Calgary's Best Outdoor Sporting Stores: Gear Up!

Nov 17, 2025 by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey outdoor enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for the best outdoor sporting stores in Calgary? Look no further! Calgary, with its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and vast prairies, is a hub for outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, camping, skiing, snowboarding, or any other adventure, having the right gear is crucial. In this article, we'll explore some of the top stores in Calgary where you can find everything you need to make your outdoor experiences unforgettable.

Why Choose Local Outdoor Sporting Stores?

Before we dive into the list, let's talk about why it's beneficial to shop at local outdoor sporting stores. First off, the staff at these stores are usually passionate about the outdoors themselves. They can offer personalized advice and recommendations based on their own experiences and expertise. They understand the local terrain and conditions, which means they can help you choose the right gear for Calgary's unique environment.

Another great reason to support local stores is the sense of community they foster. These stores often host workshops, events, and group outings that allow you to connect with other outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, shopping local helps boost the local economy and supports small businesses that are invested in the community.

Finally, local stores often have better return policies and customer service than big box retailers. If you have any issues with your gear, you can easily return it or exchange it without having to deal with complicated procedures or long wait times. This level of service can be invaluable when you're preparing for a big trip and need to ensure that everything is just right.

Top Outdoor Sporting Stores in Calgary

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best outdoor sporting stores in Calgary, each offering a unique selection of gear and services to cater to your specific needs.

1. MEC (Mountain Equipment Company)

MEC, or Mountain Equipment Company, is a go-to destination for many outdoor enthusiasts in Calgary. Known for its wide selection of high-quality gear and its commitment to sustainability, MEC offers everything from tents and sleeping bags to hiking boots and climbing equipment. MEC is owned by its members, which means that you need to purchase a lifetime membership to shop there. However, the membership fee is minimal, and the benefits are well worth it.

What makes MEC stand out?

Extensive Product Range: MEC carries a vast array of products from top brands, ensuring that you can find exactly what you need for your next adventure. Whether you're looking for the latest in backpacking technology or a simple pair of hiking socks, MEC has you covered.
Knowledgeable Staff: The staff at MEC are passionate about the outdoors and are always willing to offer advice and recommendations. They can help you choose the right gear for your specific needs and ensure that you're well-prepared for your trip.
Sustainability Focus: MEC is committed to sustainability and offers a range of eco-friendly products. They also have a gear swap program where you can buy and sell used gear, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
Community Events: MEC hosts regular workshops, clinics, and events that allow you to learn new skills and connect with other outdoor enthusiasts. These events are a great way to build your knowledge and confidence in the outdoors.

2. Atmosphere

Atmosphere is another popular outdoor sporting store in Calgary, offering a wide range of products for various activities. From camping and hiking to skiing and snowboarding, Atmosphere has everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors. Atmosphere is known for its competitive prices and frequent sales, making it a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.

Why choose Atmosphere?

Wide Selection: Atmosphere offers a diverse range of products from well-known brands, catering to different outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, camping, fishing, or watersports, you'll find something to suit your needs.
Competitive Pricing: Atmosphere is known for its competitive prices and frequent sales, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers. Keep an eye out for their promotions and discounts to save even more money.
Convenient Locations: With multiple locations throughout Calgary, Atmosphere is easily accessible no matter where you live. This makes it convenient to stop by and browse their selection whenever you need new gear.
Online Shopping: Atmosphere also offers online shopping, allowing you to browse their products and make purchases from the comfort of your own home. This is a great option if you don't have time to visit a store in person.

3. Campers Village

Campers Village is a Calgary-based outdoor store that has been serving the community for over 50 years. They specialize in camping, hiking, and backpacking gear, offering a wide selection of tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and other essentials. Campers Village is known for its knowledgeable staff and its commitment to customer service.

What sets Campers Village apart?

Expert Advice: The staff at Campers Village are highly knowledgeable and passionate about the outdoors. They can offer expert advice on gear selection and help you plan your next adventure.
Quality Products: Campers Village carries a wide range of high-quality products from trusted brands. They carefully curate their selection to ensure that they're offering the best gear for your needs.
Local Expertise: As a Calgary-based company, Campers Village has a deep understanding of the local terrain and conditions. They can recommend the right gear for exploring the Rocky Mountains and other nearby areas.
Community Involvement: Campers Village is actively involved in the Calgary community, supporting local organizations and events. They're committed to giving back to the community that has supported them for so many years.

4. Sports Experts

Sports Experts is a well-known sporting goods retailer that offers a wide range of products for various sports and outdoor activities. While they may not specialize solely in outdoor gear, they still have a decent selection of camping, hiking, and fitness equipment. Sports Experts is a convenient option for those who want to shop for multiple types of sporting goods in one place.

Why consider Sports Experts?

Versatile Selection: Sports Experts carries a wide range of products for various sports and outdoor activities, making it a convenient one-stop shop for all your sporting needs.
Recognizable Brand: Sports Experts is a well-known and trusted brand, offering a sense of reliability and quality.
Frequent Sales: Sports Experts often has sales and promotions, allowing you to save money on your purchases.
Easy Accessibility: With multiple locations throughout Calgary, Sports Experts is easily accessible no matter where you live.

5. SAIL

SAIL is a large outdoor retailer with a location in Calgary, offering a wide selection of gear for hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. SAIL is known for its competitive prices and its knowledgeable staff. If you're looking for a specific item or brand, SAIL is a great place to start your search.

What makes SAIL a good choice?

Extensive Inventory: SAIL boasts an extensive inventory of outdoor gear, ensuring that you can find what you need for your next adventure.
Competitive Prices: SAIL is known for its competitive prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Expert Staff: The staff at SAIL are knowledgeable and passionate about the outdoors, offering valuable advice and recommendations.
Specialized Departments: SAIL has specialized departments for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities, allowing you to easily find the gear you need.

Tips for Choosing the Right Gear

Before you head to the store, here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing outdoor gear:

Consider the Activity: Think about the specific activities you'll be doing and choose gear that is appropriate for those activities. For example, if you're planning a multi-day backpacking trip, you'll need a lightweight tent, a comfortable backpack, and a reliable sleeping bag.
Check the Weather: Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go shopping and choose gear that is appropriate for the expected conditions. If you're expecting rain, you'll need a waterproof jacket and pants. If you're expecting cold weather, you'll need warm layers and a hat and gloves.
Read Reviews: Before you buy any gear, read reviews from other users to get an idea of its quality and performance. Look for reviews that are specific to the type of activity you'll be doing and the conditions you'll be facing.
Try it On: Whenever possible, try on gear before you buy it to ensure that it fits properly and is comfortable. This is especially important for hiking boots, backpacks, and clothing.
Ask for Advice: Don't be afraid to ask the staff at the store for advice. They can help you choose the right gear for your needs and answer any questions you may have.

Get Out There and Explore!

Calgary is a fantastic base for outdoor adventures, and with the right gear, you can make the most of everything it has to offer. Whether you're hiking in the mountains, camping in the wilderness, or skiing on the slopes, having the right equipment can make all the difference. So, visit one of these amazing outdoor sporting stores in Calgary, gear up, and get out there and explore! Remember to support local businesses and enjoy the beautiful landscapes that Alberta has to offer. Happy adventuring, folks!