Vancouver's best outdoor stores for hiking boots
Despite the prevalence and ease of online shopping, most people still like to visit a physical shop when searching for the perfect pair of hiking boots. (No one wants to discover their boots don’t fit right 50 kilometers into backcountry!) Vancouver is home to many outdoor shops, and these local favourites carry some of the best hiking boots in the city. [Photo credit: iStock.com/ flyingfishtw]
Mountain Equipment Co-Op
130 Broadway W, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1P3First on the list must be outdoor institution Mountain Equipment Co-op. B.C.’s mecca for recreation junkies offers a wide selection of course, but perhaps more importantly, trained staff are knowledgeable about the latest innovations in hiking footwear. This means you’ll likely find your ideal shoe in no time, and be pleased with the result when out on the trails. Brands include Saloman, Scarpa, Zamberlan and Keen, with the most affordable option being MEC’s in-house brand.
Eco Outdoor Sports
202 Broadway W, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1P6Founded in 1997, Eco Outdoor Sports is proud to be Canada’s largest provider of The North Face, with everything from sleeping bags to luggage to snow jackets. They also offer clothing, footwear, equipment, gear, and accessories from brands Icebreaker and Mountain Hardwear. Vancouver is the flagship location, which means you’ll find expert advice and lots of enthusiasm from staff here.
Eddie Bauer
279-650 41st Ave West, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2M9Most people don’t know that outdoor clothing retailer Eddie Bauer also stocks hiking boots at affordable prices. These footwear options aren’t necessarily the highest quality available, but they are excellent as entry-level starters for newbie hikers. Located inside Oakridge Mall, this bright, airy shop’s in-house line ranges from $100 to $200, depending on how technical you want to get.
Atmosphere
1625 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC V6J 4M6What Atmosphere hiking boots lack in fashion they make up for in functionality. These boots are, for the most part, waterproof, breathable and incredibly durable, with add-ons such as Goretex, plastic outsoles (for keeping feet dry in puddles) and ankle support. Friendly folks who know their stuff will help glide your foot into the right boot, but be warned: these are on the pricey side, with most boots priced at about $350.
Columbia Factory Store
7899 Templeton Station Road, Richmond, BC V7B 0B7Founded in Portland, Columbia is one of the Pacific Northwest’s oldest outdoor brands – the iconic label hardly needs an introduction. Admittedly, the Vancouver outlet is often overflowing with product, but their excellent deals on weather-resistant hiking boots make it well worth the hunt. Footwear brands include Redmond, Grand Canyon, Peakfreak, Conspiracy and many more.
