Top 23 Outdoor Retailers to Elevate Your Gear List
Find deals on camp gear, backpacking supplies, ultralight (UL) equipment, hiker clothes & apparel!
Already working towards the next adventure? Whether you're gearing up for a thru-hike, planning your next climbing trip, or simply fine-tuning your weekend camping setup, finding reliable outdoor retailers is key to enhancing your adventures.
While sales and discounts come and go, many brands offer year-round value through high-quality products, sustainability initiatives, and community-focused programs. This curated list highlights some of the best outdoor retailers to help you build a purposeful and efficient gear setup, whether you’re looking for new, recycled, or lightly used equipment.
Sustainable Outdoor Gear: A Shift in Values
The outdoor industry continues to lead by example in addressing overconsumption and waste. Many brands encourage mindful purchasing by emphasizing durable, repairable products, and several offer programs for recycling or trading used gear. Here are some ways you can shop smarter:
Buy Used: Extend the life of outdoor gear while minimizing waste.
Recycle and Trade: Participate in gear-swapping programs or resale platforms.
Opt for Quality Over Quantity: Focus on fewer, higher-quality items that last longer and perform better.
The environmental cost of overconsumption is not lost on the outdoor industry, and their customers want to help make a difference, too. These strategies not only save resources but also promote accessibility by making gear more affordable for others. Recognizing what you need and what you don’t as an outdoor adventurer takes experience and a bit of wisdom; listen to folks who have been hiking a while and they will tell you, genuinely, less is more.
The following list features only trusted brands whose products I've personally used and tested. It's not exhaustive, but it is a curated selection of the best deals I could find from reliable manufacturers. I have no affiliation with these companies, meaning this blog isn't monetized.
Outdoor Retailers with All the Options
REI Co-op | A Life Outdoors is a Life Well Lived
A cornerstone of the outdoor community, REI offers high-quality gear, an excellent return policy, and a focus on sustainability through their Re/Supply program.
Visit the REI Outlet for anywhere between 25-50% off now.
REI Co-op members ($30 buy-in) get additional coupon codes to use on outdoor gear. Plus, you’ll get their 365-day return policy - so if the gear you pick isn’t right for you, it still doesn’t end up in a landfill.
Ascent Outdoors | Snow, Water & Camping Outfitters
Specializing in snow, water, and camping gear, Ascent Outdoors features a trade shop and equipment rental program to reduce your environmental footprint.
They also offer a Trade Shop and Equipment Rental Program!
Columbia Sportswear | Outerwear & Accessories
A go-to for weatherproof outerwear and accessories, Columbia combines durability with affordability.
2% cashback with Rakuten!
Garage Grown Gear | Food, Clothing, Sunglasses, Sandals
Supporting small, cottage-industry brands, Garage Grown Gear is perfect for unique, high-quality outdoor essentials.
Code “COTTAGEGGEAR10” for 10% Off & Free Shipping Over $50
Ultralight Gear
Enlightened Equipment | Ultralight Backpacking Gear, Apparel
Crafting ultralight gear like quilts and jackets, this brand is a favorite among thru-hikers. Classics like the Revelation Sleeping Quilt, Torrid Jacket, and Torrid Booties will be available here!
Merrell | Hiking Boots, Shoes, Parkas, Socks & Accessories
With a wide range of hiking boots and trail shoes, Merrell caters to both beginners and seasoned adventurers.
3.5% cashback with Rakuten!
Naturehike | Adventure Gear, Tents, Packs, Furniture & Sleep
This brand combines affordability with quality, offering gear like tents and sleeping bags at a great value.
Sea to Summit | Outdoor Gear to Equip & Inspire
From sleeping bags to cookware, Sea to Summit’s products are designed to inspire adventure.
Anker US | Power Banks, Charging Cables, Adapters, & USB Hubs
Anker’s portable power banks and charging solutions are essential for staying connected off the grid.
4% cashback with Rakuten!
Gossamer Gear | Functional UL Backpacking & Hiking Gear
Known for lightweight backpacks and shelters, Gossamer Gear blends functionality with simplicity.
Osprey | Backpacks, Luggage & Travel Gear
Known for durable backpacks and travel gear, Osprey offers up to 40% off sitewide and 20% off selected packs during certain promotional periods. Additionally, 20% of their net profits are donated to vital conservation projects, aligning with a commitment to sustainability.
4% cashback with Rakuten!
Ursack Bear Bags | Bear-Proof Bags for Backpacking
Focused on bear-proof food storage, Ursack’s durable bags are ideal for backpacking.
Tarptent | Tarps, Shelters, Tent Components & Accessories
A leader in lightweight shelters, Tarptent rarely offers discounts, but their gear is worth the investment.
Xero Shoes | Barefoot Shoes & Minimalist Footwear
For minimalist footwear enthusiasts, Xero Shoes delivers barefoot comfort and durability.
Buy Lightly Used Gear for Way Less
Swapping, buying, and recycling lightly used gear minimizes our environmental footprint and fosters a more sustainable approach to enjoying the outdoors. By extending the life of existing gear, we reduce waste, conserve valuable resources, and minimize pollution associated with manufacturing new products. Furthermore, opting for used gear makes outdoor recreation more accessible and affordable, promoting a sense of community and encouraging responsible consumption.
Recycling programs not only benefit our planet but also allow more people to experience the joys of nature while contributing to a circular economy where resources are valued and preserved.
Geartrade - The UnNew Outdoor Gear Exchange. Buy + Sell Used
This platform specializes in buying and selling used outdoor gear, creating a sustainable cycle for equipment.
Out & Back | Shop, Save & Sell Outdoor Gear Here
Another excellent option for secondhand gear, Out & Back also offers consignment services.
Outdoor Gear Exchange | Climbing, Ski, Clothes & Camp Gear
This retailer offers a diverse selection of lightly used gear through consignment and trade-in programs. They focus on providing affordable, sustainable options for outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring that high-quality equipment stays in use and out of landfills.
This store works off of consignment, so you can buy and sell lightly used outdoor adventure items and equipment. Click here for more details!
REI Co-op | Used Outdoor Clothing & Gear: Deals on Top Brands
REI’s used gear section features discounted items that have been thoroughly inspected, offering peace of mind and great value.
Revivo (aka VivoBarefoot) | Running Trainers & Everyday Barefoot Shoes
Offering refurbished barefoot shoes, Revivo prioritizes sustainability without compromising performance.
All refurbished footwear is cleaned, repaired, and sanitized for the next barefoot adventure. New doesn’t have to mean “brand new”.
Want to stay equipped for your next adventure? Bookmark this guide and keep it handy as you plan your gear upgrades, whether you're seeking ultralight essentials, durable tents, or sustainable, lightly used options. These retailers offer everything you need to elevate your time outdoors with quality, functionality, and a focus on sustainability.
Remember, the most rewarding experiences in the outdoors aren’t about the gear itself, but the connection you forge with nature and the memories you create along the way. Gear up responsibly, explore consciously, and savor the journey.
Happy trails!