📞 +1 (604) 555-0123 ✉️ [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products, services, and policies

General Questions

What makes Race Progress different from other outdoor gear retailers?

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Race Progress specializes in gear specifically tested and selected for Canadian outdoor conditions. Our team consists of experienced outdoor enthusiasts who understand the unique challenges of Canadian wilderness, from extreme cold to varied terrain. We offer expert advice, professional fitting services, and maintain strong relationships with top outdoor brands to ensure we stock only the highest quality equipment.

Do you have a physical store location?

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Yes! Our flagship store is located at 1234 Mountain View Drive in Vancouver, BC. We're open Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM, Saturday 9AM-6PM, and Sunday 10AM-5PM. Our knowledgeable staff is available for gear consultations, fittings, and expert advice. We also offer online shopping with Canada-wide shipping.

Do you offer gear rental services?

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Yes, we offer rental services for select high-value items including tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and specialized equipment like climbing gear and mountaineering equipment. Rental reservations can be made online or in-store, and we offer competitive daily and weekly rates with discounts for extended rentals.

What are your store hours?

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Our Vancouver store hours are:
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Holiday hours may vary - please call ahead during statutory holidays.

Product Questions

How do I choose the right hiking boots?

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Choosing the right hiking boots depends on several factors: the type of terrain you'll encounter, the weight of your pack, the duration of your hikes, and your personal foot characteristics. We recommend visiting our store for a professional fitting where our staff can assess your gait, foot shape, and specific needs. We also offer a wear-test program where you can try boots for a short period before committing to purchase.

What sleeping bag temperature rating do I need for Canadian conditions?

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For three-season camping in most of Canada, we recommend a sleeping bag rated to at least -5°C to -10°C. For winter camping or high-altitude adventures, bags rated to -20°C or lower are essential. Remember that comfort ratings vary between individuals - women and cold sleepers should consider bags rated 5-10 degrees warmer than the expected conditions. Our staff can help you choose based on your specific destinations and camping style.

Do you carry gear suitable for extreme cold weather?

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Absolutely! We specialize in extreme cold weather gear suitable for Canadian winters and northern expeditions. Our inventory includes sleeping bags rated to -40°C, expedition-grade winter tents, insulated boots for temperatures down to -50°C, and complete layering systems for arctic conditions. We work with brands like Canada Goose, Arc'teryx, and other manufacturers who understand extreme cold performance.

What brands do you carry?

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We partner with leading outdoor brands including Arc'teryx, Patagonia, The North Face, Black Diamond, Petzl, MSR, Osprey, Canada Goose, Fjällräven, Salomon, and many others. We carefully select brands based on quality, performance in Canadian conditions, and environmental responsibility. Our product selection focuses on gear that we've tested and trust for our own adventures.

Shipping & Returns

What are your shipping options and costs?

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We offer several shipping options across Canada:
- Standard Shipping (5-7 business days): $12.99
- Express Shipping (2-3 business days): $24.99
- Overnight Shipping (1 business day): $39.99
- Free standard shipping on orders over $150
- Local Vancouver delivery available for $9.99
International shipping is available with rates calculated at checkout.

What is your return policy?

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We offer a 30-day return policy for unused items in original condition with tags attached. Items must be returned with original packaging and receipt. Some exceptions apply to personal items like sleeping bags and clothing that have been worn outdoors. We also offer a 1-year satisfaction guarantee on select products - if gear fails to meet your expectations during normal use, we'll work with you on a solution.

How do I process a return or exchange?

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Returns and exchanges can be processed in-store or by mail. For mail returns, contact our customer service team at [email protected] or (604) 555-0123 to receive a return authorization and prepaid shipping label. In-store returns are processed immediately with refund issued to original payment method. Exchanges for different sizes or colors can often be processed on the spot if items are in stock.

Do you ship to remote areas in Canada?

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Yes, we ship to all areas of Canada including remote and northern communities. Shipping to some remote locations may take additional time and incur extra costs due to limited transport options. We work with Canada Post and other carriers to ensure your gear reaches you, regardless of location. Contact us for specific shipping estimates to remote postal codes.

Services

Do you offer gear repair services?

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Yes, we offer comprehensive gear repair services including tent and sleeping bag repairs, pack alterations, boot resoling coordination, and zipper replacements. Most repairs are completed within 7-10 business days. We also provide maintenance services like waterproofing treatments and gear cleaning. Our goal is to help extend the life of your outdoor equipment and reduce environmental impact through repair rather than replacement.

Do you offer personal gear consultation services?

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Absolutely! Our gear specialists offer one-on-one consultations to help you select the perfect equipment for your specific adventures. Whether you're planning a multi-day backcountry trip, preparing for mountaineering, or just getting started with outdoor activities, we'll work with you to create a complete gear list within your budget. Consultations can be scheduled in-store or via phone/video call.

Do you offer group discounts?

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Yes, we offer special pricing for outdoor clubs, schools, guide services, and other organizations purchasing gear for groups. Group discounts typically range from 10-20% depending on order size and items purchased. We also offer special pricing for outdoor education programs and youth organizations. Contact our sales team to discuss your group's needs and available discounts.

Do you offer layaway or payment plans?

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We offer a layaway program for purchases over $200. With a 25% deposit, we'll hold your items for up to 90 days while you complete payments. We also partner with financing companies to offer payment plans for larger purchases. Our goal is to make quality outdoor gear accessible to everyone, regardless of budget constraints. Speak with our staff about available payment options.

Still Have Questions?

Our gear experts are here to help with personalized advice and recommendations