Clintonville Outfitters Blog

Just a quick reminder.  Every Tuesday night at 7:30 here in the shop we are holding clinics for anyone interested in attending.  The first two have gone very well and we are excited for them to continue throughout the fall/winter.  Our next two topics are Women and the Outdoors (women only) and the following Tuesday (Oct. 2nd) will be Disaster Preparedness.  These classes are free and all levels of experience are welcome. 

On another note, it is good to see the students back at Ohio State.  Don't forget that you can save 10% on your purchase through the month of September with your BuckID. 

Posted by coblog at 04:45 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

One thing that we knew going into our little venture was that it was going to take a full year before we really figure out how the store will run.  Things would need to be tweaked, items added & deleted, staff built, advertising decisions made, and so on.  All expected and thought about ahead of time, but to find what works best you just have to try things in a live environment.  So we have taken some fliers on product, most of which people have liked (see chillba), and made some other decisions that may not have been the best.  We also knew that would happen. 

Our initial hours were set based on many different factors.  When we opened, the store was only about 60% full, building still needed to be done, "business things" needed taken care of, product needed ordered, and we needed time to figure out our inventory control system and point of sale software.  All things that could only be done while we were closed.  So in talking with our neighbors and experiencing our own activity, we set hours that would allow us time throughout the week to get those things done, but still be open when people wanted to come by. 

Just like anything, sometimes you make the right call, sometimes you don't.  I am sure we have made both, but ultimately, finding that sweet spot is the goal.  The only way to do that is with the help of those who are affected by those decisions.  Our customers.  We have said it before, but I will mention it one more time.  We love feedback.  We want this to be a group effort.  It has to be for a small business to survive in todays world.  Please let us know what you like, don't like, or are indifferent about.  It will only help to mold our store into something that will continue to supply you the service and product you enjoy.  So, thanks to those who came in to let us know that you want to shop at 11 on a Sunday morning.  Duly noted.

We are happy to announce... 

NEW HOURS START IMMEDIATELY!  Open at 10am every day of the week. except for Monday's as we are still going to be closed mostly for the reasons listed above.  That might change coming into the holidays or once we have some other employees.  We'll see.  This is still a work in progress.  Two and a half months down and with your help, many years to go.  We will figure this out someday.  Thanks for your input and understanding as we ramble on...

-Jonathan

Posted by coblog at 10:49 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

• Sigg Water Bottles. Although Sigg bottles have been here since we opened, lots of accessories are on the way along with many new styles and designs due to the overwhelming popularity. The bottles have a solvent-free, eco-friendly, powder-based coating which is baked on to create the vibrant finishes. Sigg uses a water-based, non-toxic coating that is baked into the interior walls and remains flexible and crack resistant for the life of the bottle. All Sigg bottles exceed FDA requirements and have been independently tested to prove 0.0% leaching. Recycle those plastic water bottles and buy your kids a Sigg! http://www.sigg.ch/
• Eagles Nest Outfitters Hammocks. Some of the lightest most comfortable hammocks on the market. These traditional designs are made in single and double person configurations with many additional accessories available, including hanging straps, bug nets, rain/sun flys and pillows. The double person design packs down to roughly the size of a grapefruit. All models are available in a variety of colors and are very affordable. Students: get rid of that nasty couch on your porch and string up a hammock! http://www.eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/ (and yes we carry the Lounger!)
• Hennessy Hammocks. Continuing with our love of hammocks we added this brand of high-end camping hammocks. Matt uses a Hennessy whenever he can and can't find a more comfortable way to sleep. These hammocks are a non-traditional design, when set up properly the user will lay almost completely flat with only a slight curve to match the spine and elevate the head and feet. Hennessy's include a built-in bug net for bug free sleeping as well as a nice full coverage rain fly. The weights range from just over a pound and a half to the three pound range. When using a Hennessy you can leave your sleeping pad and tent at home, saving weight and bulk in your pack. Rentals are available for the curious, but be careful, most are addicted after one night! http://hennessyhammock.com/
• Native Sunglasses. Polarized sport glasses with a full lifetime replacement warranty. Many models include interchangeable lenses for various light and interchangeable temples for use in windy or water environments. Stop on in and try a pair on today! http://www.nativeyewear.com/home.php

Posted by coblog at 12:59 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)