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Mel Cotton's Sporting Goods
Categories: Shopping Fashion Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Sports Wear Shopping Sporting Goods Outdoor Gear Shopping Fashion Shoe Stores Sports Wear, Outdoor Gear, Shoe Stores [Edit]
1266 W San Carlos StSan Jose, CA 95126
(408) 287-5994
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 9 pm
Sun 10 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
brian k. said: "Awesome selection Standard for Sports Authority- I am an under armour fan and the selection for this brand is quite extensive" read more »
108 reviews for Mel Cotton's Sporting Goods
Review Highlights
"I remember buying my snowboard gear here too and service..."
(in 11 reviews)
"They also sell discounted lift tickets."
(in 3 reviews)
"Here comes the disc golf geek."
(in 3 reviews)
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108 reviews in English
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Review from Michelle L.
Milpitas, CA
1/12/2012
I come here often because of the snowboarding gear/clothing selection, which I think is much larger than REI, Sports Basement, and Sports Authority. Pricing is pretty good too and they have a lot of sales throughout the year.
Customer service however is hit-or-miss. One of the associates who waxed my snowboard was really helpful and friendly, and gave me some tips and pointers about when to re-wax and how to store the board over the summer. Another time I came here, a friendly sales associate was helping me and my bf for over half hour helping us find the perfect snowboard boot for my bf.
But the rest of the 9-10 times I've been here, there's probably been only ONE time where a sales associate has actually come up to me to greet me or even ask if there's anything I was looking for. Great products, great selection, but no-so-great customer service especially when there sales associates EVERYWHERE in this store (not even a "thank you" from the cashier after he rung me up for $250!) -
Review from Leanne P.
1/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
I ended up at Mel's yesterday because I've been wanting a particular North Face jacket. Unfortunately, I always start looking in the middle of December and TNF never has it :( I've looked at Any Mountain, REI, and Sports Chalet, but never seem to find what I'm looking for. Sports Basement is another option, but in all honesty, I want to be able to look for something online, then go to the store and pick it up. Not too hard right? Well, think again.
After looking through the REI and TNF's sites, I found the jacket I wanted. The Apex Elevation in black! Whoo hoo!!! Too bad they're sold out everywhere. Bah humbug right? This was supposed to be my Christmas present, I didn't want to settle for something else! After some google searching, I saw that Mel's had it in stock! I was about to order it online (it was on sale for 25% off and free shipping since the purchase was $100+) but I really wanted to try it on in person... so I checked the address and realized that its only about 20 minutes away.
Yesterday, I went in there after work (around 3ish) and it was pretty empty. There are a LOT of employees scattered around the store (which is huge, btw). I was able to locate the women's apparel pretty easily (there was a humongous sign) and able to find TNF jackets easily as well. I not only found a huge stock of the jacket I wanted, but saw a couple of other styles as well which all fit my requirements (warm, hooded, black). I ended up deciding on the jacket I had originally wanted (the Apex Elevation) but I'm so glad I went to the store. I was originally planning on buying it in a size XL but after putting it on, decided a L was more my style.
Now here's the one thing that took off a star: the customer service. When I'm searching for clothes, I like to be left alone, so I didn't mind that the 3-4 people who were near me while trying on jackets did not say a word to me... but as I started walking around the rest of the store (just to explore), I would have appreciated if ONE person greeted me or acknowledged me in any way. It doesn't take a whole lot of energy to say "hi" or "was there anything you were looking for?". When I went to pay for my jacket, the guy was personable but (with the new laws regarding bags), did not bag my jacket! I brought my reusable tote and put it on the counter, but he just left my jacket spread out on the counter. C'mon homie, at least fold it for me! I'm shelling out almost $200 and you can't take a second to fold my jacket and put it into my reusable tote? And its not like there was anyone in line... There were maybe 10 people in the whole store.
Other than that, I am a fan of Mel's. I like that they cover so many different sports in one shop (albeit, nothing with a ball :P) and they have a lot of different price points. I'd probably be back if I needed to pick up more snow stuff. -
Review from eric w.
San Jose, CA
11/17/2011
First time here and will never go back.
The first thing I told the salesperson at the gun counter, was that I was there to buy a new semi automatic hunting rifle.
Response: blink blink
"Well we don't have any."
blink blink...
"We would have to order one."
There was no offer to sell me a bolt action, give me some prices on the semiautomatics they could get me... nothing...
I guess he did not understand me when I said I need a new hunting rifle.
An idea for what I was looking for
http://www.benelliusa....
http://www.browning.co...
http://www.remington.c...
Just in case management wanted to know. -
Review from Will D.
San Jose, CA
2/2/2012
Selection here is great for snowboarding and camping goods. Selection ranges from worthless to fantastic.
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Review from James L.
San Jose, CA
2/4/2012
I have been trying to recieve an online coupon since 2011 from mel cottons for sometime now . In 2012 made a trip to the store for some things I needed, And inquired about the problem I had recieving an online coupon. And was told that my request would be handled by an internet associate. I walked out of the store with no purchase , to this day I still have not been able to recieve an online coupon, nor have I been back in the store . How hard is it to honor a coupon and keep a customer coming back . Mel cottons is still stuck in thier old way's of doing business, they need to update.
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Review from Holden M.
San Jose, CA
1/25/2012
Mel Cottons is a very good place to go for your hunting needs. I purchased a rifle here recently for my wife and after telling them the price of the Remington rifle that I can buy from the Bass Pro shop, they said they can come down to within 2 dollars of it!, very competitive and worth it saving me the time and money spent on going all the way to Manteca. I also purchased a scope that they gave me 20% off of and had the scope already mounted on the gun when we returned to pick the rifle up after the waiting period. The staff was very friendly and helpfull and didn't act as if they were tired of hearing your questions. I will definitely come back here to buy more of my hunting goods.
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Review from John V.
Campbell, CA
1/22/2012
I have been going to Mel Cottons since I was a kid. Believe me, that is a loooong time! They have an amazing selection of goodies in a lot of different areas, but this is my primary spot for fishing gear. They have a lot of wonderfully random things for camping and hiking that I really love, too and I will occasionally do shoe shopping here as well. They have periodic events that are really good and I totally recommend coming in and poking around if you are an outdoor enthusiast of an sort.
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Review from Bosch B.
San Jose, CA
1/5/2012
My review only applies to the fishing section.
Rod/reel selection - 4/5 - Good selection of Shimano rods, some higher end rods as well such as G.Loomis. Not as large of a selection as you'll find at Fisherman's Warehouse but if you need a new rod/reel you should be able to find an outfit that fits your needs. They have a tiny discount rack so expect to pay retail.
Hardbaits/Softbaits - 5/5 - Huge selection of plastics. If you can't find a plastic for what you're fishing for you don't know what you're doing. Good selection of hardbaits too, Luckycrafts in particular. Their saltwater selection isn't as robust as their freshwater stuff.
Customer Service - 5/5 - I see some negative reviews about the staff but this absolutely does not apply to the fishing department. They are very friendly and helpful and will answer any questions you may have. They will give tips and advice depending on what you're fishing for without coming across as arrogant or intimidating as I've seen at some other places.
Bait - 4/5 - They have frozen bait as well as live bait though they no longer carry live pile worms.
Walking through the store they have a pretty big section on clothes/guns/camping equipment, along with some watersport gear. Everything is packed in pretty tight and can feel like a "treasure hunt" when looking around.
Mel Cotton's has been a local San Jose small business for decades, shop with confidence. -
Review from Basil S.
Palo Alto, CA
6/8/2011
Just went here today to get a Therm-a-rest sleeping pad for my wife. Comparing it to online stores, it was the same price except for the tax. Signed up for their newsletter and received a coupon which made the price lower than online, even with the tax. So I was happy.
As far as the customer service went, I'm the type that doesn't like too much interaction and prefer to be left alone. I was asked if I needed help by a couple people and one worker answered a few quick questions I had. He was informative and nice and didn't linger or push anything. He also didn't try to make me feel like an idiot.
The only reason I give this four stars is because it doesn't have the best prices around. While I got a great price on the item I wanted, I looked at the clothing and other items, and I've seen cheaper at other locations. Even their sale and clearance sections were anything to get too excited about. -
Review from G B.
Santa Clara, CA
9/21/2011
Just as pricey as REI. But staff is very friendly and they have better brands. 4 effin stars!
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Review from Michael C.
Fresno, CA
6/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
Just shopped at this location for the first time on a late Friday evening. The moment I walked into the door I was greeted by an employee in the shoe dept informing me to feel free to ask him any questions. After checking out their awesome collection of hiking and trail running shoes, I asked him for help in the clothing dept, which wasn't even his dept, yet he was kind enough to assist me. I was asking some vague questions regarding their apparel and he kindly asked me to wait while he located the clothing dept employee. The next employee was a lady who as very nice and informative. She located exactly what I was looking for and even gave other suggestions about clothes I didn't even know a store like this would carry.
I read some of the negative customer service reviews here before heading to the store, and their awesome service has completely compelled me to write this great review. I wish I could give them 10 stars for their service. It was even 20 mins before closing when I got there and yet they were very happy to assist me. Their prices are very reasonable, everything they have is already out on display, and they've got a huge and great collection of outdoor clothes here.
I will absolutely be returning to this store for my outdoor needs! Thank you! -
Review from Eric T.
Campbell, CA
2/5/2011
I have shopped at Mel Cotton's for a few years now and I like their selection, especially of Arcteryx, which can be hard to fine. Prices are generally reasonable and you can get lucky with sale items.
But the real problem with Mel Cotton's is exceptionally poor customer service. As many reviews stated previously, the employees seem to busy talking to each other to ask if you need assistance. And this has been going on for years. As long as I've been coming here they act like this. Some of the employees can be very rude, aloof, and seem to have no idea about when the manager works or how to check the status of an order.
I ordered a jacket from the manager about 3 weeks ago and never heard back. This week I called in three different times to find out the status of my order and was told I would be called back right away once he talked to the manager on Wednesday. He never called back. Thursday I called again and was told the manager had just left. Friday I was told he left and would be back Saturday at opening (10AM), which case I drove there to check with him and was told in store that he doesn't work weekends. This is an embarrassing way to run a business and they deserve to lose good customers. I spend a lot of money on high-end camping/skiing/hiking gear, but I am going to stick with REI. They smoke Mel Cotton's with customer service and return policy. -
Review from Tina A.
4/5/2011
Don't bother visiting this store for pricey investments, unless you know EXACTLY what you're looking for. The assistant manager that I worked with to find skis & boots had poor customer service skills.
I received the skis as a gift, but after doing research online, determined they didn't match my skill level. When I went in to exchange, the assistant manager was hesitant to allow it. Excuse me? You better permit an exchange/return when someone purchases a gift of personal taste (and one that's hundreds of $) for another.
The gentleman was also impatient as I asked questions about alternative skis and their boots and he incorrectly fitted me. When I went to Helm, they encouraged a size smaller than what was recommended to me at Mel Cotton's.
Prices are good at the end of the season so I'll leave two stars. -
Review from JuJu B.
San Jose, CA
10/7/2011
Went to various places to find a wetsuit for my toddler. Being that everyone is getting ready for winter sports, all swim stuff had either already been put away or sold out. I also had no luck with clearance items. I almost gave up until I called up Mel Cotton's. They said they had them, but a limited selection. I dropped by a few hours later to find they were being honest. After a whole day looking for a specific size, I was glad to find the closest thing to what I wanted.
I recommend coming here. Good customer service, friendly, and honest staff. -
Review from Remy-Anne V.
San Jose, CA
2/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
I like this place better than Sports Basement. I came here the day that I was suppose to leave for Tahoe because I couldnt find my pants. So I was in a panic and hurry to find some on my lunch break. Bingo! This was the spot. It was also closer to my work than I thought.
This place seemed to be just the right size, with just the right amount of gear. Unlike Sports Basement which is a little overwhelming. As soon as I entered their staff were all very friendly and nice.
In fact in the midst of trying to find my pants I asked one of the workers where their fitting room was and he responded "We don't have any, sorry you can't try anything on and no returns or exchanges!" A whaaaaat!? I was so confused in bewilderment, wth kinda policy is this. It took me about 10 seconds to realize he was joking and then I just started to laugh and he kindly showed me towards the dressing rooms. And score! kid size pants for less than $50! haha Gotta love it! I'll definitely be back here..and this time I'll know where their fitting rooms are! Hooray, for Mels Cotton! -
Review from Alan A.
Fremont, CA
11/14/2010
This is the second time I have been to this store. My impression of the first visit was much better than this most recent visit. First of all, this place is literally crammed with stuff. A good amount of floor space is dedicated to clothing.
My impression is that it is a bit much, for the aisles are very narrow. They have a gun/hunting, fishing, camping, shoe, and ski department. None of these departments were overly impressive to me, and their prices were a bit high.
Where custmer service is concerned, I was not overly impressed either. Most of the floor personnel were busy chatting with each other rather than helping customers. I probably would not be in a hurry to go back. -
Review from LoveMeTender t.
San Jose, CA
9/2/2011
I have to say my family has been coming to MEl cottons for as long as i can remember they have everything for outdoor gear or even just to stay warm during the winter. love it we always find everything here !
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Review from Mike E.
San Jose, CA
3/10/2011
We went looking for ammo for a bday gift for my wife's father. We felt a bit lost because we both know nothing about guns and the dude behind the counter didn't make us feel any better about it.
He asked us if we needed help, we told him right away that we knew very little about guns, but we needed .22 rimfire ammo for a pistol. We told him that it was for target practice but we wanted "good ones" because it was a gift.
He said that was a very general statement, pointed and said all his bulk ammo was on the counter and that was pretty much the end of the conversation.
We left and went to Reed's in Santa Clara... it was the right decision -
Review from Carina M.
12/31/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I used to come to Mel Cotton's when I was a kid. It's nice to see that the interior looks like it hasn't changed since 1980.
Bought more fishing stuff here for my dad and some fishing equipment for my husband. Staff is fairly knowledgeable. Prices are competitive so this is a great local place to support.
However, I do feel cramped and a bit claustrophobic in this store. Everything is crammed into small places and I almost feel like I've stumbled into a hoarder's house. Little tunnels here, little tunnels there that take you to different parts of the store...and eventually, if you're lucky, a tunnel will take you to the register and eventually out the door. -
Review from Michele W.
San Jose, CA
3/25/2011 8 Check-ins Here
Come here regularly for fishing supplies and expert advice. I usually talk to Ron if he's working. He's full of information!
Has pretty much everything you need for any outdoor activity. Prices are not cheap...but catch the sale days and you'll save a bunch! -
Review from Ginger K.
San Jose, CA
8/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
Nice place, but could have more of a selection on firearms
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Review from Jessica J.
Redwood City, CA
10/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
So, I couldn't get them to answer the phone when I called to check their stock, but when I got there a girl in the shoe dept was very knowledgable about the shoes I was looking for. She measured me and brought out some (in another style & color) to try on. Turns out they DIDN'T have the shoes I wanted in my size afterall.
She also told me that she wasn't sure they were going to get anymore in soon. She DID refer me to another store in Campbell, that I also could not reach by phone for several hours and ended up emailing the website... (another review).
It's sort of a Garage Sale feel in there, so I left not feeling confident they would be my first stop for sporting goods ever again.
Can't complain about the customer service when you're face to face (she was VERY FRIENDLY & HELPFUL), but I'd say the Store Inventory, organization, and phone etiquette (actually answering) could use some improvement. -
Review from Pat C.
San Jose, CA
10/28/2010
Look out for the guy that thinks he's special. He turned away a nice lady applying for work there rudely while I was in line to purchase. This same guy also attempted to have a devious joke on me with a fellow worker there who didn't play along. He walks around cracking his neck with his hands.
The Asian fellow working the fishing department went out of his way to help me. I managed to have a productive perch shore fishing trip from gaining knowledge from him.
This is my honest review of the place. -
Review from Sean L.
Brooklyn, NY
8/20/2011
So Cotton's has a reputation for bad customer service. I liked it (I've only been once) because it's the sort of place you can settle into and not be badged by a throng of sales people. It's the sort of place you peruse at your own pace.
I came in search of something I've been looking for for weeks. It was a glow-in-the-dark Nalgene. No where had it. I've checked about 4 or 5 REI's, Next Adventure in Portland, MEC in Victoria, BC, countless other stores.... I've been looking.
Mel Cotton's had it!!! They had 3! I was floored. I spoke to the cashier and she said that they have a hard time keeping it in stock but they try very hard to. It's not worth the effort to REI, but it is to Mel, apparently. I like that because it seems like they've got a finger on the pulse of what people actually want. That's a business model for success.
Their prices aren't there to draw you in, but their selection of Arc'teryx (which not many people have very much of) and their seeming ability to stock in-demand products trumps their short comings.
In my opinion. This is the first time I've spent at least an hour in San Jose. I've never even heard of this store before. It's just my short impression. It's a classic outfitter with lot's and lot's of things. They've got quality products and brands. They are not cheap but they're not exactly rip offs either (expect to pay more than online and at a discounter, but about the same as what REI would charge...full retail). -
Review from Eddie C.
San Francisco, CA
12/7/2010
I come to Mel's for the fishing department mainly, but they have a good (sometimes over crowded) selection for apparel, hunting, shoes/boots, etc.
All their prices are VERY competitive, even compared to Online Retailers!!! I would buy something here for their prices and also the satisfaction that I can return/exchange the item without trouble AND there is no shipping!
The fishing staff is VERY helpful and knowledgeable. They will give you tips on where to go and what spots are hot. I do not give 5 stars all the time but Mel Cotton's deserves it. -
Review from Ryan B.
Los Gatos, CA
1/14/2011
I went here to rent a snowboard. I didn't find the staff that helpful. They gave me wet, moldy boots to try on at first. I told the guy and he quickly replaced them.
It was the best price I could find around San Jose without searching too hard. I picked up on Friday and dropped off on Monday and it came out to ~$43 with tax. The board they gave me was pretty good for a rental.
I would recommend renting here. -
Review from David G.
San Jose, CA
10/28/2011
We bought some ski equipment and received Bear Valley lift tickets! Great time. Been coming to Mel's for years.
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Review from Ray N.
San Francisco, CA
1/19/2011
This store's selection is great, but their stuff can be overpriced a bit so do some research before buying. They have a lot of stuff packed into their store, but its a little hard finding things. They have a lot of staff for their store, but none of them actually approach you to try to help out, they just talk to each other. Many of the staff members seem like they are arrogant.
When you are buying firearms or ammunition from here, make sure you double check on msrp before buying. They were charging $50+ over msrp for many of their rifles and shotguns. I have never experienced this problem anywhere else. In other places I go to, I find firearms either at msrp, or below. They will price match, but only if other stores have them in stock, so if you can wait a few days extra, you can save yourself a lot of money by going to another shop and asking them to order for you. This is also the only shop I have been to that charges you $26 for a $25 DROS fee when purchasing a firearm from them. The $1 doesn't really matter, but its the principle that bugs me.
As much as I try to support local shops, I don't want to support them if they have bad service like this. I have gone to this shop about 10 times already, and it was actually my favorite shop to browse through, but when I actually started spending money there, it seemed as if they did not really care helping their customers. They won't be getting my business for a while. -
Review from Flor D.
3/23/2009
Dearest Mel,
San Jose appreciates you. The prices, the quirky staff, the random mix of fishing, hunting, snow, and leisure gear. Really, we appreciate it all.
Additionally, we appreciate you MORE when you put your stuff on SALE.
My first visit was spent looking through all the snow gear. I am not a poser, and refused to be one of those people who spent $$$ for a one time visit. I don't need the latest stuff, I just need the basic. Picked up some snow pants, gloves, and goggles. Didn't find any crash pads, but then again, I wasn't looking. I walked out of Mel's happy with most of my gear for an upcoming trip.
My second visit had more of a purpose. Not only did I pick up a better pair of thermals, but I also replaced some broken glasses.
Thanks Mel. We appreciate your store. Looks a little funky outside, but once you step inside, it's all good in my book! Will definitely consider your store for my hiking needs as well. For me it's simple, good stuff at low prices. Keep it coming!
P.S. Please thank the older guy who was looking for my one pair of VZ sunglasses. My eyes appreciate him and his efforts. -
Review from Archie G.
San Jose, CA
8/12/2009
Mel Cotton's rocks when it comes to fishing, camping, backpacking, skiing, and other nature related sports.
Unfortunately, Mel Cotton's is mediocre when it comes to other sports such as soccer, baseball, hockey, and other sports where score is kept and a uniform is worn.
In the end, it serves the community well and is a landmark on San Carlos street where older businesses continue to thrive.
Plus, this place is always good for a gift certificate on Father's day or my dad's birthday. He can use it here on fishing equipment.
Back in the day, my dad bought me all of my gear as a kid for sports, even though he knew his son was no more than a fringe "benchwarmer."
It was one of his many sacrifices for me. And well, dropping $100 bucks on a card to Mel Cotton's is my way of thanking him.
And well, thank you Mel, or Mr. Cotton if you prefer, for providing a place that always makes my dad happy. -
Review from Suan W.
Silicon Valley
1/30/2010
This is my athletic equipment/apparel destination #2 after Sports Basement but what's up with the name? Sooooooo indicative of a sporting goods store. NOT!
The location is somewhat remote, and the storefront is rundown and ghetto-looking, but damn, do they know how to cram a shitload of stuff into a small space. Actually, let me take that back. The store itself is spacious but poorly organized. The front area is tightly packed with a hodgepodge of merchandise while the back is warehouse-like and sparse. How about spreading everything evenly throughout the store, guys? It'll spare everyone from coming out of the store feeling like they were just ripped a new asshole.
Despite the hemorrhoid-inducing layout, what sets Mel Cotton's apart is its great customer service. While other stores' employees are helpful when approached, the personable staff here takes initiative to patiently assist customers and thoroughly answer questions.
For full-price items, I would check with Sports Basement first as Mel Cotton's is more expensive. However, if you're looking for beanies, gloves, and snow goggles, this is the place to go as its selections are huge. It also has great deals on sale items from time to time - I recently scored a Burton jacket for 25% off! -
Review from Samantha R.
San Francisco, CA
8/24/2009
Sweet! Support local business!
If they remodeled and made this multilevel I'm pretty sure they wouldn't need the floor-plan to be as vast as Costco, but what can you do...clearly this place knows what they are doing since they've been around since wayyyy before I was born.
Its got fair prices even though it isn't a chain. I've rented packs for backpacking from here, bought snowboarding and hiking gear from here, and purchased other miscellaneous outdoor stuff...
If you are ever in the West San Carlos area and don't feel like making the trek out to Saratoga REI, this is a really good stop for your outdoor needs :) -
Review from Kevin C.
San Jose, CA
1/24/2009
I really don't know where to begin with Mel Cottons, except that I have not had any memorable service there.
I came to MCSG roughly twice in 3 years during the winter for snowboarding equipment and clothes. I must say that their clothes are well organized, however they are compacted in a small space and difficult to maneuver if there is another patron in the same aisle.
As for their winter equipment, I'm not sure if they are under staffed or if their sales people are being ignorant. I always feel neglected and frustrated here.
Personally, I rather go somewhere else with better service... -
Review from Anna K.
Milpitas, CA
2/17/2009 1 Check-in Here
We stopped by tonight to pick up some last minute snow gear. The store is HUGE. They have everything you may need for the snow, woods, hiking, swimming and everything else in between.
We bought the kids snow boots, gloves, beanie and a pair of Uggs for my mini me. The gloves and beanie were 20% off and 25% for my daughter's Uggs. They're having their winter sale so we made out with good stuff. I am esp happy about the savings on my daughter's Uggs. Regular price is $89.99 but we got them for $67. You can't beat that esp with Uggs :)
The staff was very friendly and helpful. We are independent shoppers. We don't care to be acknowledged when we walk into the store but we were greeted nonetheless and were approached several times asking if we needed help with anything. Service with a smile. Always a plus.
It doesn't hurt that they rent out snow gear for reasonable prices. We like a lot! -
Review from Nobody M.
Los Angeles, CA
12/18/2007
I'll have to agree with David C. Mel Cottons used to be cool....when I was like 7. $200 for a simple down jacket? Urrr....please. Go ahead--scour the racks at REI, Mel Cotton's, Sports Basement and the Army Surplus store--you'll find nothing but the same crap: North Face, Mountain Hardware, Columbia. Is this China? Go to five stores and they're all selling the same communist made gear? Only difference was that Mel Cotton's had the HIGHEST prices (must be due to their upscale location, lol). Sports Basement had the best selection and lowest prices, but the sizes were all too big (seems everyone in America is getting fat but me?). Anyhow....call me stubborn, but I wasn't about to get ripped off at any of these places. I'd rather get hypothermia.
And then after I resigned myself to even getting a sub zero jacket, I found the perfect item at Costco--yes--COSTCO--for $39. I know--sounds totally ridiculous, but the fucker is hot as hell, has a removable fleece liner, pukka zippers, a breathable/waterproof shell and enough pockets for a shortwave radio, a headlamp, GPS, supplies, keys, knives, etc. Absolutely the best (and perhaps ugliest) jacket I found and I didn't pay a cock-in-the-butt price for it. -
Review from Christy M.
San Jose, CA
5/20/2011
Great service and selection of items here! I bought some gloves here and they worked out perfectly! No hassle, and convenient location. I would come back if I need any equipment for tahoe or camping :)
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Review from Iris Y.
I've went to other sporting goods stores with better organization in retail. The fishing event I went to was a fun experience though! They had a 3.2K tank with a expert fisherman who was giving a workshop and a large kids' fishing tank at the San Carlos side of the parking lot. Rad. I feel like I learned a lot more about fishing than ever.
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Review from Tracy T.
San Francisco, CA
1/7/2009
This place is great to hit up for snowboarding gear. I'll have to admit that it is not as big as some other chain stores, but they have a good selection of everything to bundle/strap yourself up with for snowboarding (Burton *my fave*, Columbia, Spyder, just to name a few). From last season's items (usually discounted) to this season's items, they have sales here and there. Look on their web site for advertisements and deals. I was so glad I did one day, because I found a limited time 20% coupon and used it on a regular priced Burton snowboarding jacket (2009 season too, yay!). I remember buying my snowboard gear here too and service was great. They gave me pointers on what to look for when buying certain items. They also have a wintersports rental department and sell discounted lift tickets too. A one stop shop before you head out to the slopes, what more could you ask for?
P.S. They had a fishing expo outside in the parking lot when I cam here once, complete with huge tank filled with fish. Very cool. Parking can be hard to find in their little lot next to the store, but that's what you get for a good store. -
Review from David C.
Fremont, CA
1/14/2007
While Mel Cotton's provides decent discounts (usually around 10% from what I saw), I have serious issues with how they do it. On all of their tags they have a "Value Price," "Mel's Price," and the "Sale Price." What I would take from that is that the Value Price is the MSRP, Mel's Price is cheaper than that, and Sale Price cheaper still.
In actuality, Mel's Price is usually inflated about 10% over MSRP and the "Value Price" is some exorbitant arbitrarily chosen number. So they might sell a $300 MSRP snowboard for $270, but list the "Mel's Price" at $330 and the "Value Price" at $400 to make it seem like you are saving more money than you actually are. I understand that as an independently owned store they need to charge more than the chains, but that sort of shadiness makes it much less likely that I will ever support them.
The selection is decent and at least some of the staff helpful, it's moot point to me because of that and the aforementioned shady nonsense. The fact that the place is also rather cramped doesn't help matters either.
If I were unable to find a particular item after a thorough search locally and online, I might check out if Mel Cotton's has it in stock. But in general, I make it a rule not to patronize this place. -
Review from Nam N.
2/11/2009 1 Check-in Here
I swung by here earlier today to pick up some last minute stuff for a boarding trip this upcoming weekend....
I'm not sure if it's because they're having a sale but the store was truly a HOT MESS! Items of different brands/styles were lumped together on the same tables, racks were crammed packed with too many items that made it difficult to look through them, and I (who usually can maneuver and find anything in stores) couldn't find any dri-fit tees for the life of me.
In the future, I think I'll need to plan ahead of time to buy things online or make my treks to Sports Basement instead.
