Arrow Adventure
Arrow Adventure is passionate about helping you conquer the great outdoors. The extensive selection of high-quality adventure gear, from rugged backpacks to versatile clothing and essential accessories, is designed to elevate your outdoor experiences. Whether you're gearing up for a weekend hike, a cross-country expedition, or a casual stroll in the park, they have the products you need to stay prepared and comfortable.
Oh, and they have beer on tap!
GEAR SHOP OF THE MONTH - SEPTEMBER 2024
-Responses & pictures provided by Niki Marengo (Owner of Arrow Adventure)
Can you share the story behind the founding of your gear shop? AND, what's your favorite part about your gear shop?
The seeds of Arrow Adventure started far away, on the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park. (Hence the replica of the park sign at the store). That was where two of my closest friends and I decided to do our first backpacking trip. It was new, scary, exciting, re-invigorating and when we completed our section hike, we thought it was pretty badass too.
When we came back we realized that there were LOADS of people who want to get outdoors and try new things, but don't have the gear, peeps or encouragement to get started. And so Arrow Adventure was born. With all this adventurin' comes a lot of expensive gear, which can be a barrier for many. That's where consignment comes into the picture. Gear consignment provides a chance to sell gently used gear so someone might try a new adventure, sell the gear people aren't using, and help us all be more sustainable and our landfills less full.
My favorite part about my gear shop is all the amazing people that I have met because this store exists. Whether it's women I've connected with through our ladies events, seeing people learning and trying new things during our classes or just hanging out at the store and sharing travel stories over a pint. I've been very fortunate to have connected with some really, really cool humans.
What sets your shop apart from other adventure gear stores?
Many might say that we have a bar! I get a lot of shocked looks when customers come in and realize it's there! But truly, I think our overall concept is unique. We have the used recreation gear, our Campfire Bar gathering space, classes both in the store and events outside of the store. We'll even have campfire patio music some nights, and can participate in all of the downtown Lebanon festivals and events. Our mission is accessibility to the outdoors, and in our store that means everyone is welcome. I think all of these things add up to Arrow being not only a gear store, but also a place for people to learn, connect to others, and have a good time too!
Can you describe some of your most popular products and why they might be favorites among customers?
I think our most popular products are activity-dependent. People come in to our store looking for specific starter items for less, in order to get them outside.
Can you share a memorable customer experience or feedback that stood out to you?
I think being one of the first stores to hold a Pride fundraiser to support the first-ever Lebanon Pride Festival was very memorable. There was certainly some fear as to how people would respond, as it is a very conservative community, but it turned out to be amazing. I saw teens with tears in their eyes meeting their first drag queen, others that walked miles to attend the event and witnessed a big part of the community being welcomed that may not have been before. It was amazing to see eventual Pride Festival turn out as a pretty magical event too.
How does your shop support sustainable and eco-friendly practices?
I think our concept itself is all about sustainability! Keeping gear in the loop, out of the landfill, and getting it into a new adventurer’s hands! Additionally, most of the store remodel (it was a restaurant) was with repurposed materials. Lastly, we strive to include Leave No Trace principles into all of our backpacking and hiking events.
Do you offer any workshops or events for the adventure community?
We sure do! Keep an eye on our website and social media to see all the offerings designed to eliminate intimidation and get people outdoors. You'll find classes for bike packing, bike maintenance, beginner mountain biking classes, backpacking series, and our Women, Wine + Wilderness backpacking event, beginner skiing classes... and more! You just have to follow us to keep up with all the fun stuff.
Are there any ways you engage with and support the local adventure community?
Collaboration is KEY! We have partnered with local organizations like Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA), Metroparks of Butler County, Warren County Park District, Adventure Crew, Five Rivers Metroparks, Dayton Hikers, Cincinnati Hikers, and the City of Lebanon Parks to name a few! I am not the expert in all the outdoor pursuits, but I collaborate to bring fun classes and learning that are! I am also on the planning committee for TrailFest, an event that brings all kinds of folks in the outdoor community to engage others.
Can you share any exciting upcoming products or collaborations?
You can find Arrow Adventure at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience the first weekend of October! Its a Five Rivers Metroparks event at Eastwood Metropark. We'll be running the used gear area! If you want to consign, the rates are 70/30 (regular rates are 50/50) with a portion going to Fiver Rivers Metropark Foundation! And if you are a buyer that needs gear, be sure to get there early on Saturday (11 a.m.) because you will undoubtably find some good gear and super cheap prices. Then you can enjoy the festival! There's music, food, camping, and the opportunity to learn about and try just about any outdoor recreation activity you're curious about.
What are the top three items every adventurer should have, according to your experience?
I always struggle with top 3 choices or favorites haha! But I will tell you three things I think are super helpful.
Camelbak or other small multi-use hydration bag is one thing that I think that's useful in all outdoor pursuits! Hiking, biking, paddling... it's always important to stay hydrated, and nice to have a little bag to throw some goods into.
Pest protection: Permethrin for you gear, bug spray for your skin, technu or some other treatment for poison ivy are great to have. Ticks, mosquitos, and poison plants can have effects far after your outdoor adventure.
I hike and backpack a lot, so I'm gonna say the right shoes are worth the investment. If your feet are unhappy, then so are you.
Can you recall a success story of an adventurer who used gear from your shop?
My customers often become my friends on social media and by virtue of them coming into the store for events, classes, or just to have a beer and shop. I have seen gear from my store on TWO people's first trip to Havasupai! I recently had a customer buy a canoe for him, his wife, and to have room for their dog (and future kiddos). Within hours of him strapping it to the roof of this car and hauling it away, I received pictures of his dog enjoying some time on the water. I love that!
What message would you like to share with the adventure community about your shop's mission and values?
GO FOR IT! If there is something that brings you joy or something that you want to try, make time for it and do it! Everyone is welcome outdoors, and even though some outdoor adventure pursuits might seem intimidating, there is a community out there that wants to help you feel welcome and comfortable. You won't regret carving out some time for your own mental health - especially outdoors!
