Rx Bearings x Depanneur Mimjim: The Corner Store That Saves Skaters

In Montréal, the dépanneur — or just dep — isn’t just a corner store. It’s part of the DNA of every neighbourhood. Whether you’re out of milk, beer, or smokes at 11 p.m., the dep’s got your back. It’s that little shop that saves you in a pinch — open late, stocked with the basics, and run by someone who probably knows half the block by name.

In Montréal, the dépanneur — or just dep — isn’t just a corner store. It’s part of the DNA of every neighbourhood. Whether you’re out of milk, beer, or smokes at 11 p.m., the dep’s got your back. It’s that little shop that saves you in a pinch — open late, stocked with the basics, and run by someone who probably knows half the block by name.

The word dépanneur comes from the French verb dépanner, meaning “to help out of a jam” or “to fix something temporarily.” In France, a dépanneur might fix your car or TV. In Québec, it fixes your night. Over time, that idea became something bigger — a symbol of convenience, community, and local hustle.

Dépanneurs have been holding Montréal together since the post-war days, when neighbourhoods started growing fast and people needed quick access to essentials. They became the heartbeat of every block — spots where locals meet, grab a few things, and keep life moving. That hasn’t changed. If anything, the dep is more Montréal than ever.

And now, skaters have their own reason to roll through. Most skate shops close early, so if you’re out late and blow a bearing, you were stuck — until now. Dépanneur Mimjim Express, at 200 avenue des Pins, carries Rx bearings, hardware, and other gear to keep you rolling. It’s the first dep that can literally dépanne your setup.

Rx and Mimjim go way back. Every year we throw a block party with the neighbourhood — a celebration of local culture, small business, and good vibes. This year was fire. Literally. Shahin, the dep owner, almost burned down the neighbourhood when his BBQ went full grease-fire mode. But once the smoke cleared, he was right back at it, serving up his famous tandoori chicken like nothing happened. Dice games broke out on the corner, Redd Dredd selector had the music going, and Barry Walsh pulled up doing wheelies like only he can. Pure Montréal energy — community, chaos, and love, all centered around the dep.