The thirteen days of Christmas

Honestly, who would really want two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree?

What about two duck decoys and a pair of waders? Or maybe two merino wool turtlenecks and a pair of hiking boots?

Now, that is more like it.

Where can a UVSC student go to find outdoor gear for their true love? Here is a guide to just a few of the many local outdoor retailers.

Located in Lehi, Cabela’s is a store for individuals that enjoy traditional outdoor recreation like camping, hunting and fishing.

Be prepared to spend a lot of time at Cabela’s because it is more than just a retailer. It is an experience.

Amongst a sea of outdoor apparel and gear is a freshwater sport fish aquarium, a man-made mountain, mounted animal displays, a gun library, a restaurant, and a shooting gallery.

It is enough to make a grown man in plaid flannel cry.

Did I mention the bush plane hanging from the ceiling and the fudge?

But beware of the Bargain Cave. Most of the "bargains" are simply used, returned items and the cave is actually more like your messy roommate’s closet than an actual cave.

Sports Authority is located in University Mall, just a couple of miles west of campus.

This store has a very different atmosphere from Cabela’s. It is definitely for the urban outdoorsman.

Sports Authority sells apparel, skis, snowboards, mountain bikes, and a wide assortment of equipment for team and individual sports.

The products sold at Sports Authority are definitely high quality and their prices reflect this. If you are looking for gear that will last you more than a season or two you will likely find it at Sports Authority.

Sportsman’s Warehouse is a smaller regional competitor to Cabela’s. Located in south Provo across the street from the Provo Towne Centre it is worth the drive.

The prices are great and the employees are friendly. Like Cabela’s, this store is for those that enjoy camping, hunting and fishing.

Unlike Cabela’s, it is not a tourist attraction. You can shop for great gear without being distracted by a fish aquarium and fudge.

Smaller local retailers include Out N Back and Recreation Outlet.

These stores have great deals and knowledgeable, friendly staff.

For this, some local outdoor enthusiast favor these retailers over the big guys. Take advantage of the staff if they offer help. The organization of the products in these stores is not very intuitive and the staff can help you find what you need.

There are great sales at all of these retailers in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

But don’t forget the after Christmas sales that start on December 26th, what some would consider the thirteenth day of Christmas. It is during these sales that you will find some of the greatest deals of the season.

 So if your true love gave you a partridge in a pear tree on Christmas morning, you can always find that pair of waders that you really wanted.