River Sports Outfitters
Ed McAlister

Outdoor llifestyle and sports outfitter

River Sports Outfitters is an independent outdoor specialty retailer in Knoxville, Tennessee. Ed McAlister officially opened the shop over 30 years ago and has been providing local and online customers with the best in road/trail biking, road/trail running, camping/backpacking, rock climbing, and paddle sports gear since then. By focusing on core brands such as Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, Arc'Teryx, Marmot, Kuhl, Osprey, Chaco, Keen and Asolo, River Sports has carved a niche as the destination of choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Read more

13 recommendations

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    Facebook Verified

    They are the go-to spot for all things outdoors in Knoxville. Whether it be green way advice, hiking recommendations or fitting your car for a roof rack, they are friendly, knowledgeable and provide a great service at a great value.

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    Facebook Verified

    I trust them to honestly take care of me and my bikes. I was also able to take my Dad in and they spent the extra time to make sure he was comfortable with his purchase and made sure the bike was setup for him before we left.

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    Facebook Verified

    Unbelievable service every single time. Quality merchandise at competitive pricing. Makes my heart happy to walk in the doors.

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    Facebook Verified

    This is a bike shop that’s willing to help everybody that comes in the door whether they have $50 to spend or$5000 to spend. They’re are an extremely kind and courteous staff always going to go to extra for the customer. They sponsor local events are very active in the community helping youth activities and people wanting to get out and try outdoor activities for the first time. This is a local shop or on money stays in the community it’s not a big branch mega retailer store.

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    Facebook Verified

    I like how they promote healthy living through the variety of equipment they sell. They promote biking as well as camping, hiking, Mtn climbing, etc. Their business is good for Knoxville.

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    Google Verified

    River Sports is an amazing place to shop outdoor gear, rent bikes, kayaks, and SUPs, and hang with others who enjoy the outdoors as much as you do. They’re very knowledgeable and go above and beyond to meet your needs.

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    Facebook Verified

    Great staff; great customer relations and customer service. These folks are really attentive to what their customers want.

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    Facebook Verified

    Great store with lots of variety, particularly in bikes. Renting a mountain bike for the day through them was enjoyable.

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    Google Verified

    They do great work and their prices are very reasonable. Friendly staff and very knowledgeable.

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    Kyle Goodin

    Shared on goo.gl

    Had an absolutely fantastic experience buying a road bike here just a few days ago. Found a bike for my wife that was just the right size and a price that we just couldn't beat. Spoke with the staff in the bike shop and they were incredibly helpful. Zero pressure during the whole process which took my wife and I 2 days of deliberating to finally pull the trigger on buying the bike. They let her take it on multiple test rides and after purchasing they tuned the bike for free and made sure it was in perfect shape before letting it leave the store. I was blown away with how good the experience was and even though I don't live in Knoxville it makes me want to go back to River Sports for any of my cycling needs. Thanks a ton guys!

    Original recommendation
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    Matt Brown

    Shared on goo.gl

    Most knowledgeable staff around. Also they are a local company that puts money back in the community through different charity events and they really take care of their employees. If you buy from a chain or the internet you hurt your chances of ever seeing the product in a store before you buy.

    Original recommendation
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    Brian Chia

    Shared on goo.gl

    This is probably my favorite outdoor gear store in Knoxville and they have been around forever. With BRMS closing down, this is now the definitive go-to outfitter in town.

    RSO has an extensive selection of gear for all various activities, camping, hiking. climbing, and more. They also have a bike shop, canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals, and a climbing center. It's amazing what all they cram into their shop. They also have knowledgeable and friendly staff and competitive prices. ...

    Original recommendation
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    Jeff K.

    Shared on yelp.com

    Adam Long was very helpful and knowledgeable we he volunteered his time to come demonstrate gear for Carson-Newman's hiking and backpacking class. His professionalism and explanations were exemplary. I will continue to shop local at River Sports.

    Original recommendation