If you’re at all active when it comes to outdoor sports and physical recreation, then you know how much it can cost to be continually outfitted with proper gear. From climbing to kayaking to fishing, there are boatloads of adventures to be had, if you have the proper equipment to pull it off. Thankfully, a new retailer has opened in Downtown Buffalo that has got you covered when it comes to hooking you up with brand name sports and recreational products, at an affordable price point.
Survival of the Gear is a concept that’s time has come, says owner Pat Barczys. Whether you’re in need of a backpack, ice skates, or even hiking shoes, Pat’s goal is to outfit Buffalonians with new and used top-notch gear. The shop features some out of the box items, but the crux of the business is consignment. As far as quality goes, Pat inspects each and every piece as it comes in, and will only accept new, or nearly new brand name items.
Some of the goods that I noticed in the shop (part of the Queen City Pop Up) were paddles, hiking boots and poles, tents, bike gear, camping gear, knives… there’s a little bit of everything for any of your outdoor activity interests. Pat is busy accumulating as much as he can get his hands on, while being selective at the same time. “Currently, I’m gearing up to climb Mount Rainier,” Pat told me. “So I know how expensive the equipment can be. Since most of the equipment comes with a lifetime warranty, there’s no reason not to consider buying gently used items. Mountaineering boots can cost $400, and you might not wear them that often. Here a customer can pick up a solid pair for $100. Or he or she can even lease the equipment, and the lease fee can be applied to the purchase price.”
While Pat is busy selling his products, he’s also in the market to acquire inventory through consignment*, purchase or even donation. Just think about all of the unused sports equipment that you have lying around your garage or basement, collecting dust. Why not help a brother out and hook up Pat with your sports clutter? Pat will make sure that the items are cleaned up and find new homes.
One of Pat’s passions is disc golf. That’s why he stocks a wide section of discs and new starter kits. He’s also on the steering committee for establishing a disc golf course here in Buffalo (possibly Red Jacket Par along the Buffalo River).
Other than the equipment, Survival of the Gear stocks some locally knitted hats and scarves, sandals from the Atinga Project (made of recycled taxi tires), and the occasional hiking book, such as this one published by a local author. “I want people to browse around and feel comfortable when they are here,” explains Pat. “As part of our commitment to the customer, I hand out free apples from Wegmans, or a free cup of coffee from the Buffalo Coffee Roastery (must bring in your own mug). We’re excited to be here in this location, and the people that have found us are extremely happy.
“In the future we are going to offer Training 101 Classes for people who want to learn about various outdoor activities in Buffalo. We want to grow our inventory and become the go-to place for anyone who is looking to participate in sports and athletics, whether that’s through bike treks, tours, day trips, or anything else exercise-related.”
Before leaving the shop today, I made a purchase of a neat little Buck folding knife that will come in handy-dandy on bike excursions this summer. I also made a mental note for some other outdoor gear, in case I can ever get my wife to go camping. As a matter of fact, I think that Pat should organize an urban camping event at the Outer Harbor, where people can test out camping supplies, have a cookout, and enjoy an overnight by the water. What do you say Pat?
Survival of the Gear | Queen City Pop Up | 651 Main Street | Buffalo, NY | 716- 775-7669 | Facebook
*People who drop off consignment clothing are emailed immediately via software that tracks the purchases.