Yoga and workout clothes are one type that makes me jealous of the many colors and styles women get. However, Gumbo is a place that kinda helps make up for that. Sure, they've got any number of women's tights in twice as many colors and styles as the big stores out there. But at least the same can be said for their menswear too.
The vibe this place throws off is seriously chill. I spoke to Hal, one of the shop keepers, and he talked at length about chi-running/walking and how you can get a free course for it at their partner place next door (Okra) when you buy a pair of their shoes here. This guy was the epitome of modern day hippie (I hope that classification won't offend him, it's a compliment in my book). Very chill! You are also greeted with their perpetually running essential oil diffusions that fill the air with something to put you at ease.
Returning to what they've got, they are purveyors of all things yoga, most things running and a few other lifestyle knick-knacks and hygiene/body related stuff. The shoes are certainly a unique selection focusing more on minimalism/barefoot-feel and therefore a stronger bond with the Earth. They range from gym to road and trail running shoes and include some ultra-minimal flip-flops (just when you thought they couldn't get any more simple). Clothing includes, as mentioned above, tights, sports bras (not my thing), shorts and pants, super-soft shirts, excellent athletic socks with zero-cotton options, head/hair bands and more. You've got all manner of rollers and trigger point balls for the runners out there trying to soften up post-run stiff muscles. Lots of essential oil scents to choose from, face creams, candles, etc. And a personal favorite of mine: a retractable lint roller - genius design!
I promise, one day soon I'll actually be willing to look beyond the price tag and spend some money here on a few things. read more