Canadian-owned Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is renewing its commitment to Canada’s running community with the launch of Train for the Trails, a new national program that builds on more than three decades of MEC race sponsorships and community running. The initiative marks the beginning of a broader, long-term investment in supporting runners across the country.
Running from September 8 to 29, Train for the Trails will bring free clinics, and guided community runs to participating MEC stores across Canada, supported by an expert-developed digital training guide that introduces a new training focus each week. Developed in partnership with Salomon, the program is designed to give runners of all level’s practical expertise, community support and access to a strong assortment of running gear from Canadian and leading global brands.
The initiative also reconnects MEC with a longstanding part of its history.
“MEC’s race series brought runners together across Canada, and Train for the Trails” is the beginning of a renewed commitment to the running community,” said Michele Guimond, VP of Marketing at MEC. “As a Canadian-owned company, we’re proud to support people getting out on their local trails, especially at a time when Canadians are thinking more about the businesses and brands they support. Our fall running assortment is the strongest it’s ever been, bringing together great Canadian brands and best-in-class global names. But MEC has always been about more than gear. Train for the Trails is about connecting runners with community, trusted staff expertise and support wherever they are on their journey. This is just the start of how we plan to show up for runners.”
The program also brings real-world running expertise to participants. MEC worked with B.C.-based ultra runner, race director and coach Jeremy Rolle, and endurance dietitian, Team Canada runner and Salomon ambassador Carol-Ann Rolle, to develop a digital guide covering gear, nutrition and hydration, and weekly training plans for a range of goals.
Their approach focuses on the fundamentals that help runners progress: consistency, practical trail skills and training that fits into everyday life, whether preparing for a first trail race, stepping up in distance or simply building confidence on regular runs.
“A big part of coaching is helping people realize that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to train with purpose or benefit from good advice,” says Jeremy Rolle. “It’s great to see MEC making a bigger commitment to running and investing in the people and communities that make the sport what it is. This program gives runners of all levels access to practical coaching to help them feel prepared and confident for whatever they want to take on next.”
The guide will provide structured training support, helping participants work toward their individual goals and follow the program on their own schedule. Participating stores will host in-person clinics that include a 20-minute educational session followed by a guided five- to eight-kilometre run led by local running groups with support from MEC staff. Select locations will also feature shoe demonstrations and brand experiences from Salomon, plus weekly prizes and giveaways.
The series is part of MEC’s broader commitment to helping people build a lifelong relationship with the outdoors, with the expertise and gear to get outside in every season. MEC has expanded its running assortment for fall and winter, with footwear, apparel, hydration and accessories from leading Canadian and global running brands, backed by advice from staff who understand what it means to run on Canadian trails in changing conditions.
About MEC
MEC has been Canada’s leading outdoor specialty retailer since 1971, built on a legacy of expert staff, community connection, and a passion for the outdoors. MEC’s purpose is to equip Canadians for a lifetime outdoors. MEC offers top brands and trusted advice from experienced staff so people can gear up for any adventure. With 24 stores and more than five million members nationwide, MEC is more than a retailer. It is a community for outdoor enthusiasts.
