Uncle Dan's Blog

Happy Earth Day from Uncle Dan's and Stanley

2009-04-22T08:19:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is taking some time to be a little more eco-friendly today.

We're not putting that out there without doing something ourselves. So, we've teamed up with Stanley for the Stanley E-cycle Exchange.

Here's the scoop:
1. Bring in any water bottle to an Uncle Dan's location
2. We recycle it
3. You get 25% off on any one Stanley product
4. To top it off, we donate $1 from every Stanley purchase to the Global Water Challenge, a nonprofit that aims to provided clean water to regions that need it.

Small Print: One bottle per offer on this deal, and it's not combinable with other sales. But hey - still not bad, and you'll be reminded of how you helped every time you take a sip from your Stanley bottle - which you'll have for a loooong time. This offer runs through May 6.

And be sure to tell us what you do, today and every other, to be kind to Mom Earth. We'll share the best stories on the blog!

Hat Trick!

2009-03-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

It's important to have a good head on your shoulders, we all know that. But you've also gotta have a good hat on that head - and that's where we come in.

Three of our hats landed in the top slots for 2008 headwear at consumer ratings website Buzzillions.com.

The Mountain Hardwear Dome Perignon beanie won the site's Reviewer's Choice Award for hats, and the Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero came in at number 2. The Tilley Airflo Hat also posted a strong rating.

Have these hats - or any others that you got from us? Send your stories and pics to uncledansblog@gmail.com, and we'll put 'em up here.

(Props to Pemba Serves for the tip)

44,000 Use 'Baacode' to Trace Icebreaker Gear

2009-03-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

Icebreaker, one of our favorite makers of merino wool products, said this week that 44,000 customers have used the company's "Baacode" program since it was released last August to trace their clothes from farm to store.

This is a pretty cool system, we think. It shows Icebreaker's commitment to sustainability and ethical production, things that many of our brands take to heart.

Have you traced your Icebreaker yet? Come in and tell us what you think of the system.

Mountain Hardwear + You Help Youth Camps

2009-03-26T04:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a cool idea: Click a button, send a kid to camp.

That's what you can do with the Mountain Hardwear Gives Back program. Go to the site and click on the "Send a Kid to Camp" button; for each click, MHW will donate $1 up to a total of $35,000. The money will help fund camps serving underprivleged kids.

Things like this are why we love working with the companies we bring in. But, why are you still here? The deadline for the effort is April 15, so head over there and get clickin'!

(Thanks to Backpacker and Pemba for the tip)

New for Spring 09: The Osprey Has Landed

2009-03-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

Hikers, travelers, and anyone who needs to carry anything, ever: Come in and check out Osprey Packs, the new additions to our pack lineup.

We're excited to offer this brand. Osprey has been making packs since 1974 - check out this video about their history - and their expertise shows, with key features including: adjustable top pockets, the AirScape back panel, gender specific fit and components, adjustable torsos, and, in some, custom-molded hip belts.

Osprey makes several series of packs: Here's a rundown:

Argon & Xenon Series: These are deluxe custom-fit packs. They're the most comfort-oriented and customizable packs.

Aether & Ariel Series: Versatility is the focus here. These packs are lightweight, creatively designed, and offer
custom sizing. They are popular for backpackers of all abilities
and activities.

Atmos & Aura Series: These lightweight packs feature AirSpeed suspension but are still just as durable as all Osprey products.

Kestrel Series: These packs are new to the Osprey lineup. Designed for the backpacker looking for an all-in-one pack, these packs offer all the features needed for everything from a long trek to a quick peak assault.

Stratos Series: Want a durable, lightweight, general-use daypack? This is your line, complete with sharp colors and unique designs.

Talon Series: These packs are designed for the fast, active light enthusiast. The Talon Series offers the incredible melding of
torso adjustability in versatile, adventure-oriented packs.

ReSource Series: The ReSource Series is built almost entirely from recycled materials. These everyday packs offer next-generation materials for a day in the life of the urban warrior with an eco-friendly conscience.

Oh, and almost forgot to mention: Osprey comes with a 100-percent guarantee. If you are unhappy with your Osprey pack at any time, bring it for a full refund.

Video Profile of the Evanston Store

2009-03-21T19:11:00.001-07:00

The student-run Northwestern News Network did a profile of the new Evanston store shortly after it opened. Check it out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pL-4OHbN8LA

Though the season's changed, the helpful attitude and positivity's still the same (and will be no matter where we move). Come visit us at 901 W. Church in Evanston and see for yourself.

New Interactive Websties from Mountain Hardwear and Patagonia

2009-03-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

Two of our favorite brands, Mountain Hardwear and Patagonia, have each rolled out sweet new multimedia websites.

The Expedition Republic from Mountain Hardwear is an online community of adventurers. You can share tips and ideas, watch videos and even win free gear.

Patagonia's Tin Shed has slideshows and videos of athletes and their adventures at far-flung corners of the world, as well as interesting outdoor-life stories.

If you're a fan of either line - heck, if you love the outdoors - check 'em out! (But don't spend too much time on these at work, though; they'll make you want to skip out early and head for the wilderness.)

New for Spring '09: On Millet? Millet On!

2009-03-08T17:50:00.000-07:00

If the headline didn't help, let's clear it up right now: It's "mee-yay," not "mill-it."

But really, however you say it, Millet is a great addition to our lineup of adventure gear.

You can read more about Millet here, but this is the gist. Millet has been around since 1921 and was founded and field tested in the French Alps. The company makes a all kinds of equipment, from outwear to boots to packs. At the moment, we've got a limited selection - we can order anything you're interested in - but we like what we've seen.

Try on the Men's W3 Pro Jacket for a breathable and windproof spring softshell. Or, put on the Men's Trek Stretch Pants, which allow for a wide range of motion, perfect for rock climbing or hiking, and might be the most comfortable thing your legs have felt since air. Finally, there's the Expe 65 - a monster-sized expedition pack that's made with a strong but lightweight nylon, perfect for hauling tons of gear without adding much weight of its own.

We've got the flexibility to bring in these unique brands; right now we're one of the only retailers in Chicagoland where you can find Millet. So come in to the Evanston,, Highland Park, and Lincoln Park stores to check out this fantastic new line, and tell us what you think!

Rob Hart, inventor of Crazy Creek camp chairs, killed in ski accident

2009-02-28T20:45:00.000-08:00

We in the outdoor industry were saddened to learn of the death of Rob Hart, inventor of Crazy Creek camp chairs.

Hart, 51, died in a ski accident at Red Lodge Mountain, Montana, on Feb. 20. To read more, click here and here. The adventure industry has lost a great innovator and friend. Everyone at Uncle Dan's sends their best wishes to Hart's family, friends and coworkers.

Donations can be made in Hart's memory to the "Rob Hart Memorial Fund" c/o Red Lodge Ski Patrol, PO Box 750, Red Lodge, MT 59068. We also liked SNEWS' idea of a tribute:

So, with the above in mind, we’d like to propose that sometime this week, winter be dammed, you each grab an old Crazy Creek chair from your gear shed or closet. Call out to your closest friends or your nearby family and ask them to join you outdoors by a fire or on the floor of a cabin in front of a hot stove. And then just sit. Talk about love and life and living. Talk about adventures experienced and still to come. Talk and laugh about anything at all, but do it with family and friends.

Product Review: Merrell Women's Oslo

2009-01-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

Jenny from Evanston on the Women's Merrell Oslo Waterproof boot:

I recently indulged in buying the Merrell Oslo, and I can't say I regret a single penny. Coming from a person who thought she could squeeze just one more season out of her old, tore- up boots, I now see the light and feel the warmth of the boots' Polartec insulation. It is a freezing, slippery walk to and from the train, one that calls for warmth and traction, and the Oslo boots have proved themselves thus far. They have been able to handle the sub-zero temps and the extremely slushy curbsides I always find myself falling into. It is a joy to find a reliable, fully supportive and cute winter boot with an integrated air-cushion midsole, which means I can feel the support even when I'm on my feet all day! Merrell boasted about its Winter Artrek lug sole that would help keep me upright, and I was immediately impressed when I felt the tread's stickiness. After many walks I can now say with confidence they certainly do aid in maneuvering around the ice rink that becomes our sidewalks. I have yet to pull out my YakTrax this year simply because my boots have been that great!

(I'm realizing now that I have perhaps jinxed myself - I better go dig those out of the closet.)

Whatever winter boot or shoe you choose this year, make sure you treat it with a waterproof solution, such as Granger's, ReviveX, Nikwaxor Sno-Seal, because the city salts love to feed on your kicks and will do some major damage without treatment. I learned the hard way a few times.

Cheers to many magical winter walks.

Thanks Jenny! Readers, any comments on the Oslo? We'd love to hear them. Or, send your thoughts on any Uncle Dan's product. Share the love - and more importantly, the knowledge!

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2009-01-15T11:09:00.001-08:00

Hey all - we're back. Sorry about the down time - hope you had a great holiday season and a happy new year. We sure did.

Of course, here in Chicago, the start of the new year means more than finally working off all that pizza weight: It signals the start of winter. Not the friendly, fluffy-flakes and twinkling-lights winter, mind you, but the in-your-face winter that dares you to step outside.

It officially started today: There are predictions of a high - high - of zero for The Second City. This is the sort of cold that makes you tear up involuntarily, then makes you worried that those tears will freeze your eyes shut.

So, if you've been putting off picking up those new winter boots, gloves, scarves, coats or whatever, bundle up in whatever you've got and head to Uncle Dan's. We'll set you up with some great new stuff that will keep you warm. Not quite as great as a cup of cocoa and a fire, but you can't take those with you, nor get them at prices like we have.

In fact, now through Jan. 31, we're marking down items every day, so keep stopping by to see what deals have popped up. Also, be sure to sign up for the e-club for even more deals.

As a bonus, here's a cool photo gallery of winter - no pun intended - from the Chicago Tribune.

2008 Coat Swap: Yet Another Success

2008-12-01T15:00:00.000-08:00

For two weeks in November, Uncle Dan's gave away 1,400 coats.

Don't worry; our business model didn't go bizarro. It was just our 5th Annual Coat Swap! Customers donated their old - but still usable - coats and got 20% off a new piece of regular-priced winter outerwear. And we took those old coats to area charities. Coats donated at the Chicago stores went to the Jane Addams Hull House Association, coats from the Evanston store went to Connections for the Homeless, and coats from the Highland Park store went to the Grandfamilies Program of Chicago.

We do this through One Warm Coat, a national non-profit that assists in the donation of coats. Since its founding in 1992, about 750,000 coats have been has collected and distributed through OWC activities. Uncle Dan's customers and staff have donated more than 5,900 coats in our five coat drives.

If you missed the announcement for the swap and want to participate in next year's, make sure to sign up to the e-club to watch for this and more of our community-based programs. (Speaking of, don't forget that our can drive runs through Dec. 10!)

New for '08-'09: The Time is Nau!

2008-11-27T22:21:00.000-08:00

Uncle Dan's is proud to say it's one of a handful of retailers nationwide carrying the revived Nau brand.

You can read more about this company here. Its aim is to develop products that are functional both in active sports and in a casual lifestyle and that are made with the most environmentally friendly materials possible.

Designer Mark Galbraith stopped by the new Evanston store to talk to us about the brand - and some employees from the Southport and Lincoln Ave. shops came up to listen as well. We often have these clinics to stay on top of what our brands are doing and the features they're adding - and we use that knowledge to give you the best service we can. However, Nau's was a rare treat because designers rarely visit shops, so we got to learn how the brand was built from the ground up.

Nau's exciting for us because for product you buy, the company will give a 2% donation to a nonprofit in its Partner For Change program. You'll not only get a product with warmth, style, and sustainability, you'll also be able to feel good about the change it's making for others and for the environment.

We're excited to welcome Nau back to the retail world and into our doors. One you try on some of the products, we know you'll feel the same way.

(And, hey, great minds think alike! Check out Nau's Thought Kitchen blog!)

Icebreaker's Baacode Launch Party Pics

2008-11-24T11:52:00.000-08:00

Icebreaker dropped by our stores in October to promote the launch of Baacode, the company's traceability system. Each of the company's fine merino garments now has a code affixed to it; you can go online, type in that code and see where the merino in your Icebreaker came from. This not only helps ensure the company's ethical and environmental standards but also lets you in on the process.

Icebreaker reps, Uncle Dan's employees and customers dropped by to learn more about the brand, get some deals on product and try some delicious New Zealand wine and cheese.

Think it looks like fun? You're right! How can you find out about events like this? Just sign up for our e-club. It's easy, free and lands you a new discount every week.

You CAN Help This Season

2008-11-21T12:54:00.001-08:00

It's the season of giving, and we're all about being in season.

With that in mind, we're working with the One City, One Food Drive effort.

So, from November 18 to December 10, bring a canned food item or a nonperishable food item to your local Uncle Dan's, and you'll get 15% off each regular-priced item you buy for each item you brought in.

For more ways to help, check out the Chicago Food Bank.

This promotion was co-sponsored by our friends at Marmot.

E-Club Members: Biggest in-season North Face sale ever

2008-11-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

If you're a fan of Uncle Dan's and a fan of The North Face, you're in luck:
This week marks the start of our biggest in-season sale on one of our best and most-popular brands.

Through November 21st, E-Club members can get some great North Face products at great prices. Check it out:

20% off all mens', womens', and kids' jackets, hats, and gloves.
25% off all winter boots
30% off all daypack

Why is in-season such a big deal? Well, normally discounts like this only apply to product that you'll have to store in a closet for some time - parkas in the summer, lightweight trail pants in the winter. But with this deal, you can get some top-notch TNF stuff and use it right away.

And, you may ask, what if I'm not in the E-Club? Well, join! It's free and open to anyone with an e-mail address. You can sign up at any of our locations or head over to the sign-up page on the website. Bring in your coupon and you're in business.

New Evanston location

2008-10-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

Capping a busy two years for Uncle Dan's, this October the Evanston store moved shop to its new digs at 901 Church Street.

You may remember that in 2006, we opened our Wrigleyville store at 3551 N. Southport Ave in Chicago. Then, in 2007, the Highland Park store got its new digs at 621 Central St. We're a little tired from all the moving, but we're thrilled about the growth - and you will be too, when you see the new Evanston spot.

We've grown a lot from the old store at 700 Church, nearly doubling our space with about 5,000 square feet at 901. This means you can spend more time walking around and exploring in comfort. The shoe area has seating for about 20 people, and the dressing rooms are larger and better-lit. Not that you can see it, but we've got a more organized stockroom that will make it easier for us to find product for you. We've expanded our hours (10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday), in case you need to pick up some last-minute supplies for that trip you're leaving on tomorrow.

Don't worry; the stock hasn't changed. You'll still find all the great brands you've come to love, and a few new exciting ones as well! Stay tuned to the blog to learn more.

To accommodate all this new space, Evanston nearly doubled its staff (with a bigger "Meet the staff" board, of course). So you'll still get the attentive service you've come to expect. Let us know how we're doing.

P.S. - Yeah, we miss the old location at 700 Church, but we're not done with it just yet. Starting November 7, it will be open for limited hours on weekends (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays) to serve as an outlet store. After getting your brand-new gear at 901, swing by the old spot to snag a deal. It'll last as long as the stock does, so hurry.

Come along with us!

2008-10-30T21:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the blog of Uncle Dan's, The Great Outdoor Store. We're hoping to use this blog to keep in touch with our existing customers and to make new ones, so read on!

Uncle Dan's has been serving Chicagoland adventure enthusiasts since 1972. We now have four stores: two in Chicago, one in Evanston and one in Highland Park. You can find all your favorite brands here, and maybe some you've never heard of but will come to appreciate. Our employees are just as excited about getting outside and exploring as you are, and they're good at it, too. From skiing to rock climbing to world travel, our staff has you covered, and we love sharing our stories almost as much as we love hearing yours.

That's kind of the point of this blog. You'll be able to read our news and hear about our products, but we want to know what you think! Tell us about your trips, how well a tent worked or just send pictures of an outfit that you've gotten compliments on. You guys are the reason we come to work every day, and this will give all of us a better way to connect.

Thanks for reading, and good travels!