Here's a secret for you: this is an outlet store, where everything is constantly on sale…read more Because the great outdoors is expenno, man. If you wanna kit yourself up to go hiking or skiing or tramping or whatever it is one does under a starry sky with nobody else around, it's gonna add up. Five hundred back jackets, three hundred buck backpacks, two fiddy for boots. Not here. At this store, way up on the top level of Chaddy Westfield, it's bargains and discounts. Everything is slashed by 50-70%, so you can spend a pittance and still get your trek on.

Being a massive fan of the outdoors, I love stores like Mountain Designs - they have SO many clever…read moregadgets for things you didn't realise you'd need, but now cannot live without. A water purifier? HELLS YEAH! A pocketknife that does 495683 other things? Oooooh! A sleeping bag that doubles as a picnic rug? So inventive! Being that type, I can't speak highly enough of Mountain Designs; the staff in there are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, but not in a pushy way. I purchased my hiking pack there recently, and instead of pushing me in the direction of the bigger (ergo, more expensive) one, the staff informed me that I was not physically big enough to lift that bag when it's full, and showed me the smaller (ergo, cheaper) alternatives. They also fitted the bag to me, and didn't push any of the extra do-daddies on it when I told them I just needed a pack. Whilst specialist stores such as Mountain Designs are always exxy, Mountain Designs have EXCELLENT sales - if you're aware of your plans a season in advance, I strongly recommend you get down there and snap up a bargain-price set of thermals or hiking poles.

It's a jungle out there and if you are even remotely into a bit of adventure this store will appeal…read morein some way shape or form. There was a job advertised on the window for sales rep / web developer so that was very inviting. No real qualifications needed just a keen knowledge of the outdoors and adventure travelling a must!! I love opportunities like that. As i ventured further in the store there were top priced items slashed for a third of their price. Now I don't know how they thought of it, but it's true you can get fly / insect repellant garments from here and also clothes made out of fabric that allow for less moisture loss from your skin to prevent de-hydration. There were brochures available on cool trekking spots and great accessories for hikers up the back too. The staff were really helpful and able to answer any questions you may have on the stock. Very happy to plug this store that may sometimes be in the shadow of it's more popular competitors Mountain Designs.

I had purchased a pair of walking trousers that produced a rash on my legs. I returned them to the…read morestore who had no obligation to refund my money as there was nothing wrong with the pants that had already been altered. But they gave me a refund . . what a great business! The staff are experienced outdoors people and are knowledgeable and helpful, and their range of products is the best available. Whatever adventure you intend tackling, make Trek & Travel your first call. You will not be disappointed.

To Sydney's ski bunnies, the name and brand Larry Adler will be well known. One of the only ski…read moregear places that exists year round, Larry must be doing something right... The impressive range of ski stuff on offer is one thing that is being done right. Similarly, the incredible knowledge of the mainly-male staff is useful - you'll definitely want powder straps for Japan. Perisher suits a carving ski, but don't buy ones that wide! Wise words for beginners, and for old hats, swapping tales of mountains rode is the best part of visiting Larry. Conversely, the worst is the price. Larry Adler is very expensive, especially in contrast with the bargain prices available on the internet and overseas. But it's well worth a visit - sales can net you a bargain, and Larry himself is quite the character - a man well into his seventies, he still skies every season and is always keen to talk bindings, ski width and pole length with everyone who crosses the threshold.

From the owner: The very best in ski & outdoor equipment, clothing, accessories, rental available.read more

Great service and the people know their stuff. Sold me more than I needed but what I wantedread more

Before every big backpacking adventure comes Kathmandu…read more The first, last, and often only name in outdoor and mountain gear, they've got on hell of a range for when you're going through hell on the range. It ain't cheap, but that's why you A) join their Summit Club ($10 for lifetime membership, bargain), and B) wait for their massive half-yearly sales when you can score up to 50% off almost their entire store. Worth it when that Gore-tex jacky you've got your eye on is a cool five hunjy. They're my go-to for backpacks, I've had 2 or 3 over the years and that's all I've ever needed because they're so well-made, you can kick 'em around and treat them like dirt and, like a faithful dog, they'll just keep showing up. I can't wrap my head around the difference between all the different fleece and thermal and parka types because there's hundreds, but I'm sure some people out there can. Mathematicians, probably. Heading to Africa for a few treks and climbs later in the year, I just dropped a big chunk of my wages here. I just hope I use the gear again. Otherwise it's like a soccer mum buying a Range Rover because she likes the idea that she might go off road one day...