“We just got in a lot of new skis,” says team leader and acting manager Mike Cogdon, whose personal specialty is telemark skiing and trail running. Given that it’s November, the snowsports additions make a lot of sense, though things are always changing at MEC. “There are constantly new products in the store in every department.” Paddling is a big one, especially sea kayaking, though the store’s continual appeal has to do with more than just the products. “A very well-trained staff who are users of the products we sell,” says Cogdon, adding that the customers also appreciate the company’s efforts to be ecologically sustainable. 1550 Granville, 421-2667
First runner up: The Trail Shop, 6210 Quinpool, 423-8736
Second runner up: Coast Mountain Sports, Halifax Shopping Centre, 455-2528
