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Sports Basement
Category: Shopping Sporting Goods Sporting Goods [Edit]
1881 Ygnacio Valley RdWalnut Creek, CA 94598
(925) 941-6100
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 am - 9 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Christine M. said: "I wandered in thinking I wouldn't be able to find much help in getting good shoes. Most stores that offer such a wide variety of product don't know specific details about any particular thing. That wasn't the case here. I came in…" read more »
140 reviews for Sports Basement
Review Highlights
"First, they sell a bit of rugby gear, which is fantastic."
(in 38 reviews)
"GREAT selection of shoes--running and casual."
(in 10 reviews)
"Bought the best pair of running shoes."
(in 5 reviews)
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140 reviews in English
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Review from roderick s.
SOMA, San Francisco, CA
10/29/2011
Michael at the swim/triathlon dept. helped me to choose my wetsuit. The dude is awesome and very knowledgeable. He even gave me some pointers for my first triathlon.
I probably triied 4 different wetsuits and finally decided on 1 brand but this one had a nail ripped at the pants. The didn't had any more in stock and he had to call other stores to check. He found one from the Sunnyvale store and had it shipped to Walnut Creek. I got a call the next and said they already got my wetsuit from the other store. WOW!!
Thank you very much for a an excellent service and you guys ROCK!!!!! -
Review from K P.
Walnut Creek, CA
2/4/2012
HUGE store, but I wasn't that impressed with the selection for what I was looking for. Clothes wise they are really well stocked, lots of cute snow gear, and I was impressed with the selection of European football shirts. However, I came here for sneakers and new squash gear. They only had 3 rackets to choose from, and no individual cases.
The ladies sneaker collection wasn't great either, they had a few ok pairs on sale, but really not much variety.
I think i'll be back here around April time to pick up some ski gear when it goes on sale, but it didn't really meet the majority of my sporting needs. -
Review from Joel E.
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
It must be really difficult to run a successful & profitable sporting goods store. If you shop around at the various Sport "Marts, Towns, Chalets, Basements, etc." it is readily apparent that these stores are all in a really competitive pricing market. I've shopped at what seems like a ton of different sporting goods stores in the Bay Area over the years. For me, Sports Basement has a formula that sets it apart from the others. Anyway, I keep coming back.
This Sports Basement is located where a couple of grocery stores have failed to make a go of it in the past. So, think grocery store sized facility . . . in a strip mall. A little different from some of the big box sporting goods stores that have popped up.
Sports Basement has a wide variety and great selections on all kinds of stuff . . . athletic wear, running gear, footwear, ski & snowboarding gear, bicycles, vitamins & supplements, sports eyewear, athletic electronics, all kinds of stuff for team sports, etc. They carry men's, women's, and children's sizes.
There are also a few other really nice features to Sports Basement that sets them apart from the big box sporting goods stores . . . First, they are very community minded and regularly sponsor and support numerous community events. Second, they offer discounts to members of several local Health Clubs. Finally, I have always been satisfied with the friendly & neighborly service received whenever I've needed to ask for help.
Great stuff. Community minded. Excellent selection. Helpful service. !!! -
Review from Jeromy G.
Hercules, CA
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
I bought my ticket here for Pop for $58 which is way cheaper than if I would have bought if from TicketMaster online so kudos on that.
However this review is for their snowboarding equipment. Knowledgeable staff and a wide selection. If you're going up to the snow and don't want to get charged up the ass for rental snowboard of ski gear because you don't own your own, come here. Rent your gear before you go and bring it up to the mountain and then bring it back to return it. It's way cheaper and you'll have more money for overpriced lodge food and your lift ticket. -
Review from Chadwick M.
Walnut Creek, CA
2/1/2012
Great selection and prices and nice people. My young kids also enjoy exploring the store fun on saturday afternoons when I need something to keep them busy.
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Review from Pearl S.
Walnut Creek, CA
1/14/2012
Love this store! Great shoe selection and plenty of athletic wear as well as casual wear at great prices. Friendly staff who have answers and treat you well. Very community-oriented as they give free classes and have running clubs, etc. They sponsor fundraising events for your non-profit group and will have group events such as birthday parties as well. I frequent this store as its location is very close to my house.
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Review from Mike C.
San Ramon, CA
12/23/2011
Until today, I absolutely loved Sports Basement.
I've purchased a bunch of cycling and camping gear here over the years. Great prices on great quality stuff. A couple months ago I purchased a pair of sunglasses and recently the lens broke from switching out the replaceable lenses. I called them up while I was out today and told them I only had the glasses with me, no case or other lenses and asked if I could exchange them anyhow. The guy on the phone said "Absolutely. Bring them in, we want to make sure you're happy with your purchase." My reaction: "I love Sports Basement!" This is why I shop here.
I made the 20 minute drive to Walnut Creek and grabbed a pair of the sunglasses from their cycling section. While attempting to exchange the glasses, I was told by the manager on duty (John C.) that I needed to have the box and everything that came with it to make the exchange. I relayed the phone conversation I had with one of the employees at this location, but John still insisted that I have everything with me. He wouldn't even swap out just the broken lens and keep the rest of the contents (newer/unused!) for return to the manufacturer. Instead, he wanted the contents of my box. I can't begin to understand why.
The clerk I spoke to made a simple mistake, but it would have been easily rectified with no loss to either party. I'll make the 40 minute round trip and swap out my shades, but I must say I'm disappointed and expected more from Sports Basement! -
Review from Dustin S.
Vallejo, CA
1/20/2012
the 20% off everything in stock until it snowed was a great sale. picked up a timbuktu backpack and saucony running pants. not a huge selection of Nike running gear, but plenty of other brands.
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Review from Menlo k.
Menlo Park, CA
10/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love Sports Basement. Lots of sports stuff at very low prices. They don't always have the greatest selection, but they almost always have something that will work.
This store is kind of funky in it's layout, but it works. -
Review from Darrel D.
Castro Valley, CA
12/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great customer service (the place is huge, one of the staff saw my confusion as I walked in, and stepped up to offer help). I'm impressed by their running gear (compression socks/suits) and shoes. Plus their sports food section is nice. Since I work within the area, I will be visiting this place often to get more more camping/hiking gear as well as running shoes.
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Review from S B.
Concord, CA
1/12/2012
A great bike shop, surrounded by a good sporting goods store.
I really like the guys in the bike shop. They have a good selection of lots of different stuff. They've got guys who ride primarily on the road, others that stick to the dirt and some who do both. They seem to know their stuff and are able to tell you WHY (suggestions based on YOUR needs) to buy this item over that one, not just "buy this because it's what I use". They have always offered to help when I'm looking around, but respect my wishes when I tell them "I'm just looking". Best of all, the prices are good to excellent.
I bought a road bike from them last year. My first bike purchase outside of Encina Bikes in a long time. I talked with the folks at Encina first, as well as a couple other local shops, but Sports Basement had the bike I wanted in my size. This was the biggest selling point for me, since I really wanted to try it out before spending that much money. I'm a big guy and not many shops stock a large enough frame for me. While they don't offer lifetime service (like Encina does), they do offer two years of free tune ups and a very thorough fitting after you've had some time to ride the new bike.
I've had similar experiences with service in the camping, clothing and shoe departments. As with bikes, they sell quality brand name gear at below retail prices. If you get into some of the lesser staffed areas, it may take some time to track someone down to help. Even there, if you're patient / persistent, you'll find someone will be along to answer your questions.
My only strike against them would be on some ski's I demo'd last season. Their price was great, with the cost to demo a pair of current year ski's for a long weekend costing less than I would have paid for one day at the resort. That said, the ski's had a thick layer of wax left on the base. I didn't notice this until I was having problems skiing out to the lift line the first day. I assumed someone ironed the wax on, but then forgot to scrape it off. Obviously, the ski's did not glide well and I fought with them when I wasn't carrying speed or in the deep powder (fortunately, it was a GREAT powder weekend). When I brought the ski's back in and mentioned it to the ski tech, he said "that's how we do it, to protect the bases from getting scratched up". WTF... I assumed it was an oversight, but was being told it was intentional. Well, now I know and I'll ask them to scrape the ski's for me (or I'll do it at home) if / when I demo ski's there again.
Normally, the ski shop experience would be a "minus two star offense", but the rest of the store is just so good I couldn't only give them three.
As an added bonus, they'll give you a 10% discount if you're a AAA or Costco member. You'll need to let them know at checkout, as I don't think they normally ask.
They certainly aren't the only good bike shop (or sporting goods store) in the area, but they do a good job at a very fair price. -
Review from Sara R.
Walnut Creek, CA
12/4/2011
Want custom fit ski boots while still paying less than retail? Then you REALLY need to come to Sports Basement.
My husband and I have come here for years for our general activity needs, but when I needed to buy a pair of new ski-boots that fit properly this year, I hesitated thinking maybe I should just get my sizing and buy them online, or go someplace more main-stream like Sports Chalet or Big 5. Thank GOODNESS I didn't do either of those.
Bruce helped me from the initial ski-boot choice and fitting, to picking out the perfect skiis that fit my budget. However, what truly floored me about the service I got was that when I came back in after my first two days up in the slopes with the boots not feeling like they fit quite right, Bruce spent TWO HOURS with me, stretching the liner, the actual boot itself and making custom insoles for me. I mean, you don't get that kind of service when you go see a specialist let alone your own doctor!! And the crazy thing was, I got all this for way less than I would have paid in any other store.
I have always loved SportsBasement for the fact that everyone that works there actually KNOWS the gear they sell because they use it regularly themselves, but now they have my permanent loyalty because of the extra service you get after you've purchased an item from them. -
Review from Koshka K.
San Francisco, CA
1/16/2012
Good selection, just know what you want before you come in. Finding a staffer is a challenge, plus they know very little about their own merchandise and/or sports and fitness.
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Review from Caitlin M.
Livermore, CA
6/30/2011
I am doing the Susan G Komen 3-Day for the Cure in September and received a 20% off coupon to Sports Basement for being a participant. My mom and I both needed new shoes for our walk so we made a trip up to Walnut Creek.
Sports Basement is GINORMOUS, a little overwhelming, but we were pointed in the right direction right away. We told the 2 employees that were helping us that we were having to train for the next 4 and a half months and then walk the 60 miles. They had us walk and watched our steps and then from there they picked out a few pairs of shoes for us each to try on. By the time I was done I had tried on 10-15 pairs of shoes. Finally finding the perfect shoes, Brooks for me New Balance for my mom.
The best part about purchasing our shoes from here is their return policy. You can return your shoes (that you have worn and tried out) and receive all of your money back within 30-days of your purchase!
Prices are average retail so shopping here isn't cheap but they have a huge selection like you can't find anywhere else. The employees could not be any more helpful and they answered all the questions we had and more. -
Review from john j.
Concord, CA
1/3/2012
Excellent customer service skills! I recently bought a Jamis x.24 mountain bike for my son for Christmas, initially they were sold out of the color my son wanted. I talked to Bob and Johnny about when the next shipment was coming and they said after the holidays. Johnny said he would call the other stores and see if he could locate another bike. Since it was 5 days before Christmas I was doubtful, however, he called back the next day and was having the bike shipped to the store and it would be ready on the 23rd! Johnny and Sport Basement came through in a big way for this Santa!
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Review from Riya S.
Palo Alto, CA
7/8/2011
Since I live in Palo Alto, I usually go to Sports Basement in Sunnyvale, and sometimes the one in SF Presidio (huge). I love Sports Basement so much. They are so customer and community oriented all the time. Discount prices on everything, with even more coupons throughout the year from running events and blood donations. I have even won and hosted (and attended even more) at least a few shopping parties the past few years.
Last week (6/29) I came to Sports Basement in Walnut Creek to attend a free CPR/AED class. This store has them very often. My usual Sunnyvale store didn't have them that often, so I took the long drive. The drive out here was the worse part - heavy rush hour traffic with delay on San Mateo bridge eastbound. Luckily I was able to use the carpool lane with my hybrid and carpool sticker for the last time to save some time.
I do want to recognize the CPR instructor - Tom Bates - who was fantastic! Not only was he super nice in letting me join late (stuck in traffic), but he was very easy to understand, and led the class and demos with great professionalism, experience, and helpful true stories.
The store staff was very friendly as in the other stores. Even when I was running around to find the restroom (long drive in heavy traffic), they quickly directed me to the right direction, unfortunately, on the opposite side of the (huge) store.
Lots of great merchandise with discounts makes shopping fun here too! -
Review from Joanna B.
Oakland, CA
5/29/2011
Second Home!!!
It has recently been pointed out to me that I am here once or twice a week. I neither live nor work nearby. I have just been sucked in here's why.
1. I lead an active lifestyle. Here's what I do:
ski
run
yoga
swim
weights
2. Here is what I plan to do:
biking
more running
3. In addition to equipment they sell
cute clothes
supplements/fuel
fluids
Be forewarned. If you walk in accidentally and aren't an active person you soon will be. Go to the community corner and you'll see all the local active events. Sign up for the newsletter and they will give you an opportunity to use all the equipment you buy there. They host spinning, cycling and running throughout the week.
The staff is super friendly. In addition to that, the return policy is liberal. And, they can legitimately boast about their clean bathrooms. -
Review from Denise F.
6/4/2011 3 Check-ins Here
OH-EM-GEE...I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!!!!!!!!!
I didn't even really want to write this review, because I want to keep the place a secret so the stuff I want isn't constantly being sold out hahaha...but I HAVE TO, because it's a GREAT place for any sports/outdoor/activity junkie on a budget!
If you enjoy any sports at all, but get sick of paying MSRP, when they sell the same stuff on Ebay for way less...THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU!!
Seriously, the prices were equivalent to Ebay prices, EVERYTHING is sold at discount, I didn't see anything at MSRP...so it's like a HUGE sports warehouse where EVERYTHING is ALWAYS ***ON SALE***!!!
They have a lot of products other chain sports stores don't carry, like a great triathlon/cycling apparel section, they have high end/average recreational bicycles, TONS OF SHOES, clothing for every weather condition, climate change, sport, etc. that you can think of...and the employees are SOOOOO helpful & nice. It seems like they assign people that actually DO the sports, to that department. Because all of the people I talked to REALLY knew what they were talking about & actively participated in what ever department they were working in, which is REALLY cool...because I love hearing product recommendations & REAL opinions about products I'm interested in buying.
Every free moment I get, I'll be sneaking over here, OR to the HUGE stores in SF!! -
Review from Elyse M.
Oakland, CA
5/12/2011
My first thought upon walking in was "Oh thank god the Master Card with the insanely high credit limit is SAFELY AT HOME stashed away".
Because boy would I have been effed.
This place is like crack to me. The running shoes! The well priced moisture wicking clothing! Helpful workers, protein powders, wetsuits...holy crap! Hide yo credit cards, there's a fitness enthusiast with a spending problem on the loose.
I picked up the foam roller I needed, gazed lovingly at the fantastic discount on Asics, and went straight to the cash register, do not stop, and was out. Danger averted.
But I will be back, oh yes. -
Review from Kyle C.
Oakland, CA
11/6/2011
Store has pretty much everything. I was looking for a foam roller thing for stretching my back. It was easy to find we were in and out quickly. The prices were also quite reasonable. No complaints.
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Review from Nicole W.
Berkeley, CA
8/7/2011
Tiffany--the bomb! Tiffany helped with my purchase of a jogging stroller...she was so knowledgeable on the equipment, and so patient...I had put off the purchase for months because I was overwhelmed with the choice of functionalities and different models, so without her help, I'd still be strollerless.
A discount outdoor goods store that doesn't sacrifice on the customer service...Walnut Creek is lucky to have a SB there, and SB is lucky to have Tiffany! -
Review from Christina L.
San Francisco, CA
6/4/2011 6 Check-ins Here
I love this place! It has everything you need and the customer service is friendly and very helpful!
Service:
I cannot stressed how great their customer service is! The cashiers are nice and the staff are always around to answer questions and to help you with anything that you might need. Absolutely Fantastic!
Products:
Their products are decently priced. They are about the same as sports authority. I checked out some of their products with amazon and they matched to the penny. But that was only some of their products.
They have rentals for snowboards, skis, bikes, and other equipment I believe. And sometimes they even hold small lessons in their little presentation area.
Overall:
I love this place. I would definitely recommend anyone who is in need of any type of sports equipment to come and check this place out! -
Review from Eric B.
2/28/2011
This Sports Basement location feels like a former grocery store space and has that same comfortable and funky "living room" vibe that I previously experienced at their San Francisco Presidio location. The Walnut Creek branch is right across the street from Heather Farms Park and within Ygnacio Valley Plaza (where the new Fresh and Easy is about to open).
Prices are nice, the folks working here are helpful, and the selection is impressive, albeit haphazard and dense in places. At first, it's actually a little overwhelming. This place is also a hangout hub as their meeting space is well used for club meetings and classes. I particularly appreciate Sport's Basement's community support. For example, they recently offered a coupon that took 10% off my order and then donated another 10% back to the Walnut Creek Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). -
Review from George A.
Walnut Creek, CA
6/27/2011
Love my neighborhood Sports Basement for the business model, prices and the way the interact with the community. Unless it's absolutely neccessary, I buy all my bike and sports equiptment there.
Props to RYAN in bikes for setting up my new clip-in pedals and adding some maintanence love with out gouging me..... -
Review from Jim H.
Walnut Creek, CA
3/27/2011 7 Check-ins Here
This is the best sporting goods store around. They sell just about everything you want or need. Great selection of shoes, clothes, gear, you name it. The staff is knowledgable and always friendly. Everyone seems to enjoy working at SB. it seems like every item is discounted so you feel like you are getting a good deal.
Be sure to show them your AAA membership or Club Sport card for an extra discount at check-out. -
Review from Jessica A.
Alamo, CA
2/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am a huge fan of Sports Basement's and the Walnut Creek location is fantastic, yet smaller version of the Presidio store.
I came in looking for a gift for a friend who recently started running, joined a running team and has her first race early this spring.
For a great price I was able to purchase a Segoi running skirt, Nike running capri pants, an Asics long sleeve running top (SPF 50+ - very important when running outside!!), Thorlo compression socks, a case of Lara bars in Gingersnap and four Clif gels!
The store has such an easy to follow layout, I think the entire shopping experience was complete in less than 15 minutes!
Check out was a breeze and I even got my 10% discount for being a AAA member! How can I not come back? Hopefully next time I'll be shopping for myself and not for a gift again. :) -
Review from Karen B.
Dublin, CA
5/4/2011 2 Check-ins Here
As Sweet Affairs is in the same plaza as Sports Basement, I couldn't help but check this place out.
This place is awesome. They have a section for so many things; biking gear, snowboarding, hiking, soccer, running, swimming, and the list goes on. You might say other sports place have the same thing, but this place has a kind of laid back, comfortable atmosphere, unlike other sport stores. The store itself is not constructed like other stores, although it is a chain store, it has a local feel to it.
As for their service, GREAT! The staff were friendly and helpful and they just made a really great first impression.
I would definitely go back. -
Review from Amanda H.
Walnut Creek, CA
10/12/2011
Big warehouse stores are not really my thing, but I like this place. The staff are friendly and readily available, but they're also good about giving you room to browse and poke around on your own. Also, they're very knowledgeable about their inventory -- a big plus -- and about what's appropriate wear for a lot of different sports. The inventory itself is pricey, which is the only downside about this place. It is, however, very good quality.
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Review from Kristine W.
Oakland, CA
11/7/2010
I'm not sure what it is I don't like about this place, but it just doesn't feel like the basement I know and love (the location on Bryant St in the city).
Observations:
* Too many Walnut Creek soccer moms for comfort
* WC has lower ceilings--making it feel more crowded than the ones on Bryant St. or the Presidio in the city
* Sales guys are way more hands on at WC--I got asked if I needed help with shoes by 3 different guys within 15 minutes--do I look that confused?
* Navigating the different sections is less user-friendly--the cardboard signs seem way more jumbled than the Bryant/ Presidio location
* There's a traditional parking lot
* Still do the 24 Hour Fitness 10% discount and there's a lower sales tax than the city!
Basically, I'll stay in my neck of woods from now on.Listed in: DAMAGE CONTROL
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Review from Elaine G.
1/5/2011
This review is for their SNOWBOARD RENTALS ONLY (I'd sincerely only give them about 2-3 stars for their merchandise/prices), but am so pleased and impressed having discovered this place for rentals that a 5 star rating is a must.
Renting here is the closest thing you can get to the absolutely perfect experience:
1. Prices are spot on - $15 daily rental of board, boots AND bindings. WTF are sure?? Yes.
2. AND the greatest part about their rental is they don't charge you for the day you pick up or return, just the day you board. It's like it was my birthday or something.
3. Their rental gear is NICE. Try comparing the crap you get at the ridiculously overpriced rentals at the resorts to the nice gear they give you. I've rented a few times and each time everything seemed brand new.
4. Everyone that has helped me in that department is so friendly and so helpful/knowledgeable. Even with a line down half the store, they made sure everything fit well and that I knew what everything was. Probably to make sure I didn't die with their gear on, but really, really nice!
5. Not really the rentals, but all of the discount lift tickets they sell here are totally returnable (except for Homewood I think).
I have my own gear now, but I'll usually leave it at home when I visit the Bay just because I know this place exists. May it never go away! -
Review from Henry S.
Dublin, CA
1/5/2011
Of all the large box sports equipment stores (ie. Sports Chalet, Big 5, Sports Authority, and Any Mountain) Sports Basement is my favorite. Why because they carry most of the brands I like and its a no nonsense store where all their displays are "spiced" up with old card board drawings. I've found most of the things I buy are cheaper here than the other stores and they always have a wide selection. I also like that fact that they're promote recycling.
Their cycling department is great and very help and I also love the winter sports section. I actually came in to purchase a new pair of snowboard goggles and did some researching on line and found that Sports Basement was $21 cheaper than every other place that I was considering.
Service is good and there's always an SB employee nearby to assist you if you need help. -
Review from Gr R.
Richmond, CA
7/27/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I'm Pretty much a regular here, I come at least once a month, the REI shop in Berkeley irritates the crap out of me usually, and it's pretty expensive there. I love sports basement for the selection of stuff that they have! During Christmas I purchased 75% of my gift here because I found something for everyone, mom, dad, baby boy, husband...you get the point!
I don't know shit about cycling, I started getting into it, but ended up pregnant and haven't gotten back on the saddle in quite some time, well my husband is really into it and when I've come to buy gifts for all of our occasions here, I go and ask the guys in the back for suggestions and advice...not everyone is incredibly friendly I'll admit it, but I try to avoid those people, and go with the guys willin to answer questions for a know nothing person like myself. I don't have to do much waiting around either which is a plus!
They sell TOMS here for a pretty good price and even have kids Toms which is great because Nordstrom's is always sold out.
The cashiers are really sweet to my kids and I love that! So are most of the people on the sales floor. My kids like to play with the soccer balls while we are there ( shopping is boring for kids and I don't
Mind if they play a little) no one ever has told them to stop, and that doesn't happen everywhere. Usually we get dirty looks from the employees who think they'll have to do some Extra work...don't worry dude, I clean up after my kids if they make a mess...anyway that's not a problem here.
Also, returning things here is super easy! Although I did have an issue once, they followed up with me ASAP When the $$ didn't post back to my account right away.
Great employees, great company, great experience! -
Review from Lauren W.
1/21/2011
Cheap snow board rentals. $10 a day for board only. Nice boards too. Not crappy. Also lift tickets are cheaper here - except they do not sell Heavenly lift tickets.
Knowledgable staff.
Prices on merchandise are cheaper than MSRP.
We will definitely be back. -
Review from Lindsey O.
Walnut Creek, CA
Updated - 7/22/2011
Up'ing my rating, credit to the owner doing his part to follow up with me. I appreciate the responsiveness; it shows one cares.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/1/2010
I had purchased a snowboard bag that was slightly too long for my board so wanted to exchange it… Read more »
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Review from Rachel S.
Walnut Creek, CA
Updated - 3/2/2011
Another solid experience at SB! I came in because I'd been having trouble with my running shoes. I was getting inner shin splints and kept getting blisters on my arches. I had had a great experience with the bike department, so now was the shoe department's chance to show me what they had.
I walked in and they had sooo many shoes I had no idea where to start. I had never really been fit before for running shoes. The guy there was helping another lady out but told me he'd be right with me. As soon as he was done with her, he focused his attention on me. First asked me what I was looking for. I told him about the issues i'd been having with my old shoes. He had me run up and down so he could see my feet placed on the ground. In the end he came up that I needed supporting shoes. The ones I had had no support whatsoever. He recommended a great pair of Brooks, which I've been running in for a few days and I love!!! Since my Ironman training started on Monday, I'm very pleased to have adequate running shoes. PLUS, my shoes were originally $105, marked down to $65, and with the AAA 10% off they were only $60!! woohoo!
I loooove this store. It's my new home away from home :)1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/24/2010
I've been here a few times before and have loved their selection of product. I hadn't personally… Read more »
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Review from Shannon H.
Walnut Creek, CA
4/9/2011
I went there to buy my first ever pair of hiking boots. I was guided to the area, but the employee there was just stocking and did not take the time to help me choose, other than to point out waterproof and non waterproof from across the room. He probably asked me 2 times over the course of the hour if I needed help but never actually came over to assist me, I got the picture he was busy busy. I asked questions like how it was supposed to fit, but I was expecting someone to help me with the fitting, actually touch my foot or something. I know nothing about hiking boots, and it should have been obvious, I was wearing my work clothes which consisted of slacks and gold flats and a frilly top....not some hemp outfit. This doesn't seem to be the place to go if you really want one on one help.
I love the products offered and other employees helped me with the clothing. And generally everyone is really really nice there, which I totally appreciate. -
Review from Scott H.
Walnut Creek, CA
3/28/2011
I really like shopping here. I picked up some tri biking shoes for good price and scored some comfy new socks, too. Sports Basement is not as heavily staffed as REI, but that's probably why the prices are better.
Just short of getting Scott's goodhouskeeping seal of awesomeness, I'd still stop by here first before going anywhere else for sports stuff. -
Review from Jackie V.
Piedmont, CA
7/17/2010
I love love love Sports Basement. I've been hooked since I ran my marathon with Team in Training in 2006. They have everything you could possibly need for any sort of sport or outdoorsy activity. I love the one in SOMA but the Walnut Creek one is some much closer (and more dangerous on my wallet).
Besides the awesome deals they have, the staff is probably the best part about going...they are so nice and helpful. You can tell they are passionate about working there and willing to make sure you are making the right purchase.
The store is always clean and has late hours (yay)! Plus, they do an excellent job of categorizing & organizing everything so it's easy to go right to the sport you need. They rent ski/snowboarding gear in the winter (with discounted tickets) and camping gear (maybe year round?), as well as offer free yoga classes, night runs and bike rides. What more could you want in a store? -
Review from Salernitana A.
Walnut Creek, CA
11/5/2010
This is really the greatest place in WC and environs for swim gear (nobody else has their Speedo and TYR selection for reasonable prices!) and for bike stuff.
The bike pros are very knowledgable and don't make you feel like an idiot if you don't have Lance Armstrong-like knowledge about road biking.
Please update your dressing rooms! -
Review from Johnny V.
Pleasant Hill, CA
2/5/2011
I would have given them more stars but my bicycle buying experience totally sucked!
I have bought things here before and the prices and selection can't be beat. That's why I tried to buy a bike here. I wanted to order a specific Cannondale bicylce that was my size. They tried to upsell me on some of stuff on the floor. Okay, that's cool, I am in sales I understand that. I reiterated that I was willing to pay full price and wait for my order.
They weren't listening to me. The guy that was helping me was some bike snob that every newbie getting into this sport dreads running into. They want to make you feel small while they brag about themselves.
Anyway, I took off and special ordered the bike at some shop in Berkeley that I will also be writing a review for. After further thought, I am going to take back a star and give SB two stars instead of three after this experience.
