Ascent Outdoors

Refreshing to say the least. I was ready to give up after having made at least six calls to many…read moredifferent stores and websites, until Patty on 4th Ave., So. in SEATTLE answered the phone. Fortunately, while I was allowed to hold, she went to extra mile, through a couple of their different departments and found what I was looking for. Patty then got back to me on the following week to tell me the item had been sent to me as requested, which arrived today.

Many employees don't know what they are talking about, especially the Fishing Department the one's…read morebehind the counter are pretty rude at times. This is ALL from observation not experience,if I needed their opinion I would go elsewhere..

Crabbing Gear

Wading Shoes, Boots and Sandals

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Hobie Pedal Kayaks

Wonderland Gear Exchange

4.4(44 reviews)

1.3 mi•Fremont

I came looking for a particular pair of shoes. They didn't have my size…read more I hadn't focused on the fact it is consignment and samples! There are so many samples and odd consignment items! Staff were very cheerful and upbeat. It is a bit crowded, and things crowded together yet they flow through the aisles and people with bright, connecting smiles. Genuine. There is a lot of top-of-the -line jackets and ski outfits. I found a secret place to park1!!

Maybe…read more I've had mixed experiences, sometimes women's clothing is in the mens section, and it's funny because you don't find out until later lmao. I bought some products that failed immediately, but am embarrassed to return them.

Sample prices (these are long gone, their inventory turns over fast!)

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evo Seattle

4.2(453 reviews)

1.8 mi•Wallingford

Jarrett Grimm, who is the Supervisor of the Seattle store for evo.com, provided amazing service…read morewhen I came in to pick up a Specialized Turbo Vado 3 EVO 5.0 today. He made sure the suspension was calibrated for me down to the pound, wheeled the bike to the shop so that the smart features were working properly (it required expertise from the technicians), and even crawled into the cab of my truck to get it to fit, then had me lift the tailgate, such that he had to contort his body to crawl through the tiny window to get back out (he insisted)! You can't find service at a company where an employee will sacrifice their body to guarantee gear gets home safely, except at evo, apparently.

Such a cool store. It's huge! The highlight for me was finding a cool Seattle T-shirt that looks…read morelike Seattle. It's an Evo Seattle branded shirt that fits a lot like a Carhartt. They also have outdoor gear consisting of hiking, mountain biking, and snow sports. Cool store to check out.

Main lobby

The main lobby

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REI

4.1(653 reviews)

2.5 mi•South Lake Union

Huge REI store with an amazing selection and great service. They even offer 1 hour of free parking…read morefor customers -- which in Seattle is already a big win on its own. The store is one of the largest I've been to, and they truly carry everything you might need for outdoor activities. Staff members were friendly, approachable, and consistently helpful throughout the visit. Overall, a smooth and pleasant shopping experience with no complaints.

The REI flagship store in Seattle is a must-visit if you're a fan of the recreation equipment…read morevendor. We've been here before but it's been a couple of years, at least. We stopped by recently and it's still cool to see such a big location. It has multiple levels and filled to the brim with gear for hiking, running, cycling, and camping. Outside of the store, there's a little trail they've set up for you to test out bikes; not sure if they let you do that with hiking boots, too. Since it's Seattle, you can find more than a few items that feature BigFoot on them. Service is always terrific and I like the fact that they have such a generous return policy in place if you're not satisfied with your purchase (for members on eligible items. it's within 1 year of purchase, even if gently used).

4.1 mi•Industrial District

Huge retail space

Outdoor seating and fire pit

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Filson

2.4(140 reviews)

I have purchased several Filson items after discovering their store in San Francisco. I try my…read morebest to purchase products made in the US. Now not all of their products are manufactured in the US but many are. Everything I've purchased is meticulous constructed and holds up exactly the way you would expect. It's not inexpensive but it's a high quality product at a reasonable price. I've seen complaints about the service. I'm both their flagship and SF stores the services has been great, attentive but not intrusive. If you're in Seattle you should definitely stop by and support a a longer term local merchant. Unfortunately there's not too many of them left. I'll keep going back 2/13/2026. I just received my repaired waxed canvas jacket back. I have worn this coat for at least 7 years and have had two repairs done on it. They do a fantastic job and I could not be happier. The jacket shows every scar from my abuse but I continue to wax it 1-2x per year and it keeps going. If they still made this coat I'd buy another, until then I'll keep getting it repaired. Their clothes are worth every penny. I continue to shop with them and and am glad to spend my money with a company that appreciates their customers.

We did the factory tour and that was SO FUN! Plus I snagged a discounted wool jacket so I'm very…read morepleased with my Filson outing! Everyone who works there was so kind and very chatty. And yall sure know how to boost a girls confidence because I got so many compliments on my clothing. Much appreciated Filson team!

Tent in the shop

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Filson

4.0(22 reviews)

1.8 mi•Ballard

I came here when they first opened and got s mackinaw vest and a custom made tote that was gifted…read more I met Joey who is GREAT. He walked me through a CC Filson chore jacket and over the years he was a go to in anything Filson related. Jeremiah was also a go to for my winter needs. The knowledge of the craftsmanship and durability is unparalleled. Every staff that I chatted with including at the outlet are passionate and knowledgeable. It's nice to hear that many staff have put their clothing through the wringer and can share the story of the garment aged. Value, is paying for quality. I am friends with the Freeman owners and it made me happy to see the collaboration. I will have to say that the Filson brand is unfailing. It's unfortunate that Eddie Bauer and other outdoor brands just don't match. I wish post pandemic that many of the products weren't outsourced. I get it. Quality wise Filson is one of the best out there if not the best.

If you're looking for excellent outdoor wear, this is one of your best options in Ballard.read more

Women's Wool Trapper Coat

Mackinaw Wool Vest

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Inside the Store

MTN Gear

5.0(8 reviews)

4.2 mi•Ravenna

Hidden gem in U District / Ravenna area. Very reasonable prices for a ski boot punch, service was…read moreattentive and return timeline was great.

Most outdoor gear manufacturers offer only unisex glove sizing anymore, making it very difficult to…read morereplace my lost men's XL fleece gloves. I am an old woman with crippled arthritic hands that don' t fit into unisex gloves. Only bandanas and adjustable baseball caps should be unisex! I spent many many hours calling stores and shopping on line. Finally, when I isited Mtn Gear near U Village, the owner pulled out a pair of lightweight Black Diamond gloves that fit my hands perfectly! I was delighted and will be back again.

We work hard to provide our customers with a well thought out lineup of gear and outdoor apparel for all season

At MTN Gear you can find used apparel & gear. You can also rent ski clothing for the day or season. Come check out our gear lineup.

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We're just across the street from Ravenna Brewery. So the best beer and gear are right next to each other ... what more could you want?!!

Kavu

4.5(33 reviews)

2.1 mi•Ballard

I love this store. It's clean, styles are always changing, a decent sale rack and innovative…read moreproducts. I mean look at this ridiculous insulated beer can fanny. I also have a bunch of their apparel and love stopping by when I'm (regularly) perusing Ballard Ave.

I love this store. The quality is outstanding and its local. The color ways and patterns are…read morealways so clean and I appreciate a nod to the 80's and 90's. Prices are also really reasonable. If you go to their store you can find last season items for really cheap. It's a great selection and it feels really Seattle. Thank you for outfitting the adventurer and explorers. Also, great friendly service and value.

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Patagonia

3.6(87 reviews)

2.4 mi•Belltown

I took a coat (birthday gift) back to the store for an exchange or refund. The team at the store…read morewas kind and very helpful. Within minutes I left with some new clothes and a great experience. Thanks y'all. B

Quality/Quantity - We are loyal to the brand. Overall a nice…read morelocation, but maybe biased because we (of course) prefer our local store. Ambiance - Decent size location. Clean and organized. See pictures. Service - Good customer service. A team member overheard me talking and questioning a jacket. He rushed over to help and answered my questions. Price - Expensive, but that is the price for quality. Owner Comment - Congrats on your success since 1973. And thank you for also giving 1% to not-for-profit workers "to defend the earth." And having programs that raise awareness of environmental and social issues. My favorite program is Worn Wear. You can either sell Patagonia your used clothes or trade them in so they can fix it. I believe that reusing is better than recycling. Furthermore, they give you credit ranging from $15 to $150.

American Eagle

Seattle at night

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Sign

Big 5 Sporting Goods

2.8(47 reviews)

1.7 mi•Ballard

I have been coming for over 20 yrs…read more I just tried to remove a review from 2008 which reflected how busy staff is-not great review. It is so far in past- the yelp robot also removed the other 5 star reviews of Big % I had written including one in 2020 when covid was locking everyone down and they carefully kept open supplying weights and other workout items so people can remain sane and healthy. I am currently on a shoe hunt- I shop her eoften-- the staff are so thoughtful and kind. Thank you

Great value for the most part. In a not so great neighborhood. Felt a bit unsafe. Customer service…read morewas amazing they were really helpful and good.

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15 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Judy D.

17 years ago

Oh my gosh- might I start by saying that I am a woman over 60, who's never felt so welcomed in a sporting goods store! I needed to buy some bicycle equipment, clothing and have a small repair done to my husband's bike, and this place took care of it all, leaving me with a SMILE! The gentlemen up front joked with me as I meandered my way back to the bike dept. answering all the questions a previous store buyer like myself had, while I shuffled through clothing goods. One of the shoe guys, Brannen, gave me such attention that I knew I was being seen for my personal needs, and not just another sale. The bikes guys really know their stuff. Andrew had such patience and knowledge while listening to both my husband's and my needs, let alone what we felt was wrong regarding the bicycle. I am bringing my granddaughter in to buy a bike from him- I KNOW we've found our shop! I left here with new spring hiking clothes, biking clothes, seat / lights, a fixed bike, and money saved! Thank You. read more

Colby S.

217

21 years ago

Loads of outdoor equipment both new and used. Bicycles, climbing gear, camping...you name it they've got it. If you want a top end fleece and don't want to pay $250, you can pick one up second hand for half the price. The knock...I walked around for 15 minutes and no one even acknowledged my presence...no hi's or how you doing's. But I guess for hardcore extreme outdoor types they'd rather not be bothered, social interaction is not the mountain man's forte...maybe that's the draw to Second Ascent. Cheers! read more

Johnny L.

13 years ago

I go here for two reasons: the great selection of used gear, and Brennan in the shoe dept. The selection of used stuff is good, and I've saved a ton over the years. Brennan knows the shoes and boot selection like nobody's business, and knows how to make sure you walk out of there wearing the best fitting boots you've ever worn. Oh, I've also gotten fitted for a new mountaineering pack, and got a great fitting Deuter thanks to some extensive help from their expert backpack guy. read more

Suzy T.

7 years ago

This place has closed for business out of the blue!! 5 stars for my past experience but so sad it's gone. For Bicycle work the two other great shops. PIM Bicycles and Coffeehouse and JRA. PIM is on the trail so nice and convenient located next to the Seattle biscuit about 40th and Leary. (awesome coffee along with great techs). JRA has been around a long time and is up on 85th. Two good options for bike work. read more

David P.

15 years ago

I purchased a bike from Aaron at his previous bike shop in 2001, and have had work done by him at Second Ascent. When I have gone in to their bike shop I have had excellent service from the staff. They take the time to diagnose problems without trying to oversell me on stuff I dont need. I live near other bike shops but am willing to make the ride to Second Ascent because of the expertise and service. read more

Stephanie M.

15 years ago

Thank you Second Ascent for providing such excellent, knowledgeable, and friendly customer service. Lucky helped me find the perfect pack and sleeping bag for my upcoming trip to the Grand Canyon (1st timer), then referred me to Brennen for my boots. Love the Scarpa Boots! Knowledge beats REI hands down. They have everything. Thanks again! read more

Ryan P.

16 years ago

This place is worth living in Seattle for. Seriously. The staff are very knowledgeable ("What diameter cordelette do I need for a Texas prusik on this diameter of climbing rope?" Yep, they're all over it.) The deals are great, staff are friendly, and the selection is amazing for a store of that size. read more

Sam Y.

119

16 years ago

The go-to place if you need anything to get outside and have fun. Really friendly, knowledgeable staff and great selection of used gear. Perhaps most importantly, small, real and no bright lights or mobs. read more

Kelly O.

9 months ago

As a Seattle native, I've had great experiences here my entire life. Love supporting these folx that have taken amazing care of me and my family over the years & generations. read more

Dave W.

16 years ago

Second Ascent has great gear at the best prices, we love to go in and check out what they have in the used section and we are always amazed at the low prices on used gear! read more

Callie J.

15 years ago

I got a jacket that I love but man, those employees are snotty! I feel like a needed to be as inconspicuous as possible to avoid their judgy gazes. read more

Tina G.

Elite 25

264

481

8 years ago

Super friendly knowledgeable staff and the prices are reasonable. They have everything you need and the staff can make excellent recommendations. read more

m p.

16 years ago

very disappointed with bike staff... will now go elsewhere.

dick g.

18 years ago

best customer service ive had in years

Rob L.

14 years ago

Great place to find good used gear!

Ascent Outdoors - outdoorgear - Updated October 2026

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