I've been frequenting "The Vape Stop" in San Angelo, TX over the last year and a half (or so). Hands down, it's the BEST Vape Shop in the that I've found so far. This being said, I've only been to a few in San Diego, Norfolk, Indiana, Chicago, Austin, etc.
Where do I begin? On first entering, depending on the time of day, the store might be clear, or a thin layer of "fog" from the vaping. The store is very welcoming, and has a chill bar-type atmosphere, minus the drunkards and the table dancing. They remodeled several months ago, and it was a remodel for the BETTER. Appearance is VERY appealing, and often times, people do come in "just to hang out."
FLAVORS/JUICE: Most of the juices here are made in the back room, and the "juicing experts" are always taking suggestions for new ideas/new combinations. The (4) sizes for juices can be purchased up to a 100ML bottle ($50) which I consider very reasonable considering the quality of the juice. "Flavor Tests" are laid out in an organized fashion, and flavor options are clearly written on menus and the newer ones are written on an easy-to-read blackboard on the far wall. Juices can be ordered specifically tailored to the PG/VG you desire, as well as the mg of nicotine you want (yes, they DO have 0mg).
MERCHANDISE: The Vape Shop offers a variety of vaping options, anywhere from starter kits to build-your-own mods. I've found them to be very up-to-date with "the latest options." This being said- they ARE the best in town (my opinion), so they CAN and DO run out of stock, so if you have a drive to make, I would call in to double check. They also have reservation lists just in case they don't have the item that you need, and are pretty good about calling their customers the day that the merchandise is received in-store. When they call, they will give you the option of paying at-that-time, or coming to pick it up within the next couple of days. Along with the juice and mods, they also sell wire, cotton, coils, tanks, and extra parts for your vape. Again, I would call ahead to double check specific items in-stock if you have a drive to make.
STAFF KNOWLEDGEABILITY/CUSTOMER SERVICE: I've been coming to the store since it switched owners and since before the remodel was done. Staff knowledgeability has fluctuated in that time. As can only be expected, not EVERYONE knows everything, however they are VERY good at having an experience/vape expert in the store at all times. Whether you're seeking help to switch from cigarettes to vaping as a means to quit smoking, or you just want to start vaping for the 'cool factor', you'll get sound advice and suggestions either way. Merchandise is NOT pushed at you as a "you need to have this" and staff members listen to what you need and offer suggestions based on their experience. There are a few staff members who have gone from smoking multiple packs a day, to now vaping juices containing 2mg of nicotine or less.
I think I covered pros and cons above. The only reason I did not give 5 stars is because stock isn't always there, but again, you can ALWAYS call in to double check. read more