That’s a great take, and I couldn’t agree more. A good outdoor store should feel like a trusted partner in your adventures, not just a place to buy gear. Specialist stores tend to get this right more often, with staff who genuinely understand the gear and take the time to listen, rather than just push sales. There’s nothing worse than feeling judged or dismissed because you don’t fit some stereotype of what a ‘serious’ hiker looks like. The best stores recognise that everyone’s journey is different, whether you’re hiking ultra distances every weekend or just getting started on local trails.
The point about aftercare is a big one too. Buying outdoor gear is often an investment, and knowing a store will stand by its products and help if something goes wrong makes a huge difference. I’ve had experiences where solid after-sales service turned me into a loyal customer, and others where a dismissive attitude meant I’d never go back.
Online stores also have a big role to play, and you’re spot on about detailed product info and photos from multiple angles—including real-world use—being essential. With so much gear to choose from, the ability to make an informed decision without physically handling a product can make a big difference.
That said, it’s always disappointing to hear about people using brick-and-mortar stores just to test products, only to buy elsewhere online. That’s not really fair to the store, and it definitely impacts their ability to keep providing great service. I’m all for supporting those who support me.
At the end of the day, the best outdoor stores—whether brick-and-mortar or online—aren’t just selling products; they’re supporting our adventures, no matter what we, or those adventures look like.
