Columbia Factory Store — Attraction in Portland

Isn't that what it's all about? I'd never been to this store although I've past it probably a thousand times on my way thru Sellwood. Seriously I never thought I could afford anything they sell - not because it's uber expensive mostly because in the past I've been uber poor. Times change. And the tax return was in the bank. Our trip to Sellwood was a bit disappointing as nearly all of the antique shops are closed, about to be closed or replaced with condos (true story). We parked down the street and over a few blocks so the parking was no issue for us. This store is clean, well-organized, and has two floors. Yippee. I was just interested in shoes and the price was right. I thought I found what I needed and tried to use their instore computer to get details on my soon-to-be purchase. No luck. So I asked if the shoes were water-proof. This is Oregon after all and eventually it'll rain again.

Wow. Our salesperson was spot on. She knew her shoes - her advice was great and I took it. I wore those shoes the rest of the day and I didn't even suffer the "new shoes gotta work the mole skin to soften the rough edges" issue I normally do. And the best part? Only $40 for quality I can't find anywhere else. I've only had them less than 8 hours and they're already my favorite shoes.

I'm a happy, satisfied...

I love the Oregon Columbia Factory Stores! Always better than others out of the PDX area. Especially outside Oregon. There's a ton of great options when the clearance and 70% off deals are on. For small kids to adults. From winter wool, fleece to regular socks to hats and beanies. Covered from head to toe, gear, and every store has a bit different things. The only bummer is that they used to check other stores in the area for items wanting to purchase. Then it would be sent to the store shopped at for me (customer). They did it once for me for a jacket. Maybe it was just that one time.The only available store that had it was over an hour away. I really wish that was still possible. It wasn't available online either. I would have prepaid for it. I understand some people might ask for it then not pick it up for purchase... Even if there was a purchase item over $100 bucks. I can understand that. Would give 5 * if they still did that. My jacket was over $100 for sure. But that was 50% off. Definitely an...

Okay, I've finally figured out that the reason I can't find Merrell outlets all over Portland is because there are Columbia outlets everywhere, instead. The deals I got here made me just as happy as the deals I'm used to getting at my favorite Merrell outlet in Folsom. I got two pairs of waterproof nonslip boots for work-- one Columbia and one Sorel-- both for $55. I had almost purchased a similar pair of Columbia boots at DSW for $70 a few days ago, so I ended up being so glad I held out for a better deal. They had so many good deals at this outlet, it was literally overwhelming. They had an entire floor of clearance Columbia and Mountain Hardware jackets. I also noticed a huge selection of PFG gear. I'm not into fishing, but I like their lightweight long sleeve sunblocking shirts. Customer service was friendly, one of the employees was also a seasonal national park worker, so we ended up talking about that a little bit. Overall a great experience and I would definitely...