Canadian retailer and outdoor gear brand Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) has launched its Spring 2023 technical backpack collection, consisting of seven highly technical, incredibly durable packs designed for modern backcountry users at an affordable price.
For going fast and light, the SERRATUS® Pace UL 25 and 40 is an ultralight pack, made for hikers and runners who want to efficiently tick off mileage. For multi-day adventures and adventure travel, the Vista 45L and 70L backpack makes carrying heavy loads comfortably. MEC designers are especially keen on the Zephyr 45L and 60L packs, which feature breezy suspension systems for lightweight backpacking trips. The redesigned Cragalot 45 is MEC’s go-to super durable climbing pack with a modern look.
The collection is full of thoughtful innovation and design features at an affordable price point, to appeal to backpackers, hikers, climbers, and anyone who lives for trails, forests and summit sandwiches.
“For decades, hiking trails across Canada had one thing in common: you were almost guaranteed to spot the iconic MEC Mountain Label logo on backpacks,” said Joel Forsyth, MEC Label Equipment Designer who led the charge on the design of the packs’ collection, aiming to reclaim its place in the hearts and minds of backpackers.
“The main focus of this launch was to revamp comfort across the entire range while sticking to the MEC ethos of unparalleled value for our members. We referenced years of history and combined it with a refreshed design DNA, modern fabrics and updated feature sets, so that there is a pack for everyone; no matter if you are on your first hike or a multi-day peak bagging adventure,” Forsyth added.
MEC started tinkering with product design as early as the mid-1970s, with its first MEC products being external frame Co-op Cruiser Packs, followed by the Dome and Klettersack. Today, the quality of materials and design has evolved, along with advancements in more sustainably sourced fabrics (e.g. recycled content and Bluesign-approved materials).
The in-house MEC Mountain Label design team aims to produce a modern lineup of packs with specific hikers and backpackers in mind, and to create gear that hikers will carry for years to come on trails from coast to coast.
All MEC packs are designed in Vancouver, BC, and tested in the mountains in MEC’s backyard. For more information, visit mec.ca.
