Review: MEC Steadfaster Jacket (Holiday Gift Guide)

During the last week of November, Vancouverites and CFL fans braved the cold to celebrate the 102nd Grey Cup Festival. In the 4 day celebration, my Steadfaster jacket (courtesy of MEC) has kept me warm going from party to party. In 1971, MEC was founded by a group of west coast mountaineers as a consumer co-operative with an unlimited number of equal membership shares. As a co-op, MEC only sell to customers who hold a lifetime membership, for $5 anyone can own a share. To date, MEC has over 3.9 million members with 17 stores across Canada

Living in the West Coast, the Steadfaster, a mid-length insulated jacket, is a Fall and Winter essential. The outer shell is a durable polyester with a micro-porous polyurethane coating and taped seam will repel against the Vancouver rain and dirt. While the interior is fully line with quilted recycled polyester and the flannel collar will keep you extremely warm. In addition, this jacket is Bluesign certified. Bluesign is a new standard for environmental health and safety in the manufacturing of textiles. Bluesign audits the raw materials, energy consumption, water and air emissions to make it more sustainable and help reduce the ecological footprint.

The jacket is available is 2 color ways Coal and Black Olive. I’ve opted for the Coal as it matches with my monochrome outfit of black, grey, white and blue. If you like the military inspired style, Black Olive a mixture of army green and olive will look great on you. Style wise, this jacket will complement most pieces in your wardrobe. You can pair it with chinos or raw denim with boots or sneakers. The jacket has a relax cut which makes it easier for layering over a chunky sweater and shirt. Overall, the quality of construction and the details sets it apart from the other models in the market. It’s one of my favourite jackets in my rotation.

As Christmas is fast approaching, still looking for gift ideas or need advice on the best outdoor gear this Holiday season. Tweet your questions to @MEC #AskNickMEC.

MEC Steadfaster Jacket in Coal

Polyester shell with a micro-porous polyurethane coating that sheds water and dirt

Center back length is 83.2 cm for size medium

Flannel-lined collar keeps your neck warm

Full front placket with hidden snaps and storm flap and double zippers

3 panel integrated hood with drawcord

Adjustable cuffs with tab and snap