True Outdoors

What visitors say

True Outdoors, formerly known as Valhalla, is an independent outdoor store in Kamloops. Reviewers describe a big, well-laid-out shop stocked with clothing, footwear and gear from major brands, plus items they haven't seen at larger chains. Parking is easy.

Staff are the main reason people return. Reviewers call them friendly, patient and knowledgeable because they use the gear themselves, and several say the focus is on helping rather than selling. They've fitted packs and hiking boots, advised on stoves and tents, explained bear spray to overseas visitors and suggested local trail runs and hikes. When something isn't in stock, staff have pointed customers to other local shops.

The range covers hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, ski touring and paddling. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent, and one customer said staff helped load a kayak onto their roof even though the carrier came from elsewhere. Online orders generally ship quickly, including to the US, and clearance deals turn up often.

Most complaints involve online orders and returns: a few buyers, including one through Amazon, had trouble with shipping charges, return costs or undelivered items. One long-time customer felt the high-end backcountry and ski selection has thinned, and a recent shopper found limited sizes in some premium lines. For bigger purchases, shopping in person may be the smoother route.

Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 199 Google reviews. Details change — confirm hours, prices and bookings with True Outdoors directly.