California is filled with gorgeous hiking trails waiting to be explored. Before you head out into the great outdoors, you’ll want to be well-equipped with the best hiking gear to tackle an adventure. When it comes to choosing gear, it’s best to ask an expert, and the retailers in California offer the advice of intrepid hikers. They’ll provide you with all the gear you could possibly need to enjoy the hike, wherever it may lead. Check out these awesome places to buy hiking equipment, whether you’re hitting the trails for the first time or climbing a mountain for the fifth time.
Elevation is a small shop tucked into a small town of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The owner and staff are friendly and offer everything you need to enjoy the outdoor scene in the area, whether you’re climbing Mt. Whitney or something a little lower. They stock big brands like Mountain Hard Wear and Mammut and smaller brands like Keen.
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REI retail stores are peppered throughout California, and the REI location in San Jose has been providing hiking equipment since 1985. Many hikers love REI’s liberal return policy supported by great service and a huge selection of name brands. This location frequently hosts events designed to help both novices and experts have a safe time in the outdoors. You’ll find hiking equipment from trusted brands like Outdoor Research and Salomon as well as things you might overlook like daypacks and blister kits.
Patagonia’s outdoor wear has set new expectations. Started in Ventura County, you can find Patagonia products and stores all over the nation, but one of the best remains in Ventura. Patagonia continues to be an example of truly appreciating the outdoors by creating fabrics that don’t harm the environment while you appreciate it. If you plan to hike in the area, check out all the lightweight clothing that Patagonia is known for.
Nomad Ventures has several locations in Southern California. You’ll find a lot of recognizable brands as well as smaller brands. Stop in to find gear from Camp USA and Wild Country. The staff is filled with adventurers that can recommend new products as well as help new adventurers get started.
Sonoma Outfitters is located in the midst of wine country, some of California’s most scenic spaces. Despite the relatively small name, Sonoma Outfitters offers a big array of hiking options. The store is continually updating stock from names in outdoor gear and wear. You can find kids’ hiking clothes from Columbia as well as stuff for grownups from SmartWool and Thorlos.
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Marmot is a well-known outdoor clothing brand that has select flagship stores, including a San Francisco location. Look for waterproof clothing, windproof clothing and items that you can easily layer as well as pants, accessories, jackets, packs and other gear that you might need for hiking. You can often find a great deal on the high-quality apparel when it goes on sale at the end of a season.
Arc’Teryx is a brand hailing from Canada and taking its name from the first reptile to grow feathers for flight. You can find their products in various outdoor stores around the world and in select brand stores as well, like their new Los Angeles location. You pick up hiking boots from the namesake brand as well as attend events on things like the best ways to care for your cold weather gear. The store is a good place to find high-end clothing, shoes and gear for any hiking or camping that might be done in less than sunny weather.
