It doesn’t matter if you’re gearing up for glamping, replacing a ratty rain jacket, or stocking up on socks—there is a world of outdoor retailers that will meet your needs. Outdoor enthusiasts know how challenging it can be to find the right gear for your activity of choice, whether you’re shopping for hiking gear for your trek outdoors or you’re looking for camping gear for your next backpacking trip. From hiking boots, to climbing harnesses, to snowboards, the outdoor market can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to know where you can find high-quality picks from trusted outdoor brands, both online and in brick and mortar retail stores.
Shopping IRL at outdoor stores like L.L.Bean and REI is a great first step if you’re just getting into outdoor activities and want to get a firsthand feel for the apparel and gear that’s involved. Plus, it’s easier to know what size kayak, mountain bike, paddleboard, or humble climbing shoe you’ll need if you’re looking at them in person.
On the other hand, don’t count out online shopping for big-ticket items like tents and other vital pieces of camping gear, especially if you want to avoid paying full-price. From backpacking to watersports, outdoor gear can get expensive fast, so browsing discount sites like Steep and Cheap, Sierra Trading Post, and the outlet section of REI Co-op is an excellent way to save.
Below, we’ve listed some of the very best outdoor retailers to shop, whether you’re looking to pick up in-store or have your goodies shipped conveniently to your door. From sporting goods superstores like Dick’s to the outdoor equipment experts you’ll find at Backcountry and REI, here’s where you can find the new gear you need for another fantastic season in the outside world.
From camping essentials to high-end picks for seasoned hikers, Backcountry has what you’re looking for. This Utah-based company has been outfitting outdoorsy types since 1996 and offers frequent sales on both exclusive brands and big names like The North Face in equal measure. Plus, the brand’s customer service team, known affectionately as the gearheads, are available via online chat or phone to discuss your orders or help you choose the right items for you.
It should come as no surprise that Amazon, the online shopping colossus that it is, actually has a relatively robust selection of outdoor items and hiking gear, with plenty of customer reviews to help guide your search.
Eddie Bauer dates back to 1920—so, if you want outerwear, clothes, gear, shoes, and more that have 100 years of know-how behind their designs, look no further than this outdoor industry stalwart. We especially love the layering options you can find at Eddie Bauer, and the travel towel featured below is antibacterial and fast-drying.
While you may think of running gear, fitness equipment, or yoga essentials when you think of Dick’s Sporting Goods, it also stocks plenty of must-haves for exploring the great outdoors. From trekking poles to sleeping bags, the items found at Dick’s upgrade your next camping trip from sunup to sundown.
Fans of outdoor recreation, assemble. Instagram-favorite brand Outdoor Voices doesn’t just make apparel that looks and feels good—it’s also continuing to expand its outdoor line of performance wear, like the BreakLite Windbreaker shorts and the Rectrek Zip-Off pants.
Outdoorspeople of all stripes can find both trail-tested and new products they simply have to have at REI. Come for the name-brand items, stay for the REI-branded gear that consistently garners five-star ratings. And REI Co-op members enjoy a lifetime membership filled with perks like discounts on rentals and shop services, plus special pricing on REI Adventure trips, in exchange for a $30 activation fee.
Shopping on a budget? Steep and Cheap, the outlet arm of Backcountry has some of the absolute best deals on outdoor equipment. As is often the case when browsing heavily discounted goods, size availability may vary, so don’t hesitate to add those boots to your cart as soon as you find them in your size.
Made for and by people who deeply love nature and outdoor activities, Patagonia makes clothes, bags, and accessories that you can have for life. And, if something falls into disrepair, the brand offers repair services (and advice, for the DIY-ers out there) for a fee. Those who like to reuse and recycle should also check out Patagonia’s Worn Wear section, where used gear is sold, usually for a marked-down price.
If you want to get back to nature in style, Huckberry should be your go-to shop. In addition to its well-crafted attire and housewares, this brand has a wide array of outdoor items that’ll help you go into your next adventure feeling extremely prepared—and fashionable.
Adidas Terrex, the outdoor arm of one of our favorite athletic brands, melds the sleek sensibilities we love about the three-stripe brand with the rugged functionality we expect from outdoor footwear and clothing. Trailer runners, hikers, and climbers especially should spend some time browsing the selection here.
Going somewhere damp, cold, windy, or all of the above? Do not pack your backs without scoping out Marmot. With constantly evolving tech (like featherless insulation and breathable—yet totally waterproof—coating) and a limited lifetime warranty on its goods, Marmot’s gear is simultaneously innovative and reliable.
With frequent sales, discounts, and category promotions, Moosejaw is a great retailer to check for low-key incredible deals on outdoor gear. Even if you aren’t looking for something in particular, this brand also offers online resources on all things outdoorsy, whether you are curious about the latest item it’s tested firsthand or need camp cooking inspiration.
Another excellent option for discounted gear, Sierra is the outdoorsy sister brand of bargain-hunting faves Marshalls and TJ Maxx. And, much like those stores, one look at Sierra could make you realize that, even though you only came for a new yoga mat, you actually need a dozen or two more things that just happen to be handsomely marked down at this retailer.
The North Face walks the line between technical performance apparel and streetwear with stunning finesse, resulting in clothes, jackets, and shoes that will keep you comfortable on the trail and stylish while you’re in town. And the Tekware Fleece pants featured below just won a SELF Activewear Award for best hiking pants.
L.L. Bean’s time-tested items, from its signature canvas totes to its oh-so-warm lined flannel shirts, were made for chilly hikes and long days picnicking in the park. And, if you find yourself in Freeport, Maine, swing by the brand’s flagship store for a photo op with the giant Bean Boot.
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Source: https://www.self.com
