When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Perani's Hockey World
Why Perani's Hockey World is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Perani's Hockey World is a premier retail chain specializing in ice hockey and lacrosse equipment, established in 1976 by Bob Perani, a former professional hockey goalie. With its roots in Flint, Michigan, this store has grown to include 19 stores across North America, including key locations in Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Indiana. The brand is well-known for offering high-quality hockey gear suitable for ice, street, and outdoor hockey, as well as lacrosse equipment. Their extensive product selection includes renowned brands such as Bauer and CCM, attracting both amateur enthusiasts and professional players alike. Perani's Hockey World also holds naming rights to the Perani Arena and Event Center in Flint, home to the Flint Firebirds of the Ontario Hockey League, underscoring its deep connection to hockey culture and community. The stores feature a comprehensive range of player and goalie equipment, catering to all skill levels, and are known for their knowledgeable staff and commitment to customer service. This makes Perani's Hockey World not only a retail destination but also a hub for hockey fans and players to meet, shop, and engage with their sport in a supportive environment.
Here's what people think of Perani's Hockey World
As of recent, Perani's Hockey World holds a 4-star rating based on 27 reviews.
User reviews of Perani's Hockey World generally reflect a positive experience with the store’s product variety and knowledgeable staff. Many reviewers appreciate the large selection of hockey and lacrosse equipment, which caters well to both beginners and seasoned players. Positive feedback often highlights the helpfulness of the staff, who provide expert advice and assistance in selecting appropriate gear, which enhances the shopping experience. Customers have also praised the availability of closeout and prior year products, offering good value for money. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as limited in-stock inventory for certain items or longer wait times for customer service during peak hours. A few customers have noted that prices can be on the higher side compared to some competitors, and some experienced challenges with order fulfillment for online purchases. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviews convey a strong loyalty to Perani’s due to its specialized focus and reputation in the hockey community. Overall, reviews present Perani's Hockey World as a reliable and respected destination for hockey gear, with customers valuing both the product range and the customer service, while acknowledging some room for improvements in inventory management and pricing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jeff Burden
Had my skates sharpened recently against my better judgement. Perani’s has gotten a really bad reputation at the rink for their terrible skate sharpening. A few years ago there would be 8-10 pairs of skates lined up to be sharpened at 7pm but I was their only customer. No wonder why.
Beautiful Skate
It was great time with the shop guy, Jeff. I really apreciate to choose my hockey stuffs. Jeff helps me whole thing because i'm a beginner. I tried many parts on again again again. Hence They wrapped my bag for airplane trip. I'm not sure if i can get a bussiness trip again. I'll be back again.
Craig Catallo
Great fit and customer service experience from Taylor and the staff at the Ann Arbor location!
Chiz
We were shopping for skates for Xmas and our local shop in Sylvania, Ohio didn't have our sizes, so we went up to Perani's. The shop was a little under-staffed, so we had to wait a bit to get service. I expected to get the hustle to get us in and out but Josh completely surprised us with exceptional service. He did an great job of explaining the different options for us in plain "skate language" and sized us just right. He spent as much time as we needed and we wound up buying two pair of skates. A few weeks later, we drove all the way back up there from Sylvania to have Josh fit our daughter for skates; the exact same attention from Josh and a great experience. It's really nice to buy stuff from people who really know what they're doing. If you're looking for skates, go to Josh at Perani's and prepare to be impressed. Thanks Josh, your friends from Toledo!
Ale Ern
Was in from out of town at The Ice Cube and needed a quick skate sharpen, Micki sharpened my skates and did a phenomenal job, one of the best skate sharpenings I’ve gotten. Great customer service and very efficient. Will definitely be returning if am in Detroit area again in the future. Thanks Micki!
How to reach Perani's Hockey World
None
Website: None
Why Perani's Hockey World may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Perani's Hockey World with your friends? It’s simple: this specialized sports retail chain offers an immersive experience that perfectly blends the passion for hockey and lacrosse with a welcoming environment ideal for group meetups. Whether you and your friends are seasoned players, beginners, or simply fans of the game, Perani's provides a unique setting where shared enthusiasm for sport turns shopping into a vibrant social event. The stores are more than just retail spaces; they act as community hubs for hockey lovers, with knowledgeable staff ready to help you find the right gear or learn about the latest equipment innovations. Meeting here means your group can engage in lively discussions, try out some demo equipment, or get expert advice on performance improvement—all while bonding over a shared interest. In addition, their range of locations across several states means friends can find a convenient spot to gather. The energy and camaraderie that naturally arise from being among passionate enthusiasts make Perani's Hockey World a rally point that is as much about connection and community as it is about hockey.
What activities can you do at Perani's Hockey World that make it perfect for a group meetup? The first attraction is their extensive selection of ice hockey, street hockey, and lacrosse equipment, catering to all skill levels. Groups can explore together, comparing equipment like sticks, skates, helmets, and protective gear, making decisions in an enjoyable, interactive way. Often, the stores host events such as gear demos, signings, or local team meetups which provide additional reasons to come together. Your group can also take advantage of their in-store clinics and workshops designed to improve skills, providing a shared learning experience that strengthens team dynamics. Beyond shopping, the atmosphere at Perani’s—with its big screens showing games, wall displays of memorabilia, and knowledgeable staff—creates a social setting that naturally encourages conversation and sharing stories about hockey memories. This makes it a dynamic space for groups to connect both over shopping and their mutual love of the sport.
Why is Perani's Hockey World considered an ideal spot for group meetups beyond just shopping? One of the key features is the community focus embedded in the brand. Their many locations, particularly in hockey-rich regions like Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee, often serve as local hubs for sports fans, creating a natural meeting ground for friends and family. Groups planning a gathering can find common ground discussing equipment while also exchanging game strategies and experiences. With stores offering customized team orders, it’s also a prime place for local teams or meetup groups to coordinate their gear needs collectively, which can be a fun and productive social activity. The layout of many stores allows for comfortable browsing and socializing, letting groups move around without feeling cramped. Additionally, the store schedules frequently align with convenient hours that work well for after-school or evening meetups, making it easier for friends to coordinate visits. This blend of product selection, community orientation, and effective store design makes Perani’s a natural choice for anyone looking to rally with friends around shared sporting interests.
What makes Perani's Hockey World's product selection perfect for gatherings? They pride themselves on supplying an extensive and specialized range of hockey and lacrosse equipment, from beginner-level to professional-grade gear. This variety means that every member of a group—regardless of age or playing ability—can find something suited to their needs without multiple stops. The inventory typically includes sticks, skates, gloves, helmets, protective pads, apparel, and accessories. Many stores also stock goalie-specific equipment, a rare find outside specialty shops, adding appeal for groups with players in specialized positions. Seasonal sales and promotions, often running while friends shop together, create a fun atmosphere where you can strategize the best deals as a team. The staff’s expertise is invaluable for groups unfamiliar with equipment specifics, providing personalized recommendations and fitting services that ensure everyone leaves happy and properly outfitted. This comprehensive product availability combined with expert in-store support encourages group decisions and shared discovery, enhancing the meetup experience.
How does Perani's Hockey World engage customers with events and team support? Beyond sales, Perani’s commitment to the hockey community is visible through their sponsorship and partnership with local teams, notably their naming rights to the Perani Arena and Event Center, home of the Flint Firebirds, a junior ice hockey team. This close community involvement fosters a deeper connection with fans and social groups alike. Stores often organize or promote local team events, game nights, and meet-and-greets, offering meetup groups chances to attend together and deepen their sporting connections in person. Additionally, Perani's provides team sales services, enabling groups to coordinate uniform orders or bulk purchases efficiently, reinforcing its role as a partner for teams and groups. Clinics and workshops run periodically provide skill-building opportunities for players of all ages, making it a destination not just to buy gear but to improve as athletes alongside friends. These event-driven experiences encourage regular returns and strengthen the social fabric connecting group members through sport.
Why is customer service at Perani's Hockey World a plus for group meetups? The staff at Perani's are not only knowledgeable but passionate about hockey and lacrosse, and they enjoy helping customers find exactly what they need. For group meetups, this means expert advice is available to multiple people simultaneously, whether you are choosing the right stick flex, skate size, or protective gear configuration. Personalized fitting services and recommendations make shopping efficient and enjoyable, which is especially helpful when purchasing for a diverse group with varying needs. The staff can also answer group-related inquiries such as team order discounts and the correct gear for specific age or skill categories, saving time and confusion. This friendly, informed support turns a potentially overwhelming shopping trip into a coordinated outing where each member benefits from professional guidance. Such a helpful environment fosters not just sales but lasting positive associations, making Perani's a favorite destination to visit with friends and family.
What facilities and store features enhance the group experience at Perani's Hockey World? Many stores are spacious with organized layouts that allow groups to move around easily while browsing. Large display areas showcase the latest equipment and highlight new technologies, generating excitement and discussion among friends. Some locations feature interactive elements such as shooting areas or demo stations where groups can test out sticks and gloves, adding a hands-on dimension to the visit. The stores often include areas with seating or lounge spaces where groups can rest and chat between shopping sessions. Visible team memorabilia and engaging sports media playing in the background contribute to a vibrant atmosphere that feels more like a clubhouse than a traditional retail store. These facility features encourage groups to linger, socialize, and share their enthusiasm for hockey while discovering new products, turning a shopping trip into a memorable social outing.
How accessible is Perani's Hockey World for diverse groups and locations? Perani's has a strong presence in hockey-loving regions with 19 stores spread across several states including Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, and others, therefore offering convenient locations for many groups. Their range of store hours, including late afternoons and weekends, caters well to after-work or school meetups, ensuring that groups with varying schedules can still connect. The availability of online resources and easy store locators helps groups plan their visits effectively, choosing the best location for meetups. Additionally, the chain’s inclusive approach to equipment, covering indoor, outdoor, street hockey, and lacrosse, means the broad spectrum of sports enthusiasts can find relevant gear and experiences. This wide geographic footprint combined with attentive scheduling means Perani’s can accommodate many group types, whether casual friends, competitive teams, or family outings looking for a specialized and welcoming environment.
In summary, Perani's Hockey World is more than a retail sports store—it is an engaging community destination perfect for group meetups centered around hockey and lacrosse. From extensive product ranges and knowledgeable staff to social events and interactive store features, it offers an environment where friends and families can rally, share their love of the game, and enjoy each other’s company while meeting all their sporting needs. Whether you want to shop, learn, or simply connect within a passionate hockey community, Perani’s provides the ideal setting to make your group gathering memorable and fun.