Whistler Retail Spotlight: Mt. Waddington’s Outdoors
Mt. Waddington Outdoors brings top-tier adventure gear and paragliding equipment to Whistler, opening a vibrant new store in Lorimer Square.
Whistler Adventures
By Elke Porter | WBN News | April 14th, 2025
Who: Mt. Waddington’s Outdoors (MWO)
What: Opened a new adventure gear store
Where: 4350 Lorimer Road, Unit 113, Whistler, BC
When: December 2024
Why: To supply Sea to Sky adventurers with top-tier equipment and build a hub for outdoor enthusiasts
From Chilliwack to Whistler
Founded in 2012 by Sam Waddington, Mt. Waddington’s Outdoors began in Chilliwack with a focus on backcountry gear and expert advice. Known globally for its specialization in packrafts, MWO quickly became a trusted name among serious adventurers.
Twelve years later, the brand expanded to Whistler, opening its second location in the heart of the village. The new store takes over the former home of Escape Route, a longtime favourite among local outdoor enthusiasts.
A Canadian First in Paragliding Retail
MWO’s Whistler store is breaking new ground by becoming the first dedicated retail outlet in Canada to carry a full range of paragliding equipment. Customers can test out harnesses using an in-store simulator that replicates the feeling of flying—no parking lot meet-ups or online guessing games required.
This marks a shift from the sport’s traditional gear-buying methods, often limited to purchases directly from instructors with few choices and long wait times.
Rooted in Community
Waddington’s vision for the Whistler store goes far beyond gear sales. With a strong belief in outdoor businesses as community builders, he’s brought on former Escape Route staff and hired a local team that understands the needs of the region.
“We’re focused on supporting and building the sporting outdoor community in ways that matter to them,” said Waddington.
MWO has already partnered with local high schools for student gear discounts and education programs. They’ll also host the Banff Mountain Film Festival in March at the Maury Young Arts Centre, with proceeds supporting the Spearhead Huts Society.
Fast Track to Opening
The Whistler store came together in record time. The lease was signed, renovations completed, and staff hired within just 42 days. Despite the rushed timeline and limited promotion, the store was met with enthusiasm from both locals and visitors as soon as the doors opened.
Your New Backcountry Base
From mountaineering and backpacking to paddling and paragliding, Mt. Waddington’s Outdoors is bringing the best in adventure gear to Whistler. With expert staff, innovative equipment, and a community-first mindset, MWO is set to become the Sea to Sky corridor’s go-to destination for outdoor exploration.
Why It Matters
Mt. Waddington’s Outdoors is more than a retail shop—it’s a resource, a meeting point, and a step forward for how outdoor gear is bought and experienced in Whistler. Whether you’re climbing, paddling, or paragliding, this new shop is ready to equip your next adventure with expertise and care.
#Whistler Adventures #Backcountry Gear #Paragliding Canada #Packrafting Life #Outdoor Retail #Sea To Sky Sports #Adventure Gear Whistler #MWO Whistler #WBN News Sea to Sky #Elke Porter
Connect with Elke at Westcoast German Media or on LinkedIn: Elke Porter or contact her on WhatsApp: +1 604 828 8788
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