You might be getting ready for a hiking trip of a lifetime or just a short adventure with friends, and both such events need some designated gear. The problem is that you may not always have time to visit a few physical stores looking for all the needed components and trying out countless boots. What are you to do then?
Luckily, there are plenty of online retailers offering a wide range of gear for an even wider array of prices. This way you can save time and often money by shopping online from the comfort of your own home.
To make sure that you definitely save time shopping online, we rounded up 10 retailers that sell outdoor gear and are serious about it. You can find brand new designer items, closeout products, and often even used gear to fit all your needs and budget.
What should you know before venturing into the deep waters of online shopping?
- The return policy of outdoor gear store is very important, so make sure you know it well because you might have to return those hiking boots or that sleeping bag.
- You should know all your measurements if you want to find a product that really fits, that includes backpacks and sleeping bags, not only pants and shirts. Knowing that you are size M won’t cut it, you should also know your torso length and the width of your shoulders, among many other things.
- Always ask lots of questions and read reviews, especially if you are not quite sure what items you need.
Large multi-brand stores usually group clothes by brand
What are the best online gear retailers?
Amazon
This retailer has it all, including outdoor gear. You can choose between hundreds of options and return with ease as long as the item is sold by Amazon, not its affiliates. Every product has tons of reviews, so you can really form an opinion before buying.
Hiking and camping department is huge, but easy to navigate thanks to multiple search specifications and categories.
REI
REI pays its members annual dividends – 10% of the amount
The store has been in an outdoor business since 1938, so you can definitely trust their advice. You can return most items for up to a year. The retailer has many famous brands to choose from and also offers their own excellent production.
The first tent is better to buy in a specialized store
If you like to shop there, invest $20 for a yearly membership and enjoy special sales and closeouts. Moreover, you will get 10% back for all gear purchases.
Membership benefits – you always get an extra discount
Moosejaw
The site offers tons of great products with plenty of customer reviews and expert advice. If you have any questions, you can live chat with a customer service representative to get answers right away.
Moosejaw will accept all items in good condition and will adjust the price if you find the same thing cheaper up to 14 days after the purchase.
Backcountry
Backcountry is from Park City, Utah, so rest assured they know a thing or two about hiking. If you are new at hiking, you will definitely appreciate their Learning Resources Page for information and advice about choosing the right gear for you. There is no limit for unused gear returns. You can also see what’s trending in the “best sellers” category.
Eastern Mountain Sports
EMS has a huge selection and the greatest specialists that can consult you on the Expert Advice Page. You can return your unused items with receipt for a year for a full refund. The retailer also price matches.
If you live in the Northeast, close to one of their physical stores, you can order online and pick up at the store for free.
Altrec
Altrec started out in Oregon and is now located in Minnesota. It is safe to say that the company knows hiking and snow pretty well. There are plenty of customer reviews on the site to help you make up your mind.
Altrec offers free shipping on orders over $50 and will accept unused gear for 30 days after the purchase, as long as that purchase happened outside of Christmas season.
Backcountry Gear
This is another Oregon company and very serious about hiking. You will find lots and lots of light gear for serious hikes and backwoods expeditions. This is your go to place for gear that won’t be cheap, but will last a lifetime and bring lots of joy for your back.
They have 60-day return policy for unused items. If you need help, you can consult an expert via live chat at any time.
Sierra Trading Post
Use your personal account by shopping online
This is your discount retailer of famous brands and their closeout models, last year’s stock, overstocks, and regular items. The site has excellent customer service and a very helpful Buying Guide with great information for all novice hikers.
Sierra offers only epic gear
The site refunds your money 90 days after the purchase and supports a huge reviews section.
Many stores have a rewards program for regular customers
The Clymb
This site is famous for its huge sales on a daily basis. You can expect to get up to 50-75% off retail prices. You have to join the site with your email and then enjoy all it has to offer. You can get store credit for up to 30 days after the purchase.
The Clymb also has various trips for booking to Amazon, Jordan, and Galapagos. You can save as much as a $1,000 by traveling with them.
Steep&Cheap
It belongs to Backcountry and sells discounted hiking gear. You might have to browse for quite a while and visit often, but you can definitely find some amazing steals.
- 70% OFF with Bargain Cave Deals
- Free 2-Day Shipping on Purchases $50+
- Earn $25 in Club Points
What other advice can we offer?
You should always buy gear during an off season and save money. Always look for a gear that is slightly dented or scratched and get the price down by at least 10%.
Today is a lot of gear for travelers, climbers and other lovers to spend time outdoors
Closeouts and sales are frequent on all these sites. If you want a great deal, you have to be less particular about the exact color or the year of the model.
Finally, when it comes to choosing gear, always be skeptical, ask questions, read reviews, and think before you buy.