Adventure Awaits: Outdoor Gear from BC’s Boutique Outfitters

Even the most ‘indoorsy’ of us feel nature’s pull to enjoy the great outdoors, especially in beautiful BC come spring. Here, some new gear to get you outside and inspired.

Canadian retailer Mountain Equipment Company, or as we all know it, MEC, has been refining roughing it since 1971. They realize that camping has evolved, and people really do want to bring the comfort of home into their campsite. This MEC Cabin 6 Person Tent is more like a portable cabin, and sleeps six with a roomy living space you can stand up in, big windows and a ventilated door that also keeps weather out when you need it to. Light diffusing fabric and a special nightlight pocket that turns your headlamp (you did set up this tent in the dark?) into a lantern is just well, so cool. A gear and boot storage spot that stays dry is smart too.

Decathlon 22L Hiking Backpack combines tech with comfort, resulting in a lightweight backpack you’ll use for day trips and hikes – on repeat. Foam straps are designed for max comfy-ness, and the back pad is ventilated to keep you cooler than most bags. Very light too, weighing in at only 1.7 lbs and with six pockets you can load it up well. Cool factor? The pack is designed to move with the rhythm of your back and hips as you walk, so there’s less strain because it moves with you, not against.

Canadian Tire Outbound Campground Cookout Starter Kit has all you need to prepare and serve meals at the campground. Includes a two-burner propane stove, two pots with lids, a non-stick pan, and an LED lantern (don’t forget to bring batteries). Loving the cute, checked tablecloth, colourful reusable dishes for four people plus cutlery; and a mesh bag to toss it all in. Use it for camping sure, but don’t forget about it for picnics too.

Did you know that the Arcteryx Skaha Harness was the first product this BC brand ever made? Yep, it’s where it all started. Serious climbers know good gear is crucial, and the waist belt in this women’s’ style is made from a 150D honeycomb mono mesh with a Spacermesh liner that breathes, making it extra comfortable. Fixed leg loops allow for movement and flex, and the ultimate in hanging comfort.

Valhalla Pure Outfitters has locations all over BC including Abbotsford, Courtney, Revelstoke and more. We all love our hybrid-anything (hello golf clubs, cars etc.) and this Bote LowRider  SUP+Kayak hybrid paddle board does double duty with its removable seats, hybrid paddles, and extras like places to secure coolers and drinks with tie-downs and attachment points. Choice of solo size 10’ 6” or tandem size 11’ 6” too.