Horrible customer service from the young Hispanic guy with the short hair (Straight hair, not curly) Deliberately ignored me then gave me attitude and refused to help me. Other staff were helpful but this guy was the first I dealt with and he was useless and disrespectful. read more

I have not found my over 30 years being a Big 5 customer in any other Big 5 operation that could compare with this location in the following areas; * Customer Service * Knowledgeable Staff Members * Organized Merchandise Selections * Easy Flow Floor-plan * Well Lite, Clean, and Spotless Space. read more

Big 5 Sporting Goods - Store Front - Sporting Goods Near Me - Vista, California

I love going to big 5 because I always find fun items in mot expecting for killer prices. Today I went for something specific. I have an upcoming camping trip and I was I need of a headlamp. I searched the camping section but couldn't find I was looking for. I found an associate and asked where I could find the headlamps. He knew exactly where to go. We walked up to a display but it was blocked off with a table covered in random boxes of shoes and other items. I thought I was gonna get the table moved so I could shop but the associate walked away. I decided to walk around the store a bit more and realized the store was a bit of a mess. I left disappointed. read more

Big 5 Sporting Goods - Can't get to items I was looking for. - Sporting Goods Near Me - Vista, California

I went in today to return some shoes that I have never worn. I bought them about 45 days ago and I lost my receipt. The first person I was talking to was very nice and she said she could do store credit or even exchange, but she then had to take a phone call while we were talking and the manager Megan approached and gave me another option. Megan asked if I bought the shoes there and I had so she was able to look up my past purchases in her system but looking at my credit card transactions. Megan was super helpful, friendly, and was able to do a full return for me. I really appreciate her going above and beyond and giving me more options and being able to refund my purchase. Thank you. read more

They've got good sales here every now and then. We had two coupons to use and we were able to split it up in two purchases with the help of the cashier. They have lots of items in stock, even when other places run out of seasonal items. Parking is never an issue and the customer service is friendly. read more

The man at the front desk today 4/13/2025 spoke very softly and would not assist me with anything, he then pulled out his phone to watch tiktok after asking him for help and the manager was nowhere in sight 1 start fire all these people working there. read more

Waited in the shoe section for 15 minutes and nobody came. Then I had to use the restroom, but they don't have a public restroom, so I had to walk several stores over to go. By then I realized it was too much hassle to buy anything there and I just left. Lousy service if you can get any. Incompetent staff and not geared for the customer read more

I bought a fishing license, and it was not on the sticker receipt. When I returned, Jeremy (store manager) was the rudest most passive aggressive individual I have ever met. He has no place in customer service. I have been going to this store for years but will no longer return. I called the corporate office and district supervisor to also file a complaint. read more

Worst all time store No one to help in the entire store Friday at noon! Wow!!! The girl at the front looked annoyed! Have 2 teens that need soccer shoes and it's a mess! No sizes and no assistance!!! I'm sure it's a matter of months and this store will close read more

Walked in. Waited.... waited.... waited some more... walked out. While I was walking out, I looked down every aisle I could and didn't see a single employee. Also joked with someone who was waiting at the register to pay that nobody must work here anymore lol. Oh well, we tried. No wonder they're going out of business. ‍ read more

Came here on 8/20 and was treated with the best customer service from the moment I walked in. I came in looking for a specific pair of shoes and to browse others. The cashier who greeted me was friendly and gave me a run down of all the clearance shoes and pointed me to the back of the store where the rest of the shoes were. The employee working the shoes in the back was very helpful and was able to find the shoe I was looking for however it was one size too small, he recommended I go to the front and have the supervisor or manager? look to see if any other stores had them. The employee in shoes was very knowledgeable and didn't try to sell me any other shoe because he knew the shoe I was looking for was specific to my needs. Once I got to the front the supervisory employee was able to find the shoe at the Rancho Bernardo store and offered to call them to hold it. 5 Star service all the way around. This store is 45 minutes away from my usual store, but I'd drive back just for these employees. read more

We've been coming to this Big 5 for years. We have always purchased multiple items for different occasions like camping, fishing, and for snow. We are also very aware of requirements that are needed for guns and ammo. Today we went in wanting to purchase ammo, and was told we had to wait for the manager since he was on lunch. So we said sure, we'll wait around. We were there for about 20 min when we hear them page for the manager to come to the register. So we saw him walk out, and my husband asked if he was the manager, to which he answered yes. He proceeded to walk up to the register, and eventually met my husband at the gun counter. He was already pissy, so when my husband asked for the ammo he needed the manager told him "he was not licensed to sell" that he would have to wait for the other manager. To which my husband said ok, well I guess I'll come back. That pissy manager then asked my husband for his ID, my husband declined and said why? To which the manager said "i just need to make sure your prepared to buy", my husband declined and said "no, I'll just wait until the other manager is here, there is no need for you to see it" the manager already upset prior to getting there said " don't you know the rules in California, you need to have your documents to show?" My husband cut him off and said , yes. I have my ID , my passport , I know what is needed to purchase in California. The manager then said "you know what? I'm just going to deny you service" and he walked away very irate. He refused his name, and then the other employees, clearly confused on what was happening, looked around and when my husband asked for the managers name they all refused to give him anything, to which the manager yelled at them and said "don't give him anything, I just denied him service". This was a terrible experience. Again, we've been shopping here for YEARS! probably longer than whatever age the "manager " is. We are very upset, and are waiting for Monday morning to contact customer service and corporate. read more

This store location is very convenient. The prices are more affordable than the competition store, but their sale or clearance prices aren't really what you expect for red or yellow tags. Usually when we visit the store the customer service is very friendly and helpful. I would be a returning customer. read more

Big 5 Sporting Goods - Sporting Goods Near Me - Vista, California

Great selection and service, workers are very friendly & helpful, got exactly what we needed

Went into the store looking for a pair of hiking boots and Robert helped me. He was so wonderful and personable! He brought out 5 different pairs of boots for me! The 5th one was a perfect fit! On sale too! Great service! Thanks Robert!! read more

IIt's no surprise That big five sporting good stores are disappearing. They have terrible customer service Andrew specifically is the head manager and he could not even make their products complete I gave him options.Which he should've been offering me considering it is the night before Christmas.I had to return to tetherball setsk in one day. The first one fell apart so I tried a second one found out that the ball was the wrong ball it was a volleyball instead of a tetherball so I asked him if he would trade it out called a $12 ball to complete the $60 set. Amongst missing the pump also and he told me nope too bad was his exact words. Oh and also it took him about 10 minutes to pay attention to us even as other customers were telling him that the line was getting a little long and he acted like there was no concern I will never be back to the store ever again read more

Big 5 Sporting Goods - Sporting Goods Near Me - Vista, California

Convenient location without having to drive to the Oceanside location and deal with their tiny parking lot. Because this Big 5 is in a larger strip mall there's plenty of parking (not necessarily right in front of the store). But you can always find a spot in the lot. Employees are generally helpful. Although sometimes you'll have to work to find someone in the shoe department. It's like a game of cat and mouse or hide and seek. But when you do find someone, they are courteous and quick to offer assistance. The layout (as with all Big 5 stores) is a little cramped. If you're pushing a stroller or are in a wheelchair, it's not a place that's easily accessible. Returns are a bit of a hassle, sometimes you have to sign paperwork other times it's quick and easy. I'm going to assume it's dependent on the dollar amount of your return. Decent sale prices so check the paper for the weekly ads. read more

Was looking to buy new shoes went to the back nobody came by to help me there's only one person working in the front... Waste of time, almost wonder if it was a race thing. read more

Small but they have what I need. Who cares if shoe styles are last year they are still top quality and usually have my size in stock!!

I was pleasantly surprised by the number of different running shoes they have, and how reasonably priced they are. There are a number of shoes on sale for cheap cheap cheap (Saucony for $40!). They also have a 90 day return policy so if the shoes don't work out, you are free to return them. Just picked up a new pair of running shoes for just over half the price I expect I'd have paid at my regular running store in Carlsbad. read more

I always find good deals here! They have a nice selection of sale items 24/7 and great workout clothes. I live right down the street and swing by a lot. read more

This was my first time shopping at a Big 5 store. It is gloomy and a bit dingy when you first enter. The carpet was very dirty. Yuck. I was there about 20 minutes shopping for a backpack. I didn't see any employees the entire time I was there. I did buy a backpack on sale. The cashier was pleasant. I'm not sure if I would go back. read more

Not impressed with the service. I was treated like I had the plaque. Coworkers need to be trained better.

This place has zero customer service. Only "managers" are able to sell Ammo since the new California law, I was told the "Manager" has "clocked out" and cannot help sell Ammo. At 5:35pm He was in the back room doing work before he left the building at 5:50. What a joke. I don't fault him for the California law, I fault him for clocking out and remaining onsite for 15 minutes as I start to ask about transferring the product to another store. Clueless employees. read more

Don't waste your time going to a store if they don't have it online they don't have it. I drove here because the website said they were sold out online of the river sandals I want but this was supposed to have them I stock. Half the staff didn't know they had a websitte and the other half hadn't heard of the Internet. read more

Great customer service! Kianna the cashier up front did an exceptional job helping me with the return process. One of the best workers here at big5 vista! read more

The store itself is stocked pretty well, they usual have some pretty rocking sales. The issue is trying to get someone to help you in the darn store, even if you are at the counter, it's like a ghost town it seems. I swear you could walk in there with a screaming baby and walkout with a canoe and no one would know. If you need sports gear stop by and pick something up, but bring a cowbell so you can get some service. read more

Came here to pick up a new pair of running shoes since mine were getting a little old. This place has definitely been here for quite a while and you can tell just by walking in. I've been to Big 5 quite a bit since I was a kid but went to Sports Authority until they unfortunately all closed down. This place definitely has quite a bit of stuff and is a decent size but not the biggest store. The customer service was horribly lacking though. Everyone was in the front talking when we walked in the back to the shoes and had to go back up front to get someone. If you're looking for some cheaper shoes or equipment, then this chain is definitely a good one to go to. I've been to a few other running stores and the shoes were just priced absolutely crazy but you can buy some here for around $40-$80 fine. Overall, there's not many of these kind of stores left so choices for sports gear is getting more limited. They're a good store to go to but don't expect an amazing customer service experience. read more

I seriously don't know why people shop there other than some good sale prices. I REALLY don't know I have gone back ever. I wanted to try on tennis shoes, the store MANAGER said they were out of socks to offer. I politely asked what I should do and was told I could GO HOME and get socks or buy a ($10) set, but those were my only options. I tried on the shoes--they were stiff and expensive and the store socks were tight (I have skinny legs) and so, so thin. I was going to walk out of the store but the manager followed me and not wanting a confrontation, I just bought the socks. The manager said, "At least you got some good sale socks," to which I commented, "yes, they are thin and cheaply made." You would think he wouldn't want me leaving his store with such a bad impression, but he could have cared less. That is it for me and Big Five. I will go anywhere but there. read more

The staff here is great, especially the manager Greg. I'm leaving for Utah tomorrow and needed thermal shirts and pants for my boyfriend and I ASAP. I called beforehand and a lady told me that they have them but that they're not out on the shelves yet. She said maybe a manager could help me get some to purchase straight out of the box. Greg was the manager working at this time and sure enough he quickly came and brought me to the back of the store where all the boxes are kept. He climbed up ladders and searched through a bunch of thermals to get me the ones I needed. Could not thank him enough! Great customer service and a great attitude. Thanks again and I look forward to coming back. read more

Well I haven't been in a Big 5 in over 30 years. Needed some waterproof shoes and this is the closest now. Walked in and wow its a jumble of stuff. I was a manager at Sport Chalet (rest in peace) and my store would NEVER look like this. Anywhoo I went straight to shoes and noticed there were no employees at all EXCEPT in shoes. Found what I needed. Tried them on and the employee was helpful.....as helpful as you can be when I knew what I wanted and the sizes were self serve. He didn't ask me if I needed anything else and basically the transaction was over. I did wind up buying some waterproofed as well. Checkout was fine. Cashier was friendly and efficient so no issues there. The building just needs some love. There are lights out all over which makes it seem gloomy. Stuff isn't merchandised well at all and there was product on the floor.....with no one to pick it up. I wouldn't make this a go to place but for that quick trip it will do I suppose. The price on my boots was good....about 30 bucks off original price, so I was happy about that. It's not a disaster here but damn I miss my Sport Chalets read more

Not five stars for Big 5 because the store needs an overhaul. It is dreary inside and could use a lot of updating, but the selection is not too bad for certain things. I often find good deals on women's sporting apparel here and then get compliments from people later asking at what store I purchased the items. I go here sometimes because it is next door to Uncle Tony's Italian Cuisine and that is the best Italian food in San Diego. read more

Wasn't looking for new shoes, but I can't resist a great sale! Walked out with a pair of shoes for $40!!!

Good ammo some times out but such is life wish they were open rite now lol so I could look at new sleeping bags

I have been waiting for ever for someone to help me in the shoe section and 2 employees walk right passed me and did not help and the guy who did help left before he got me the shoe I wanted... good prices and good selection but horrible service read more

I had a very bad experience at this Vista store. I have also been to the Rancho Bernardo store, which I prefer. The manager at the Vista store is neither friendly nor helpful. I waited almost half an hour for someone to answer a question about a tent. There are almost no staff members here. It is empty. The only reason I went is because they had tents on sale that were not on sale at my preferred branch. This store was also empty of customers, unlike their competitors which I visited that same day. The manager also refused to honor a coupon that was emailed to me through their loyalty club. I am not going to use big 5 anymore. read more

Horrible customer service at this location. Unfortunately, I did not get the name of the sales person that was working. We were shopping for sunglasses and he was extremely put out to have to unlock the case and help us. He acted as though it was our fault that the sunglasses were locked up and could barely even bring himself to look at us or talk to us. Very rude! read more

Worst return policy ever. This managers and staff are useless. I have my receipts on hand and they were trying sooooo hard to screw me. Asking for the card that was paid for the cleats that I bought even showing them the receipt. read more

Worst customer service ever !!! By the manager himself. He was goin help me out after a quick phone call he said. He was on thee phone for 20min talking about video games with one of his friend . read more

There is nothing wrong with this place. I've been coming here for long time and never been discussed. They have good product at fair prices. I will always return here. read more