Ascent Outdoors

Category:	Outdoor Sports Store
Address:	5209 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA
Phone:	+1 206-545-8810
Site:	ascentoutdoors.com
Rating:	4.2
Working:	10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–8PM 10AM–8PM 10AM–7PM 10AM–6PM

Location

Photos 77

Reviews 15

A Private User

I know people want to read/write glowing reviews of "hip non-gigantic retailer" shops but Second Ascent isnt your friendly neighborhood store. Im not some one off client either, Ive been trying to love this store for a while but I came to a breaking point recently with an expensive purchase from them. Dont get me wrong, some of the people are quite nice and helpful but for the most part their return policy sucks, if you have a problem with gear you bought there they will not go out of your way to contact the manufacturer or even try and work with you on a solution. I hate to say it but at least at REI if you buy something and are not satisfied, you can return it for something else! Here youre stuck with it. Done. I like spending at local stores to support the neighborhood but why should I if they dont look out for me?! I mostly lliked the idea of Second Ascent, but I wont be making any big purchases there going forward and you should be weary too!

Chris MP

For those of you selling your stuff here, keep in mind two things: they dont give you a lot of money, although it saves you the trouble of listing it on eBay or dealing with Craigslist. The problem is that they dont give you a lot, AND its store credit. They dont have sales very often on the things Im interested in, so I get less for my gear and I pay more for theirs. If you happen to find a good deal on something used then it can be worth it. The staff is sometimes great, other times a little rude. The selection is as good as you could expect from a small store. The return policy is not very customer friendly.

Brad Fitch

I got my telemark skis mounted here since they seemed like the sort of place that would know how to do this, but they did a poor job. My binding came out of the ski because they didnt appear to use enough (if any) epoxy. And I came to find out they mounted it boot center like an alpine ski, rather than ski center like a telemark ski is usually mounted. I was at snowbird when the binding came out, so was fortunate to be able to run to SLC to get a replacement part for my BD binding. But had to miss a day of skiing, and had a bit of a scare and almost lost a ski that could have seriously injured someone else too.

A Private User

If you are in the market for new hiking/backpacking boots this is the place to go. I spent 3 hours at REI with no success then went to 2nd Ascent and the first pair recommend for me fit great! Brenden is really knowledgeable about the nature of the fits of all the brands and styles and committed to helping yo find the perfect fit. REI has a limited range of offerings so if youre looking for a wider selection to get that perfect fit check out 2nd Ascent. The only downfall is a limited return policy only being a week but if you get the right fit hopefully you shouldnt need it.

A Private User

I just rented some mountaineering gear from Second Ascent. I was blown away at how friendly and helpful their staff is! They took the time to make sure my gear fit perfectly, whipping out little tricks here and there to make a good fit a perfect fit. You get the feeling that they dont sell or rent a product they dont stand behind -- while REI may have MORE selection, I trust the products that they have at this place. Really smart and friendly staff - it feels like you snuck into some secret hippie mountain society! :) Love this place.

Lauryn Anderson

This place has great customer service, friendly employees, and the they really know their stuff when it comes to their products. Came in looking for some hiking shoes and socks and got some great help from a knowledgeable employee. He even stretched out my chosen pair to fit my feet better using a special tool. This place has great prices and a wonderful selection. And who doesnt love an excuse to spend some time in Ballard! Definitely need to check this place out for any camping or outdoor needs.

John Turman

I spent an hour with a sales associate here who spent quality time making sure I understood and tried out every piece of equipment I bought. Superb service and quality suggestions from all the employees here. Im a beginning climber and needed to get a harness and shoes. Landed on the perfect size and fit for both and Im extremely happy with my purchases. Quality equipment at standard retail price, EXCELLENT customer service.

Andrea Martin

I would not recommend second ascent for equipment rentals. Their computer system is slow and inflexible, and their security deposits are higher than you would expect (and not immediately refunded). They almost charged us for scratches on the skis that we did not cause, and seemed more accusatory than excited to have us as customers. I would recommend REI over Second Ascent - they are easier to work with and much more efficient.

A Private User

I frequent second ascent, because of the service. The staff at the shop is awesome and are always helpful. The selection is great, and they keep the stock fresh and current. I typically shop in the cycling section and the dudes in the bike shop rock. Always helpful, and overall friendly and cool. So if you like climbing, skiing or cycling or just want to check out some nice gear go see the guys at second ascent.

Jessi Lucas

This is my favorite store. Great selection of casual and serious athletic clothing--I end up getting most of my clothes there (Prana!). I dont climb, so Im not sure about that selection, but the bike shop is well stocked and soon to move into its own location--so even more bikey goodness. The repair shop does a great job with my bikes. Everyone there is really nice and knowledgeable. Its a pleasure to stop in .

Darren Dresser

I called in advance about donating gear for either reuse or recycle and made the effort to get to this location on a busy street with no parking and then they declined to take the gear. Thanks for wasting my time. I will now just throw the merchandise away. Will not come back for any purpose.

A Private User

Shoe sales manager is a jerk, simply asked what changes are being made to the 2012 La Sportiva Trango boots, and when theyre going to be out, and he went off about how they dont change year to year. Me and my wife will not be shopping at Second Ascent, well stick to Feathered Friends.

A Private User

If youre looking for great deals paired with rude employees, this is the place. Come on down! We wont help you, and if you didnt already feel like a dirt bag..well make sure you get the royal Seattle a-hole treatment, ensuring you to remember exactly who you are. Go back to California

Michael

Came here for a last minute glove purchase for sailing. Not exactly a sailing store but they had some good gloves that deal with wet and can take a beating. Werent cheap but cmon I wasnt looking for cheap gloves. My girl didnt keep them, or me, but thats not the stores fault!

Wes Furste

Great spot with prices in line with REI but a more knowledgeable staff for the most part. 5 trips there, 4 great experience and 1 where the guy B.S.d his way through my questions instead of asking somebody else that worked there for the answers. Overall I like it there.