When asking yourself about something to do near me in Tempe with a group of friends or family, consider
LowerGear Outdoors
Why LowerGear Outdoors is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
LowerGear Outdoors stands out as a premier destination for camping gear rentals and outdoor equipment sales, offering a unique experience for friends and adventure enthusiasts to gear up together. Established over 20 years ago by Dallas Shewmaker, this company pioneered the concept of online camping gear rentals, providing convenience and quality that is hard to match. With substantial facilities in Arizona — including a 10,000 square foot retail and warehouse space in Tempe and a second location in Lake Havasu City known as Southwest Outfitters — LowerGear not only rents but also sells high-quality backpacking gear, camping supplies, and kayaks from top brands such as Hobie, Old Town, and Riot. This makes it an ideal place for groups of friends to come together, pick out, or rent the best equipment for their outdoor adventures. Beyond the vast selection, customers can rely on expert advice from passionate staff and the accessibility of dealing directly with the owner if needed. The company's nationwide shipping service further expands the opportunity to meet up with friends anywhere, ensuring everyone has access to reliable gear shipped directly to their doorstep. LowerGear’s dedication to high standards, easy rental processes, and friendly customer service creates an inviting atmosphere for social gatherings centered on outdoor fun and exploration.
Here's what people think of LowerGear Outdoors
As of recent, LowerGear Outdoors holds a 4.7-star rating based on 110 reviews.
User reviews highlight LowerGear Outdoors’ exceptional service, with an outstanding 4.7 rating from 110 reviews. Many customers praise the quality and condition of the rental gear, noting items often come brand new or in excellent condition, which enhances their outdoor experience. Positive feedback frequently mentions the company’s customer-first approach: staff are knowledgeable, helpful, and genuinely care about fitting the right gear to individual needs rather than pushing sales. Several testimonials share stories of successful trips enabled by their equipment—ranging from family hikes where children graduated to multi-day adventures, to events that required careful preparation and quality gear. The convenient nationwide shipping and simple rental and return processes are also commonly praised, emphasizing a smooth and reliable customer experience that reduces typical rental concerns. On the less positive side, some customers wish for slightly larger backpack options or faster shipping times, reflecting the challenges inherent in shipping outdoor gear nationwide. Occasionally, minor wear and tear is noted, but it is not seen as a major issue by most users. Overall, the reviews collectively confirm LowerGear’s reputation as a reliable, customer-friendly company that delivers high-quality outdoor gear and excellent support, making it a highly recommended choice for outdoor enthusiasts and groups planning adventures together.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
John Dominici
I recently rented gear from LowerGear for a 13 person backpacking trip and it was a great experience! The equipment was top-notch, everything was in great condition, clean, and performed perfectly on the trail. What really stood out was the customer service. Dallas, the owner, was incredibly helpful and responsive throughout the entire process, making sure we had everything we needed and answering all my questions. Renting gear here made my trip stress-free, and I'll definitely be returning for my next adventure! Highly recommended!
Pierre Vincent
Amazing place to rent camping gear from. Also the only place around you can rent more than 3 tents+extras from. Dallas the manager is awesome and very helpful and was very accommodating when our needs were changing, the staff are also great and make your life very easy. The gear itself quality, clean, and in great shape - I couldn't recommend coming here enough! Thank you LowerGear!
Katie Rizzo
We rented equipment for two people for Havasupai (the Havasupai package) and everything was high quality and new. The backpacks were lightweight. The tent was comfortable, easy to put up/take down and waterproof. It included everything but food. This is a great business! Also, we broke a walking pole and they didn't charge.
Jose Bucio
This is my second time hiking Havasupai, and I had a terrible experience with the rental equipment this time. My first experience was with REI, and their quality control was significantly better. It seems that this store doesn’t conduct any quality checks at all! I highly recommend bringing your own water reservoir because the one they "rented" to me had clearly been passed down many times. The backpack I was given had worn-out straps that provided no support at all. Fortunately, I checked it before my hike and managed to buy seatbelt strap supports at an auto parts store to ease the discomfort. All the rented equipment seemed to be on its last legs. Luckily, as a local in Arizona, I had time to visit other shops and purchase some things out of my own pocket. My pack ended up weighing around 32-35 pounds during the hike, and upon my return, the staff member at the front said it was my fault for being "overweight." I had trained for this hike with weighted packs, but nothing could have prepared me for the discomfort I experienced. She insisted it was all my responsibility and that I was to blame. Please avoid this business; they seem more focused on making money than on ensuring your safety. Remember, you’ll be hiking 20-30 miles with their equipment along a strenuous trail. REI rental is much better equipped for this life-changing experience!
Jed Arsena
Lovely outdoors shop. They repaired my inflatable kayak and got me back out on the water. I'll have to keep them in mind for quality used outdoor gear.
How to reach LowerGear Outdoors
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Why LowerGear Outdoors may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at LowerGear Outdoors with your friends?
Choosing a spot to rally with friends should be about more than just convenience; it’s about creating memorable experiences in an enjoyable environment that caters to everyone’s interests and needs. LowerGear Outdoors excels in turning group meetups into unforgettable adventures by providing a perfect blend of quality gear, excellent customer service, and outdoor fun. Imagine planning a trip where you don’t need to worry about hauling all your gear because LowerGear Outdoors offers top-notch rental equipment that is reliable, well-maintained, and ready to go. This alone removes a huge layer of stress from organizing group outings. Additionally, the staff’s dedication to helping customers find exactly what they need—not just pushing the priciest options—means you can trust them to outfit your group properly, whether you’re seasoned hikers or casual campers. The company’s outstanding reputation backed by a 4.7 rating from 110 reviews, combined with hassle-free delivery and return processes, makes it easy for friends and family to join forces for a seamless and exciting outdoor experience. Rallying at LowerGear Outdoors means crafting moments of camaraderie without the hassle, all while surrounded by nature and supported by professionals who love the outdoors just as much as you do.
What activities can you enjoy with friends at LowerGear Outdoors?
LowerGear Outdoors is more than a gear rental company—it’s a gateway to a variety of outdoor activities that perfectly suit group meetups. Primarily, it enables adventures like camping, backpacking, hiking, and trail exploration by providing specialized and well-maintained gear such as lightweight tents, backpacks, GPS devices, and more. Groups can rent comprehensive packages designed to support multi-day backpacking trips, making it a great place to kick off adventures in beautiful locations like Havasupai Falls. Hiking enthusiasts can benefit from LowerGear’s microspikes for icy trails or GPS communication devices that enhance safety and coordination when exploring remote trails. For those who prefer camping, the company offers tents like the SD Lightyear Tent, known for being light, durable, and easy to set up, which makes group camping effortless and enjoyable. Because the equipment is carefully curated and well maintained, it lowers the barrier for groups with varying experience levels to embark on these outdoor activities together. This extensive range makes LowerGear Outdoors a perfect hub to start an active, fun, and safe meetup for friends who want to explore nature together.
Why is LowerGear Outdoors perfect for group meetups?
LowerGear Outdoors shines as a venue for group gatherings because of its combination of exceptional customer service, thoughtfully curated gear offerings, and convenient logistics. One of the defining features is how the company prioritizes customers—you’re not just renting equipment; you’re consulting with outdoor enthusiasts who genuinely want to optimize your trip experience by matching you with the best gear for your specific adventure. This personalized approach is invaluable when organizing meetups because it ensures every participant’s needs are met without fuss or confusion. Another important aspect is the company’s rental process, which customers consistently praise for its simplicity and efficiency. Gear arrives on time, in excellent condition, and easy to return, allowing groups to focus on their adventure rather than worrying about logistics. Furthermore, the flexibility in renting high-end GPS devices at a fraction of the cost of buying them outright means safety and communication become accessible for groups, a critical factor for outdoor meetups. All of these factors make LowerGear Outdoors an ideal choice for groups seeking to enjoy the outdoors confidently and comfortably.
How does the quality of gear at LowerGear Outdoors enhance your group experience?
The quality and condition of gear can make or break an outdoor trip, especially when involving a group where individual comfort and safety must be balanced. LowerGear Outdoors has established a reputation for maintaining equipment at a high standard, which reassures customers planning group outings. For example, tents like the SD Lightyear Tent offer a lightweight, durable, and roomy shelter option that can comfortably house more than one person, minimizing the number of tents required and making campsite setup easier with friends. Many renters praise the gear for arriving in excellent, ready-to-use condition, which prevents the typical frustrations associated with faulty or worn equipment. This reliability is critical to ensuring a positive experience during long hikes or extended camping trips. Moreover, the company’s variety of equipment means groups can select gear that suits their specific style, whether it’s ultralight backpacking or more traditional camping setups, maximizing enjoyment and reducing physical strain. Having dependable gear enables group members to relax and immerse themselves in the outdoors, strengthening the sense of community and shared adventure.
How does LowerGear Outdoors support safety and convenience for your meetup?
Safety is paramount in any outdoor activity, and LowerGear Outdoors goes above and beyond in equipping groups with tools that enhance this crucial aspect. A standout rental item is the GPS communication devices, such as DeLorme inReach units, which offer two-way communication and GPS tracking capabilities. This technology allows friends to stay connected even in remote areas where cell service is unavailable, providing peace of mind and quick access to help if needed. The affordability of renting these devices compared to purchasing them outright makes it accessible for groups to prioritize safety without a heavy financial burden. Additionally, LowerGear Outdoors’ streamlined rental and return process removes logistical headaches and supports last-minute plans, giving groups flexibility without sacrificing preparedness. The company also actively helps customers pick gear suited to their trip’s difficulty and environment, further enhancing safety by aligning equipment to actual conditions. Convenience and safety combined mean your group meetup at LowerGear Outdoors is not only enjoyable but responsibly managed.
What makes the customer experience at LowerGear Outdoors unique?
Customer reviews consistently highlight LowerGear Outdoors’ genuine passion for the outdoors and commitment to customer satisfaction as key reasons they choose to rent from them repeatedly. Unlike traditional gear shops, LowerGear’s team approaches rentals with the mindset of outdoor enthusiasts themselves, focusing on finding the best fit for your needs rather than maximizing profit. This service ethos is reflected in testimonials praising the company’s responsiveness, personalized attention, and willingness to provide helpful advice. The rental process itself is easy to navigate, with gear delivered on time and in excellent condition, reducing one major stressor of outdoor trip planning. Returning equipment is just as straightforward, fostering a no-hassle experience that encourages first-time renters and repeat visits alike. Group meetups benefit from this high level of support because organizing multiple people and equipment needs can be complex; LowerGear’s attentive, customer-first approach helps streamline this process. Ultimately, the balance of expert knowledge, personal care, and operational efficiency makes the experience at LowerGear Outdoors stand out in the outdoor gear rental industry.