Given the large number of online retailers, it is important to distinguish between reputable platforms and those that are not so reputable.
As an outdoor enthusiast, one name has repeatedly caught my attention in my research and recommendations: Backcountry. A giant in outdoor gear that seems to have dominated the market in recent years.
However, given some of the less positive reviews, the question naturally arises: “Is Backcountry reputable?”
To give you some insight, I set to work as an investigator. Here are my findings.
In Short
Backcountry has established itself as a reputable online retailer of outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories since 1996. However, compared to other platforms, many (including myself) find that Evo.com offers a more comprehensive product selection, a more user-friendly interface, and reliable customer service, making it a better choice for your outdoor gear needs.
Backcountry is a leading online retailer founded in 1996 and specializing in high-quality outdoor gear, apparel, and accessories. Serving a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from hikers to skiers, Backcountry offers an extensive selection of top brands, coupled with expert advice and solid customer service. The platform has cemented its reputation as a popular destination for adventurers seeking quality and reliability.
Backcountry has established itself as a major player in the outdoor retail industry, offering a wide range of high-quality products. However, the fact that Backcountry has a history of suing smaller companies for trivial trademark disputes raises ethical concerns among some consumers (myself included). In comparison, many find Evo.com to offer a more comprehensive and authentic service, thus positioning itself as the preferred choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wide product range: One thing is certain: Backcountry doesn’t skimp on variety. The product range is extensive!
On-site expertise: The “Gearheads,” a team of outdoor experts, provide valuable advice. I’ve contacted them several times and each time I’ve picked up helpful tips.
Solid return policy: The ability to return products even after trying them out gives you added peace of mind. Their policy for unused items is even more generous!
User reviews and questions and answers: You’ll often find detailed user reviews and questions and answers on the product pages.
Promotions and offers: Regular sales and offers offer customers the opportunity to get high-quality gear at discounted prices.
Lawsuit frenzy: Backcountry has been criticized for filing trademark lawsuits against smaller, grassroots companies. This raises questions about their approach to social engagement and ethical practices.
Delayed shipping: While I generally received my orders on time, I encountered complaints about delayed shipping in some reviews.
Prices: Due to the high-quality brands they carry, some items may be slightly more expensive outside of their sale.
Environmental concerns: Some readers pointed out the excessive packaging of some items.
Backcountry is an online retailer specializing in outdoor gear, apparel, and accessories. Founded in 1996, the company has grown into a major player in the outdoor industry, offering a wide range of activities, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
Founded by Jim Holland and John Bresee, Backcountry began as an online retailer in a garage in Park City, Utah. Over the decades, the company has grown into one of the most respected names in online outdoor retail, offering a wide range of products for activities from hiking and skiing to climbing and camping.
While they have a strong online presence, they have also ventured into brick-and-mortar retail with a few select stores, including a flagship store in Salt Lake City, Utah.
A unique and outstanding service offered by Backcountry is the “Gearheads” – a team of outdoor experts who support customers with advice and product recommendations.
However, it is worth noting that the brand was involved in controversy due to legal actions against smaller companies related to trademark rights, for which it later apologized.
I’ve made many purchases from Backcountry over the years. The process has usually been seamless, and I’ve received high-quality, genuine products.
To ensure an unbiased perspective, I browsed various online forums and review platforms and even sought feedback from other outdoor enthusiasts. Here are their opinions…
Backcountry’s reputation as a trustworthy company should be evident not only from its long market presence, but also from the numerous customer reviews.
However, I have noticed that these have become much more negative recently (especially on third party review portals).
The concerns were mainly about long delivery times, delivery of incorrect products and poor customer service. Although I usually take bad reviews with a grain of salt, the sheer number of reviews is a little worrying!
One aspect that continues to be well received is the personal advice and recommendations from the ‘Gearheads’. This service seems to boost confidence and shows how committed the brand is to ensuring customers make well-informed purchasing decisions.
In today’s digital age, online security is of paramount importance and Backcountry.com has taken significant measures to ensure the safety of its customers’ data.
Using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology, the site encrypts personal and payment information, protecting it from potential breaches. Regular reviews and updates of cyber security measures further enhance this protection.
There are also clear data protection guidelines for handling user data.
Backcountry continues to be a reputable online retailer in the outdoor industry. However, the company’s commitment to offering first-class products and expert advice has been somewhat overshadowed by recent problems.
Would I continue to shop at Backcountry?
Yes, but only if the product I really wanted wasn’t available at one of the more community-oriented alternatives.
Does that make me a hypocrite? Probably… but I would do anything for the right snowboard equipment (within reason).
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