From inflatable tents and packable camp furniture to trail-ready outerwear, premium sunnies and sleeping bags, a kid-sized dirt jumper and more, this Gear Shed is built to make the most of summer adventures.
RISE airNEST 3+
Camp life gets easier with the RISE airNEST 3+ Inflatable Shelter System. Simply roll up to the spot, connect the inflator, and start enjoying the scenery while your tent does all the work itself. Roomy, and with an included zip-in inflatable mattress, this thing sleeps like a dream.
Chromag Juice Dirt Jumper
Built for young riders pushing their limits, the Chromag Juice performance kids’ dirt jump bike is designed for pump tracks, skateparks and backyard sessions. With durable 4130 chromoly construction, progressive geometry and premium Chromag components, it delivers confident handling and adult-level performance for the next generation of riders ready to shred.
MEC Ultra Lite Chair
The Ultra Lite Chair‘s light and compact aluminum design makes it easy to bring backpacking or on hikes to your favourite picnic spot. But don’t let the lightweight package fool you—it’s also mighty enough to support up to 113kg. And the coated polyester seat material has a DWR finish, making it water-resistant and easy to clean. Stable legs play well with a variety of surfaces. For more gear, check out MEC’s summer sale on now.
Hooké Dry Bags
Ideal for keeping your belongings pristine and protected on all outdoor adventures, Hooké Dry Bags are proudly Canadian, made of 100 per cent recycled polyester and available in 5, 10 and 20-litre sizes all with removable straps for hands-free carrying. Available at Camp Lifestyle & Coffee Co. in Whistler.
The North Face Valley View Jacket
The Valley View Jacket (for women or men) is purpose-built for the trail. Equipped with seam-sealed DryVent fabric and a water-repellent finish, this jacket keeps wet weather at bay. Adjustable cuffs, pit-zip venting and water-resistant zippers give this layer the functionality of a jacket born for the elements. Wherever the hike takes you, the Valley View has your back.
Rab Neutrino Sleeping Bag
A good night’s sleep can make or break a backcountry adventure, which is why the Rab Neutrino stood out on a surf-camping trip along Vancouver Island’s wild west coast. Lightweight, packable and warm enough for cool coastal nights, it balances alpine-ready performance with durability thanks to reinforced fabric in high-wear areas. Sidewall baffles improve comfort for side sleepers, while the anti-snag YKK zipper is a game-changing feature, making midnight exits from the tent smooth, silent and frustration-free. –Jon Burak
MTN.HEAD Local Quack Cap
The best hats tell a story before you say a word. The Local Quack 6-Panel Cap does exactly that, pairing playful embroidery with a classic fit that’s equally suited to canoe launches, campsite mornings and post-adventure pints. Crafted in Canada from 100% cotton, it’s a lighthearted staple for days spent outdoors.
Smith Outrigger Sunglasses
With ChromaPop contrast-enhancing lenses, the Outrigger packs the polarized tech you need on the water, with style that transitions easily from active mornings to casual afternoons. A modest wrap and slim side shields reduce reflective glare on and off the water.
Nocs Provisions Zero Tube 8×25
The new Zero Tube 8×25 delivers crisp optics in a compact design. Weighing just 7.2 ounces, this sleek monocular slips easily into a pocket or clipped to a vest while delivering a wide, steady field of view for hiking, paddling, birding, wave-finding and everyday exploration. Premium ED glass, multi-coated lenses and Bak4 prisms work together to produce bright images with excellent clarity. Built to handle the elements, its waterproof and fogproof construction is ready for off-piste adventures, while the integrated Carry Clip keeps it within easy reach. Note: the Zero Tube is also available in 10X25 for greater magnification, but the 8X25 offers a steadier view (hand shake is less of an issue) plus a wider field. ML staff have packed Nocs on several paddling trips, and we’re consistently impressed with the quality and durability. Also: Nocs helps support bird habitat conservation and is certified Climate Neutral.
Summer Gear Shed Q&A
What is the best gear in this roundup for comfortable camping?
The standout camping comfort item is the RISE airNEST 3+ Inflatable Shelter System. Its quick-inflation design and included zip-in inflatable mattress create a spacious, comfortable setup with minimal effort, making it ideal for campers who want convenience and comfort at the campsite.
Which products are best for paddling, canoeing and watersports?
The Hooké Dry Bags and Smith Outrigger Sunglasses are particularly well-suited to paddling adventures. The dry bags help keep gear protected from water, while the polarized ChromaPop lenses and glare-reducing side shields on the Outrigger sunglasses improve visibility on lakes, rivers and coastal waters. Plus, the Nocs Provisions Zero Tube monocular is very handy for spotting waves, wildlife and landmarks.
What is a good bike for young riders learning dirt jumps and pump tracks?
The Chromag Juice Dirt Jumper is designed specifically for young riders who want to progress their skills on pump tracks, dirt jumps and skateparks. Its durable chromoly frame, progressive geometry and premium components provide confident handling and performance-focused durability.
Which item is the most packable for hiking and backpacking?
The MEC Ultra Lite Chair is the most backpack-friendly product in the lineup. Its lightweight aluminum frame packs down small while still offering a stable and comfortable place to sit at camp, on day hikes or during backcountry adventures. The Rab Neutrino sleeping bag is also highly compressible and light.
What rain jacket in this roundup is best for hiking?
The North Face Valley View Jacket is purpose-built for hiking in variable weather. Its seam-sealed DryVent construction, water-repellent finish, pit-zip ventilation and adjustable features make it a versatile shell for wet and changing trail conditions.
Are there any Canadian-made products in this gear roundup?
Yes. The MTN.HEAD Local Quack Cap is crafted in Canada from 100 per cent cotton, while Hooké Dry Bags are a Canadian-made product constructed from 100 per cent recycled polyester, highlighting a strong focus on local manufacturing and sustainability.
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