The Backpacker
The Backpacker has been a Columbia staple since 1973 and is the consistent winner of The Free Times’ Best Outdoors Store title. Throughout the store hang pictures and postcards from loyal customers and employees on their various outdoor escapades. This is the place to go for your Black Diamond climbing gear, Nitro sleeping bags and intensive camping equipment. Oh, and those Vibram Fivefinger shoes.
1215 Wayne St.
Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.;
Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Half-Moon Outfitters
Half-Moon has a ton of gear, especially if you want to look good on the trail (or maybe impress that Outdoor Recreations guy who runs the rock wall at the Strom). Whether you’re a beginner to nature or have been hiking for years, you’ll find a variety of clothes here—from Mountain Hardware fleeces to Prana yoga pants. Things they have that the others don’t? You can rent or buy paddleboards and kayaks. Be sure to check out Half-Moon’s new store and its hard-to-miss funky solar panel tree outside.
2912 Devine St.
Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.;
Sun., 12-6 p.m.
Mast General Store
Mast opened this past May and is already making a name for itself with its fun, Cracker-Barrel feel. If you go downstairs to the lower level, you will find a range of outdoor clothing and shoes with popular brands such as Patagonia and Camelbak. Upstairs is what makes this place really special. Here, you’ll find a variety of home goods, soaps, lotions, jewelry and gifts. While picking out a new pair of Chacos, grab some Burt’s Bees chapstick for your sister, a Brighton belt for your brother and candy for $5.99/lb. for your r1601 Main St. | Mon.-Wed., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.;
Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.;
Sun., 12-6 p.m.
If you're the extreme outdoors enthusiast, planning a whitewater rafting trip down Snake River, The Backpacker’s the place for you. To travel in style, check out Half-Moon Outfitters, and if you’re looking for a good time with friends (or to up your candy ante), head to Mast General Store. But with comparable prices and a range of items, you can’t go wrong shopping at any of these three stores. Our advice? Go inside, so you can get outside.
