Buying gear from websites or local store s

“I was just curious how many of you buy gear off web sites (REI & REI Outlet, Campmor, Sierra Trading and other sites) versus buying from the local outfitter ( REI and the local outfitter). I know you can get great deals from the web sites but the sales people say at REI are very informative and can help you a lot when buying gear. I don't have a lot of money to spend and I want to spend it wisely. Any suggestions or comments are appreciated.”

“just as long as you are spending money you will help the econimy. Suport the little store.”

“i do both, but never for the 'advice' of the salespeople.

SOMETIMES, folks who work at local places know what they are talking about... sometimes...”

“I do both also ... and usually often. Ha!”

“Yes, I try to do both and support the locals. For the longest time, the only way to get BP gear was by mail-order. There were a few things in local hunting places, like long underwear. Now we have a Backpacking Boutique where everything is 50% above Campmor prices... and there's an REI 140 miles away...”

“It depends. If I have to try the item on, like boots or a jacket, I will shop in a store. But a stove or something like that I will buy from the internet if it is cheaper.”

“man i'm horrible...if i have to try it on..i find a store, try it on..find what i like..then go order it online...unless it's a must have right now thing..or something under 25 bucks”

“I order both ways-but I prefer to deal with bricks and mortar stores.
It is very hard to negotiate with the websites.”

“I do both. Cloths I buy from the store. The main thing is to make sure that you know what you want. Make sure that it is a good product and it fits the purpose that you want it for. Gear will last forever if you get the right stuff and take care of it.”

“Both.

I try to use my local outfitter as much as possible though.”

“Both, but I may stick more w local stores in the future. Just completed a very bad transaction with an internet company, I returned an item & had to fight w them over 45 days to get them to issue credit. They claim they now have, we'll see whenever my statement comes. It's made me VERY gun-shy.”

“I buy from the stores as much as possible.. but for me.. its cos I have built a long standing relationship with the guys there at the stores.. and they let me try out stuff for free..”