Sports Basement Berkeley

Visited Sports Basement in Berkeley on a Wednesday and I have to say, I was pretty impressed. The staff here are not just friendly, but also super attentive. They seem genuinely interested in helping you find what you're looking for.

The membership is a great deal and quite affordable. It comes with some awesome in-store discounts. But even if you're not a member, the store offers periodic discounts that anyone can take advantage of. So, member or not, you can find ways to save.

The layout is organized well with clearly marked sections, although I think they could showcase the brands a bit more effectively. It's a minor quibble in an otherwise well-organized store.

I went in to pick up a rental and the process was smooth as butter. No hiccups, no confusion. I'll possibly update this review when I return the rental, but honestly, I don't expect the experience to go downhill.

Prices across the board are pretty standard, but when you factor in the discounts, especially for members, it becomes a very affordable option for sporting goods.

In summary, if you're in Berkeley and need sporting goods or rentals, Sports Basement should be on your list. Great staff, good pricing with discounts, and a smooth rental experience. What more could you ask for?

One of the few places in the Bay Area with great snow sport selection. Do not skip out on Snowfest for great deals. This year I was able to pick up a new set of bindings from the Berkeley location and a snowboard from the Redwood City location. Do not hesitate to shop here. Showroom floor may be a little chaotic but it adds to the basement vibe. My experience with the snow section has always been positive. Staff always knowledgeable with their recommendations. In total I have about 3 snowboards, 2 sets of boots, 3 pairs of bindings and countless amount of clothing over the years. Become a member and start saving 10% on all purchases, even works online. 10% of proceeds also gets donated to local charity’s and organizations.

I brought my ski boots in that were killing my feet. Seth worked some boot shell molding magic expanding the forefoot space in both boots. I can ski the whole day without losing sensation in my feet!
Thank you, Seth!

The team at Sports Basement is amazing! I came in to have my skis waxed and Ian from the ski shop team noticed a serious issue with my ski binding that could have led to an injury. He was able to fix it and I’m so grateful he took the time to checkout my whole ski and worked magic on this repair. Every team member I interacted was kind, helpful and really loves their sports!

I'm from the east coast and came out with my son for a few days of skiing. We both needed rentals. I scheduled a very helpful video consult with a staffperson in the rental department. He listened to my description of skiing ability/preferences for me and my son, asked questions, and provided a couple different options that could meet our needs, including suggestions for length and advice on boot sizing. He followed up with an email containing links to the rentals we discussed. I reserved in advance on the website.

Pickup was easy and the equipment was perfectly adequate for our needs. My son's rentals were brand new, though mine were a little beat up on the top of the ski and the helmets were not the most fashionable. Nevertheless, it was a good experience and I'll definitely return.

We always get our walking/running shoes at Sports Basement. They have excellent service (shout out to Ethan!) and they go above and beyond to make sure you get the right shoe for your needs. It’s an awesome store!

I am more and more impressed with SB.I have a hard to fit foot and I was initially unsure about the advice that I would get from the very young salesperson. I was amazed to find a terrific fit in a shoe I never would have picked up. Since then SB is first choice for sports shoes. It just happened again. Thank you for your consistent helpfulness and knowledge. I have been to the stores in Novato, Berkeley, Presidio and SF and the trust has continued to build. That is important these days. BTW, I do not usually write reviews but I have given all my friends this feedback.

On a Thursday at 230 pm. Took 15 minutes to find someone to help. This is just for context, I didn’t mind the wait. Brought a bag I also just bought at container store to compare with another brand. I get to the cash register And I tell the guy that one is a purchase and one I brought in. He gives me an exasperated look, disappointed like we’ve had this conversation a million times and asks me if I could please check in with a staff member first next time (note: there were no signs indicating this at the entrance) I let him know that I’m sorry but there wasn’t any staff available and I didn’t know. He looks further annoyed and responds “ ok well next time just check in”. I then again apologize and let him know I have my receipt on me and I can totally show him, he said “ that’s not what I said is it? Next time check in with a staff member.” My apologies for continuing on the subject, but it felt like I was being reprimanded. Either semi accused of stealing or like I was doing something obviously wrong.

I used to work in the SB in Sunnyvale until last year and have friends in the San Ramon location and at my time there that was not a rule so this isn’t some obvious chain wide rule

If this is an expectation now or please put a sign at the door or have someone checking bags.

Leaving a 5 star because I love sports basement, but I’ve never had such a negative interaction at a store.

Great selection of all kinds of outdoor and everyday gear. Particularly well stocked selections of stability and motion control shoes. This is the only store in 10+ miles with some sizes of Hokas.

I had to purchase new sneakers but I have very specific parameters (wide toe box, low arch, cushioned shoe, etc.).

Ethan from the Berkeley store was extremely helpful, efficient, knowledgeable and patient. Thank you Ethan for your thoughtful, quick and helpful customer service. I really appreciate you and your help today!!

Great location, has parking lot on left and rear side and the store will also cover metered parking (?) saw the sign for it but didn’t push further. Lots of stuff to choose from and has rental gear for the snow season.

Fernando from checkout was super friendly and helpful! Can’t wait to go back to get more gear… when I reach that impass

The tall, black gentleman in the Snowboard department was extremely helpful with getting my girlfriend fitted for some boots/bindings. Sorry we didn't catch your name! We ended up buying online and picking up the gear from the store closer to our city the next day, but it was due to their help that we knew exactly what to choose.

Duncan was great & very knowledgeable about tents. He really took the time to answer questions I had as someone who's a rookie to tents by explaining what to consider & whether or not the tent I'm considering fits the needs I'd be using the tent for. I'd ask for his assistance again on a return visit.

I was treated to the best customer service from the rental department. I had never been to the Sports Basement before and had such a great experience renting snow gear. Everyone was super friendly and knowledgeable. Thanks!

This is my happy place. Easy parking, never crowded, great vibes, amazing customer service, plus everything I need and more. Our family has especially appreciated the rentals department recently- it is a great deal with really good gear. I really don’t know how I lived without this place for so many years!

Big space, and large catalogs for choosing from, they are nice and friendly. Today is the last day they has extra 20% off on top of 10% member off. Killed 2+ hours for me while my boy having party with their team here. Very good shopping experience.

Wow! I was extremely impressed how helpful an employee was that helped me looking to purchase a pair of sneakers. Hos name is Ethan and i would recommend him for anyone needed assistance looking for sneakers. So knowledgeable and friendly i mentioned this to the store manager who was kind of stoic but i hope he passes on the compliment to Ethan ?

I got snowboard boots from this store. One of the few stores where you can try on ski/snowboard boots in stores. They provide heat molding services.

Loved my experience at Sports Basement! Picked up a killer pair of ski boots and bindings, and because I was heading to the mountains the crew offered to get the new bindings on right away. Unexpected but appreciated. Thank you snow gear crew!

In all, I ABSOLUTELY recommend SB and the Berkeley crew!

Thank you for a solid experience!

This place has it all! So impressed with their selection & the breadth of sports and activities that they have specialty gear for. One thing you gotta know is that there is a “pre-loved” used section in which you can find incredible deals like a $10 hydro flask or a $50 hiking pack that’s normally $250!! See you thereeee!!!!