Online Shopping Options

[truepatriot09]

Hey everyone...

Just trying to do some comparative shopping on a few items. When you shop online, what sites do you frequent? I've been on Campmor and REI but was wondering what else is out there...

Thanks!

-ct

 

[ChrisB]

Hilton"s Tent City in Boston is always more than competitive.

cb

 

[Pucknuts61]

Sierra Trading Post, Cabela's, EMS, LL Beans, and Backcounty.
Sometimes I'll hit the manufacturers sites too like Mt Hardwear especially if I'm looking for specs on weight and materials.
Hope this helps,
Bill

 

[Halite]

www.bentgate.com
www.mountaingear.com
www.northernmountain.com
www.backcountrystore.com

All of the above have proven to be reputable, well-run stores over the years. Each of them have had great sales or discounts on various gear. Free shipping on orders over $49 from the first two, last time I checked.

 

[TCD]

General: Campmor, Sierra Trading Post

Packs, Clothes: Mountain Equipment Co-op

Climbing, other hardware:

NorthernMountain, Gear Express, Telemark-Pyrenees.com, Barrabes.com, Sportextreme.com

(The last three sites being European shops. Disclaimer: There is a running controversy over buying in Eurpoe vs. supporting US retailers. Controversy is not as hot as it was a few years ago, because the deals are not as hot, due to strong Euro.)

 

[roadtripper]

altrec.com is one of my favorites

 

[VFTTop'r]

This one has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. I have not tried to return anything yet so I don't know how they are about well used returns.

I go to the 100% satisfaction guarantee sites/stores first.

http://www.backcountryedge.com/default.aspx

 

[1ADAM12]

I just found THIS SITE and purchased a pair of Vasque Sundowner GTX hiking boots for $133.99 as opposed to REI at $190.00 They really have some great deals check it out Also they have free shipping on hiking boots and a free pair of hiking socks with any purchase You cant beat this deal!!!!!!

Adam

 

[spencer]

I usually try to find the cheapest price, too, but don't forget what will happen if none of us shop at the local stores. Give them a try, too! I think you'll find them suprisingly competitive...

off the soapbox now

spencer

 

[Gris]

For stuff that must be worn I first try it on at the local shop. Then regardless of what it is I just pop the item into a "Froogle" search. It may come up cheapest at Campmor or Sierra Trading Post, or wherever. It varies per who's having a sale. Then, as suggested by Spence, I go back to the local shop with the printout from the Net and give them the chance to match or get close to it. Unless it is a ridiculously low price (think Sierra closeout) they usually are willing to do something - if I promise not to tell. BTW, the Net is the best thing to EvER happen to car buying. Bought my last new car for thousands less than would have otherwise been the case. Was pure joy to watch dealers actually compete for my business!

 

[soco7tyx7]

i've done business with backcountry.com and they are pretty great. always low prices free shipping on orders over 50 and free tracking.

 

[dougb]

When I figure out what I want (outdoorreview & other sites), then I'll usually do a search on yahoo. I find that to search for, say a Gregory Palisade Pack, I'll type "Gregory Palisade $ sale " and search.

The highest hits tend to be (of all things) places with the item on sale. Then check each one & pick the best price. You'd be surprised how many outfitters are out there on line - and the standard REI / Campmore / Sierra Trading Post come out best only about half the time.