Westbound Boarder

If you like sport’s and have spent any time in the Pac NW, G.I. Joe’s to you is not an action figurine, but an awesome local retail sporting goods store. Growing up in Portland, OR with an active family who was always hiking, biking, camping or skiing, G.I. Joes has always been our destination to get the goods. What is now known as Joe’s (the G.I. was dropped a few years back when new management took over), is a one stop shop that literally has it all. For those of you who do not already know, the recession has got the best of Joe’s Sports and I am here today to bid GI Joe’s, Joe’s Sports, or Joe’s (whatever it may be to you) the farewell that they deserve.

G.I. Joes debuted over 57 years ago as an army surplus store and has blossomed into Joe’s Sports – a sporting goods dynasty, carrying a whole lot of everything! Unfortunately, now 31 locations (throughout Washington, Oregon and Idaho) and 1,600 employees will be forced to liquidate and close their doors.

In the meantime, Joe’s will remain open until their merchandise is gone, so you can still shop at Joe’s as liquidation and sales are starting now. Gift Cards and refunds for items already purchased will be accepted through April, 24^th. So go and say your goodbye’s to a Pac NW legendary store, don’t live in the Pac NW? That’s okay, shop at Joe’s Sports Online. Unfortunately G.I. Joe’s sports could not withstand the rise of this COBRA like recession…

I’ve needed a new board for quite some time now… and when I was visiting Oregon this past weekend, I finally made the big investment.

If you’re thinking about getting new gear, now is the time to get it.  Many snowboard shops are trying to rid their shelves of the old stuff to make room for the surf.  Joe’s Sports for example has 40% off a lot of their snowboards (I almost got the Ride Solace) and 30% off Burton boards – the downside is that they don’t have many intermediate plus boards to choose from, but they have the best deals on boards and boots I’ve seen so far.  They also have great deals on helmets, outerwear, boots (I got discontinued Ride’s on sale from $169 to $50!) – basically, you name it, it’s probably on sale.

US Outdoor Store also has good end-of-season deals.  25% off most their boards, and they have a larger selection to choose from than Joe’s.  After much deliberation ($200 for the Solace at Joe’s or $300+ for a better board at US Outdoor store) I finally settled on the Burton Blender – the one Danielle and I have both been eyeing all season

If you’re thinking about getting a new board or gear, I’d recommend starting the search now if you want to save a few bucks.  Hurry though, both these places will sell out fast!

Know anywhere else that is having a good sale?  Let us know in the comments, or e-mail us!