Today we’re welcoming Seattle Outdoor as one of the newest WSB sponsors. New sponsors are offered the chance to let you know more about their business: While Seattle Outdoor is in SODO, it’s owned by a West Seattleite. After going far afield for camping equipment for many years, West Seattle resident Keith Watkins (above) decided that it would be better to find something closer to home. Keith says his years of being a payroll specialist for an outdoor equipment company and his many years of camping left him with the unique perspective of understanding what gear campers, hikers, and climbers need.That’s why he opened Seattle Outdoor at 2905 1st Avenue South (map), next to Sears Auto Center. Keith says he thought that the people who live south of downtown needed a full-time camping store that featured brand name equipment and good service. To that end, he opened a store that carries name-brand hiking, camping, and climbing equipment from manufacturers like Alchemy Goods, Kavu, Sierra Designs, and Granite Gear. Keith and his store manager Sean Barnett say they can outfit anybody for something as simple as a day trip all the way up to a complete backpacking vacation. Seattle Outdoor is open from 10-6 Mondays through Saturdays, 11-5 on Sundays. You’ll find them online at seattleoutdoor.net, or call 206-682-0482.

We thank Seattle Outdoor for sponsoring independent, community-collaborative neighborhood news on WSB; find our sponsor team, and info on joining, all here.