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| - Just walking into this store makes me feel outdoorsy. And let's get one thing straight, I am not outdoorsy.
The store is set up really well, in that it's easy to find things and easy to know if you're in the right section or not. It has two floors, upstairs for equipment and gear and downstairs for clothing/shoes/accessories. I went here last night to get a backpack for an upcoming trip. While I was exploring the backpack section I met Pete. He was so helpful with figuring out what I needed and being honest with me. While I was looking, he said "Also, keep in mind that these are all just bags. They're designed just to hold stuff. You just need to figure out how much stuff you need to take, and what you want to put your stuff in." Basics. I like it. I was a little concerned about price and size. (I'm traveling to Ireland and England and want to avoid checking a bag.) Pete explained the different bags to me and why certain bags have this strap or that zipper. Who knew that the same backpack came in mens/womens and small/medium/large? Not this girl. Not until I met Pete! I found a bag that I liked and he loaded it with two pillows and 15lbs of weight so that I could feel it with some weight in it. He showed me how to put it on and how to adjust all of the straps so that I was most comfortable. And then he gave me space. He checked on a few other customers, while keeping me in earshot - I never felt like he had bailed on me or like he was rushing me. (Insert backpacking/outdoorsy selfies here) It was the most exciting backpack shopping experience that I have ever had!
I am also now a lifetime member. Apparently there are all sorts of "members only" things going on that I was unaware of. AND they have a "members only" YARD SALE for all of the returned/slightly damaged/opened packages items that they have. It's all very exciting, and only costs $20 - for your whole life. I am now a member for.ev.er.
Some of the items are a little pricey, but when they have a sale or clearance - it's usually a pretty good deal. Price aside, I love going here. The people are sweet and friendly, and genuinely interested in what you've got going on. They also have a ton of community activities and a map on the wall of where shoppers and employees have travelled.
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