Firstly, I look for more specialist stores now, rather than generic outdoor stores like the major retailers, although they do have some good quality product ranges. Helpful staff is important. This can be broken down a bit though. They need to be knowledgeable but also a good listener, so they can understand your needs. They also need to be welcoming and inviting. Nobody likes to be looked down on or judged, and then discounted as not being worthy of buying from their product range. This is particularly important in our arena of activities. We’re not all in our early twenties, hiking 30kms both days on every weekend, in some amazing remote location. The hiking community is such a communal, sharing one in the field, where people of all ages and physical capabilities are getting out there for their trips, in all different environments. Personally I suffer from the 3 F’s – Fifty +, Fattish but fortunately reasonably hiker fit for my age, but I still like to challenge myself. Everyone’s adventures are important to them and the best stores are the ones that support all people in their journeys and adventures. Finally, the physicals for a good store include clean store, not cluttered, good range of reliable products, and some range across different categories (think footwear as an example). These principles are similar for online stores, where clear, useful photographs from many angles, including with the gear being used, are very helpful, along more detailed info about the product, including measurements and specs. It’s good to be sure to be sure. These quality stores may not realise it, but can become our gear partners over time, particularly when you reflect back on where you’ve made purchases from in the last few years, and who hasn’t let you down.
One more aspect, which is always important, is after care assistance and how they handle any issues you have products purchased. This can be deal breaker, as it’s a risk a lot of want surety about.
