1

As an example the difference in price for the "Asolo Power Matic 200 GV Backpacking Boots" from REI ($300) to MEC ($319) with the exchange rate wouldn’t pay for the gas to buy them in the US, even with the Tax in BC.

REI will have the best price in the US, small places have to charge more.

2

Thanks - not making the trip just for the boots, the entire wardrobe needs a reno

3

Bellingham doesn't have a lot of choices, probably either REI or Backcountry Essentials.

REI will have a bigger selection (although the Bellingham store isn't big), but not necessarily the best price. If you head to Seattle, there are obviously more places to shop and more to choose from.

4

Cabela's recently opened a new store in Tulalip (Marysville) which is north of Seattle off of Interstate 5. If you want to re-do your entire wardrobe, it's also located next to one of the best outlet shopping mall in the area. If you're into gambling, there's also a large casino with a very good (cheap) all you can eat buffet restaurant.

http://www.cabelas.com/tulalip-grand-opening.shtml

http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=71

http://www.tulalipcasino.com/

Edited by: SojoMojo

5

Next door to Filsons in the SODO district of Seattle is a hunting/fishing store that tends to have good deals on boots but may not have a huge selection. I have seen Danner, Sorel, Timberland, and two or three others. It's called Outdoor Emporium. Definitely less than REI which is not necessarily a great deal unless you are a member and buy enough to make it worthwhile over a year's time but it is true that REI will have a fairly large selection. If you have a certain brand of hiking gear in mind you'll want to check retailer's websites before committing to a trip. Across Seattle there are a handful of specialty shops for outdoors gear and a web search should prove helpful. With some planning you could make the rounds on a day trip and come up with something.