Solstice Outdoors — Local services in Ashland

I’m going against the grain on this one. This review is just for Solstice Outdoors. Understanding that Solstice primarily targets upper class tourists, one would think that being in close proximity to the nations 2nd top Outdoor Education school (Northland College), Solstice would provide more than boutique gimmick products. Of the 4 years I’ve lived in the area, Solstice has had what I was looking for about 10% of the time, if that. Not that I’m looking for anything outlandish, but not having a sleeping bag liner but being stocked with plastic ‘camp wine glasses’ speaks volumes.

Another critique is the condescending and overbearing staff. While help finding what you’re looking for is appreciated, it’s extremely uncomfortable when you’re the only customer and an employee stands RIGHT behind you and watches you browse. The fact that an employee needs to be TOLD to go away after mentioning that you do not need help portrays an unfriendly environment. Unfortunately, this seems to be a reoccurring theme throughout my four years of ‘business’ with this establishment.

That being said, if you’re looking for overpriced ‘equipment’ to supplement your next glamping excursion, Solstice Outdoors is the...

I live in Duluth and travel to Ashland and Bayfield often on weekends, and while in town I always like to stop in at the Blue Wave building for coffee and to pick up a shirt or hat or miscellaneous outdoor gifts for friends and family. I value small business. I've always enjoyed stopping in and browsing. At my last visit this past weekend, the female employee with a tree tattooed on her arm caused me and my partner profound discomfort by repeatedly asking what we are looking for. Her social skills are abysmal. Her vacuous facial expression and repeated "Are you looking for something specific?" after being told less than 60 seconds prior (multiple times) that we were just browsing has ended my patronage of Solstice Outdoors. Was she just trying to cause us constant discomfort so we would leave? If not, why not hire enthusiastic employees with...

So pleased with my cross country skis!

So happy to have a local shop in town that has high-quality outdoor merchandise. I had a hankering to take up cross country skiing and Paul at Solstice was super helpful and passionate about making sure I had all the right gear to get started. He was very knowledgeable about the products and made me excited to get on the trails. I've been skiing almost every day since I purchased them. They also set me up with great base layering gear.

So happy Ashland has a gem like...