally has everything you need. If you are going for a hike, going to face the frigged winter somewhere, or need to plan for 2012 and the end of the world, Mountain Equipment Co-Op has what you need. They have a lifetime membership that only costs $5 for life. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and the store's selection is impressive! I was going to do some filming in a very cold part of Canada and needed gloves that kept my hands warm and were thin enough so that I could focus the camera and still press buttons. They had the exact gloves I was hoping to find and it only cost me around $25! This store has everything you need for any outdoor activity. My friends are more of the Outdoors kind of folk then I am and this is their only stop for equipment and supplies. Just go to their website or walk on in. You will be very pleased! read more

Ahh, Mec, My dear friend. We've been through a lot these past 10 plus years. You've saved my bacon, protected my eggs, kept me warm and dry in the wettest of days/weeks. I wouldn't be the man I am today with out you. You house a smorgasbord of awesomeness, that i could spend hours/days admiring. When it comes to getting lost in the woods for a night or a week, spending time on the water, or enjoying the winter weather, you've got what i need and i know it is going to hold up to the abuse i dish it. I've never been disappointed with the staff, who are most knowledgeable, or the products, which are of the finest quality. You've stood beside me and kept me going when the worst hit, and I'll be back to enjoy your warm embrace, and pick up supplies for my next adventure. They have a wide array of everything outdoors, from the inexpensive to the expensive. The MEC branded gear is among the lesser expensive gear but holds to the quality and functionality of the more expensive gear. From packs, sleeping bags, tents, gear, clothing and more, MEC is my go to spot. My little slice of heavenly awesome sauce. If you've been you know. If you haven't give it a go. You won't be disappointed read more

Its worth noting that MEC is having a gear swap tomorrow. This is a fantastic opportunity to get rid of quality outdoor gear that's been collecting dust in the depths of your closet-- and possibly pick up something new for a great price! This is why MEC rocks. They go beyond the fabric bag to promote ecological efficiency. Its about community and conscious living. Kudos to MEC. read more

Probably just my favorite store in Halifax! MEC has all the gear you'll need to get you out and about. More then that they have great prices, back all of the gear they sell, and train sales staff that you'll probably meet out kayaking, climbing, skiing, or hiking. That means they actually use what they sell you, and know it from first hand experience. This is every back country lovers one stop shop! MEC is a Co-Op which means they are guided by their members. MEC-listens is a program they use to gather the opinions of members so that they can improve in the ways we would like them to! All of this only costs $5 to be a part of for the rest of your life. You'll probably save more then that on the first thing you buy since their prices tend to be relatively good. The MEC branded gear tends to be mid-level gear that will suit the majority of peoples needs. It is generally good quality and if you get a lemon then MEC has the best warranty I've come across. read more

Needed some clips for my motorcycle gear and thought that if anyone would have some, it would be MEC. Sure enough they provided a couple of inexpensive options - some that appealed to me even though they were way off topic - such as an adjustable 3 metre adjustable bungee cord while I was shopping for a 3 cm clip. As always the store is warm and inviting, well laid out and covers a multitude of outdoorsy sins, including, in the right situation, motorcycling. Who knew? They used to be a stickler for knowing the membership name - we have a couple in our household and I can never remember exactly who has what - but this time the request for id was satisfied by my home phone number - excellent - because I can remember that most days. read more

No matter the time of year, no matter the person you're shopping for, this is a great spot to get gifts! Sure, you can get stuff for yourself. If you wanna be greedy! You might think I'm kidding, but I'm 100% serious. Every time Christmas rolls around, I head over to MEC for some impulse purchases. Maybe my brother needs a new pair of sunglasses. Maybe his girlfriend needs a new shoulder bag. Mom could probably use a new rain jacket. Dad definitely needs a new balaclava. My friend was complaining that she doesn't have any camping gear... And beyond being an amazing place to buy stuff, they're an amazing place to find out things. Lots of information on local events posted at the entrance. Staff are always excellent. If they don't know the answer to your question, they will find out or find someone who does. read more

I love coming to MEC when I'm in Halifax. They have so much great merchandise, with good prices. An outdoorsy person's paradise! read more

I find that MEC has a lot to offer for outdoor needs all under one roof without the hassle of going from one place to another. Although price wise they could be abit on the high for some stuff, but for the most part, I am please with the quality of products that they place on their shelves. If you're looking for any type of knapsacks, laptop bag or the like, this place has lots of them ranging from different sizes and styles (but mostly sporty). Though I've purchase any shoes from them directly, I've scanned their selection and was impress. However, if you're a newcomer to Canada, you'll need to register as a member to enjoy the benefits of purchasing anything from MEC as it is a cooperative. And given its location in downtown, its very accessible for the many. read more

MEC = Mountain Equipment Co-op. The name says it all. If you're trekking up a snow-capped peak, this is where you go. Don't go here to be fashionable in the Canadian winter (though I did get some good, warm dress gloves here). Go here so that you don't succumb to hypothermia after your wife talks you into doing that sub-arctic triathlon for your 10th wedding anniversary. There's a lot of outdoors equipment packed into a small space, and a lot of staff who know the differences between all of them. read more

Having a decent outdoor store is a boon to any city, and Halifax is lucky to have this one-stop co-op right downtown. MEC is a company with a conscience, too, and unlike many big chains that claim to be do-gooders I have yet to hear any rumours of secret evils committed while putting forward a clean face to the public. The experience of the salespeople is a big part of the value you get when shopping here - there's always someone on hand to advise you intelligently, whether you're buying bike parts or sleeping bags. I had a long discussion with one woman about what the locals where for winter out here when I was freaking out about the months of -10 to come. It's -13 out today and I can report that the advice I got was solid and my new coat is doing its job of keeping me warm. read more

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I'm overwhelmed by this store every time I walk in. Mountain Equipment Co-op is three levels and has an overflowing inventory of outdoor and survival equipment. The staff here are really helpful, and I recommend asking them for help if you are new to the camping/outdoor scene. They'll help you find what you need amongst all the confusing survival garb. A lot of what they carry is a bit too pricey for me. While their equipment is some of the best you can get, if you're on a budget you might not have luck in finding everything you need. The major draw for me was the incredible assortment of bags. From normal sized backpacks to huge duffel bags for travelling, it is possible to find bags of any size you need, and they are pretty reasonably priced. I can vouch for the quality of their products, I've had a bag from MEC that I use for the gym for 5 years, with no sign of wear and tear. Hot Hint: This is where I pick up my "Hot Paws", little packets that you break and put them in your gloves and boots to keep you warm for hours. read more

If you can't find it at Mountain Equipment Co-op, then you don't need it. Seriously. This shop, occupying a prime piece of downtown real estate, is the quintessential outdoor store. Anything you could want for the outdoors is here, from camping pots and pans to canoes you can use to take you into the backcountry. I know I've stated before that I'm not exactly an outdoors girl, but I do love me some camping. If I were getting outfitted, MEC is exactly where I'd head to start (maybe with a side detour to TAO). I like one-stop shopping and above all else, this is one of the things MEC does best. One of the little-known services MEC offers is equipment rental at reasonable prices. If you are just getting into the scene and aren't sure how much you want to fork over for gear, MEC will rent you almost everything you need to try out camping, kayaking, canoeing and skiing. A bonus is that they'll apply one day's rental fee to purchases within 30 days of rental! read more

I have been a member and loyal customer since before this store open in Halifax. They have great products, amazing prices, and the best warranty + customer service I have ever received at any store. MEC has a great website and iPhone App as well for making purchases online. My favorite store. read more

Great selection of outdoor equipment and clothing, but expensive. In order to shop here you need to buy a one time membership for $5, fill out an application, and bring the card when you want to shop there. I don't care about the five bucks, but the whole membership thing is annoying and a bit ridiculous. You seriously won't sell me a $300 pair of boots until I fill out a membership application form? They also have no bags - paper or plastic. read more

Yesterday morning I popped into MEC en route to purchase my 'new' second hand bike. I knew that I was going to need a backpack to substitute for my usual canvas bag, what with the new mode of transportation and MEC certainly didn't disappoint. They had tons of backpacks! I had checked the website ahead of time so I had a bit of an idea as to what was on offer. MEC has everything from tiny sling packs in varied colours all the way through to high tech expedition packs. I have had my fair share of MEC packs (playschool through to now) and can pretty much vouch for them all! I really love my Arc'teryx trekking pack too! MEC's website has a rating system as well where members have left all sorts of useful advice with regard to usage, carry capacity, draw backs, etc. Very helpful! I personally would recommend steering away from the sling packs. I ended up with a Dragonfly 17L Daypack and so far I'm really happy with it! I rode 10km yesterday and it was very comfortable. I was also able to pick up a bike light and reflective tape all for under $10. Very helpful staff throughout my browsing. I was repeatedly asked if I needed help as well as given excellent customer service while I checked out. read more

If your looking for new gear, outdoor athletic clothes, or a new kayak, go to MEC first. I have been a long time member, of this national chain of outdoor life equipment. MEC is a Canadian institution dedicated to its members. Their staff is very informed on how to get outside, and enjoy the best Canada has to offer. I recently bought a new pack for travel to Europe, and scored a great price. I want thank the staff at the store in Halifax for helping me find the pack, without having to buy the most expensive one. I highly recommend this store, which is flanked buy two other adventure stores, that do not offer the variety, and great customer service. read more

Fantastic outdoor store, with wide selection for every activity. Super knowledgable staff who are always willing to help, great return policy and the prices are usually a little cheaper or on par. They have a little bit of everything for everything, definitely a go-to place for gifts for your outdoorsy person. Something in everyone's price range. read more

I'm a fan of MEC in general. You have to have a membership to shop here, but it's a lifetime membership and it's pretty cheap. Obviously it's a co-op so after a million years you might get a cheque in the mail for your cut. After years I did end up receiving a $14 credit via email. I can't lie, I was pretty jazzed about it. I think I bought socks? Anyways, the point is, I trust MEC to sell me good quality items that won't let me down if I'm 30 kilometers in the backcountry. It's kind of the only place where the 'store brand' isn't that horrible. I'm not embarrassed I have a MEC camping backpack and not a Patagonia one, or some other name brand. I often prefer the MEC version of stuff. I do like the layout of this store, and it has just about everything you'd need on your adventure from clothing to rock climbing harnesses, energy bars to -19 sleeping bags and snow shoes. Speaking of snow shoes they do awesome gear rentals here. I've dabbled in just about every outdoorsman sport and I've always come to MEC to get my gear. They also offer a really great warranty return policy if you happen to get a dud. Most of my purchases have stood the test of time (tent, backpack, rock climbing shoes, harness, jackets, clothes, ... other things I'm forgetting). Then there is just the feeling of being adventurous when you go in there. It's the second best feeling aside from actually being out in nature doing that thing you wanted. read more

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MEC is okay, but good luck finding reasonable parking anywhere nearby its Halifax store. Why, I wonder, did they cram that store into such an inaccessible downtown location? You might be able to score a parking meter on the street for a dollar an hour and watch your time so you don't get a ticket, or use the nearby parkade for a whopping $2 for the first 30 minutes. MEC says it will give you a store credit worth a dollar toward the cost of parking, or you can go to any one of a number of comparable places where parking isn't an issue. I'm all about supporting the local economy, but this place makes me think of online shopping as a viable alternative. In addition to the parking issue, MEC isn't the store it used to be. At one time there was an advantage to having a membership, but since it moved away from the original co-op model and toward a corporate structure, prices are the same or higher than places like the Trail Shop on Quinpool or Canadian Tire, for that matter. read more

I was by the MEC store today to look at trail runners for men. I almost paid full price for a $99 pair becuase I am 6 foot 2 inch I never look down that far to see the sales as which are placed middle to bottom rack. This is a real problem at the nslc I keep ending up with Hennessy and other top shelf stuff. So after not attracting the sales person attention for some time. I ended up looking at the whole shelf. Wow sales so I got pair of trail runner reg 149 for 79 and they are really nice. read more

Good sized sale rack. Not the biggest MEC in the country (tiny compared to Calgary or Vancouver's south shore stores) but a great place to grab the gear you need! Staff were friendly and each one asked if I needed help. read more

Love this store. The staff are knowledgeable, helpful and stand behind their products. They will take back an item if it fails to meet your expectation. The prices are fair and selection is fantastic. From a water bottle, to helmet to clothing Mec is the pace for me!! read more

Very poor customer service!! I was not asked if I needed help any of the times I've been in MEC! I bought a very nice rain jacket today and was made to pay a membership fee (that was ok) but when I was given my jacket after paying for it the employe did not fold it just rolled it in a ball and handed it to me. Seeing as it was raining out I asked for a bag and the employ told me it would cost another .95 cents. I just spent almost $200 for a rain jacket and MEC couldn't even give me a bag! I will be returning my jacket after work today! So disappointed...... read more

I've had a membership at MEC since they opened in Halifax and I 've always enjoyed the store, staff, services, and don't forget the rentals! Their prices are excellent and often lower than other shops, they don't carry inexpensive brands like Walmart but their in-house label is a great value. I was in on Saturday and I couldn't find any staff to help, so please add more staff on Saturdays. read more

Next to Home ...renovation... stores (ok, ok. Home Depot) this place is my second home. I love this company. I've been to them all across this great nation and somehow they manage to always find the right mix of gear and fantastically helpful, knowledgeable and friendly people. This is the smaller of the MEC stores I've been privy to visit, but it still carries all the necessities. Whether you need a jacket to save yourself from the driving wind and rain, some pegs for that last minute camping trip or some really serious gear for a back country expedition, they have it. And it's GREAT stuff for a decent price! Plus they give back to the community/environment, get people involved and keep it a co-op that really cares that you get decent product to help you in your adventures. I was smitten the first time I became a member ($5 well spent) back in the early 90's and I've never been let down since. Never. I doubt you will be either. Drop by and wander their wares. You'll be glad you did. read more