In more than 30 stores across the country, Scheels is committed to helping customers discover their passion for sports, hunting, fishing, camping, and more.
As the warm breeze of summer rolls in, it’s the perfect time to get outside and embrace everything the season has to offer.
Whether planning a family camping trip, gearing up for a hiking trip, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Scheels has customers covered with a diverse range of high-quality products.
“We have everything you can think of for all summer activities with the customer service to ensure you get what you’re looking for,” said Pat Hagan, camping and paddlesport specialty shop manager.
When it comes to finding the best products for a summer adventure, Hagan says Scheels employees are dedicated to meeting their customer’s needs through a seamless retail experience.
“The biggest thing is asking the right questions,” said workwear manager and archery specialty shop manager Bryan Vyhlidal.
He continued, “We use our training and experience to offer the product that’s perfect for them.”
Hagan and Vyhlidal share the essential pieces of gear customers would need for their upcoming adventures.
Scheels’ camping department offers a wide variety of camping equipment designed to suit every level of camper, from novices to seasoned outdoorsmen. The department carries a selection of durable, weather-resistant tents from trusted brands like The North Face, Coleman, Kodiak Canvas, and Kelty.
Hagan recommends the Kelty Late Start 2 or 4 Person Tent, invented for a fast setup so customers can enjoy mother nature as soon as possible.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
1902: German immigrant Friedrich A. Scheel moved to Sabin, MN with his wife, Augusta, and began planting potatoes on three acres. After earning $300 from the first harvest, Scheel placed a down payment on a small hardware and general merchandise store and named the business Scheels.
1970s: The general store has expanded into North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Montana, and Minnesota.
1972: Steve D. Scheel joined the family business in 1972, shifting the store’s focus to sporting goods. After pushing a larger selection of sporting gear at the Sioux Falls location and seeing success, Scheels converted entirely to this genre.
Today: The family business remains dedicated to its customers and employees, and supporting surrounding communities.
The camping department also stocks a range of camping accessories, including lanterns, fire starters, camp chairs, and coolers.
“I will always recommend The North Face Dolomite One Bag Sleeping Bag or the Kelty Cosmic Synthetic 20 Sleeping Bag,” shared Hagan. “When it comes to coolers, YETI and BruMate are my go-tos.”
If customers are looking to hike throughout the summer, Scheels has the essentials they need to hit the trails with confidence. The main necessities include secure hiking boots or trail shoes, moisture-wicking shirts, durable pants, and lightweight rain jackets for added protection. Don’t forget a sturdy hiking backpack—like the Osprey Hikelite—to carry necessary goods like water, water filtration systems, headlamps, med kits, and bug spray.
Hagan shares that an important product to have while hiking is trekking poles, and he suggests looking into the brands LEKI or Mountainsmith.
The neighboring department—paddle sports—offers a large selection of kayaks, canoes, and stand-up boards to suit various skill levels and preferences.
Vyhlidal and Hagan discuss what their customers are looking for in a water sport products and then let their customers try out the recommended merchandise. The staff walks customers through the basic functions of the kayak, canoe, or stand-up board and the additional functions it offers. From there, Hagan and Vyhlidal also allow customers to test out a range of paddles, life jackets, and dry bags to ensure safety and convenience on the water.
GO-TO-GEAR
Hagan: Helinox Zero Chair
Vyhlidal: CamelBak Hydration Pack & the Fenix Headlamp
Vyhlidal and Hagan always remind their customers to consider multiple factors when choosing gear.
“It’s always important to think about weather, terrain, travel distance, water sources, and total trip length,” shared Vyhlidal.
With their commitment to quality and customer service, customers can trust Scheels to provide everything they need for a memorable summer adventure.
