When you walk into the store, it seems like a fantastic setting to shop for all of your outdoors needs. The employees seem nice. That's a complete facade over the unprofessionalism, the mistreatment of customers who they think are not "good enough" by their standards just based on appearance alone, the complete disregard for their mission statement (plastered on the wall when you walk in), and their discrimination against people who are on the spectrum (A friend who happens to be on the spectrum but loves the outdoors was berated by the employees to the point where it went beyond unacceptable and it could have been a case for harassment charges. I was appalled that anyone, especially an employee [who probably makes close to minimum wage, but spend all their paychecks on the brand names to appear grand] would feel it was their right to treat a potential customer so badly that the person was in tears after just wanting to buy a new coat and didn't seem like a high-ticket sale just because the friend asked a few questions, because she is very picky on certain things with outdoors clothing) or don't fit their wannabe Ladue aesthetic. If they represented what they are, a killer outdoors shop and the employees didn't have their noses up so far that they would drown in the rain, it would be a great experience. This is just not the case. I recommend shopping anywhere else because it's frankly unacceptable that the employees, who they claim are people of great morals/ethics/positivity, treat customers/potential long-term customers like they do not belong in the store. It's cool to be kind, and it's a shame that the Alpine Shop has turned into such a wannabe bougie trend-chasing shop. It really goes against the large plaque on the wall stating what a down-to-earth mission statement they have. Plus, the price gorging is a bit excessive. Extremely disappointed by a store that appears to be great from the outside, but only represents the trash attitudes of people who don't get the notion of "practice what you preach." It's a nasty look for a KIRKWOOD shop...(Let me correct myself, it's a perfect representation of how people from Kirkwood are completely removed from just being themselves and pose as the A-listers they wish to be.) Every separate occasion that I have attempted to come in with a fresh mindset hoping the employees were having an "off day", I either was talked down to, ignored by the staff, or just brushed off because I shop in my workout attire, and don't wear flashy brands just to go shopping. I wear practical clothing, so that means the tech wear and not just every color of the Better Sweater (which I used to love until this store's employees' egos tarnished my love for Patagonia). Outdoor shops are supposed to be exciting, inspire adventure, make you feel comfortable before going on your outdoor excursions, and the environment is so stiff and uncomfortable, that they might as well call themselves a knock-off Frontenac shop. It seems insignificant, but I'll take my money to REI or any other competitor before I give my money to pretentious and rude employees-who are, in fact, the face of this company and pass judgments before even attempting to offer help to customers. I regret the few purchases I've made here because while it's cute to send a thank you note, but it's really tacky and shows a lack of attention to detail when you don't even spell the customer's name correctly (and actually address it to a different name entirely). The bottom line: if you want to shop at a store that employs wannabe trendsetters who are pretentious, rude, and have never learned the basic etiquette and positivity that they preach on the wall of their store, then this is your store. As for myself, I could never return to such a fake and pretentious environment, as it goes against everything I stand for as an individual with integrity and a customer who just wants to be prepared for all of my outdoor activities and be inspired after finding just the right final additions that will give me that sense of security of my upcoming adventure being epic, safe, knowing that I am prepared. read more

I wish I could give this a 6/5 stars. My satisfaction with working with the Alpine Shop over the holiday season was out-freaking-standing. I just finished getting my ski boots custom fitted by Jake in the ski shop and I could not be happier with my experience working with him. I work myself as a professional guide in Southeast Alaska and recognize and understand the importance of having your gear dialed in - the safety of other individuals is coincided with ensuring you are rocking and rolling at no less than 100%, which includes all of your gear. Jake understands this and poked, probed, and custom molded my boots to my feet to ensure "nothing less than perfection, my dude." - his words. We worked over a period of two weeks to ensure that the fit was dialed in to that level of perfection that Jake requires for his work. I myself head back up to Alaska this evening and cannot wait to rip with this new set up. If you are in the greater Saint Louis area, there is no other place you should go, with no other bootfitter you should see, in order to get your ski boots fitted. Jake's work, demeaner, candor and dedication to the craft cannot be understated. Thanks, my dude! read more

I bought a bicycle from the Alpine Shop 1 year ago and I am 100% satisfied with the sales, service, and everything else from Earl, Mike, & Joe in the bicycle shop at the Kirkwood location. I am 66 years old and the personnel at many bike shops ignore you unless you are talking about a high-end road bike, but Earl & Mike patiently helped me select the bike that has been perfect for me (a Felt Verza Cafe 24 Deluxe) and the follow up service from Joe and everyone else has been exceptional. I can give the bike shop at the Alpine Shop Kirkwood location my very highest possible recommendation. They even helped me sell my old bike at their annual spring swap event. I can also recommend the Felt Cafe 24 - I have about two thousand miles on it now and it has been totally great. Thanks. David Summers, Ballwin, MO read more

Today I purchased a tent for my grandson. While checking out I wondered aloud whether I would be able to get it put together. Miles, the sales associate, offered to show me how easy it was to assemble it. He took the time to show me how to put it up and repacked it for me. It really was a snap once he explained it to me. Miles went above and beyond all expectations. Whenever I shop at Alpine Shop, the Sales staff is very attentive and helpful. I highly recommend it as a great place to find outdoor equipment, clothing, shoes and lots of unique stuff for an active lifestyle. read more

Ben was awesome! Thank you Angie (manager). We drove from Columbia Mo for ski boot fitting. Awesome experience, great staff, awesome store thank you! read more