A legendary outdoor gear swap is back in North Vancouver
Got old hiking boots, climbing ropes, or ski jackets collecting dust in your closet? MEC’s popular Gear Swap is back this October, giving outdoor lovers across Canada a chance to trade, shop, and refresh their gear without breaking the bank.
The one-day event is happening Saturday, Oct. 4, at MEC stores in North Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal.
It’s a mix of good deals, good finds, and a good cause.
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“The MEC Gear Swap is all about giving great gear a second life,” said Jess Dizon, MEC’s community marketing manager. “Every swap keeps gear out of the landfill and puts it back where it belongs—out on adventures. It’s a win for your wallet, the planet, and the whole outdoor community.”
Here’s how it works; sellers can rent a table to pass along gear they no longer use (deadline to book is Oct. 1), while shoppers can browse for pre-loved gems.
If you’d rather donate, you can drop off gently used items before Sept. 29 and score 15 per cent off your next MEC purchase.
The swap takes place on Saturday, Oct. 4, at MEC stores across the country: Victoria, 1450 Government St.; North Vancouver, 212 Brooksbank Ave.; Kelowna, 1876 Cooper Rd., Unit 100; Calgary, 830 10th Ave. SW; Edmonton, 1624 99th St. NW; Toronto, 300 Queen St. W; Ottawa, 366 Richmond Rd.; and Montreal, 8989 Blvd. de l’Acadie.
The nearest one for Vancouverites is at MEC’s North Vancouver location.
Proceeds from rentals and donated gear sales go toward local Alpine Club of Canada sections, supporting outdoor trips, training, and volunteer programs.
MEC Gear Swap
When: Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (hours vary by location)
Where: MEC stores across Canada
Admission: Free to attend; table rentals available until Oct. 1; donations accepted until Sept. 29 for 15 per cent off at MEC
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