I love this place! I used to be an REI loyalists but lately my activities are getting much more technical and REI doesn't seem to be able to supply all the gear I need. I came here a few days ago looking for vertical ascend gear out of caves. I was greeted by Jason and he was really helpful and knowledgeable. I needed very specific gear, and Jason was very patient with me and showed me where I could find sit harnesses, chest harness, chest ascender, hand ascende, foot loops, etc. I didn't find exactly what I needed but got a good idea on the things I need to build a personalized vertical gear set for myself. And of course, while I was looking for cave gear, I wandered around looking at all the fabulous gear they have, I was like a kid in a candy store. I could spend hours in here. I started looking at hydration packs as I need to replace mine and found a very nice military edition and will come back to purchase this soon. I also saw plenty of Petzl bags, and very tempted to purchase another. They also carry so much Petzl gear, you will be in heaven here. Also, some great hiking shoes and some sleek, but we'll performing water shoes. I then wandered into kayaks and Jason even showed me the Padillac they have! I've gotten into paddleboarding and kayaking for the summer and now want one of each! This place rents them and sells them. I then went to check out some wetsuit gear, and they have a really nice selection of wetsuits, gloves, booties, etc. I really love this place and it is definitely gonna bankrupt me, but so worth it. High quality gear, more extensive selection than REI and the staff here know what they are talking about. If you need something specialized, this is the place for you. I'll be back here soon! read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - Military edition Camelback hydration packs - nice! - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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This place is located on the NE corner of 32nd St and Thomas Rd. My son was looking for hiking gear for snow in Colorado. We went to REI and they did not have the gear so they sent us here. They do have equipment for rentals but a limited supply so call ahead to ask. They also recommended he try in Colorado where he was going for rentals which worked out. People were very helpful. read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - Rental area - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I rented backpacking gear here for a Havasupai trip after calling ahead because I hadn't backpacked in years and wanted guidance on what equipment I needed. When I arrived to pick up my reservation, none of the gear had been prepared. I spent over an hour in the store while employees searched for equipment, including the cookset I had reserved. I was eventually given a Jetboil stove and separate cookset, but no one explained any compatibility limitations and the only instruction was provided after I specifically asked. On the trip, while boiling water for dinner, the stove caught fire and we extinguished it immediately. When I returned the gear and explained what happened, I was told I would be charged for the damaged equipment. The most disappointing part of the experience was the interaction with the owner. Rather than discussing what happened professionally, he told me he couldn't believe someone could be "so stupid" and that the employees were all laughing at me in back for not knowing that I could only use one of the two pots they rented me with the stove and said I should have Googled it before renting it (not that the brand or model was listed on their website). Mistakes happen. Had this been limited to a reservation mix-up or equipment issue, I probably would not be writing this review. What turned me away permanently was the way the situation was handled afterward. As a final note, the store called me three days after I returned the equipment because it had not been checked back into their inventory system and they wanted to confirm I had actually returned it, so their inventory management issues didn't seem like a one off. read more

The Hiking Shack had a nice assortment of hiking goods - not a ton of hiking boots/shoes options. However, I got two pairs of shoes and I was happy with my choices! The gentleman that helped us was, interesting... he YELLED across the store for some extra help. A little unprofessional and then when he did get to my group (there were 3 of us buying shoes) he proceeded to tell us his whole life story. I did appreciate the time he took to measure our feet and have us try out multiple sizes and styles. That being said the shoe I liked didn't come in any other colors despite the display having other color options. I would love to support this store seeing that there are lots of other larger competitors like REI. But I wish they had a few more options/colors/sizes. read more

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stopped by over the weekend with our doggo and we were greeted by Jon M who was happy to assist us in finding what we were looking for and even went above and beyond to help us size her feet -- as she'd outgrown the priors! Both Jon and Jessica were very helpful and friendly on our visit and we will definitely be back for more outdoor needs read more

Huge selection of technical and safety gear. Rented 3 inflatable kayaks and the staff is attentive & top notch. The courses are excellent, even as a refresher to the well seasoned Sonoran hiker. read more

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I really enjoy the Arizona Hiking Shack. There's so much to look at, so much casual, technical and everyday living items here. As a puppy, I pursued wildland firefighting as a seasonal job. Then I was hired as a Natural Resource person and wildland fire was stricken from my duties. Wildland Fire still burned in my heart. Twenty years later my micro-managing, controlling, tongue-lashing supervisor ordered me into a Fire Team. Yes SIR! (saluting) Workplaces have uniforms, written or unwritten standards. Wildland fire on the line requires a specialized set of Nimex clothing supported by boots that can walk through red hot ash, coals and low flame. Off the line, workplace footwear is rugged hiking shoes. I found Oboz, designed and sold from Bozeman Montana here at AZ Hiking Shack. I tried the other brands. Fit and comfort was a problem. Once my toes got into Oboz, that was it. They are my everything shoes. A pair begins wearing out badly in about three years. That's three pair of equally expensive tennies lasting about a year. For my feet, the Oboz orthotics feel like angels flew from Mount Everest to bless my toes. Uphill and down. Shoes, like pizza, donuts and beverages are very personal items. Obiz are my choice in shoes - in fire camp, the office and life. The waterproof type din't breathe in Phoenix like the regular Oboz. I'd wear them only in wet journeys. Arizina Pacj Shack is my chosen stop for Oboz shoes. Lots of helo with fit and socks. read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - Oboz shoes. Left, worn every day for 2+ years.Hiking, construction, landscaping. Right pair - new social occasion pair until dailies - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Attentive and professional in their approach to recommendation of most suited gear. Very friendly service read more

My second visit to AHS in two annual visits to Phoenix in early summer. Both times, I was looking for advice in addition to specific products, and got both. This most recent visit, I had been advised by my orthopedist, after breaking an ankle (not while hiking), that I should be hiking in mid- to high-top boots. The clerk and AHS consulted with one of the owners, and they found me a nice pair, plus a handful of books and maps, and some through-hiking supplies. Nice people, great, high-quality material. Definitely worth a trip, and as an alternative to your typical trips to REI. read more

Love this place, they have everything you'll need and the worker are super kind and very accommodating. Highly recommend.

There really aren't enough words to describe The Hiking Shack-- it's a shopping experience, even if you go just to walk around/not buy anything. I recently decided it was time to buy a new pair of hiking shoes and asked around where to go. My first (and only) pair were a gift, so I hadn't a clue where/how to shop. A friend suggested Hiking Shack, everyone else suggested a common retail store. They have EVERYTHING for outdoorsy folks- hikers, campers, water enthusiasts, survivalists and everyone in-between. Prices are a little higher than big box retail but that should be expected with a local store. While looking around, I noted some overheard convos the staff had with other customers- and the staff really are knowledgeable about the outdoors and Arizona. The big sign on Thomas makes it fairly easy to find. I stopped in on a weekend and was greeted right when I walked in. He took me back to the shoe area and it was fairly quick! Just needed to try one pair before determining they were the ones. They have a hike simulator to walk up/down/sideways before checking out. Of note, you have 10 days to return shoes BUT you can't take them out on the trail and then return. They will accept donated/old shoes, they put them outside in the back for the local homeless. I was happy to know my old shoes would get a second life. Happy trails y'all! read more

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Did multiple searches for Cushy men's mid hiking boots. Used AI,used Google, etc. Finally came here and spoke with Jason who, in my opinion at this early stage of inception anyway put AI to shame ! A very nice store in general. Jason was far more knowledgeable and insightful than anything. AI came up with. Worth shopping there just for the benefit of Jason's expertise . Thank you hiking shack , & thank you Jason !!! read more

Dale, Eddie, I appreciate you all for working. You have a plethora of knowledge and excitement to share your energy. You made my first time there, not be last. I can't forget Olga, she was wonderful thank you for the price check. This place had pretty much anything you are looking for, if you want to go hiking, backpacking, adventure in a canoe ( you can rent them there), swimming and the list goes on. I WOULD RECOMMEND. read more

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I wanted to give 5 stars from my first visit.. but upon my 2nd visit ... well, you'll see. Loved the young guy who helped us get my daughter fitted for hiking boots, he listened to her specific needs and she is so happy with the fit and performance. Had to return a few clothing items- (tags still on w/receipt and within the 7 day limit) and while the sweet gal helping me was excellent, a larger/mature man came up and didn't say "Hi" , just "is this a return? what's wrong with them" I said the turquoise clashed with the red pack and he rolled his eyes and said "well, it's all about looking good". Yes sir, at 16 they do like to match.. something about the world gives them an impression that they're being judged all the time... wonder why they feel that way... any clue? /sarcasm/. The sweet gal sticks up for me, letting the man who's job seems to be public criticism know: "They aren't returning the boots", I chime in to compliment the young man who did a great job of fitting her boots- instead of acknowledging the compliment, the man interrupts me to say to the cashier "Speaking of boots, we got a pair back yesterday for bad fit" she says "who fit them" and he says "mwah" which means "me" but he means her . It was very awkward for me and the cashier who is being belittled in front of a customer. She says "hmm, I usually take great care-" he interrupts her again as I'm walking away with my receipt. I get the feeling he was the owner- and I feel bad for the people who work for him.. as his people skills (& managerial skills) are very low. Common decency says you should correct your employees in private. read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - Excellent fit and service from a nice young man! - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great customer service. Specialty hiking and camping equipment. I got boots and they custom stretched them to mitigate the tight spots.

The customer service is amazing!! Before coming here I've been going to bigger hiking stores (REI) and it's impossible to get help there. Here, people are available and really take time to make sure you get exactly what you need. I felt bad because I took so long looking for the right boots but they didn't mind at all! They helped make sure they were the right fit and were super attentive. They have a great supply. Overall I loved coming here and will definitely be back!! read more

After going on approximately two hikes I decided I am a hiker and needed to get a pair of shoes (instead of my sneakers with holes in them). Richard (with the assistance of Olga) was so patient and helpful in assisting me during the shoe fitting. I could go on and on but I'll just say - if you want a knowledgeable person to assist you in buying a pair of boots, come here. I was almost going to be too cheap and buy a pair online and I'm so glad I didn't, as the perfect shoe ended up being a completely different size than I normally wear...Richard even laced one of my shoes in a special way to support my foot. I went on a hike today in Superior (and risked not breaking them in) and couldn't be happier with how comfortable they were. Some reviews mention frustration with returns, but it was clear that I had ten days IN MY HOUSE to wear these and the moment I stepped outside, they were mine for life. Also bonus points for all of the staff wearing masks, and masks being mandated in the store. read more

Great outdoor enthusiast stop. A must before a small or aggressive trek or if you need any supplies beyond hiking. I stopped in AHS before my Grand Canyon Trip and found everything I needed here at great (Amazon) prices. It was also helpful preparing for an African Safari trip. Highly recommended and the staff is very helpful and knowledgeable! read more

Found this store by accident today. What a great surprise. The staff was so welcoming. John in the shoe section found me a perfect fit and I'm ready for hiking season. The expertise and level of knowledge at the store cannot be surpassed. Thank you for a great experience! read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - As hiking shack the place to go for all your hiking needs - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is a GREAT store for hiking enthusiasts. They've got shoes, backpacks, tents, hiking appropriate snacks and vitamins, you name it. On top of that the staff is very knowledgeable and helpful in giving you custom guidance for your ability and needs. One thing to note that's really cool that they have here is pole rental. I remember being a novice hiker watching folks with poles thinking they looked so silly, but then I used them for a one day rim to rim at the Grand Canyon and damn I don't know if I would have made the hike without them. Don't underestimate how great poles are on a truly tough hike!!! Awesome store and highly recommend for any Arizonan hikers. read more

Excellent service and very helpful staff. Large inventory of camping items not found elsewhere.

I've been going to the Arizona Hiking Shack for years, and for good reason. The staff are exceptionally knowledgeable on gear and make excellent suggestions whenever I make a visit. They have a vast selection of gear from various top-name brands at a great value. I'd recommend these cats over REI anytime! read more

Amazing service! I came in wanting to scout out the place for more camping goods and find this place to be amazing! I absolutely love the selection which is huge! Going to be re visiting soon to pick up a mattress for under my sleeping bag and some thin cord for making kerchief slides for my scouts. Thank you for being an amazing stop for myself and my friends! read more

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Great alternative to REI. Large varied selection with name brands and competitive pricing. Difference here is CUSTOMER SERVICE. Knowledgable personnel that are available! Nick was great - really educated us in picking the correct hiking boots as well as good quality sneakers. read more

These guys have a wealth of information and are willing to share it! I came in looking for a replacement for the Merrell that I like to wear hiking (love the shoe, but the tread just goes so fast), but they weren't currently carrying any Merrells. I did, however, get plenty of information about the differences between hiking boots and shoes, and trail runners, and info about the stickiness of the adidas shoe. These guys seem to really know their stuff. We moved onto to an explanation about the differences in trekking poles, and that when we get serious about purchasing them, we should rents some to try them out. Again, he had a lot of good information, along with his own experiences out on hikes, which was way more ambitious than anything that I'd typically do. The next topic was info on the store in general. That it was, of course, locally owned and had been in the valley for a long time. At one point, it was located up on Cave Creek but moved down to the Thomas location in some year that I now can't remember. Oops. As I was leaving, I decided to show him a picture of the snake that we saw as we were driving into Dreamy Draw, and he was pretty sure that it was a King snake. I don't think there is much that these guys don't know when it comes to hiking. If you are in the market for anything related to hiking, check this place out. read more

The only thing preventing me from giving this place 5-stars is the location. It's a literal hike if you live in the east valley. Otherwise they have a lot of great stuff; specifically climbing rope and gear. Prices are fair and staff is friendly. read more

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Just picked up a bag of goodies and a ton of knowledge from Charlie! He told me about where to start with a hiking adventure and gave me ain't of places to visit on my upcoming journey north. We talked about stoves, water filters and the classes they offer. I will be signing up very soon. I was heading into Colorado and got some essentials for my trip. Love this place. Beats the corporate REI I've gone to for years. read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - Hiking essentials - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

AZ Hiking Shack is a great place to get all of your outdoor and hiking needs! They always have a great silence auction at Paddlefest and send the proceeds over to the organization that I work for Daring Adventures. The guys that I have interacted with from there have been super cool and chill. They were knowledgeable about the gear and helped me by answering tons of questions I had before one of my personal adventures. read more

I needed help with hiking pole tips and was assisted immediately. Super nice folks here! Additionally, there's a nice array of freeze dried foods and good gear. read more

Wonderful customer service! All the staff was friendly and Eddie was very professional and detailed in fitting me for hiking shoes. I truly appreciate you all taking the time to help me out. Thank you for being awesome! read more

Today my wife and I went here for the first time to see what they had to offer. We were there for quite a while because it's a big store and we were in the market for shoes and a camelbak. The first couple employees asked if we needed help; however a lady at the register strangely asked if she could take the item we were holding and keep it at the register. After that she proceeded to stand and watch us by the camelbaks. While she was polite, it was a bit strange and afterwards we realized she likely thought we were shoplifters. It's a bit ridiculous since we do well financially and ended up buying a $160 camelbak anyway. I've also never had an employee offer to hold items for us. Mind you, it was a cheap $10 first aid kit; hardly anything we need to steal. Sadly, I will not be returning here if that's how they treat their customers. Is a $10 item really more important than our business of buying expense camelbaks? I'll just stick to Amazon where we don't have to be profiled. read more

I have gotten some hiking gear there my shoes miscellaneous stuff real informative and helpful staff

The customer service I received from the store manager, Jared, today was abysmal and the worst I have received from anyone in a VERY long time. He was beyond rude. I would give zero stars if I could. I love supporting small local business and really wanted to like this store but after my experience today, I will never be back. I reserved four kayaks earlier in the week for pickup today. When I was there earlier in the week, the woman helping me told me if we couldn't get back by the their closing time of 4:00 on Sunday, that they wouldn't charge me an additional day if I had them there first thing on Monday. She specifically mentioned that they wouldn't be able to rent them between 4:00 on Sunday and when they opened on Monday so it wouldn't be a problem and they wouldn't charge me extra. Today when I went in to pick up the rented kayaks (which the rental fees were almost $200) the person helping me who is also the manager Jared said they're due back on Sunday by close. I told him that at the time I rented them that a store employee told me I could return them first thing Monday morning without an additional fee and we had planned our trip accordingly--not planning to be back in town to the Hiking Shack by 4:00. He said she was wrong and I would have to pay an additional $70 if they weren't back by 4:00 on Sunday. He asked me which employee it was who told me that, because he was trying to figure out which employee keeps telling customers this because that's not their policy. He described her and I told him that, yes, that is who told me that. I told him that I relied on what she said when making my plans and asked that he honor what she had told me and not charge me the additional fee. He said absolutely not there was nothing he could do about it. He said that what his employee told me was wrong and I would have to pay $70 more. I responded that as the manager of the store, he could honor what she told me (especially since he knew that an employee was telling customer's this) but he was choosing not to. I pointed out that it was his employee's mistake telling me the wrong checkin time and that should be on them to waive the $70 extra fee NOT pass it along to me. He didn't care--he continued to speak to me in a raised voice and rude tone and tell me he wouldn't do anything about it. I am absolutely baffled that instead of just honoring what I was told by THEIR employee and not charging me the extra $70-he thought it was a better idea to be rude to me and have a completely disgruntled customer. The end of our interaction was him telling someone else to deal with me and he stormed off. The right thing to do would have been to waive the $70 in this one instance because it was THEIR employee's mistake and then tell the employee to stop telling customers that. Perhaps also post a sign in the store so there is no confusion amongst employees of the store policy regarding returns timelines regarding rentals. I am hopeful that the owner, Dale, sees this and uses it as a teaching opportunity for his rude and non-customer service oriented manager, Jared. He cannot treat people this way and expect happy or returning customers. read more

Everyone was helpful. June took her time measuring my feet and pointed out the features of various hiking shoes so I could make a good choice. read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - The store - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I stopped in to the Arizona Hiking Shack upon the recommendations of two locals. I live in Florida and dont do any hiking whatsoever. I traveled out to Phoenix to see a friend, relax, do some early morning hiking... I hiked Squaw Peak on Thursday in a pair of shoes that were in no way appropriate for conditions AND my arthritic feet. I also had a surgery on the great toe area about 2 years ago. I knew I was flirting with disaster by way of a fall unless I got the appropriate footwear. And not to mention just much more pain. I was super impressed that the Arizona Hiking Shack do things "old school " when it comes to making an assessment of your size, arch and any other factors that may come in to play. In no way do they make you feel rushed. Very happy with the entire experience! I was looking forward to putting the shoes to the test on Camelback Mountain. I have to say because of the fact that Evett got an ACCURATE SIZE there was NO discomfort WHATSOEVER. I also have to comment after hiking I just decided to WALK BACK to my hotel which was about 4 more miles away and my feet feel no worse for the wear! EXTREMELY HAPPY CUSTOMER. Thank You Arizona Hiking Shack! read more

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Just take my money. The service is top notch. Period. I came here to try on a specific brand of hiking shoes. If I hadn't been in such a time crunch I cringe. My wallet may have died. This place is dangerous. Incredible product selection if camping/hiking/being outside is your thing. Over the moon smart employees who really know their stuff. The team is there to help you, hold your hand to ensure you're ready for that next adventure. read more

If I could give this place more starts I would!!!! They rock!! They were extremely helpful as my partner and I planned our hiking trip through Sedona and the Grand Canyon, we rented gear through them which was affordable, in great shape, and was everything we needed. We bought other supplies from them which were all necessary. We ended up extending our trip and they made it super easy to extend our rental gear. Then on the day of return we were running late and they stayed open to help us return our gear that day and avoid extra charges. Everyone in there was super friendly, helpful, and went the extra mile. read more

After researching rental places for camping gear two popped up. After hearing a majority of great reviews I decided to give this place a try. Walking in I was greeted right away from the owners. They kindly directed me to the rental side of the store. I noticed right away that the store was divided up with different sections for your outdoor activities. They have rafting, camping, canyoneering, rock climbing, backpacking etc. You noticed right away the difference between a national retail store verses a family owned store. Greeted by young man in the rental area he was extremely kind and very knowledgeable with the gear. I had a few questions about how much weight certain gear was and he kindly showed me the gear I was asking about. Very patient and even asked about what adventure I was embarking upon. The prices to rent a 2 person tent was $25 for 5 days. Wow what a great deal!! They really hold your trust high to return and keep the equipment in tact! I loved the service and rental gear they really made my camping experience a great one! I already reserved for my next backpacking trip in August to Havasuapi read more

Arizona Hiking Shack - The North Face 2 person tent - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Amazing customer service. The young man who I spoke with was extremely helpful. I came in looking for a safety strap to anchor myself while hiking and he gave me several options and recommendations. He also gave me a variety prices for these options. Highly recommend this place. read more

I will start with a big thank you! the staff that works there were very friendly and helpful. I rent some kayaks from them and it was easy and fast, JARED was the guy I talked to on the phone and he was awesome. I had a lot of fun at the lake! very recommendable place to buy or rent any outdoor gear you might need. read more