Down Works

This is such an amazing outdoor shop. Their selection of equipment is fine tuned to just what you may need on a backpacking or camping trip. I cannot recommend this place enough!

Fantastic down pillows. Bought a set of 5 pillows several years ago and they still feel great. Clean natural down (organic?) without allergies. Just bought 5 more and the quality is top notch. Can't wait to try a comforter. Glad to have a local pillow maker.

Friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Came in with a broken sleeping bag zipper and left with it good as new! When I’m in need of a new sleeping bag, or any gear for that matter, Down Works will be my first stop. Thanks Nick!!

One of my favorite places in Santa Cruz. Down Works is small, located in a humble structure that houses the supreme intelligence regarding outdoor equipment in the county. Advice is sharp, individualization a constant, and selection tuned for people who are actually going to use these things. Prices are fair, but more to the point, I have never spent money at Down Works on something that wasn't really well made, fit perfectly, and lasted for a really long time. The custom made down garments and bags are my favorite backcountry companions. Nick and Shelley walk the walk.

Amazing selection. Owners very quiet at first but, once he starts sharing his wealth of knowledge on trails, supplies and equipment you should definitely listen. Friendly to dogs in Santa Cruz is always a big plus. Definitely don't feel the need to drive over the hill to REI ever again.

This place is amazing! The owner knows what he is talking about and has almost everything REI has. I got an osprey pack that was fitted by the owner, and osprey started in that building! So cool! Highly recomend for every stage of backpacking/camping

Absolute local gem from the golden age of California backpacking! All my best gear is recommendations from the selection here I tried out over the years.

Hands down the best place for camping and travel clothes, gear and everything in between. I'm 6'7" so they custom made sleeping bags for me which is the first time ever I actually fit in a sleeping bag correctly. They're super helpful always and carry quality stuff.

Wow, Nick was so informative! I find myself often reminiscing they Santa Cruz used to be and this wonderful place is it. Nick took the time to show me 4 different example packs that would fit my needs. Grateful.

Nick and his lovely wife have a carefully curated selection of all the backpacking gear you could want. Terrific advice, detailed knowledge of product specs, prices are not rockbottom, but the extra couple bucks are worth the care and attention you receive.

This is a wonderful local business and Nick is the best. If you want personal service from a very knowledgeable person, this is the place to go. Great selection of high quality outdoor equipment.

I was 3K into a 10K mile trip, having some trouble with staying warm while packing light, owner extremely knowledgeable and helpful. The rest of the trip I was perfectly comfortable, even into December!

Nick, the owner of Down Works, is extremely knowledgeable about equipment and only carries great gear. It's a very special place and I'm glad we have them in Santa Cruz.

You won't find a bad product in the store, prices are good, and owner is able to offer great insight on any questions. Loved my visit there!

Fantastic shop with an amazing amount of gear in stock. Super knowledgeable folks. It's the best place to buy serious (or not so serious) outdoor/backpacking/hiking/camping stuff.

Great gem; found them online and the owner is super knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. Allowed me to try out multiple backpacks, walk around the parking lot and gave me friendly advise and tips.

This place is fantastic. They have a good supply of ULA packs and Montbell gear that you won't find in many other places. It's also a mom & pop shop and the owners are awesome.

Good quality sleeping bags and really friendly staff. They even hand drew us a map of Yosemite so we could find some of their recommendations more easily!

Purchased some lovely, locally made, down boudoir pillows with custom-made covers. Excellent quality! Great service.

Probably the best mom & pop outdoor shop left in America. They set the bar high with their inventory and support quality products. A rare thing these days.