WHERE TO GET GEAR THIS SPRING B y T a y l o r S t a u b a c h
S hop small , Adventure BIG
WHERE TO GET GEAR THIS SPRING B y T a y l o r S t a u b a c h
As we “ spring forward ,” days are getting warmer , nights are getting longer , and outdoor adventures are ready to kick into high gear . To help you make the most of the season , we ’ ve rounded up insider knowledge from some of the best outdoor establishments . These are more than just stores ; they ’ re gathering places run by experts who know the Berkshires inside and out . Visitors can expect a warm smile , friendly service , and expert advice tailored to your needs and skill level . Shopping locally doesn ’ t just equip you with what you need ; it connects you with a community .
ARCADIAN SHOP
91 Pittsfield Rd ., Lenox arcadian . com ; 413-637-3010
Since its founding in 1974 , the Arcadian Shop has been a cornerstone for outdoor enthusiasts in the Berkshires . Owned and operated by Chris Calvert , Keith Dupuis , and Jeff Minkler — three longtime employees and Berkshire natives — the shop is driven by a passion for exceptional service , topnotch gear , and connections to the community . One of its most unique perks ? Its prime location . Step out the back door , and you ’ re on the trailhead of the 500- acre Kennedy Park with trails perfect for walking , hiking , and biking . The Arcadian Shop doesn ’ t just stop at fitting you with the right gear — they bring people together through events , rentals and demos , making adventure a group affair . Here ’ s a taste of what they ’ ve got going on :
Monday Night Paddle Board Socials : Summer evenings beginning at 6:15 p . m . at the Stockbridge Bowl Boat Ramp . BYOB ( Bring Your Own Board ) or arrive early to try a demo board .
Tuesday Night Gravel Rides : Weekly cross-town ride on mixed terrain roads at 5:30 p . m . Meet at the Shop — weather dependent .
Thursday Night Mountain Bike Rides : Weekly at 5:30 p . m . For intermediate and
62 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Holiday 2023 advanced riders . Meet at the Shop — weather dependent .
Bike 101 Maintenance Clinics : Free and open to the public , the second Saturday of each month from May through August . Call to register .
Kayak Rentals : Starting at $ 45 / day ; Tandem kayaks $ 75 / day . Delivery available .
Stand-Up Paddle Board Rentals : $ 45 / day . Rental includes paddle , PFD , and straps for transport . Delivery available .
RECOMMENDED GEAR
• Harmony Gear Acme T2000 Tornado Whistle : A key piece of safety gear for all your water adventures , this specially designed whistle produces a loud , powerful sound that carries over long distances .
• Topo Trailventure 2 WP : Combines the comfort and light weight of a trail runner with extra cushioning , traction , and protection .
• Patagonia Baggies Jacket
• Trek Ion 200 Rt Front Bike Light
BERKSHIRE BIKE & BOARD
502C East St ., Pittsfield 29 State Rd ., Great Barrington 195 Healy Blvd ., Hudson , N . Y . berkshirebikeandboard . com
Co-owned by bike enthusiasts Dave Clark and Steffen Root , Berkshire Bike & Board ( BBB ) is passionate about inspiring a cycling lifestyle for everyone , regardless of skill level . Established in 1998 , BBB has locations in Pittsfield , Great Barrington , and Hudson , New York . Their experienced staff provides a welcoming , all-inclusive environment where community and adventure take center stage . Professional fittings
ensure each customer gets the perfect ride . Beyond the shop , BBB brings people together through its engaging online community hub , highlighting local bike routes from car-free paths to rugged off-road trails .
The popular Wednesday Night Gravel Adventure Group Rides begin in mid-September . Check their Group Rides page for year-round opportunities to ride , connect , and share in the joy of cycling .
RECOMMENDED GEAR
• Comprehensive Bicycle Fitting : To ensure safety and comfort on two wheels , get a custom fit by trained professionals .
• Specialized Global Haul ST : Take a spin on this powerful e-bike that will have you jetting from soccer practice to the grocery store and back home .
• Lezyne V Pro 7 Multi-Tool
• Smith Mainline MIPS Helmets
BERKSHIRE OUTFITTERS
169 Grove St ., Adams berkshireoutfitters . com 413-743-5900
What started with founder Steve Blazejewski selling cross-country skis out of his dad ’ s basement in 1973 has become a trusted full-service outdoor retailer . Berkshire Outfitters store manager Josh Chittenden , affectionately dubbed the “ outdoor magician ,” leads a team of knowledgable staff who combine practical experience with a passion for the outdoors .
Whether you ' re gearing up for a bike ride , a paddle , or just looking for advice on