Best Outdoor Gear Stores In Sacramento
3291 Truxel Road
Sacramento, CA 95833
(916) 641-8640
www.natomasbikeshop.com
With numerous trails running from the city proper to the outer, rural reaches, Sacramento is home to bike riders of every age and level of experience. Natomas Bike Shop is the go-to spot for rider apparel, safety wear, hardware and accessories, and repair and maintenance are available on-site by skilled, certified mechanics. The shop carries road bikes, BMX racers, mountain bikes, cruisers and commuter cycles for adults, as well as bikes and pushbikes for children. Cycles are available from companies including Bianchi, MirraCo, Gary Fisher, Redline and Raleigh, and the staff, avid bikers themselves, cheerfully answer questions and offer advice.
2843 Howe Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95821
(916) 922-5431
www.helmsunvalley.com
Snow skiers can hit the slopes in style with the best gear and services from this longtime, family-owned business. Being well shod is a key element to safety and comfort, and Helm's certified techs are able to mold, grind and stretch boots, install boot heaters and provide customized orthotics. The owner, a former USSA alpine master racer, ensures the ski selection is up to date and extensive, with equipment from Atomic, K2, Fischer, Rossingnol and more. Ski maintenance, including waxing and edge tuning, is available, and staff members are friendly and knowledgeable. Check out clothing from Bogner's Fire & Ice, Descente, Bergans of Norway and more, and get ready for the powder with everything from goggles and gloves to luggage and helmets.
9035 Folsom Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95826
(916) 362-1200
www.fishermanswarehouse.com
Fishing enthusiasts cannot resist the lure of the action of the Sacramento and American Rivers, Folsom Lake and the numerous public park fishponds kept well stocked by the California Department of Fish and Game. Anyone trolling for low prices on rods and reels, boat motors, fish finders, fly-fishing supplies and the like will fall hook, line and sinker for the wide selection at the Warehouse. Although the shop does not carry live bait, there is a vast assortment of other lures and lure-making materials. The staff is friendly and knows so much about fishing that your next trip is sure to be a success. Fisherman's Warehouse also offers on-the-water classes on how to catch seasonal fish; the hands-on classes are held throughout the years and are led by professional fishermen.
705 Gold Lake Drive, Suite 360
Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 355-7463
www.nmotionsports.com
If marathons, speed walking or trail stepping are just your speed, run, don't walk, to NMotion. Staff members assist customers in finding precisely the right footwear for their needs, whether they are serious runners or just serious about their health, comfort and stamina. Many athletic shoes are actually too heavy and stiff to be good for running, in spite of advertising claims to that effect. The NMotion philosophy involves finding dedicated walking or running shoes that are lightweight, flexible and designed perfectly to meet your specific needs.
330 E. Bidwell St.
Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 608-4300
www.plaskateboarding.com
Street skaters, half pipers and vert rampers alike will love the vibe of this cool, well-stocked and friendly shop. The PLA staff is very supportive of the suppliers and brands created by local boarders and helps celebrate Sacramento-area skateboarder success stories. Prices are often better than those found at big box or discount retailers, and customers do not have to settle for typical, mass-produced decks. Special footwear, clothing and hardware for skateboard enthusiasts are available at PLA, and the employees are happy to order items if customers want something that is not in stock.
Valerie Heimerich is a freelance writer out of Sacramento. She typically covers animals and community issues. She has volunteered and worked for many organizations helping animals and people.
Her work can be found at Examiner.com.