Unlock and play: New sports equipment lockers roll out across Vancouver

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Equip Sport and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart), has launched a new pilot program offering free, on‑demand sports equipment to communities across the city. Thirty self‑serve equipment lockers have now been installed in parks and public spaces throughout Vancouver, giving residents and visitors easy, barrier‑free opportunities to get active.

“As Vancouver prepares to welcome the world for the World Cup 26, excitement around sport continues to grow,” said Park Board Commissioner, Jas Virdi. “These new lockers give residents and visitors accessible ways to be active, whether they’re inspired by the tournament or simply looking for a convenient and fun recreational option. By making equipment easy to access, the program supports a citywide culture of play in this milestone year.”

Using a mobile phone, people can open the lockers and borrow sports gear such as basketballs, volleyballs, and soccer balls. Participation is simple: download the free Equip Sport app, find a nearby locker, unlock the equipment, enjoy the activity, and return the gear when finished.

Equip Sport is a Swiss-based startup focused on expanding access to recreation by combining a sharing‑economy model with urban sports culture.

“Sport has the power to bring people together. These Equip Sport stations help make sport more accessible and fun for everyone.” Charmaine Crooks, Equip Sport Ambassador and five-time Olympian.

The program is fully funded by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, a national organization that helps ensure all kids can participate in sports, at no cost to the City or residents.

“This program supports greater participation in physical activity and encourages spontaneous play,” said Marco Di Buono, President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “It addresses many of the barriers kids have shared with us that prevent them from participating in sport, including the cost of participation and limited access to equipment.”

Vancouver is the third city in North America to introduce the Equip Sport self-service system, following Ottawa and Surrey.

For more details, including station locations, visit vancouver.ca/equipsport