MEC Calgary

This company has changed for the worse since we last visited back in 2019. We called MEC Calgary a month prior to our arrival to inquire about the possibility of them running out of Discovery Passes during their busy summer season. We were told by staff, "Don't worry, we will have plenty of passes of available when you arrive in June. " MEC was sold out on ALL types of passes when we arrived so we had to find a place to print our paper passes. We purchased bear spray from MEC and it took nearly 30 mins for the cashier to close the purchase due to paperwork, then they were having difficulties with their computer system. We contacted MEC about this incident but received no response.
We learned that you should purchase the Discovery Pass online in advance and get bear spray from a company that will allow you to return the unused cans for a discount.
Sorry MEC, you lost a loyal customer.

Thank you Kat so much for helping us silver folks out in Footwear today!

Informative and funny were you. Keep on smiling!

Chad and Vlad rocked it as well.

Thans for Rhonda who helped me today to buy cross country ski gear.
It was very happy experience. ^^

The go-to place for outdoor equipment and apparel. Visits to MEC have been something I've looked forward to and enjoyed for the past 4 decades.

Their selection of hiking and camping gear is why I keep shopping at MEC. Also, the staff are so helpful.

It's sad to witness the decline of a co-op I've been a member of for 30 years, and even worked at for a couple of them. Good bye old friend. Months later. Yup, still like visiting the shrine of someone that "passed away".

MEC under new ownership is NOT the former MEC. Product quality of the MEC brand is poor. Service and warranty are also poor. I am not a happy customer.

Always loved MEC but don't order from here online, the shipping is very slow. Only shop here if you can go in person.

I appreciate the replacement satisfaction guarantee. It is the only place I purchase big ticket hiking gear. The selection is generally excellent, the staff I’ve encountered are friendly and helpful.

Here's my experience with their "rock solid guarantee".

I've shopped at MEC for years and have returned a few things. Until recently, my returns were accepted and the service was friendly. For whatever reason, this is no longer the case.

Today I tried to return a pair of pants that I purchased pre-covid due to them not fitting well. Is that a long time ago? Yes, but I've returned stuff purchased longer ago and never been told that was a problem. Today I was given a multitude of reasons why I couldn't return them that I didn't know they consider, and everyone should know these too.

1. If you have returned something before, they will be less likely to accept your return. This is verbatim from the old guy at the return desk.
2. They can declare the return product "un-fit for resale" for any reason, including no reason. I was told my pants were not in new condition despite only being worn twice, washed and folded, and not damaged at all. When I asked specifically what about my product was not fit for resale, the old guy avoided the question and never gave an answer.
3. There is no exact date where an item is no longer returnable. Again, straight from the horses mouth. I asked directly what the time period is to return something due to not fitting, and he replied with my return is too old, but refused to give an exact period where things are not returnable.

So to sum up, returning anything makes MEC less likely to return anything else, MEC can just say that your product is not in good enough condition to return (even if it is still in the box) without giving a reason, and MEC can say that it's been too long ago without there being any set period in the return policy.

On top of all that, the service was blatantly rude. I was scolded for my return record, accussed of being ridiculous for thinking I could return these (again I've returned older stuff in worse condition), and laughed at for my attempt, all by some old guy who seemed to be a manager, didn't catch his name.

Needless to say, if there's no rock solid guarantee anymore, I won't be wasting my money here when I can get literally everything they sell cheaper elsewhere, and with better service.

If you enjoy the outdoors you will enjoy this place. Great ethos and ethics. If it is a human powered outdoor adventures you seek this is your one stop shop for products and advice.

Not impressed with the customer service. I purchased some ice climbing boots with a coupon I received from them from my previous order taking so long. When I received them they were too small. I wanted to exchange them for a larger size but they didn’t have my size anywhere in Canada for the same boot. So I asked if I could exchange them for a proper size with a different boot and they said yes but they wouldn’t honour the coupon because it’s a different boot. I’m sorry but it’s not my fault you don’t have my size.needless to say I was not impressed. I ended up returning my entire order. Not happy.

MEC is no longer a place where you don't have to worry about return policies. I shopped at MEC not because of their prices, customer service, products, or even for convenience, but because it had the best return policy of any outdoor apparel shop in Canada. I could buy a product and try it out when the right season came around, knowing that if they weren't a good fit or if they didn't hold up to my expectations, I could return them. Those days are over.

The return took about 40 minutes and Kristof made every effort, including a guilt trip, to refuse to take back the shoes. The experience was a sad realization that MEC's new return policies are going to lose it many customers - including myself.

If I wanted to have a hard time returning a product, I might as well shop elsewhere.

Reasonable selection but super expensive. It seems that our coop has turned into another high end retail sports store selling big name labels, completely the opposite of their former philosophy. I will not shop there anymore.

We have had exceptional service purchasing cross country ski gear from Mike B. He was extremely knowledgeable, thorough, helpful, patient and kind. No pressure to purchase only gave great info and make the experience amazing. Thank you!

Love their selection, the setup, and most of of all - the service! Sales staff at the MEC are super friendly, and quite a knowledgeable about their product, so I can always count on the best advice. The prices are in the intermediate range, but all in all, well worth it.

Worst service in the bike repairs. I brought my bike for tuning, tires replacement and wanted to buy a new saddle and a post. Poor selection of everything. The assistant wasn’t able to find the tight size of the post. I’ve been told that no tuning is needed, just true the wheels, which has been done and paid. The bike came back with a flat tube (was punched during the repair) and the gear won’t switch. I brought it back and left it for repair again. During two days no one even called to talk to me about the costs. Only on the day 3 when i called them they started checking the bike. STAY AWAY from the MEC bike service.

No Staff, You Wait at least 15min just to get service. (footwear) When you do get service, stock doesn't match up with what's on the website. How are you supposed to find a correct size when they're pushing you to up size or down size. Since they sold out to a USA company, service and stock has become non existent. MEC used to be so good, now they're the worst of the worst. No wonder people are buying things online, problem there is you have to buy 2-3 sizes of each, just to see what fits. Waste of Time & Money. You'd never find this kind of poor service in the USA!

The friendliest staff you’ll ever come across! Considering the size of the place, it doesn’t take long to track down a knowledgeable person who will help you with exactly what you need.

It can get a little hectic during the busy times if you want to try on shoes or anything to do with bike servicing, but that’s not uncommon anywhere else.

Also, if you’re willing to wait a little longer, you can save a bit of money on bike repairs compared to other bike shops.

You can also save a little if you opt for their MEC branded clothes & equipment. Just as good or better than the big names!

Be very careful with their return policy, it is mileading!
We bought a tent, we used it only once and we found out it was leaking. When we went back to return it, they said they don't accept it because they cannot re-sell it. Well it is leaking so you should not re-sell it!
Any store would accept return if it was damaged!
Be careful and stay away.

MASK aren't mandatory anymore and they still force peoples to wear it.unfortunatly we spend thousands every year but we left and went shop elsewhere wherr they stop paranoia covid and leave peoples breath and smile.shame on you MEC

I’ve brought my bike in twice now for servicing needs and have had a great experience both times. Hunter was the gentlemen helping me out. He was knowledgeable and answered all my questions. Really appreciate him taking the time to show me how to remove my back wheel from my bike.

Have shopped here for years and have had unanimously great experiences in the past, but their customer service really seems to have deteriorated recently. I'm writing this review after a very negative experience we experienced related to the bike shop.

We purchased a commuter bike for riding around the city last summer for $750 and was lightly used. In the summer it was stored on a covered patio and in the winter it was moved inside and stored on a bike mount. While on our bike ride today there was a loud snap and my partner crashed in the middle of the road because the derailleur had spontaneously snapped off. Luckily, she wasn't hurt. We took pictures and immediately brought the bike in to MEC along with our receipt from 14 months ago to see what they could do. The technician was immediately very accusatory and claimed that, "This doesn't happen for no reason" and that we must have neglected the bike by dropping it or improperly storing it, causing what he suspected was a bent derailleur which had then snapped off. No kidding this doesn't happen for no reason - that's why we are here. We explained that we had NOT mistreated the bike and in fact own more expensive mountain bikes so we are always very mindful when storing and transporting our bikes, but he remained very accusatory and insisted this MUST be damage that we caused to the bike for this to occur.

He stated this would not be covered under warranty due to the fact we had neglected the bike, which we again reiterated that we hadn't. He explained they could fix it for a fee, but that they have no parts available and would not have any in stock for at least 1 year due to a supply shortage. He said the best that he could do would be to install a used derailleur which would make the bike somewhat functional, but would result in a significant reduction in performance.

At the end of the day we purchased a bike for $750 from MEC that we treated well and catastrophically failed. Luckily, my partner was not injured. Rather than looking into the situation, we were immediately accused by MEC of damaging the bike ourselves, which we didn't. The bike is unable to be repaired and we are unable to be refunded. As much as I've enjoyed shopping at MEC over the years, after this experience we will be taking our business elsewhere. This review is simply to inform others of our significantly negative experience with the bike shop. I would encourage people to think twice and consider other options before buying a bike from MEC because our experience has been less than spectacular.

Been as customer for a long time. Experiences with this store deteriorated drastically. Most recent bad experience was when I tried to return an un-used product bought 2 days ago. The staff their refused to take the return because she said there’s nothing wrong with it. Will never shop there anymore.

Better service can be found at all the other outdoor gear stores. Inconvenient location with paid parking. Don't forget, it's no longer a cooperative, the "C" stands for Company.

WAS AT THE CALGARY LOCATION THIS MORNING TO EXCHANGE SOME DEFECTIVE BEAR SPRAY THAT HAD BEEN RECALLED.

WHEN I WENT TO THE RETURNS AND EXCHANGES DESK TO DO THE SWAP THAT THEY HAD PREVIOUSLY EMAILED ME ABOUT, THEY TOLD ME IT WOULD BE AN EXTRA 10$ PLUS TAX THAT I HAD TO PAY OUT OF POCKET. WHEN I ASKED THEM WHY THIS IS, THEY STATED THAT I BOUGHT A 2 PACK OF BEAR SPRAY AND THE REPLACEMENTS THEY HAD WERE ONLY SINGLES, THEN PROCEEDED TO GIVE ME THE EXCUSE THAT THEY CANNOT OVERRIDE THE PRICE DIFFERENCE (WHICH IS COMPLETE BS).

I RELUCTANTLY BOUGHT INTO THEIR SCHEME AS I NEEDED THE BEAR SPRAY AND COULDN’T WAIT UNTIL THEY RECEIVED A 2 PACK LIKE I ORIGINALLY PURCHASED, AND THESE ARE THE EXACT SAME CANS, ITS NOT LIKE THEY ARE ANY DIFFERENT IN SIZE.

TO TOP IT ALL OFF THE STAFF THAT DID MY EXCHANGE WERE NOT VERY FRIENDLY AT ALL. I WILL BE FOLLOWING UP WITH THE STORES MANAGER TO TRY AND RECTIFY THIS AND GET A REFUND FOR THE EXTRA MONEY THEY EXTORTED OUT OF ME.

IM VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH THE SERVICE I RECEIVED AND I HEAR THAT FROM MORE AND MORE PEOPLE BY THE DAY. MEC USED TO BE A VERY FRIENDLY AND NICE PLACE TO SHOP BUT EVER SINCE THEY GOT BOUGHT OUT THE SERVICE AND FRIENDLINESS HAS GOTTEN WORSE.

We were at the store today and the staff were incredible - so knowledgeable, patient and helpful. Making sure that we found the best hiking boots for my husband and son, and fitting a backpack for my son.

The best!

I've been shopping at MEC because of the stand up warranty everyone raves about. However, I will now be taking my business elsewhere. When I brought in a pair of hiking pants that had a hole in them after 4 uses of light hiking, I was told that this item would not be warrantied. This is despite their warranty stating "We guarantee the quality of our products. If the quality of an item hasn’t met your expectations, you can bring it back. " I expect for my gear to hold up in the outdoors, especially when the product is still relatively new and I take the time to care for it properly. I hope others find this review helpful when deciding where to invest in quality gear that will last.

Always friendly and helpful staff! Good range of products. VERY sad about the other brick-and-mortar locations closing. Seton was so beautiful!

In the big picture I like these guys. However calling in can be a very excruciating experience.

Unless of course you love being put on hold.and then being being transferred to being put on hold.and then being put on hold once again.

Going forward I‘m just going to hang up on hold number two.

Best outdoor gear store there ever was! Employees genuinely know how to inform you of which type of product will best suit your needs. This is such a convenient service, rather than doing a bunch of research online.

This store is important for the people of downtown Calgary specially the bikers. Has a ton of outdoor/camping/biking stuff. Quality is good but its little pricy. Parking is not free. I like MEC and this location is really good!

One of the staff members, Kevin C, was absolutely amazing. He helped us pick out the best option for backpacks for overnight hiking, helped adjust and fit to our needs, and gave us a lot of other awesome hiking advice. He was patient, kind, and courteous. We will not hesitate to recommend him to anyone who needs backpack help/advice.

A few days ago i was helped by an incredibly lovely lady when i was browsing the bike locks.she went above and beyond and gave me the best customer experience/genuine interaction ive had in awhile.i regret not getting her name because i wanted to give her to recognition she deservs! I ended up finding exactly what i needed thanks to her and left with a huge smile on my face:) i hope to see her again next time im in and get her name! Love all yall! Xoxo

I was very disappointed with my last experience at the bike shop. I needed a new wheel, but it seemed like there was always something wrong, and after 4 visits I still couldn't ride my bike. I eventually went to another shop where they made a simple fix (the tube MEC had put was the wrong one).

I've always loved MEC, and am usually a very easy going customer, but this has been way too much trouble.

Huge selection. Can be hard to find things but the staff are always wandering around to help and go the extra mile. The help is what makes this such a good place to shop. Be on the watch for sales which end up discounting a huge amount off of great quality products. Got a cinch pack for 50% off that's survived heavy use for 2 years without any signs of wear and tear.

I never have an issue here I find the staff really helpful and generally there is someone at the front to point you around. Gear is really high quality but a bit more on the pricey side.

Hunter was very helpful and knowledgeable.was professional on the phone and in person very good job.second time i go there for bike service and both were great experiences.thanks

MEC products and staff are beyond compare. Everything in MEC is curated, quality, and just generally exactly what i'm looking for. Staff are always friendly and its one of the few sporting goods stores that you can still call and have a conversation with a sales person without wading through 100 levels of touch-tone menus only to have a line ring endlessly (read: sportcheck).

HOWEVER: i was recently let down a little by their "rocksolid guarantee" it says on the back of the receipt that i can exchange any item, and makes no indication of time limit. So I purchased a pair of cycling shoes on boxing day, at a great sale price. I tried them on 2 months later to find I misjudged my size. I brought the un-worn, fully packaged shoes back to MEC and was told I had to pay the difference between the sale price and the current price in order to exchange the sizes. Now while the difference wasnt huge, and the shoes are worth it, I feel betrayed. The old folklore around the "rocksolid guarantee" being about unconditional satisfaction just isn't true anymore.

As always friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Product availability is limited more so now but still found what I was looking for

Caution when buying MEC Down
I bought the Tremblant Jacket from MEC and it was defective - with down escaping periodically. After visiting the store to find a fair solution, the representative was dismissive, moving onto the next client and pointing me to purchase more product to repair damage not caused by myself. Upon contacting head office, they were no more help. MEC’s guarantee has deteriorated since ownership has changed and it is disappointing as in the past I have had great experience. Any other brand that you purchase from will honour your concerns as a client but my concern was not even considered rather I was referred to pay for repairs. I am concerned about other products I own that are MEC down and would caution anyone against buying product that does not have a guarantee.

Even more of a concern was the fact that upon sharing this review to the website under the product name, MEC sent me an email mentioning it would not be published as it does not follow their guidelines for reviews - withholding honest information with their clients. Be careful where you buy!

Large store with plenty of variety of options. Came in looking for some outdoor pants and jacket. Didn’t find the right size and had to buy online. Still good price and colour tho.

The staff here have consistently been incredibly helpful. They have always been accomodating to any issues that arise and are really quick to help and fix any problems you may have. They are generally quite knowledgable about gear and the products they carry.

I will never support this store again since they support Tides foundation who campaigns against the Canadian Oil industry

Almost never leave without spending money. Great llace for outdoor needs and info. 4 stars only because you have to pay to park.

The best Canadian company. I love this place. If you want good gear ranging from camping, hiking, climbing, skiing or just casual, it is all there. Even if you aren't looking for anything in specific, just go in and experience the store.

Went on boxing and they may have been a bit understaffed, but the staff were very helpful, patient and efficient to getting to everyone in need of help.

Great store to have around, but I wish they’d stop catering to the urban set, and get back to their gear-oriented roots. Too much fashion.

Great staff who are individually knowledgeable for specific departments. If they don't know the answer, they find someone who does. One of the best places for general outdoor goods from camping to skiing and everything in between. Fair prices on most items as well as a really great return policy

Great selection, friendly helpful staff. I found clearance items that weren't even listed on the website, possibly the last one in Canada!

Very disappointed with MEC. Great products but they don't stand behind the quality long term.

I was out hiking last week to Chester Lake and I loaned an MEC Day back pack to a friend of mine. Half way through the trip we pulled out lunch and my friend mentioned that the inner waterproof liner is coming apart and covered everything with little bits. His niece was with us and she used to work at MEC years ago and she said "Oh, take it back to MEC and they'll replace it. They stand behind their products regardless of age". Well, today I took the back pack back to MEC and the customer service gentleman offered $70 to $100 as a store credit towards another back pack - I said, "Sure, that would be much appreciated". He took the bag away to speak with someone else. The someone else turned out to be a manager who said that they couldn't offer me any more than 10% off the purchase of a new back pack. I declined the offer and left.

I realize that I have an old back pack but I'm really disappointed because if a company says that they stand behind their products - then stand behind your products. It's pretty clear to me that MEC doesn't stand behind their products. It's also very disappointing to be offered something - I accepted the offer, then they redacted the offer and reduced it substantially - I think that's actually illegal.

Very expensive, no longer a coop in spirit, MEC is just another over priced high end sporting goods retailer. While other companies become more innovative and more competitive, MEC is becoming less innovative and less competitive. For many things, like down jackets or ski helmets Costco is a much better deal. MEC is just like Sportchek. Go find other places to get better prices and more interesting products.

Fantastic place, with very knowledgeable staff. Only problem is that it can be crazy busy at times, can be long lines to pay or to talk to a specific expert.

You get what you pay for. If you get here, you'll pay for it. Everything here is expensive, but you're paying for top quality and great customer service. Don't come here if you're looking for cheap stuff, but if you want something that'll last a lifetime, this is the place.

So I went into MEC this evening (26 SEP 18). I've never owned a road bike before so I thought I'd ask some advice on inner tubes because there was a large selection (light, road, race, wide etc). I asked the lady on the bikes section. I say I know my wheel size is 700 X 23 but I don't know which to buy. She says in the most patronising way 'well, maybe go find one which says 700 X 23 and buy that one'. I mean seriously I'm not an idiot, I wanted advice on which brand, wide, sport etc to buy.
I heard her massively patronising some other guy too.
Luckily the rest of the staff were great.

Went in to return something i had bought online. Return went fine and the return staff i dealt with was friendly and quick.

Proceed to search for a rain jacket and find a staff asking me what i'm looking for. I tell him i'm looking for a rain jacket and he tells me "we don't sell anything cheap or disposable here" as if i was dressed as a homeless person looking to steal something. Unbelievable customer service, so much so that i will not be coming back and don't recommend anyone to shop here.

MEC has faced a couple of tough decisions lately and thankfully, they stuck to the ideals upon which the cooperative was founded. Ethical retailers are a rare species and I'm proud to be a 20+ year member of this one.